Check out all of last year’s Torah observations from Exodus

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 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

“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 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

“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

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