Emor (Say) – Leviticus 21:1 – 24:23
The child of a mixed marriage between a Jew and a non-Jew will always be confused, will lack a clear identity and will have trouble relating to God.
Achrei Mot/Kedoshim (After the Death/Holy) – Leviticus 16:1 – 20:27
The thrust of the chapter is the expectation of holiness in our dealings with our fellow man. For it is through our relationships with our fellow human beings, through acts of compassion and charity, that we can indeed become holy
Tazria/Mezora (Conceived Seed/Leper) – Leviticus 12:1 – 15:33
G-d does not treat gossip lightly. As men and women, created in His image, we are commanded to love our neighbor as ourselves and to treat everyone with respect. This includes not maligning them, even in a light, gossipy way.
Shmini (Eighth) – Leviticus 9:1 – 11:47
One of the most tragic events in the Bible takes place in this week’s reading. Leviticus 10 begins with the story of the death of Nadav and Avihu, who brought a “strange fire” before G-d. It is not clear exactly what Nadav and Avihu did that angered G-d.
Tzav (And He [God] Commanded Moses) – Leviticus 6:1 – 8:36
With the anointing of Aaron, Moses hands over something he will never have again. He lovingly gives up a part of his leadership, so that the people can be better served.
Vayakhel/Pikudei (Gathered/Accounts) Exodus 35:1 – 40:38
The first verse in chapter 40 provides us with the date that the Tabernacle was completed — the first day of the first month, or the first of Nissan. Nissan is the month which begins the Biblical count of months and it falls at this time of year. It is also known as the month of the spring (Deuteronomy 16:1). It is not the month of Rosh HaShana
Ki Tisa (When You Raise Up/Count) – Exodus 30:11 – 34:35
The census must be an act of service, not a demonstration of power This week’s portion begins with the commandment to conduct a census among the Children of Israel through the donation of a half-shekel. Other commandments follow, but the focus of the portion is the story of the Golden Calf. It has long puzzled … Read more
Tezave (You Shall Command) – Exodus 27:20 – 30:10
This week’s portion begins with the end of Exodus chapter 27 and includes the instructions for Aaron and their priests in their worship roles — their clothes, the sanctification process they will go through, and some instruction regarding the altar, the incense altar and the “tent of meeting.” It is the instruction with regard to this “tent” that I would like to focus on this week.
Trumah (Offering) – Exodus 25:1 – 27:19
G-d does not need our worship. He does not need for us to build Him a house. G-d wants us to build that house so that it can be an effective tool for us to come close to G-d. May we never lose our ability to distinguish between the medium and the ultimate goal, between the vehicles of our faith and faith itself.
Mishpatim (Laws) – Exodus 21:1 – 24:18
Most of this week’s Torah portion involves various civil laws which help govern a kind and generous society. The portion begins with the laws of slavery, which when compared to the norms of society in Biblical times, are particularly humane.