“And these are the gifts that you shall accept from them: gold, silver, and copper.” (Exodus 25:3) Parashat T’rumah, the seventh parasha (portion) in the book of Exodus, introduces the detailed … Continued
Parashat Mishpatim (Exodus 21:1 – 24:18)
“You shall not subvert the rights of your needy in their disputes.” (Exodus 23:6) Parashat Mishpatim begins a section of the Torah called sefer habrit, the Book of the Covenant. … Continued
Is Israel Facing Its Own Fundamentalist Threat?
I recently returned from a two week work visit to Florida, where I had the pleasure of visiting a few JCCs and participating in JCC Association’s Executive Seminar. As an … Continued
Parashat Yitro (Exodus 18:1-20:23)
“The blare of the shofar grew louder and louder. As Moses spoke, God answered him in thunder. “ (Exodus 19:19) Parashat Yitro (named for Moses’ father-in-law, Yitro, a Midianite priest) … Continued
Parashat B’shalach (Exodus 13:17-17:16)
“Your right hand, Adonai, glorious in power; your right hand, Adonai, dashes the enemy to pieces.” (Exodus 15:6) Parashat B’shalach describes a moment of exultation. Finally freed from slavery, yet pursued … Continued
Parashat Bo (Exodus 10:1-13:16)
“…Let the men go to worship their God. Are you not yet aware that Egypt is lost?” (Exodus 10:7) This week’s Torah perspective comes from Carol Folkerth, Executive Director of the JCC … Continued
Parashat Va’era (Exodus 6:2-9:35)
“I have now heard the moaning of the Israelites, because the Egyptians are holding them in bondage, and I have remembered my covenant.” (Exodus 6:5) Many people wonder if the … Continued
Israeli Economy: Not Just Black and White
The world relates to Israel as a land of conflict, and the common perception is that threats by Israel’s neighbors are the country’s greatest concern. This may be partly true, … Continued
Parashat Sh’mot (Exodus 1:1-6:1)
“Now there arose a new king over Egypt, who knew not Joseph. And he said unto his people: Behold, the people of the children of Israel are too many and too … Continued
First Fantasy Football Challenge Ends with Big Winners
The end of the inaugural season of JCCs of North America Fantasy Football Challenge ended with some big winners in JCCs all over the U.S. More than two hundred people … Continued