Parsha Shemos – Being Attuned to Our Messages

Bechukosai, the last Torah portion in the book of Leviticus, begins by briefly listing some of the blessings and rewards that the Jewish people will receive for diligently learning and following the Torah. The Portion then shifts to the subject matter which has made it famous — G-d’s admonitions and warnings of the consequences if…

Parshas: Vayikra This Shabbos marks the beginning of our reading the third book of the Torah, Sefer Vayikra which deals primarily with the services and responsibilities of the Kohanim. This week’s portion focuses on many of the korbanos (offerings) to be brought in the newly-constructed Mishkan. Parshas Vayikra begins with G-d calling Moses into the…

More than any other Patriarch, Yaakov Avinu is blessed with detailed coverage of his life in theTorah From his prenatal condition, through his adolescence and into young manhood, he isforced to struggle with his contentious brother Eisav. He survives by his wit. Heeding hismother’s counsel, Yaakov contends for Yitzchak’s blessing, an act that brings forth…

Parshas: Matos — Masei In the first of this week’s two action-packed portions, Moses teaches the rules and restrictions governing oaths and vows. Promises are serious business. When we say that we plan to do something — even something as simple as, ‘I’ll call you later’ — we’re bound by our words. Anticipating entrance into…

Parshas Kedoshim The portion begins with G-d’s command to the entire nation of Israel to be holy, emulating the supreme sanctity of G-d Himself. The Torah goes on to delineate a multitude of mitzvos through which we can achieve sanctity. We are commanded to revere our parents, to guard Shabbat from being desecrated, and to…