Seven times Joseph weeps, more than any other person in the Torah. He does not cry when he is thrown into the pit, nor when he is sold to the Ishmaelites. He does not weep when cast into prison, nor when betrayed by his companions there. He does not weep from happiness at his success. Seven times he weeps, but only in his encounters with his brothers, with his father, in the presence of, or facing, his family. […]

קרא עוד…

"Torah shows us that the truth, both the divine and ours, is found in our faith in the power of the connection of opposites." This week's parashah explores the power in the connection of opposites. Ran Oron, reminds us that "In these days of turmoil in our hearts we must insist on the power of connection." […]

קרא עוד…

Parashat Shmini is named after the day on which the dedication of the Tabernacle reached its climax. After a week of precise and detailed preparations, Aaron and his sons bring the divine presence into the Tabernacle. At that height of the moment, a great tragedy occurs. The young priests Nadab and Abihu, the two chosen sons of Aaron the priest, sin in forbidden work and disobey the laws of the sacred service. They are punished for their actions and die. […]

קרא עוד…

Seven times Joseph weeps, more than any other person in the Torah. He does not cry when he is thrown into the pit, nor when he is sold to the Ishmaelites. He does not weep when cast into prison, nor when betrayed by his companions there. He does not weep from happiness at his success. Seven times he weeps, but only in his encounters with his brothers, with his father, in the presence of, or facing, his family. […]

קרא עוד…