Judaism

“Bilaam, Prophet to the Nations”
(updated and revised from Balak 5765-2005)

The Midrash says that G-d gave the gentile nations a prophet of the stature of Bilaam so that the nations would not be able to say, “If we had a prophet, we would be as righteous as Israel.” Instead of leading his people to good, Bilaam led the people to evil and corruption. But, is it truly Bilaam and others like him who fail, or is it the failure of the Jews to serve as a proper role model for others?

“Moses gets Battered by the Commentaries”
(updated and revised from Chukat 5765-2005)

The tragic episode of Moses hitting, instead of speaking to, the rock at Mei Merivahis one of the most difficult and enigmatic in the Torah. The commentators struggle mightily with this Torah portion. As a result, many sins, mistakes and transgressions are attributed to Moses and Aaron. Are they really justified?

“Lessons from the Rebels”
(updated and revised from Korach 5765-2005)

The sad story of the rebellion of Korach and his tragic demise are remote and far-removed from the minds and experiences
of most contemporary men and women. There are, however, many profound lessons to be learned from the Korach saga regarding
individual destiny choices, living up to one’s potential and working within the given structures.

“Bread Alone”
(updated and revised from Shelach 5765-2005)

On the heels of the grievous sin of the scouts, G-d forbids an entire generation of men, 20 years old and up, to enter the land of Israel. Strangely, the story of the scouts is followed immediately by two Torah portions that focus specifically on Israel--sacrifice and libations, and the giving of challah. The law of challah required that a portion of dough, from every loaf of bread that is baked, be given to the Priest. This gift of challah, underscores the primacy of sustaining our teachers and spiritual leaders, and maintaining the excellence of Jewish education throughout the generations, even in the diaspora.

“The Message of the Trumpets"
(updated and revised from B'ha'a'lot'cha 5765-2005)

The Torah, in parashat B’ha’a’lot’cha, G-d instructs Moses to fashion two silver trumpets that are to be sounded by the priests at special moments and occasions for the Jewish people. The trumpet is different from the shofar, and is meant to arouse enthusiasm in Jewish life.