The Spiritual Climax of Now
As we near the end of Deuteronomy, prepare to begin the yearly Torah cycle anew, and celebrate the finale of the fall holidays, we are poised for a remarkable spiritual climax. This week’s Torah portion, Haazinu, includes Moses’ dramatic theological poem – a powerful cry of the heart because he wants to ensure that the community understands the core principles of what it means to be an Israelite.
The Climax of Sukkot and the Profound Joy of the Journey
More than any other Jewish holiday or ritual, I love the audacity of Sukkot. After the many profound words and seemingly endless prayers of the High Holidays, Sukkot offers a very different holiday mode. The main theme and ultimate goal of the holiday is to achieve climactic joy throughout the holiday, including the intermediate days, which are known as Chol HaMo-eid Sukkot.
Did God Create a World Before This One?
Is it possible that there were other worlds in existence before this one? Some of the Rabbis say yes!
Naming Naamah, Noach’s Wife (and the Other Torah Women Too)
In this week’s parashah, Noach, we hear from Noah’s unnamed wife. She reminds us that it is not easy being one of the women in the Torah. Although these women ensured the future of humanity and of our people Israel, too often they are unnamed, demonized, silenced, or forgotten.
B'midbar for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
In this parasha, God commands Moses to take a census of all the Israelite males over the age of twenty as well as firstborns. Each tribe is assigned specific places in the camp around the Tabernacle (the altar). The sons of Levi are counted and their responsibilities are set forth. Listen as the laws for the priests and Kohens are given.
D'varim for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
In this parasha, Moses recaps the physical journey the Israelites underwent, and reflects on the reports of the spies. Joshua will become the next leader. Listen to other reflections from Moses.
Noach for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
In this week’s parasha, Noah is told by God to make an ark before a big flood. He is told to gather animals two by two and bring them aboard, along with his family. After the flood, God promises never to destroy God's people again, and the generations that are born are listed. Listen now to hear these names and to find out what happens when people try to build a tower to the sky!
Naso for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
God is taking roll call in this parasha – God tells Moses to take a census, and more laws are detailed.
B'haalot'cha for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
In this parasha, God speaks to Moses, describing the menorah for the Tent of Meeting. The Levites are appointed to serve as assistants under Aaron and his sons. A cloud by day and fire by night show God's Presence over the Tabernacle (altar). When the cloud lifts from the Tabernacle, the people leave Sinai, setting out on their journey, tribe by tribe. Listen to the Sha-rap to learn about the troubles they have on this journey.
Sh'lach L'cha for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
In this parasha, Moses sends twelve spies to the Land of Israel to report on the inhabitants and the country, but their reports aren’t completely truthful. To punish the people, God announces that all those who left Egypt would not enter the Land of Israel except for Joshua and Caleb.