Yom Kippur: It Is Not in the Heavens
Central to the "Torah"—my father, Jacob Milgrom, z"l, taught me and countless others—was the revolution of priestly theology. In the priestly view, sin was not a separate demonic force; rather, sin was/is of human volition—human beings bring sin and goodness both into the world.
Sukkot: The Season of Our Joy
The Torah reading for the Shabbat of Sukkot (Exodus 33:12–34:26) includes the reconciliation between God and Moses following the Golden Calf, the inscription of the second set of the Ten Commandments, and the verbal covenant that accompanies this second giving.
The Standing Jew Plan
Atem nitzavim hayom, "You are standing this day…." (Deuteronomy 29:9) In this week's parashah, Nitzavim, all Israel stands as a sign of respect, just as we do during the Amidah, the worship service's central prayer.
Shabbat Shuvah! "Be Strong and Resolute"
In Vayeilech, the shortest portion in the Torah, Moses tells the people that he will not be leading them into the Land of Israel, per God's instruction; instead, Joshua will lead them (Deuteronomy 31:1-3).
Deconstructing Adam
Biblical literalism is on the rise. You can see it in the growth of Bible-based mega-churches where the "word of God" is preached as inerrant truth.
The Last Lecture: Moses's Valedictory Song
What would you say to the people you care about if you knew you were about to die? How would you choose and position your words to reflect your deepest commitments?
Reinterpreting the Dream
A man came to me who had had a terrible dream. I took down a traditional prayer book and turned to a section called "The Amelioration of a Dream," a ritual that requires three good friends, declaring the dream be interpreted for the good.
Whose Words?
FOCAL POINT
Give ear, O heavens, let me speak;
Let the earth hear the words I utter!
May my discourse come down as rain,
My speech distill as the dew . . . (Deuteronomy 32:1-2)