Torah Study

"It is a tree of life to all who grasp it, and whoever holds on to it is happy; its ways are ways of pleasantness, and all it paths are peace." (Proverbs 3:17-18)

This Week's Torah Portion

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This Week's Torah Portion

Vayishlach
וַיִּשְׁלַח
[Jacob] Sent

Jacob now sent messengers ahead of him to his brother Esau in the land of Seir, in the countryside of Edom. - Genesis 32:4

Torah

Genesis 32:4−36:43

Haftarah

Hosea 11:7-12:12 [historic: Obadiah 1:1-21]

When

/ 13 Kislev 5785

What is Torah?

Torah usually refers to the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Hebrew Bible - Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These books make up the story of the Jewish people.

These ancient stories touch upon science, history, philosophy, ritual and ethics. Included are stories of individuals, families, wars, slavery and more. Virtually no subject was taboo for Torah.

Running through these stories is the unique lens through which the Jewish people would come to view their world and their God.

For Youth & Families

Torah: The Tree of Life

What is the Torah and why do we study it? Learn more about these ancient stories that touch upon science, history, philosophy, ritual and ethics.

Learn More about the Torah →

Torah for Tots →

Torah for Tweens →

Torah for Teens →

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Find a Congregation Near You

Find connection, community, learning, and spirituality at a welcoming Reform congregation near you.

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Congregation Beth Am photo at Pride March

 

How to Write a D'var Torah

A d’var Torah (a word of Torah) is a talk or essay based on the parashah (the weekly Torah portion). Especially at times of loneliness, distress, indecision or other personal difficulties, you may find it helpful to read and interpret the Torah portion with a particular focus on how the thoughts and actions of our foremothers and forefathers—intensely human characters—might help you deal with your own challenges.

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