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

by Katie Eacrett | Dec 19, 2024 | Shabbat Shalom

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Hanukkah begins in a few days! What is the connection between portion Vayeshev and Hannukah?This portion recounts how Joseph was betrayed by his brothers. Joseph’s brothers threw him into a dry pit that was filled with snakes and...

Vayishlach (And He (Jacob) Sent) – Genesis 32:4 – 36:43

by Katie Eacrett | Dec 12, 2024 | Shabbat Shalom

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Jacob’s life journey represents the journey of the Nation of Israel. In this portion Jacob is given a new name: Israel, meaning “to strive with God”. The fate of the people of Israel is hinted at in this name; a nation that will...

Vayetzei (And He (Jacob) Left) – Genesis 28:10 – 32:3

by Katie Eacrett | Dec 6, 2024 | Shabbat Shalom

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print When Jacob flees his family’s home, he leaves with nothing to his name. He does, however, have three qualities that see him through life’s challenges: A love of justice, loyalty, and an understanding of life’s complexities. Jacob...

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

by Katie Eacrett | Nov 29, 2024 | Shabbat Shalom

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Genesis is filled with stories of first-born sons who are rejected in favor of their younger brothers. This week Esau and Jacob put their cards on the table and ask, “Who really is the first-born?” An impulsive hunter opposes his...

Chayei Sarah (The Life of Sarah) Genesis 23:1 – 25:18

by Katie Eacrett | Nov 22, 2024 | Shabbat Shalom

In this week’s Torah portion, Abraham’s servant searches for a wife for Isaac. We read of his encounter with Rebecca at the well three times: as the servant is praying, as it happens, and as the servant recounts the tale to Rebecca’s family. Why is this story...