Entries for December 2013

Va'era: More Justice, More Jews!

[D'var Torah given to Kehilat Moreshet Yisrael, Jerusalem, December 28, 2013] In this week’s parasha, Va’era.  G-d instructs Moses to assure the Israelites that G-d has heard their cries.  G-d speaks the famous lines that... Continue Reading »
Dec 27
Posted in: Torah Commentary

Sh'mot: No Harm, No Foul

Sh'mot: No Harm, No Foul
When Moses approaches the burning bush, G-d instructs him to remove his sandals because he stands upon “holy ground.” (Exodus 3:5).  But G-d doesn’t explain why Moses shouldn’t wear sandals upon holy ground.  Why not... Continue Reading »
Dec 20
Posted in: Torah Commentary, Focus on Prayers, Jewish Rituals

Yayechi. Tradition: A Democracy of the Dead

Yayechi. Tradition: A Democracy of the Dead
Twice in this week’s Torah portion, Vayechi, the last in the book of Genesis, the dying extract promises from those who will outlive them.  First, Jacob solicits Joseph’s promise to remove his bones from Egypt and bury them in the Pr... Continue Reading »
Dec 12
Posted in: Torah Commentary, Jewish Rituals

Vayigash: "It's a Wonderful Life."

Vayigash: "It's a Wonderful Life."
According to the 1946 “holiday” classic that airs (“cables?”) on TV this time of year, “It’s a Wonderful Life.”    But that’s not what Jacob told Pharaoh at their single meeting, briefly re... Continue Reading »
Dec 05
Posted in: Torah Commentary

A bird that you set free may be caught again, but a word that escapes your lips will not return.
Jewish Proverb