agriculture

“Is There Truth to the Notion of Spiritual Accountability?”
(updated and revised from Eikev 5763-2003)

In the second paragraph of the Shema, we read of the Jew's relationship of responsibility and accountability toward G-d. Could it be that just as there is a physical accountability in the world, there is a spiritual accountability, as well? The Torah categorically affirms this notion.

“Bernie Sanders Meets Parashat Behar"

Among many important themes, parashat B'ha'a'lot'cha contains two fascinating stories about the Israelites in the wilderness. Both stories can be seen as a metaphor for contemporary Jewish life: Jews who feel that their "souls are dried up" and that Judaism has little or nothing to say to them, and Jews who love their Judaism and do not want to miss out on the wonderful benefits of living a full Jewish life.

“A Turning Point for Humankind”

As much as Sukkot is a nature-oriented celebration, it is much more a G-d-centered festival, and therein lies the essential revolutionariness of Sukkot.

"The Development of Civilization as Recorded in Genesis"

The Torah is primarily a record of the theological developments and accomplishments of humankind. Only in an indirect manner does the Torah teach about cultural developments and the evolving skills of society. While it is related almost coincidently, the knowledge found in the Torah regarding ancient civilization is invaluable

"Noah: A Biblical Profile"

When compared to the dynamic Abraham and even the self-indulgent Adam, Noah often pales in comparison to these two great fathers of humanity. The truth is that Noah was a man of many talents who is overshadowed by others who possessed even greater talents. He was a most creative and industrious person and a man of significant moral stature, even though he was a lonely moral man in his generation. No profile of Noah should sell him short.

"Is there Truth to the Notion of Spiritual Accountability?"

In the second paragraph of the Shema, we read of the Jew's relationship of responsibility and accountability toward G-d. Could it be that just as there is a physical accountability in the world, there is a spiritual accountability, as well? The Torah categorically affirms this notion.