Posts by JCC Association

When Jacob finished his instructions to his sons, he drew his feet into the bed and, breathing his last, he was gathered to his people.  (Genesis 49:33) Depending on how you … Continued

Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph.  Is my father still alive?”  (Genesis 45:3) Parashat Vayigash sees Joseph reveal himself to his brothers and reconciles with them.  Jacob comes … Continued

“Pharoah further said to Joseph, “See, I put you in charge of all the land of Egypt.” (Genesis 41:40) Parashat Miketz describes Joseph’s ascent to power and authority.  He correctly … Continued

“Now Israel loved Joseph best of all his sons, for he was the child of his old age; and he had made him an ornamented tunic.” (Genesis 37:3) JCC Association staff … Continued

“Jacob was left alone.  And a man wrestled with him until the break of dawn.” (Genesis 32:25) Some people read the Torah as the word of God. Nahum Sarna (1923–2005; a … Continued

“Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, ”Surely the Lord is present in this place, and I did not know it!” (Genesis 28:16) Parashat Vayeitzei is a real nail-biter. Jacob flees … Continued

“Isaac loved Esau, for game was in his mouth, but Rebecca loved Jacob.”  (Genesis 25:28) Parashat Toldot repeats a familiar motif in Genesis:  brothers in conflict (think Cain and Abel; … Continued

“Abraham was now old, advanced in years, and the Lord had blessed Abraham in all things.” (Genesis 24:1) Parashat Chayei Sarah presents us with history’s first crisis of Jewish continuity.  … Continued

“He said, ‘My lords, if it please you, do not go on past your servant.’”  (Genesis 18:3) The Torah uses two different words, vayomer and vayera, to describe God’s interactions … Continued