Torah Commentary

Torah Commentary

The Mitzvah of Lying

In my experience as a living, breathing human being, regardless of gender, age, or orientation there is only one correct answer to the question, “Honey, does this outfit look OK?” The answer comes from the Torah in this week’s portion Vayeira, and is attributed to no greater authority than God: it is to say whatever is necessary to make the person in the outfit feel good about themselves and supported by you. Even if that means you have to lie, it is a mitzvah!

Judge a Society by Its Hospitality

In Vayeira, The people of Sodom and Gommorah are depicted as inhospitable, and even cruel, in their treatment of visitors and the poor. We can learn to become an open, welcoming society by following the opposite of their example. 

Vayeira for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps

In this parasha, three visitors come to tell Abraham (his new name) that Sarah (her new name) will have a son. They can’t believe it! But Abraham is angry that God wants to destroy two nations and makes a pact with God to save them. Listen to find out what happens to Lot’s wife and Sarah’s son – it’s a lot!