Toledot,Weekly Message,Genesis
Toledot 5773-2012
"The Sale of the Birthright" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Toledot, we learn of the sale of the birthright by Esau to his twin brother Jacob. In order to…
Noah 5774-2013
"Making a Name for Ourselves" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This week’s parasha, parashat Noah, contains a plethora of fascinating narratives. The most famous story recorded in this week’s…
Mikeitz 5774-2013
"What’s in a Name? Zaphenath-Paneach" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Mikeitz, Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dream and is elevated to serve as viceroy of…
Vayeishev 5775-2014
"Who Sold Joseph?" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Vayeishev, we read of the sale of Joseph. The sale of Joseph plays a key role in Jewish history, drawing…
Chayei Sara 5767-2006
"A Match Made in Haran" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week's parasha, parashat Chayei Sarah, we read of Abraham's determined efforts to find a wife for his beloved son Isaac, by…
Vayechi 5776-2015
“Jacob Maintains a Bitter Grudge Against Simeon and Levi” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Vayechi, Jacob blesses his twelve sons prior to his death. Even…
Vayeishev 5783-2022
“The Two Sides of Joseph” (updated and revised from Vayeishev 5764-2003) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald There are few characters in world literature who are as gifted, dynamic,…
Noah 5773-2012
"The Power of Unity" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This week’s parasha, parashat Noah, is known primarily for the story of the flood that inundated the world in response to the evil…
Bereshith 5774-2013
"Beginning at the Beginning–-Again" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald As we begin the study of the Torah once again, it seems appropriate to attempt to clarify the purpose of Torah study. The…
Lech Lecha,Weekly Message,Genesis
Lech Lecha 5775-2014
“Lot Grows Increasingly Estranged from his Uncle Abram” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Lech Lecha, Abram (he has not yet been renamed Abraham) concludes the…