First You and Then You
From a broad perspective, the opportunity for all members of a prayer service to participate in a Torah Reading Service is an important statement on Jewish inclusion. In reality, however,…
Serach’s Serenade
Upon perusing the list of the generations of Jacob found in Genesis chapter 46, it is likely to conclude that there was a powerful genetic predisposition in Jacob’s family for male…
Five Wise Sisters
Few women are mentioned by name in the Torah, and those who are, are generally major players (i.e. Sarah, Rachel, Miriam). Yet twice in the Torah, Mach’lah, Noa, Hoglah, Milcah and…
Vayikra 5770-2010
"Do Leaders Corrupt, or are They Corrupted?" by Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald In this coming week's parasha, parashat Vayikra, we learn of the varied sacrifices and offerings that were brought…
Kee Tavo 5760-2000
"Welcoming the Stranger" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This coming week's parasha, parashat Kee Tavo, opens with the ritual of bringing the Bikurim, the first fruits of the season, to the…
Mikeitz 5772-2011
"Joseph Takes His Brother Simeon Hostage" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This week’s parasha, parashat Mikeitz, is an emotional roller coaster, stocked with abundant moments of triumph…
Tazria 5774-2014
“The Jewish Attitude Toward Healing and Medicine” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This week’s parasha, parashat Tazria, opens with the laws concerning purification of a woman after…
Shelach 5774-2014
“Do Not Follow After the Desires of Your Heart and Eyes” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald While the major theme of parashat Shelach concerns the scouts who return from the Land of Israel with…
Matot 5774-2014
“Hakarat HaTov: Expressing Appreciation” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Matot, we read of G-d’s command to Moses to avenge the Children of Israel against…
The Great Confrontation
Explore the profound insight underpinning the confrontation between Judah and his brother Joseph in Egypt leading up to the revelation of Joseph’s identity to Judah and his brothers.…