The laws regarding the korbanot are one of the major themes of sefer Vayikra. The Rambam discusses their underlying reasoning in two well-known passages found in his philosophic magnum opus, The … more

Rabbenu Bachya ben Asher begins his commentary on the book of Vayikra with an introduction, in which he includes a verse from Mishlei 22:4: “In the wake of humility comes fear of the Lord, … more

What role does the synagogue play in people’s lives? Here are several models. The ‘hospital’ synagogue: This refers to people who come to the synagogue in emergencies — … more

At the very beginning of his instructions about the construction of the Mishkan, Moshe says to the people regarding their terumah (donations), “Take from yourselves terumah to G-d, all … more

Our parshiot, Vayakel-Pekudei, begin with the construction of the Mishkan (the portable desert sanctuary): “Moses called the whole community of the children of Israel to assemble, and he … more

Who doesn’t like the smell of freshly made popcorn? Many years ago I remember reading a comic book (I think it was Richie Rich) in which a character was looking to have a popcorn smelling … more

Although our parasha, Ki Tisa, contains numerous themes, it is preeminently associated with the Chet Haegel (the Sin of the Golden Calf). How could our ancestors could have participated in such a … more

At least since the sixteenth century, Purim celebrations have included costumes and masquerade parties. Various explanations have been given. The Purim story is replete with surprises. Things … more

The final five pasukim of Parashat Tetzaveh focus our attention on the underlying purpose of the Ohel Moed: “… at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting before the … more

Anyone acquainted with the Torah reading we hear each Rosh Chodesh will find themselves in familiar territory as we read in this week’s parsha Tetzaveh (29:38-46) of the daily tamid offerings … more