Articles in Parsha Insights
Shmini: Whose Torah is it Anyway?
Not for Me
“Rabbi, the Torah was written so many years ago. Its laws were never intended for the modern age, for the people of modern technology and enlightenment.” This pearl of wisdom was last dropped in my lap several weeks ago during a discussion about Torah and its laws.
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Tzav: Transformation From Within
In Love
A young man was set up on a “shidduch” date. After the first date he told his mother that he was impressed with the young lady’s character, but not with the shape of her nose. After several further dates the young man fell in love. When his mother asked …
Shmini: on Grieving and Joy
An Ecstatic but Trying Moment
This Parsha describes a moment of glory for the children of Israel. They had been forgiven for their sin (the golden calf) and as a consolation prize G-d commanded them to build a tabernacle, a dwelling place for the Divine.
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Tazria Mitzora: In G-d’s Image
The Last Creation
This week’s Parsha enumerates the laws of ritual impurity as they pertain to human beings. The Midrash notes that the previous Parsha enumerated laws of ritual impurity as they pertain to animals. The Midrash thus posits that man’s laws were enumerated after that of the animal for the …
Tazria Mitzora: Treating the Cause
Signs of Leprosy
Our Parsha elaborates upon the laws of “Tzaraa’s: a dermatological condition.” Why is this particular skin condition so central to Torah law? The Midrash teaches that sometimes man’s physical afflictions are consequences of his actions and that leprosy is a sign of slander.
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Tzav: Listening with Empathy
Proper Attire
“He shall remove his garments and don other garments and he shall then take the ashes to a pure place, outside of the camp.” (Our Parsha 6,4) Since the removal of ash will likely soil his vestments the Torah recommends that he change his clothing for this particular task. …
Vayikra: Is it Meaningful?
Sin and Atonement
This week’s Parsha teaches that when a Jew commits a sin inadvertently he must bring a sin offering to atone for his violation.Why must a Jew be taken to task for an innocent mistake? Say, for example, he kindles a fire on Saturday not remembering that it was …
Vayakhel: Imperfect Devotion
Last in Line
Have you ever attended a Bar Mitzvah where dinner was served buffet style? I really dislike those dinners and here is why. When the buffet is set out I examine the mouth-watering display and a battle rages within me about which treats I can afford to eat. By …
