“The leaders brought the shoham stones and the stones for the settings for the ephod and the breastplate.” (Exodus 35:27) Last week, Moses explains to God why it would be … Continued
Parashat Ki Tisa (Exodus 30:11-34:35)
“God said, “My Presence will go with you and I will accede to your request.” (Exodus 33:14) God is a slow learner. Fortunately, Moses is an excellent teacher who does … Continued
Parashat T’tzaveh (Exodus 27:30-30:10)
“And you shall take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the Children of Israel.” (Exodus 28:9) When Shakespeare has Polonius advise his son Laertes, “Clothes make … Continued
A View from Jerusalem – February 2016
It is with great interest and curiosity that we in Israel follow the largest celebration of democracy as it is being expressed through the United States’ primary season. As the … Continued
Parashat T’rumah (Exodus 25:1-27:19)
“You shall place in the ark the testimonial tablets that I shall give you.” (Exodus 25:16) If you’ve ever assembled a piece of Ikea furniture you know that moment when … Continued
Parshat Mishpatim (Exodus 21:1-24:18)
“Do not oppress a stranger, as you know the soul of a stranger, because you were strangers in the Land of Egypt. “ (Exodus 23:9) Parashat Mishpatim follows the “Big … Continued
Parashat Yitro (Exodus 18:1-2:23)
“Moses came and summoned the elders of the people, and put before them all these words that God had commanded him.” (Exodus 19:7) Parashat Yitro is the peak moment in … Continued
Parashat B’shalach (Exodus 13:17-17:16)
“Adonai will reign for all eternity!” (Exodus 15:18) Parashat B’shalach is all about God’s might and miracles: it describes the parting of the Reed Sea and the destruction of Pharaoh’s … Continued
Parashat Bo (Exodus 10:1-13:16)
“Take even your sheep and even your cattle, as you have spoken, and go—and bless me, as well!” (Exodus 12:32) Parashat Bo is about awesome and majestic power: God sends … Continued
“We all want to hear children’s laughter and see hope in their eyes”
On days where conflict, terror, fear and hatred blacken our sky and cloud our lives, we must appreciate every beam of light that illuminates caring, empathy, humanity and hope. Almost … Continued