VaYigash (And He (Judah) Approached) – Genesis 44:18 – 47:27
In Portion Miketz, Jospeh pushes his brothers. He asks personal questions and puts them through a series of tests, but for what reason?
Life in a Villa in a Jungle
It is hard to believe that another year has gone by—another year of seemingly unending war, tragedy, loss. There are still 100 hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza. While at least 36 have been murdered, it is not clear how many of the remaining 64 are still alive.
Miketz (The End) – Genesis 41:1 – 44:17
In Portion Miketz, Jospeh pushes his brothers. He asks personal questions and puts them through a series of tests, but for what reason?
Vayeshev (And He (Jacob) Settled) – Genesis 37:1 – 40:23
Hanukkah begins in a few days! What is the connection between portion Vayeshev and Hannukah?
Vayishlach (And He (Jacob) Sent) – Genesis 32:4 – 36:43
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 have to fight for its existence.
Vayetzei (And He (Jacob) Left) – Genesis 28:10 – 32:3
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.
Toldot (Descendants) – Genesis 25:19 – 28:9
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?”
Chayei Sarah (The Life of Sarah) Genesis 23:1 – 25:18
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 told three times?
Israel Welcomes Trump
What an astounding result in the US elections! While this regime change will have significant effect on many issues in the US, as an Israeli, I want to share with you my thoughts, which reflect the thoughts of so many in Israel, on how this change will affect Israel.
Vayerah (And He Appeared) Genesis 18:1 – 22:24
The roots of history’s oldest rivalry are found in the week’s Torah portion! Laughter, scorn, and cynicism are woven throughout this story, but so are God’s mercy and promise. Shabbat Shalom!