Power Parsha

Vayakhel-Pikudei: Renewal and Repair

Parshat Vayakhel–Pikudei coincides this year with Shabbat HaChodesh. Together, these readings highlight themes of renewal and repair. The book of Shemot ends with a description of the kelim (vessels) used in the mishkan. The final object is the kiyor (basin), from which Moshe and Aaron are commanded to wash their hands and feet. This practice…

Power Parsha

Parshat Ki Tissa: Blessings in Plan B

Parshat Ki Tissa tells the story of a paradigm shift in the relationship between God and the Jewish people. It also offers a lesson for human relationships: adapting and pivoting from plan A to plan B can become, rather than a limitation or disappointment, an opportunity for empowerment and deeper connection. When God tells Moshe…

Power Parsha

Tetzaveh: Clothing as a Calling

Clothing is a central theme in both Parshat Tetzaveh and Megillat Esther, where garments symbolize embracing one’s inner identity and stepping into a calling as a shaliach for the Jewish people. The kohen’s garments are called “bigdei kodesh,” holy clothes, worn for “kavod” (honor) and “tifaret” (glory). Strikingly, the Torah emphasizes material garments for those…

Power Parsha

Terumah: On Haredim Drafting into the IDF

“Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” -John F. Kennedy Parshat Terumah emphasizes the act of giving in the command to build the Mishkan. At first glance, the Torah seems ambiguous about this expectation. It instructs, “Take for Me an offering (terumah),” implying obligation,…

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About Me

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