The concluding section of our parasha, Chayei Sharah, presents the first narrative of the Yitzchak and Rivka story. In the midst of these pasukim, we encounter a verse that conceals far more than it … more

The beginning of our parasha, Vayetze, describes the first steps that Ya’akov took on his journey to Haran in order to escape the wrath of his brother, Eisav, and find a fitting wife from his … more

In many ways, Parashat Toldot can be thought of as “the parasha of brachot,” since both Ya’akov and Eisav received blessings from their father Yitzchak. While … more

One of the many challenging verses in our parasha, Vayera, concerns the nature of Yishmael’s behavior at the moment he is about to die of thirst: “And G-d heard kol ha’na’ar (the lad’s … more

Bereshit is an endlessly fascinating parasha, with the creation of humankind one of its most thought-provoking themes. And G-d said, “Let us make man in our image, after our … more

Some pasukim of the Torah are “luckier” than others and their frequent repetition has enabled them to become active components in our tefilah experience. The beginning of our parasha, … more

Teshuvah, the process of returning to the path of Torah observance, is discussed throughout Rabbinic literature. In particular, Talmud Bavli, Yoma 86a-b presents a number of salient aspects of … more

Shabbat Nitzavim, the concluding parasha of the Jewish calendar year, is an ideal time for in-depth introspection. As we approach Rosh Hashana we reflect on our past shortcomings and intensify … more

Our parasha, Ki Tavo, contains a passage that has gained considerable fame due to its inclusion in the Haggadah: “And you shall call out and say before the L-rd, your G-d, ‘An Aramean … more

Shichaha, the commandment to leave behind a forgotten sheaf of grain for the needs of the poor, is a key agriculturally-based mitzvah that appears in our parasha, Ki Tetze: When you reap your … more