Entries for June 2021

Chukat: A Wilderness Remembrance

One of my life’s greatest privileges has been time in the reborn Jewish state, a mystical dream to so many past generations.     Among many other experiences in Israel, I have had the opportunity to walk in places that brought the To... Continue Reading »
Jun 18
Posted in: Torah Commentary, Jewish History, Israel

Korach: Overruling Your Objection

Watch on YouTube    Moses and Aaron’s first cousin Korach is one of the Torah’s villains. He led the most serious challenge to their authority, leading an open revolt.     His actual arguments were not entirely without me... Continue Reading »
Jun 11
Posted in: Torah Commentary, Ethics

Shelach: Virtu(e)al Happiness

View on YouTube Are the behavioral constraints of Torah compatible with American ideals of freedom?    This week’s Torah portion, Shelach-Lekah, states:    וּזְכַרְתֶּם֙ אֶת־כָּל־מִצְוֹ֣ת יְהוָ֔ה וַעֲשִׂיתֶ֖ם אֹתָ֑... Continue Reading »
Jun 04
Posted in: Torah Commentary, Ethics

If charity cost nothing, the world would be full of philanthropists.
Jewish Proverb