Emor for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
Letting Abraham's Example Guide Us, During Election Season and Beyond
Covenant and Law: Reading through the Ages
The second portion of Deuteronomy, Va-et’chanan, is an unusual Torah portion in many respects.
The Power and Protection of Angels
For as long as I can remember, I have believed in guardian angels.
Cities of Refuge
Several years ago I read an article by Jared Diamond in The New Yorker Magazine1 about the experiences of a young man in the New Guinea Highlands in trying to fulfill the obligation placed upon him by his community as the
The Most Painful Parts of Joseph’s Story Can Teach Us about Ourselves
Forgiveness and Reconciliation with the Past
Many years ago, I taught an adult education class on biblical heroes. Among those we studied was Joseph. We focused on Parashat Mikeitz and discussed Joseph’s contentious relationship with his older brothers and their later reconciliation.
Vayishlach for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
In this parasha, Jacob and Esau are going to meet, possibly to fight, but first Jacob meets someone who tells him of his great future. Jacob is renamed Israel (which means “one who wrestles with God”) and goes to meet Esau, and they have a joyous reunion. Isaac then dies, and sadly, so does Rachel as she gives birth to her last child. Listen to learn more about the family.
V’zot Hab’rachah for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
Moses blesses the tribes. Listen to this rap to hear a summary of things we’ve learned before Moses says his last words.
Chol HaMo-eid Sukkot for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
The Israelites are given more commandments and make a pact. Listen to this fun rap about the holiday.