Peter S. Knobel

Rabbi Peter S. Knobel serves as interim rabbi at Temple Judea in Coral Gables, Florida. He is rabbi emeritus at Beth Emet the Free Synagogue in Evanston, Illinois, and past president of the Central Conference of American Rabbis.

Torrah and Kippah

The Mishkan: An Invitation to the Divine

Peter S. Knobel
P'kudei , the final parashah in the Book of Exodus, concludes with the completion of the Mishkan. When Moses had finished the work, the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the Presence of the Eternal filled the Tabernacle. Moses could not enter the Tent of Meeting, because the cloud
Torrah and Kippah

When Moses Is with God for 40 Days and 40 Nights, It’s Back to the Idols

Peter S. Knobel
Parashat Ki Tisa recounts the incident of the Golden Calf in a multilayered narrative about faith and leadership. In Exodus, chapter 32, we read that Moses remained on Mount Sinai for 40 days and 40 nights. In his absence, the Israelites demanded that Aaron fashion an idol so God would be present with them.
Torrah and Kippah

Finding Satisfaction in Others’ Success

Peter S. Knobel
Parashat T'tzaveh opens with the following words. "You shall further instruct ( V'atah t'tzaveh) the Israelites to bring you clear oil of beaten olives for lighting, for kindling lamps regularly" (Exodus 27:20).

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