Parashat Vayigash: A shoulder of tears
Though the formal verse of 'Shema, Israel' would only be inscribed later in Torah, Jacob sensed its truth centuries earlier.
Hanukkah 2025: From Hellenism to today’s culture wars
Still reeling from the horrors of violent fascism and extreme nationalism, humanity has grown enamored of a universal self-conception that denies meaningful differences of race, religion, or culture.
Parashat Vayeshev: Leadership does not equal influence
Joseph and Judah show that true leadership is built on integrity, responsibility, and lifting others.
Parashat Vayishlack: Nuance in an age of absolutism
Experiences that could refine us and mature us are processed too quickly to leave a lasting imprint. Instead of being transformed by life, we merely skim it.
Parashat Vayetze: Unlistened truths
We speak the truth because it is the right thing to do, not because we assume it will immediately reshape the world.
Parashat Toldot: Jacob’s conviction and Israel’s moral clarity
Jacob walked with conviction in silence; we must learn to walk with conviction amid the noise.
Parashat Chayei Sara: ‘Ger v’toshav’ – unfinished belonging
Until our people are gathered and the land is restored, we remain wanderers yearning for wholeness.
Parashat Vayera: What went right?
We have paid a steep price for the return of our hostages. We have no choice but to uphold and reinforce the value we place on human life.
Parashat Lech Lecha: From Everyman to hero
The Torah presents Abraham not as a spiritual giant chosen by default but as Everyman. He is not depicted as a polished hero with prior accomplishments but as an ordinary person.
Parashat Noah: The gift and the duty
Miracles should serve as wells of faith for the future. Before we begin our daily prayers, we recall past miracles and past redemptions.
