“Ki Va Moed,” proclaims the psalmist, “the appointed time has come!” [Ps. 102:14] These three Hebrew words are often used to introduce the beginning of Shabbat, but they especially ring in my heart at this time of year, as we gather together to celebrate a New Year, and search our souls for ways to be […]
Twinningupdated September 2019 Through Yad Vashem in Israel. https://www.yadvashem.org/remembrance/bar-bat-mitzvah-twinning-program.html From the website: For those not planning to visit Israel in the near future you can still participate in the twinning program.The Bar Mitzvah boy or Bat Mitzvah girl will be twinned with a child who did not have a chance to mark his or her […]
Ki Tetze – 5779 Deuteronomy 21:10 – 25:19 In Ki Tetze, Torah speaks with more than one voice. This week’s parasha, among other things, defines who (besides the Israelites) can be admitted to the congregation of Israel, and who may not. According to Rabbi Adam Greenwald, it contains the hardest commandment of all: “You must […]
Shoftim – 5779 Deuteronomy 16:18 – 21:9 The opening words of this week’s parasha call to us at this time of year: “Shoftim v’shotrim titein lecha, Judges and overseers you shall set for yourself …” [Deut. 16:18] In context, the commandment has to do with setting up a fair and just judicial system – a […]
Re’eh – 5779 Deuteronomy 11:26 – 16:17 “Re’eh!” calls Moses at the beginning of our portion. “See! I am placing before you today blessing and curse.” [Deut. 11:26]. There is nothing odd or unusual about this verse, or about calling us to pay attention, especially when the stakes are high. It makes perfect sense, until […]
