Terumah 5781-2021
“The Mishkan and the Sanctity of the Jewish Home”
(updated and revised from Terumah 5763-2003)
The fact that the Mishkan--the Tabernacle--and its central furnishings so closely resemble the Jewish home, underscores the sanctity of the Jewish domicile. By analyzing each of the Tabernacle's furnishings, we uncover the invaluable symbolic meanings of these furnishings that deserve to be found in every Jewish home.
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Terumah 5780-2020
“The Centrality of Torah”
(updated and revised from Terumah 5762-2002)
The Holy Ark was the central furnishing of the Mishkan (Tabernacle), which housed the Torah. Since Torah is the elixir of life for the Jewish people, the Ark, with its non-removable staves, always traveled with the people whenever they moved. This ancient practice marked indelibly on all Jews, that at the very core of our lives must be the Torah.
0 Comments8 Minutes
Terumah 5778-2018
“The Cherubs”
The word “Cherub” appears only twice in the Torah. In one instance they are referred to as “angels of destruction,” in another they are described as “angelic faces of children.” How can these contrasting descriptions be reconciled?
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Vayechi 5774-2013
“Reconciliation and Death”
The Midrash greatly embellishes the final chapters of Genesis by adding fascinating details regarding the reconciliation of Joseph with his brothers and Joseph’s demise.
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Terumah 5768-2008
"The Museum within the Tabernacle"
The Torah tells us that three items were stored in the Tabernacle for future generations, a flask of manna, some anointing oil, and the staff of Aaron that blossomed. The Talmud and the Midrashim add that the garments of the High Priest and the priest who led the Israelites in battle as well as the gifts from the Philistines when the Ark was returned were stored there as well. What purpose do these items serve?
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Terumah 5763-2003
"The Mishkan and the Sanctity of the Jewish Home"
The fact that the Mishkan--the Tabernacle--and its central furnishings so closely resemble the Jewish home, underscores the sanctity of the Jewish domicile. By analyzing each of the Tabernacle's furnishings, we uncover the invaluable symbolic meanings of these furnishings that deserve to be found in every Jewish home.
0 Comments10 Minutes
Terumah 5762-2002
"The Centrality of Torah"
The Holy Ark was the central furnishing of the Mishkan (Tabernacle), which housed the Torah. Since Torah is the elixir of life for the Jewish people, the Ark, with its nonremovable staves, went with the people whenever they moved. This ancient practice teaches us that at the very core of our homes must be the Torah.
0 Comments7 Minutes