Power Parsha

Ki Tetze: Fostering Compassion

Parshat Ki Tetze contains many mitzvot. One in particular relates to a central theme of Elul and Rosh Hashanah: fostering and praying for mercy and compassion. What is the purpose of the mitzvah of shiluach ha-ken, sending away the mother bird before taking her young or eggs? Mishna Berakhot teaches that one may not add…

Power Parsha

Shoftim: On Moral Leadership

The laws governing various forms of leadership in Parshat Shoftim highlight both its challenges and moral responsibilities, while empowering individuals to ensure that those who lead are worthy of the positions they hold. Alongside the Torah’s command to appoint judges in every town comes the warning that judges must not show favoritism or accept bribes,…

Power Parsha

Eikev: Community with Diversity

In Parshat Eikev, Moshe continues his final address to Bnei Yisrael. One verse provides insight into how we view different levels of Torah observance within our homes and communities. Moshe promises reward for keeping the mitzvot: the people will flourish, multiply, and inherit the Land of Israel. Yet the Torah uses an unusual phrasing: “All…

Power Parsha

Va’ethchanan & Nachamu: Messages of Comfort

Shabbat Nachamu, the Shabbat of Comfort, always follows Tisha B’Av – a day that embodies Jewish suffering throughout the ages. What message of comfort does this juxtaposition offer the Jewish world and Israel today? The message of Nachamu – the haftarah from Isaiah 40 – is that even after destruction, God’s comfort is assured. This…

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I’m Karen Miller Jackson, a certified Matan Morah l’Halakha, Jewish educator and writer. Welcome to my blog which provides Torah from a woman’s perspective for modern, busy people. To subscribe via email please sign up or by whatsapp here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/CKLpCygJaBf20sKbNmRV1u