Mezora (Leper) – Leviticus 14:1 – 15:33
This week’s Torah portion, Mezora talks about disease! But what exactly is this disease, often translated as “leprosy”?
Tazria (Conceived seed) – Leviticus 12:1-13:59
This week we read portion Tazria, but Shmuel is already looking ahead to next week’s portion, Mezora which deals with the topic of leprosy. Could leprosy be a tool to help the affected person?
Shmini (Eighth) – Leviticus 9:1 – 11:47
In this week’s video Shmuel discusses the foundation for the laws of kosher food, as well as his personal adventures of keeping kosher as a world traveler.
Tzav (And He Commanded Moses) – Leviticus 6:1 – 8:36
Portion Tzav describes the sacrifices performed in the Tabernacle. Shmuel connects this portion to Psalm 107, A psalm of thanksgiving.
Pikudei (And He (Moses) Gathered/Accounts) Exodus 35:1 – 40:38
The book of Shemot (Exodus) ends with the portion Pikudei. In this portion, the Shekhinah- the Divine Presence, finally arrives at long last. Why did it take so long?
Vayakhel (Gathered) Exodus 35:1-38:20
Portion Vayakhel discusses coming together. This principle has led to community life becoming a firm foundation for the Jewish people. Join Shmuel as he discusses bowling leagues, social capital, and the importance of community.
Ki Tisa (When You Raise Up/Count) – Exodus 30:11 – 34:35
Let’s talk about Shabbat! Did you know that the building of the Tabernacle influenced the laws of Shabbat?
Tezave (You Shall Command) – Exodus 27:20 – 30:10
Welcome to the ordinary days of life around the tabernacle. This portion conveys the importance of consistency. Serving G-d, maintaining relationships, or developing a new habit all must be built on a foundation of consistency. Join Shmuel to learn about the daily sacrifices in the Tabernacle, true love, and consistency.
Trumah (Offering) – Exodus 25:1 – 27:19
After the adventures of Genesis and the highs of Mt Sinai, portion Mishpatim leads us to lists of detailed, often boring laws. Why is this? Why does the Torah jump from the exciting to the mundane?