Parsha
In Abraham, a model for our divisive times
In the cycle of Torah reading, we find ourselves in the book of Genesis — basically our people’s shared record of disagreements at family gatherings.
In the story of Noah, a model of partnership with God
Without free will, human goodness is worth little.
In Bereishit, Creation draws us deeper.
The opening Torah portion of the cycle is about drawing us into the process of the world as created by God.
Jewish compassion isn’t just for Jews
Moses instructed us to “circumcise our hearts” and find compassion for those outside our inner circle.
Who Is The Real Victim In The Seduction Story Of Joseph And Potiphar’s Wife?
In the biblical recounting, Potiphar’s wife was the evil seductress of the innocent Joseph. But is the story really that simple?
The Binding of Isaac: A Lesson In Resistance To Power
As racism and nativism are on the rise, a re-reading of the binding of Isaac might prove all too relevant.
How Can Men Help End Rape Culture? By Emulating Abraham.
Sexual harassment is a serious problem in the Jewish community, too. It’s time to take the Abrahamic approach.
Learning To Chant The Torah Has Changed My Life As An Observant Woman
We remember best what we sing, which is why it is easier to recall song lyrics than to recite a poem from memory.
Gender Bending In The Torah: The Nursing Kings of Israel
Did Mordecai “nurse” Esther? Did Isaiah prophesize that the future kings of Israel would be “nursing” kings?
What Jacob and Esau Can Teach Us About Loving Our Trump Supporting Friends
Trump is something altogether new, a challenge not just to politics as usual, but to friendships, relationships, community.