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Parsha Pekudei
This week’s final portion found in the book of Exodus describes the finishing construction of the Tabernacle. Everything that we have read about in the last few portions comes to fruition within these last chapters. The portion begins with the words, “This is the inventory for the Tabernacle…” But why do we need to suddenly … Continue reading Parsha Pekudei
Parsha Tazria/Metzora Leviticus 12:1-15:33
This week happens to be a double-portion which begins with the laws concerning an “Eesha—Woman” who conceives/bears a child and ends with the laws concerning the “Metzora—Leper.” I believe these portions teach some very powerful concepts when read as an entire unit. So with that being said, let’s jump right into this week’s reading.In the second verse of this … Continue reading Parsha Tazria/Metzora Leviticus 12:1-15:33
Parsha Shemini “Eighth” Leviticus 9:1-11:47
This week’s portion begins with the dedication of the Priesthood and the Wilderness Tabernacle for the service of God. It begins with the words, “It came to pass on the eighth day…” Now, I know I wrote about this topic last year, but I would like to expound on this idea because things like this always catch … Continue reading Parsha Shemini “Eighth” Leviticus 9:1-11:47
Parsha Tzav “Command” Leviticus 6:8(1)-8:36
This week’s portion begins by describing the various sacrifices and their functions. The first offering that is mentioned is called the“Korban Olah—Whole Burnt Offering/ Ascending Offering.” This sacrifice represents the idea of a person giving their entire being to the service of God. In past emails I have related the idea that the person offering the … Continue reading Parsha Tzav “Command” Leviticus 6:8(1)-8:36
Parsha Vayikra Leviticus 1:1-5:26
This week’s portion begins with the word “Vayikra” which means “And (He) called.” In Hebrew this word is spelled out as “V Y K R A.” Notice that the “A— aleph” is smaller than the rest of the letters in the word. This is the way it is written in the Torah scroll. Rabbi Menachem Weiman writes that while “French may be the best language … Continue reading Parsha Vayikra Leviticus 1:1-5:26
Parsha Vayakhel/Pekudei Exodus 35:1-40:38
In this week’s double-portion we find a reiteration of the construction of the Tabernacle. The greatest difference found between these two instruction/construction passages is its verbal communication. In past portions God told Moses, “You shall make.” Now in these two portions we read the phrase “he made,” over and over again. The portions this week give action to God’s … Continue reading Parsha Vayakhel/Pekudei Exodus 35:1-40:38
Parsha Ki Tissa Exodus 30:11-34:35
In this portion, two new characters are introduced onto the wilderness scene. Bezalel and Aholiab, skilled craftsmen commissioned with the building of the desert Tabernacle. God tells Moses, “I have called by name Bezalel…And I have filled him with the Spirit of God…indeed I, have appointed with him Oholiab…and I have put wisdom in the hearts … Continue reading Parsha Ki Tissa Exodus 30:11-34:35
Parsha Tetzaveh Exodus 27:20-30:10
This week’s portion is entirely dedicated to the garments and consecration of the “Kohanim–Priests,” as well their service in the Tabernacle. Now there is something very interesting about this portion that may be missed by a quick glance through. Moses, prophet of God and leader of the Israelites is not mentioned once in this Parsha. From the … Continue reading Parsha Tetzaveh Exodus 27:20-30:10
Parsha Terumah Exodus 25:1-27:19
This week’s Torah portion begins by describing the construction of the tabernacle. Dennis Prager writes in his commentary, “More chapters are devoted to the Tabernacle and the details of its construction and functioning than to any other subject in the five books of the Torah.” This means that the topic of the tabernacle happens to be one … Continue reading Parsha Terumah Exodus 25:1-27:19
Parsha Mishpatim Exodus 21:1-24:18
I grew up hearing the familiar saying “the devil is in the details.” What I didn’t know until recently however, is that this saying was formed based on another saying which happens to be much older. The foundation for the saying “the devil is in the details” turns out to be a quote created by an unknown author that … Continue reading Parsha Mishpatim Exodus 21:1-24:18
Parsha Yitro “Jethro” Exodus 18:1-20:23
The first thing we read in this Parsha is about Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law. He comes bringing with him Moses’ family and meets up with the Israelite nation “at the mountain of God,” as is explained in the first verses of this portion. Now, why is it important to mention the exact spot where Jethro first encountered the … Continue reading Parsha Yitro “Jethro” Exodus 18:1-20:23
Parsha Va’era “I Appeared” Exodus 6:2-9:35
In this week’s portion we find an interesting genealogy of Moses and Aaron. The first question to be asked when encountering this genealogy is concerning its placement. We read of Moses and Aaron encountering an angry Pharaoh, next Moses speaks to God and suddenly . . . a genealogy? The storyline seems to be coming … Continue reading Parsha Va’era “I Appeared” Exodus 6:2-9:35
Parsha Vayechi Genesis 47:28-50:26
This week’s Torah portion describes the end of the life of Jacob. We read that “the time drew near [for] Israel (Jacob) [to] die.” Once Israel (the spiritual name of Jacob) realizes it is his time to “bite-the-dust” he calls his sons to bless them, to “tell [them] what sh[ould happen] in the last days,” and to make them promise to bury him … Continue reading Parsha Vayechi Genesis 47:28-50:26
Parsha Vayigash Genesis 44:18-47:27
This week’s Torah portion begins with Judah interceding on behalf of his brother Benjamin before—unbeknownst to him—his long lost brother Joseph, Viceroy of Egypt, as it says in verse 18; “Then Judah came near to him (Joseph) and said: “O my lord, please let your servant speak a word in my lord’s hearing…” In Hebrew Judah says … Continue reading Parsha Vayigash Genesis 44:18-47:27
Parsha Miketz Genesis 41:1-44:17
This week we read about Joseph’s promotion from “pit to palace.” In Hebrew, the first verse of this portion begins with the words, “V’yhi miketz—And it came to pass at the end…” What does the word “miketz” represent? We translate this word as “end,” but what happens when something comes to an end? A Beginning! Therefore, the word “miketz—end” should really be read … Continue reading Parsha Miketz Genesis 41:1-44:17
Parsha Vayeshev Genesis 37:1-40:23
This week’s portion begins with the words, “Now Jacob dwelt in the land where his father was a stranger.” In other words, “Jacob settled down.” We understand this verse to mean that Jacob attempted to become comfortable in his surroundings. Unfortunately, when the attempt is made to “settle down,” it often leads to “settling for less.” Rashi, in his commentary writes of this … Continue reading Parsha Vayeshev Genesis 37:1-40:23
Parsha Vayishlach Genesis 32:3-36:43
This week I want to begin by reading the 2 verses that come before this portion. The verses state, “So Jacob went on his way (after leaving Laban), and the angels of God met him. When Jacob saw them, he said, ‘This is God’s camp.’ And he called the name of that place Mahanaim.” Why did angels … Continue reading Parsha Vayishlach Genesis 32:3-36:43
Parsha Vayetze Genesis 28:10-32:2
This week begins with the exile of Jacob. Now it may sound strange to call Jacob’s flight from Canaan to Haran an exile. But the reality is, every time Jacob or one of Jacob’s descendants leaves the Land of Promise…it is exile, whether that exile comes by choice or is forced. Paul writes that the … Continue reading Parsha Vayetze Genesis 28:10-32:2
Parsha Toldot Genesis 25:19-28:9
This parsha is the only portion dedicated to the life of Isaac. In the Torah there are 3 portions dedicated to the life of Abraham, 6 portions dedicated to the lives of Jacob and his sons, but only 1 portion dealing with Isaac’s life. Because of this, it is easy to skip over the life … Continue reading Parsha Toldot Genesis 25:19-28:9
Parsha Chayei Sarah Genesis 23:1-25:18
This week’s portion begins with the words “Sarah lived one hundred and twenty-seven years; these were the years of the life of Sarah. So Sarah died in Kirjath Arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan, and Abraham came to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her.” Why does this portion immediately begin with the … Continue reading Parsha Chayei Sarah Genesis 23:1-25:18
Parsha Vayera Genesis 18:1-22:24
As I read through this week’s portion I couldn’t help but follow a seemingly common thread tying last week’s and this week’s portions together. The name of this week’s portion is “Vayera” which is generally translated as “And [He] Appeared.” The Hebrew root form of the word “Vayera” is the term “Ra’ah” and has to do with “sight, seeing and/or vision.” Reading through this Torah … Continue reading Parsha Vayera Genesis 18:1-22:24
Parsha Lech Lecha Genesis 12:1-17:27
This week’s Torah Portion begins with God’s call to Abram (Avram—Later to become Abraham/Avraham). God said to Abram “Get out of your country, from your family and from your father’s house, to a land that I will show you.” Now, up to this point in history, we could read the Biblical narrative and come to view God … Continue reading Parsha Lech Lecha Genesis 12:1-17:27
Parsha Noah Genesis 6:9-11:32
In last week’s portion we read the words of Lamech when he named his son “Noach—Noah.” Lamech said, “This one will comfort us (y’nachamenu) concerning our work and the toil of our hands, because of the ground which the Lord has cursed.” The name Noah comes from the Hebrew word “Nacham” which can be translated as comfort/mercy. However, why did Lamech … Continue reading Parsha Noah Genesis 6:9-11:32
Parsha Bereshit “In the Beginning”
“In the beginning God created…” The renowned portion that has been recounted through numerous generations and many centuries of time is once again upon us. As we read through this portion, I have heard people in the past speculate about what was before the universe’s beginning. It is definitely an interesting topic, one that generally leads … Continue reading Parsha Bereshit “In the Beginning”
Parsha Beshalach Exodus 13:17-17:16
This week we read about Pharaoh’s final last-ditch attempt to stop the Israelites from making their ultimate escape. Pharaoh asks his servants, “Why have we done this, that we have let Israel go from serving us?” After everything that had transpired in Egypt, Pharaoh is still not willing to admit defeat. Pharaoh doesn’t tell his servants to … Continue reading Parsha Beshalach Exodus 13:17-17:16
Parsha Ki Tetze Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19
This week’s portion begins with the words “When you go out to war against your enemies, and the Lord your God delivers them into your hand…” From reading this verse it seems to imply that God will always give Israel victory over their enemies, right? So, why then in Numbers 10 do we read “When you go to war in … Continue reading Parsha Ki Tetze Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19
Parsha Shoftim Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9
This portion begins with the words “Shoftim v’shotrim titen-l’cha b’chol-sha’arecha—You shall appoint judges and officers in all your gates.” It then continues on by saying that Israel should do this once God brings them into the Land that He is giving them. The word “appoint” used in the above verse is the Hebrew word “titen.” This word can also mean, “give.” In essence, what God … Continue reading Parsha Shoftim Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9
Parsha Re’eh “See” Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17
This week’s Parsha/Portion begins with the words, “Re’eh Anochi Noten Lif’neichem Hayom Bracha Uk’la’lah.” Now, please don’t get me wrong. I’m very grateful for our English versions and all the History behind how they came to be. However, I am also very particular about translations because I believe it can be easy to lose the Heart behind … Continue reading Parsha Re’eh “See” Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17
Parsha Ekev Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25
This week’s portion begins with the words “V’Hayah Ekev Tishmaun.”Most English translations render these words as something along the lines of “If you listen.” However, this would be an incorrect translation; or, a not completely accurate translation. A good translation would translate these words as closer to, “And it will be, because you listen…” If you look at the verse above you will … Continue reading Parsha Ekev Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25
Parsha Va’etchanan Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11
This week’s portion begins with the words “Va’etchanan el-Hashem Ba’et Haheev?—Then I pleaded with the Lord at that time…” These were Moses’ words when he was desperately requesting God’s permission to enter the Promised Land. Moses, with his entire being, wanted to enter into the Land promised to his forefathers; he wanted to see the Land, which … Continue reading Parsha Va’etchanan Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11
“The Vision of a Hero” Parsha Devarim
In this week’s portion we start a new book of the Torah: the book of Deuteronomy! The whole book of Deuteronomy is basically just one long oratorical speech given by Moses, the man of God. I find this to be very interesting because in Exodus 4, when Moses encounters God in the wilderness at the … Continue reading “The Vision of a Hero” Parsha Devarim
Parsha Mattot/Massei Numbers 30:2-36:13
This week we are confronted with a double portion that takes us all the way to the end of the 4th book of the Torah, the book of Numbers. Though the entirety of these two portions seem rather boring, there are some very intriguing lessons hidden away in the very middle of a seemingly long, dry, … Continue reading Parsha Mattot/Massei Numbers 30:2-36:13
Parsha Pinchas Numbers 25:10-30:1
In this week’s portion, we begin by finishing the story of “Pinchas?—Phineas.” In the story, the women and gods of Midian and Moab are leading the entire nation of Israel astray. Phineas, in his zeal, runs and kills a leader from among the Israelites who is engaged in this public immoral debacle, and by doing this, saves … Continue reading Parsha Pinchas Numbers 25:10-30:1
Parsha Chukat/Balak Numbers 19:1-25:9
This week we have a double portion filled to the brim with laws, stories and events. When I first began studying through the portions for the week, I was a little overwhelmed by the wealth of information presented. With so many exciting perspectives and avenues, I decided to bring a bit from as many different … Continue reading Parsha Chukat/Balak Numbers 19:1-25:9
Korach “Korah” Numbers 16:1-18:32
In this week’s parsha we are confronted with the rebellious characters of Korah and his company of 250 “men of renown” who came against Moses and Aaron’s leadership. Korah begins his address against Moses and Aaron by saying, “You take too much upon yourselves, for all the congregation is holy, every one of them, and the … Continue reading Korach “Korah” Numbers 16:1-18:32
Parsha Sh’lach “Send” Numbers 13:1-15:41
This week we read of the fateful story describing the sin of the 10 spies, which caused the nation of Israel to wander in the wilderness instead of entering the Promised Land. And what was the sin of the spies? It was their report, which they brought back to the Nation of Israel. “We went to the land where … Continue reading Parsha Sh’lach “Send” Numbers 13:1-15:41
Parsha Beha’alotcha Numbers 8:1-12:15
In this week’s portion, we read about the complaining of the people concerning the manna = bread from heaven, which was provided to them daily by God. Starting out in Numbers 11 we read of this wilderness episode. “Now the people complained…[and] the mixed multitude who were among them yielded to intense craving; so the children … Continue reading Parsha Beha’alotcha Numbers 8:1-12:15
Parsha Nasso Numbers 4:21-7:89
From this week’s portion I want to focus on the very last verse. Numbers 7:89 says, “Now when Moses went into the tabernacle of meeting to speak with Him, he heard the voice of One speaking to him from above the mercy seat that was on the ark of the Testimony, from between the two cherubim; … Continue reading Parsha Nasso Numbers 4:21-7:89
Parsha Bamidbar Numbers 1:1-4:20
It is always exciting to start another book in the Torah. Yet, out of the 5 books found in the Torah, I think the title of this one has to sound the most boring. This week we find ourselves starting out in the portion “Bamidbar”, which begins the book of Numbers. Now, I don’t know about … Continue reading Parsha Bamidbar Numbers 1:1-4:20
Parsha Bo “Come” Exodus 10:1-13:16
This week’s Torah portion can be referred to as the “Yetsiyat Mitzrayim—Exodus from Egypt” segment. In this portion God delivers the nation of Israel “out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.” However, the redemption of the Israelites wasn’t without devastation, destruction and death. Pharaoh’s increasingly hardened heart was continually at odds with the idea of allowing the … Continue reading Parsha Bo “Come” Exodus 10:1-13:16
Parsha Shemot “Names” Exodus 1:1-6:1
This week we begin reading the 2nd book of the Torah. The book of Exodus describes for us the horrors of Egypt, which the Israelites faced for the duration of their time of exile in Egypt. In Jeremiah 11, God describes Egypt as an “iron furnace” from which He brought the Israelites out. Egypt means “narrows straights or constriction,” which … Continue reading Parsha Shemot “Names” Exodus 1:1-6:1
Parsha Behar/Bechukotai Leviticus 25:1-27:34
This week we have another double portion, which finishes up the book of Leviticus for this Torah reading cycle. While there are many different angles that could be pursued concerning this portion, my reading of this portion started immediately with a question. So let’s jump right into the text of the first verse of this … Continue reading Parsha Behar/Bechukotai Leviticus 25:1-27:34
Parsha Emor “Say” Leviticus 21:1-24:23
This week’s portion starts off talking about the laws that apply to the “Big Kahuna” and his sons. I found it funny that the Hawaiian term “Kahuna—Priest/Master” can be translated as “Priest/Service” in Hebrew as well, though the languages themselves are totally unrelated to each other. The letter pattern “k-h-n” in Hebrew always relates to … Continue reading Parsha Emor “Say” Leviticus 21:1-24:23
Acharei Mot/Kodeshim Leviticus 16:1-20:27
This weeks Torah portion takes us back to where we left off in the story of Nadav and Avihu, who were “consumed” because they offered “Esh Zarah—Strange Fire” to God. In Leviticus 10 we read about this incident, but we don’t conclude the story until chapter 16 of Leviticus in this portion, “Acharei Mot—After the … Continue reading Acharei Mot/Kodeshim Leviticus 16:1-20:27
Parsha Tazria/Metzora Leviticus 12:1-15:33
This week’s portion goes into the details concerning childbirth, leprosy and marital /personal purity. There is a lot we could explore in this portion even though these are probably the chapters most of us would want to skip over. For this observation I want to get into the chapters about leprosy and talk about how … Continue reading Parsha Tazria/Metzora Leviticus 12:1-15:33
Parsha Shemini Leviticus 9:1-11:47
In this week’s Torah portion we read about the end of the Priests ordination. For seven days the Priests have been ministering inside the “Mishkan—Tabernacle.” This portion immediately launches into what happened “…on the eighth day…” For this observation, I want to jump straight into the first verse of this portion and work our way … Continue reading Parsha Shemini Leviticus 9:1-11:47
Parsha Tzav Leviticus 6:1 (8)-8:36
This week we read basically a reiteration of the previous portion. It goes through the 5 different types of offerings, as well as the particularities concerning each. It then finishes with the inauguration of the Priesthood and the Tabernacle. Normally, when we read about God telling Moses to convey a message, He uses the wording … Continue reading Parsha Tzav Leviticus 6:1 (8)-8:36
Parsha Vayikra Leviticus 1:1-5:26
This week we begin reading a new book in the Torah, the book of Leviticus. I know when everyone thinks about the book of Leviticus what probably immediately comes to mind are the verses, “…You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Lev. 19:18) as well as the verse, “…Proclaim liberty throughout the Land.” (Lev. 25:10) … Continue reading Parsha Vayikra Leviticus 1:1-5:26
Vayakhel Exodus 35:1-40:38
This week is a double portion that deals with the construction and raising of the Tabernacle. This was the first “Barn Raising,” if you could call it such, found in History; except a “Barn Raising” is when a community comes together to build for a certain individual while the “Mishkan Raising—Tabernacle Raising” was a community … Continue reading Vayakhel Exodus 35:1-40:38
Parsha Ki Tisa Exodus 30:11-34:35
This week is definitely a full portion! It was very hard to decide what to write about, but I figured there is no better place than the beginning! Now, I know the verses we start with in this chapter are curious, but for some reason, these were the verses that fascinated me when I was … Continue reading Parsha Ki Tisa Exodus 30:11-34:35
“Tetzaveh” Exodus 27:20-30:10
This portion deals a lot with the Garments and Consecration of the Kohanim—the Priests. In great detail it describes the intricacies behind the attire specifically for the “Kohen Gadol—High Priest.” With all of these instructions concerning the outfit and vestments of the High Priest, it begs the question…Does God only look at the heart? Most … Continue reading “Tetzaveh” Exodus 27:20-30:10
Parsha Terumah Exodus 25:1-27:19
In this weeks Portion we read about the construction of the Mishkan—the Tabernacle. Much of the Torah is dedicated to the construction, implementation and functioning of the Tabernacle and its Service. The construction of the Tabernacle is such a prevalent topic dealt with in the Torah, that it is impossible to turn a blind eye … Continue reading Parsha Terumah Exodus 25:1-27:19
“Mishpatim” Exodus 21:1-24:18
For people who hear the word “Torah” and immediately think of a list of laws and regulations, then this portion is for you. This portion contains quite a list of commandments, racking up a whopping total of 53 laws—23 compulsory and 30 prohibitory commandments. In this portion we are getting down to the “nitty gritty” … Continue reading “Mishpatim” Exodus 21:1-24:18
Parsha Yitro Exodus 18:1-20:26
In this portion we arrive at one of the most important events in all of human history. In Hebrew this occasion is known as “Mattan Torah” or in English as, “The giving of the Torah.” But this portion doesn’t start off with the giving of the Torah, it starts with Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law. And so … Continue reading Parsha Yitro Exodus 18:1-20:26
“Beshalach” Exodus 13:17-17:16
Out of all the portions we have been through these past months, I believe I can truly say, this has to be one of my favorites! Before I get into this portion, I want to write that some mornings it is amazing to wake up knowing that I am a “friend of God.” This is … Continue reading “Beshalach” Exodus 13:17-17:16
Parsha Bo “Go” Exodus 10:1-13:16
This weeks Parsha has some amazing and interesting statements that I want to dive right into. But just to recap…remember, in our story, we are in the middle of Plague-ridden Egypt. Despite the plagues brought into existence by God, through Moses and Aaron, Pharaoh has refused to let the children of Israel leave his land. And … Continue reading Parsha Bo “Go” Exodus 10:1-13:16
Parsha Va’era Exodus 6:2-9:35
This week I’m excited to dive into this portion because this is the portion that coincides with my birthday. At the age of 13 I was expected to be able to read and sing part of this portion in Hebrew and also give a “drash—short exposition” on this section of text. I am rather partial … Continue reading Parsha Va’era Exodus 6:2-9:35
Parsha Shemot Exodus 1:1-6:1
This week we have fast forwarded from the life of Joseph and moved straight into a new (but very old) book, continuing the same story line, but with new characters and a different setting. In other words, “the plot thickens.” I could write instead “the plot dickens,” but that would only make sense to those … Continue reading Parsha Shemot Exodus 1:1-6:1
Parsha Vayechi Genesis 47:28-50:26
The last portion in the book of Genesis tells of the life of Jacob and his family living in Egypt. Jacob recognized even before leaving Canaan, the vision of Abram in Genesis 15 was coming true. “Know certainly that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, and will serve them, … Continue reading Parsha Vayechi Genesis 47:28-50:26
Parsha Vayigash Genesis 44:18-47:27
There is so much in this portion that could lead in so many different directions, but instead of going into really deep concepts this week, I wanted to simply explore the part of this story that really touched me and see where we end up. This portion begins with the encounter between Joseph and Judah. … Continue reading Parsha Vayigash Genesis 44:18-47:27
Parsha Miketz Genesis 41:1-44:17
I have enjoyed every minute of these weekly observations and this week is no different as we jump into the Torah portion Miketz. I haven’t had as much time as I would’ve liked in order to study the portion since we are still in full swing with Hanukah festivities. Every week I feel like I … Continue reading Parsha Miketz Genesis 41:1-44:17
Hanukkah — “The Festival of Lights” and “The Feast of Dedication”
I wanted to send out a quick story I wrote several years back about the story behind the Festival of Hanukkah. Tonight we celebrate the second day of this eight day festival! I hope to have a more in-depth write up by the end of the feast, Lord willing. But until then, I hope this wets … Continue reading Hanukkah — “The Festival of Lights” and “The Feast of Dedication”
Parsha Vayeshev Genesis 37:1-40:23
It is amazing that every week there is so much to explore, discover and uncover! Never a dull moment in the Torah, this week’s Parsha dives headfirst into the lives of Jacob and his sons. In this Parsha (Portion) it starts out telling us, “Now Jacob dwelt in the land where his father was a … Continue reading Parsha Vayeshev Genesis 37:1-40:23
Parsha Vayishlach Genesis 32:3-36:43
In this week’s portion we jump immediately into the action of Jacob’s exciting return to the Land of Canaan. Jacob has been gone from his homeland for some 20 odd years and is finally making the trek back as a wealthy and esteemed individual. But during his journey back, the very person that forced him … Continue reading Parsha Vayishlach Genesis 32:3-36:43
Parsha Vayetze Genesis 28:10-32:2
It is amazing how rich every Torah portion can be! This week is no exception as we dive right in to the story of what many people refer to as “Jacob’s Ladder” or “Jacob’s Dream.” Last weeks portion informs us that Jacob is fleeing from his brothers murderous intentions while also on a mission from … Continue reading Parsha Vayetze Genesis 28:10-32:2
Parsha Toldot “Generations” Genesis 25:19-28:9
This portion starts out on an interesting note. We read in Genesis 25:21, “Now Isaac pleaded with the Lord for his wife, because she was barren…” This is actually not surprising because we find all the Matriarchs even Leah to be barren before being allowed to have children. (We know Leah was barren because in … Continue reading Parsha Toldot “Generations” Genesis 25:19-28:9
Parsha Chayei Sarah Genesis 23:1-25:18
This portion begins with the words, “Sarah lived one hundred and twenty-seven years; these were the years of the life of Sarah. So Sarah died in Kirjath Arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan…” Is it not rather strange to name this portion “the life of Sarah” when we immediately read of her … Continue reading Parsha Chayei Sarah Genesis 23:1-25:18
Parsha Vayera Genesis 18:1-
In this week’s portion we read of Abraham’s great and final test of his life. Genesis 22 starts out by saying, “Now it came to pass…that God tested Abraham and said to him, ‘Abraham!’” When I first started writing, I wrote out the whole verses of Genesis 22:1-3. But the more I wrote, the more … Continue reading Parsha Vayera Genesis 18:1-
Parsha Lech Lecha Genesis 12:1-17:27
These few chapters are some of the most important to be founded upon from the whole Bible. These chapters are especially important for us from the nations, since it is under the Covenant of Abraham that we have been grafted into God’s family. If we don’t understand the covenant with Abraham, then how will we … Continue reading Parsha Lech Lecha Genesis 12:1-17:27
Parsha Noach Genesis 6:9-11:32
This week we are “submerged” in an enormous amount of information and stories from the account of Noah, the Flood, and finally concluding with the Tower of “babblings.” This is a large Torah portion, meaning, there are a lot of directions we could go this week. However, I didn’t even make it past the first … Continue reading Parsha Noach Genesis 6:9-11:32
Parsha Bereshit Genesis 1:1-6:8
Starting at the very beginning, it is amazing to step once again into the incredible wonder of the creation story. There is so much we could learn just from this portion and I hope to only wet your appetite for more, as we dive into this “Original Account of the Universe.” The name of this … Continue reading Parsha Bereshit Genesis 1:1-6:8
Simchat Torah Deuteronomy 33:1-34:12
We are in an exciting time this week as we just wrapped up the Holiday of Sukkot. God always end His parties with a party, which is why I get to send out another observation! Unfortunately, I didn’t send it out on time, as this week has been very busy. But I still wanted to … Continue reading Simchat Torah Deuteronomy 33:1-34:12
Parsha Ha’Azinu Deuteronomy 32:1-32:52
This portion contains the “Song of Moses.” Often people talk about the song of Moses as mentioned in Revelation 15, where it speaks of “those who have the victory over the beast…sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb…” But most people don’t realize that the song of … Continue reading Parsha Ha’Azinu Deuteronomy 32:1-32:52
Parsha VaYelech Deuteronomy 31:1-31:30
In this week’s portion, Moses celebrates his birthday! As he says in verse 2 “I am one hundred and twenty years old today…” For over 40 years, Moses has faithfully led the nation of Israel. But instead of sitting back easy, eating his one-hundred-and-twenty candle manna cake, Moses is busy with the final preparations for … Continue reading Parsha VaYelech Deuteronomy 31:1-31:30
Shanah Tovah—Happy New Year!
As the New Year (Rosh HaShanah) approaches, bringing us ever closer to the Day of Judgement (Yom Kippur), I wanted to write a short note of encouragement for all of us to think on as we enter this special and sobering time. As I watch time turn around, I’m reminded of a passage in Ecclesiastes … Continue reading Shanah Tovah—Happy New Year!
Parsha Nitzavim Deuteronomy 29:9-30:20
This portion is the beginning of Moses giving his farewell to the nation he has led for more than 40 years. In this portion, he addresses the idea of following idols or choosing God, the choice between “life and death, blessing or cursing.” God is making it evident to all Israel that everyone has the … Continue reading Parsha Nitzavim Deuteronomy 29:9-30:20
Parsha Ki Tavo Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8
This week’s portion deals with protocol before entering the Promised Land. Starting at the end of chapter 26, Moses begins describing the blessings that come from walking in the statutes and ordinances given to Israel by God. Then come the “marching orders” on how to enter the land. Moses and the elders of Israel command … Continue reading Parsha Ki Tavo Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8
Parsha Ki Tetzei Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19
As I sat down at 4.30 this morning to write this week’s “observation,” I felt I should continue my reading in the New Testament before jumping into the day. What I read surprised me and clarified what today’s study was supposed to be about. In Galatians 3:13-14 we read these words; “Messiah has redeemed us … Continue reading Parsha Ki Tetzei Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19
Parsha Shoftim Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9
In this week’s Torah portion we read of several interesting things that are conveyed by God through Moses. This portion is titled “Judges,” which leads us to some remarkable points on justice and judgment within the nation of Israel. In these chapters, the leadership of Israel are all mentioned: the judges (Sanhedrin), the king, the … Continue reading Parsha Shoftim Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9
Parsha Re’eh Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17
The opening words of this week’s Torah portion start with, “Behold, I set before you today a blessing and a curse…” Blessings were promised if Israel walked in accordance with God’s commands. Curses came when Israel ignored God and walked contrary to Him. However, both the blessings and curses were for Israel’s good. They were … Continue reading Parsha Re’eh Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17
Parsha V’Etchanan Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11
This is one of the most amazing Torah portions I think we have explored over the weeks. I wasn’t even sure how to tackle this portion because of all the different ideas and angles running through my head. Typically I’m struggling because of a lack of ideas, this week it was the other way around! The … Continue reading Parsha V’Etchanan Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11
Parsha Matot/Massei – Numbers 30:2-36:13
This week is a double portion where we finish the book of “Bamidbar—Numbers.” Moses, our main hero in the story is preparing himself and the nation for his fast-approaching death. In chapter 31 God tells Moses, “Take vengeance on the Midianites for the children of Israel…” The women of Midian were responsible for the deaths … Continue reading Parsha Matot/Massei – Numbers 30:2-36:13
Parsha Pincha – Numbers 25:10-30:1
Last week’s portion ended with the children of Israel engaged in immorality and idol worship in Shittim; the men of Israel were being seduced by the women of Midian and Moab into complete depravity and wickedness. A plague had broken out because of this, yet some of Israel’s leaders were still participating and approving of … Continue reading Parsha Pincha – Numbers 25:10-30:1
Parsha Balak Numbers 22:2-25:9
This week’s Torah portion starts out immediately diving into the story of Balak, King of Moav and Balaam ben Beor, the Sorcerer. Balaam was known throughout the region as a powerful seer in the spiritual realm who, in his own words, was a “…man whose eyes are opened…who hears the words of God, who sees … Continue reading Parsha Balak Numbers 22:2-25:9
Miracle Makers. Parsha Chukat Numbers 19:1-22:1
Parsha Chukat “Statutes” Numbers 19:1-22:1 In this week’s Parsha we read of the passing of two of Israel’s “Greats.”Miriam and Aaron, both of whom die in the wilderness.In the midst of this, Israel is totally dependent upon God for all their needs. Miracles are a common daily reminder of God’s providence.Psalm 78 sums up the daily … Continue reading Miracle Makers. Parsha Chukat Numbers 19:1-22:1
Parsha Korah Numbers 16:1-18:32
With last week’s portion behind us, we would think we would read of a more humbled people who recognize their sin and are in repentance asking God for mercy and compassion. But instead, this week’s portion immediately starts out “????????? ?????—And Korah took” The Rashi explains, “He betook himself on one side with the … Continue reading Parsha Korah Numbers 16:1-18:32
Parsha Sh’lach Numbers 13:1-15:41
This week we enter into the climax of the wilderness journey. The whole purpose of the “????? ?????” or Exodus from Egypt was to get to this very moment, a moment that Abraham the Patriarch had only dreamt of. His descendants were entering the Promised Land after 230 years of slavery and exile in Egypt. … Continue reading Parsha Sh’lach Numbers 13:1-15:41
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