Did the staff of Aaron turn into an alligator? Why did the staff turn into a creature or an animal anyway? This event sent a message to Pharaoh that echoes today. Join Shmuel for the 10 plagues, the snake and the staff, and more Torah inspiration!
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!
As we navigate this somber period, let us honor Amichai’s memory by continuing to stand together in the face of adversity.
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!
What is it like to live an ordinary life, to follow routine, in the midst of a war? For most of us in Israel, we do not have the luxury to imagine the answer to that question: we are living it.
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.
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?
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?
On June 7, 1981, the Israeli Air Force destroyed the Osirak nuclear reactor, deep in Iraqi territory. Menachem Begin was Israel’s prime minister at the time and US President Ronald Reagan was furious when he heard about the attack.
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?