Today is the first of the Hebrew month of Adar, the month associated more than any other with joy and happiness. And in two weeks, our joy increases when we celebrate Purim, which presents our Jewish story in a nutshell: In the year 482 B.C.E., the Jews of the Persian Empire faced death, decreed by King Achashverosh, for not assimilating. “There is a certain people scattered and dispersed among the other people in all the provinces of your realm, whose laws are different from those of any other people and who do not obey the king’s laws and it is not in your majesty’s interest to tolerate them.” (Megillat Esther 3:9). The plot, instigated by Haman, the king’s evil vizier, urged the people to initiate a bloodbath and to loot and kill the Jews on the 15th day of the month of Adar.
Parashat Vayakhel-P’kudei (Exodus 35:1-40:38)
“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