Tazria-Metzora and Israel’s Days of Mourning and Joy

This week I share a speech I had the honor of giving in my synagogue. I also add a bit more material on related subjects.

Photo by Taylor Brandon on Unsplash

Shemini and the Omer: Strings of Holiness

This episode analyzes - through story and commodity pricing - the meaning of the omer, kashrut and the deaths of Nadav and Avihu. 

Tzav: The Saddle of Freedom

This week's (brief) Dvar Torah focuses on what *we* can learn from the role of the Kohanim.

Vayikra: Bennie Israel and the Shechina - a love story

Ever wonder why the offerings in Vayikra/Leviticus are what they are? Well this episode might just answer your questions...

Vayakel Pekudai - the Mishkan of Love 2.mp3

Ki-Tisa: The Transformation of a People

The face of G-d, a divine river, foreshadowing and more! Dip into the ancillary parts of this Torah portion to discover how and why the relationship of the Jewish people and G-d is fundamentally transformed.

Ki-Tisa: Self-Worship and the Memory of my Mother

This episode is about Ki Tisa. It is also the speech I delivered the Shabbat before my mother passed away.

p.s. I'll probably issue another episode later in the week - there are elements of the parsha that I want to fill in.

Contrasting Costumes: Purim and Parshat Tetzaveh

Are the messages of Purim still relevant in a Jewish world that is no longer in exile? To find out, let's contrast the geopolitical messages of the Megillah and the Torah portion of Tetzaveh – this week’s reading.

Terumah: The Really Fun Symbolism of the Mishkan

The Mishkan may seem dry to you, but for me it is one of the most interesting parts of the Torah. There is just so much going on. This year I take it further - much further - than I ever have before. I think you'll enjoy listening, I certainly enjoyed thinking, writing and recording!

Mishpatim: G-d and Aristotle

This week, I use a core section of the Nicomacean ethics to understand the complexities of Parshat Mishpatim.