Articles in Bereishit
Vayeshev: Responsible For A Nation
The Case of the Hidden Item
The Talmud relates a story about a man who deposited jewelry with his fellow for safekeeping. When the owner came to retrieve the jewelry the custodian confessed that he had placed it in a hidden place for safekeeping and was not able to find it. …
Vayishlach: Getting Involved
It’s a Different World
The world is not what it used to be. Children used to respect their elders. People used to wear respectable clothes. Neighborhoods used to be safe heavens. Clergymen used to be regarded as virtuous. Today, everything is different; the social fabric has changed.
Tweet
Toldot: Tapping Our Potential
Double Deceit
Jacob was cooking soup and his older brother wanted a bowl. Jacob offered the soup in return for Esau’s first born ritual rites. Esau didn’t hesitate; he happily surrendered his rites for a bowl of soup.
Tweet
Chayei Sarah: Like Mother Like Daughter
Inner Joy
If you identify the source of happiness and bottle it you could be an instant millionaire. The problem is that true happiness cannot be granted or purchased; true happiness comes from within.
Tweet
Vayera: Can You Feel My Pain?
Praying For Others
“Rabbi, I hope you can help my poor neighbor. He is six months behind his rent and is about to evicted along with his wife and three babies.” “This man must be a good friend of yours,” the Rabbi replied, “of course we will help.”“Friend,” exclaimed the petitioner, …
Lech L’cha: Ancestral Rights Or Globalism
Ancient Divide
Shortly after Great Flood Noah apportioned the known landmass to his three children. Japheth, the oldest son, was awarded Asia and Europe, Ham, the youngest, received the African continent and Shem, the youngest son, received a relatively small section in the Middle East. It was hardly a continent, but …
Noach: Mr. Perfect
Noah or Abraham
We have a friend, who is committed to perceiving everything in life as absolutely perfect. He is a virtual Mr. perfect. He once shared with us that he wakes up every morning and exclaims “perfect, perfect, perfect.” I thought this a wonderful, if bizarre, way to start the …
Vayeshev: Restoring The Neighborhood
The Celebrity
Imagine yourself living in a nice neighborhood where a well known celebrity chooses to make his home. Property values rise and for the first while you enjoy the distinction; you go out of your way to make the celebrity feel welcome. But time passes and the aura wears off. …
