Stories We Tell: My Grandfather's Kittel
On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah: Reaching the Promised Land
This week, as we move into the book of Exodus, we transition from learning about Joseph to learning about another Jewish leader: Moses.
On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah: The Sacred Pursuit for Reparations - Parshat Bo
This week, Rabbi Rick Jacobs takes a look at Parashat Bo and the behaviors of the Israelites during the Exodus from Egypt.
On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah - B'shalach: Lifting Hands and Sharing Power
This week, Rabbi Rick Jacobs discusses Parashat B'shalach and the powerful image of Aaron and Hur lifting Moses' hands as he grew weary.
On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah: Commanded to Honor, Compelled to Care - Yitro
In Parashat Yitro, we are instructed to honor our parents, in part so that we may live longer lives.
What Is the Proper Attire to Wear in the Sanctuary?
Anyone who sees young children in “dress-up” clothes knows that a magical transformation has taken place. ... In Parashat T’tzaveh, we read a detailed description of the special clothing that Aaron and his sons, the recently appointed Israelite priests, are to wear when attending to their duties. God tells Moses:
Why Did the People Demand New Leadership?
Does the World Need More Love or Justice?
We’re often taught that it’s what’s on the inside that counts, beauty is only skin deep, and we should never judge a book by its cover. But what about when there’s a disconnect between what we’re told is on the inside and what we see on the outside — when one’s actions leave something to be desired, though supposedly one’s heart is in the right place? Is what’s on the inside still what counts? This week’s Torah portion, Mishpatim, suggests otherwise, as it begins: “These are the rules (mishpatim) that you shall set before them [the Israelites]:” (Ex. 21:1)
Facing Mortality and Choosing Life
You stand this day, all of you, before the Eternal your God – you tribal heads, you elders, and you officials, all the men of Israel, you children, you women, even the stranger within your camp, from wood chopper to water drawer – to enter into the cov