Parashat Eikev: Service of the heart
Prayer is one of the foundations of Judaism. A hallmark of the eternal Jew is speaking with his creator...Is it reasonable that such a central mitzvah is not directly addressed in the Torah?
Parashat Va’ethanan: ‘This good mountain’
What is this “good mountain” Moses refers to, and what is “the Lebanon”?
Parashat Devarim: 'And from my students more than from all'
This dynamic of student inquiry and the teacher’s patient, honest response is essential for effective and meaningful learning – for both the teacher and the student.
Parashat Matot-Masei: The gravitas of gratitude
Moses, the father of the nation, paved a path for generations to come: Nothing justifies an act of ingratitude. Ingratitude is never warranted in any situation.
Parashat Pinchas: Zealotry: The impetus to do the right thing
The story of Pinchas reminds us that even someone who once acted boldly in zeal can also become a leader of peace and understanding.
Parashat Balak: Others’ privacy is sacrosanct
Compassionate eyes and a kind heart – yes. Probing eyes and a gossiping tongue – no.
Parashat Chukat: Simple faith
Faith – even when things don’t make sense. Faith – even when life is hard. Even when we have questions, we will always remain steadfast in our beliefs.
Parashat Korah: ‘An elevated place in Gehenna’
What is repentance? It is a small, good thought filled with love – the kind of thought that saved the sons of Korah from a tragic fate; a moment of introspection that can save any Jew from harm.
Parashat Shelach: Believe in yourselves
The Torah recounts the argument that erupted between the 10 pessimistic spies and Joshua and Caleb, the two optimistic ones.
Parashat Beha’alotcha: Yes to speaking up, no to hurting!
Speak up! Share your opinion! Try to bring about change – but not through gossip and not with hurtful words.
