Judaism

“Unexpected Parallels between Mikeitz
and the Story of Chanukah”
(updated and revised from Mikeitz 5768-2007)

Parashat Mikeitz is almost always read on the Shabbat of Chanukah, not only because like the Jewish Hellenists of old, Joseph may be viewed as an assimilationist who tries to shed his identity, but also because of the numerous parallels to the festival of Chanukah that may be found in the text of parashat Mikeitz.

“The Vast Majority of the Time, G-d Rules the World!”
(updated and revised from Vayeishev 5766-2005)

Although most of us live our lives under the common assumption that we all have freedom of will, there are times when G-d invokes a Divine plan, requiring human beings to follow a preordained script. In parashat Vayeishev, we see the very dominant role that G-d plays in Joseph’s life, and the inexorable fulfillment of the Divine predictions articulated in the Covenant between the Pieces.

“The Encounter”
(updated and revised from Vayishlach 5765-2004)

The encounter between Jacob and Esau is often seen as a metaphor of the battle between Judaism and Rome (pagan or secular values). The battle may also be within the Jews themselves--to maintain the correct and valid interpretations of Torah and tradition.

“Rachel: Portrait of a Matriarch”
(updated and revised from Vayeitzei 5765-2004)

This week’s parasha paints a broad and fascinating portrait of the beloved matriarch, Rachel. Rachel’s life is filled with moments of great exaltation and great desperation. There is much to learn from Rachel’s life and actions.

“Digging Wells”
(updated and revised from Toledot 5765-2004)

Parashat Toledot tells of numerous occasions when Isaac and his servants go to dig wells. What is so significant about well digging that impels the most important document in Judaism to not only recount that Isaac dug numerous wells, but to repeatedly list the well’s names? Obviously, these ancient wells were more than just watering holes. Indeed, they were signposts of Jewish identity, Jewish pride and Jewish outreach. We learn from Isaac and his wells, that the antisemites do not respect Jews who are ashamed of their heritage. On the other hand, non-Jews cannot help but admire those Jews who stand up proudly and state without reticence or embarrassment and declare: “I am a Jew!”