Parshat Teruma By Rabbi Avi Billet Issue of February 19, 2010/ 6 Adar 5770 In the construction of the tabernacle, the Aron (Ark), which contains the Torah, is to be covered with a kaporet … more

Parshat Mishpatim Issue of February 12, 2010/ 18 Shvat 5770 Concerning the treatment of those in need, the Torah tells us, “When you lend money to My people, to the poor man among you, do not … more

Parshat Yitro by Rabbi Avi Billet Issue of February 6, 2010/ 21 Shvat 5770 A previous column discussed the father-in-law-son-in-law relationship using Lavan and Yaakov as the model … more

Parshat Beshalach by Rabbi Avi Billet January 29, 2010/ 14 Shvat 5770 The first mishnah in Rosh Hashanah says there are four “Rosh Hashanahs” in the year for different calendar events. … more

Parshat Bo Issue of January 22, 2010/ 7 Shvat 5770 Before the instruction of “Hachodesh hazeh lachem” established the calendar for the Israelite nation, G-d told Moshe, “Now speak to the … more

Parshat Va'era by Rabbi Avi Billet Issue of January 15, 2010/ 29 Tevet 5770 How old was Moshe when he fled from Egypt in Chapter 2? Depending which Midrash you follow, he was either a … more

by Rabbi Avi Billet Issue of January 8 2010/ 22 Tevet 5770 The first major attempt to stem the tide of Israelite growth consisted of Paroh ordering midwives to kill male babies at birth. … more

Parshat Vayechi By Rabbi Avi Billet Issue of January 1, 2010/ 15 Tevet 5770 Many years ago I saw a movie called “Glengarry Glen Ross” which is based on a play by David Mamet. Mamet is … more

By Rabbi Avi Billet Issue of Dec. 25, 2009 / 8 Tevet 5769 As soon as Paroh learns of the arrival of Yosef's family, he invites them to return to Canaan merely to bring their father and … more

Parshat Miketz by Rabbi Avi Billet Issue of December 18, 2009/ 1 Tevet 5770 On the eve of his birthday the Egyptian monarch has two dreams that vex and try his sanity. “In the morning he … more