Judaism

"What’s in a Name? Zaphenath-Paneach"

While it is necessary for Pharaoh to add to Joseph’s public stature by dressing him as a noble Egyptian, why was it necessary for Pharaoh to rename Joseph?

"Reuben is Credited with Saving Joseph’s Life"

Why was Reuben credited by scripture for saving Joseph’s life, when it was really Judah who advised the brothers to sell Joseph rather than kill the lad?

"The Death of Deborah, Rebecca’s Nurse"

The report of the death of Deborah, Rebecca’s nursemaid, is a source of contention among the commentators.

"Jacob Separates from Laban"

There is much to learn from the complex separation process that takes place between Jacob and his wily father-in-law, Laban.

“A Revolutionary Definition of Parenthood”

In his comments on parashat Toledot, Rabbi Joseph B. Soleveitchik attributes to Abraham the introduction of a bold and extraordinarily novel concept of parenthood -- the “teaching parent.”