In Song: V’Zot HaBeracha

Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky
Each week The Arty Semite connects the Torah reading — however tenuously — to a classic work of rock ‘n’ roll.
In this week’s parsha, the last in the Torah, Moses takes his farewell from his people by blessing them as a nation and also on a tribal basis, as Jacob did, many years earlier.
Moses dies and is laid to rest by God himself in an unknown location.
The final verses attest to the wonders performed by his hand and to his unique relationship with God. Only one song is equal to the finale of Israel’s greatest leader:
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
