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Shabbat Shalom

Shemot (Names) – Exodus 1:1 – 6:1

We start a new book this week! Shemot means “names” and the names of the people of Israel have as much significance as the names of the stars. The children of Israel were a nation of slaves, yet their names were still important to G-d who heard their cry. Join Shmuel for this week’s Torah portion!

Vayechi (And He (Jacob) Lived) – Genesis 47:28 – 50:26

Portion Vayechi is the last portion of the book of Genesis. It is also Shmuel’s 40th birthday this week! Shmuel digs into his bar mitzvah portion reflecting on the famed Zionist Max Nordau, the burial place of Rachel, and three important words from Jeremiah. Join Shmuel for portion Vayechi!

VaYigash (And He (Judah) Approached) – Genesis 44:18 – 47:27

There’s been a whole week to await the completion of the conversation between Jospeh and his brothers. Why did the portion stop in the middle of this exciting scene?

This portion opens with a startling statement from Joseph declaring that he was sent to Egypt not by his brothers but by G-d. Joseph has been beset by misfortunes but is filled with recognition that he was an instrument for G-d all along.

Miketz (The End) – Genesis 41:1 – 44:17

In Portion Vayishlach Jacob prepares to meet Esau with gifts, prayer, and potential combat. Why did the angel visit Jacob on the night before meeting his brother? Is this similar to meetings experienced by Joshua, Moses, and Bilaam?

Vayeshev (And He (Jacob) Settled) – Genesis 37:1 – 40:23

In Portion Vayishlach Jacob prepares to meet Esau with gifts, prayer, and potential combat. Why did the angel visit Jacob on the night before meeting his brother? Is this similar to meetings experienced by Joshua, Moses, and Bilaam?

Toldot (Descendants) – Genesis 25:19 – 28:9

It’s time for portion Vayera. Did Abraham understand the essence of the Torah? Why is hospitality so important? Enjoy another episode of Shabbat Shalom with Shmuel: Torah Portions from the Heartland.

Vayerah (And He Appeared) Genesis 18:1 – 22:24

It’s time for portion Vayera. Did Abraham understand the essence of the Torah? Why is hospitality so important? Enjoy another episode of Shabbat Shalom with Shmuel: Torah Portions from the Heartland.