Mikeitz 5771-2010
"Joseph’s Bold Advice to Pharaoh"
The commentators are troubled by Joseph’s temerity. How does a young Hebrew slave boy, a prisoner, have the chutzpah to instruct the great Pharaoh how to save his country and its citizens from impending famine?
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Vayeishev 5771-2010
"Tamar: The Paradigm of an Heroic Woman”
Two women play key roles in parashat Vayeishev. One of them, Tamar, emerges as a paradigm of an heroic woman and goes on to impact profoundly on the destiny of the people of Israel.
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Vayishlach 5771-2010
“The Power of a Vow”
After 22 years, Jacob returns to Beth-El, the scene of his memorable “ladder” dream, where he had vowed (Genesis 28:20-22), that Beth-El would become the site of G-d’s house. Many commentators are troubled by Jacob’s failure to discharge his obligation, or to even acknowledge his commitment.
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Vayeitzei 5771-2010
"The Hated Wife”
Is it possible that the great patriarch, Jacob, actually “hated” his wife? The commentators wrestle with this issue.
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Toledot 5771-2010
“Isaac, the Man of Commitment”
When comparing Isaac’s experiences in Gerar, we find several similarities with Abraham’s experiences in both Gerar and Egypt. But what accounts for the many differences?
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