Toldot: From Conflict to Resolution
Was the relationship between Yaakov and Esav always fraught? Were their descendants destined to be in conflict forever? A look at Parshat Toldot suggests that despite a history of tension and oppression, there is always potential for reconciliation and brotherhood. From the outset, this is more than a story of twin brothers competing for parental…
Chayei Sarah: Inner Strength in a World of Difference
This week, two contrasting images filled my social media feeds: Omer Adam and Boy George celebrating Jewish and Israeli pride in packed arenas, and decisive electoral victories in the US for candidates who ran on largely anti-Israel platforms. At a time when Israel feels increasingly isolated, the strength of character displayed in Parshat Chayei Sarah…
Vayera: The Abrahamic Covenant & Israel’s Elections
The recent elections raised important questions about who embraces Israel’s social covenant – recognizing Israel as the national homeland of the Jewish people. A similar theme emerges in Parshat Vayera: Who upholds Avraham’s values, expressed through the mitzvah of hachnasat orchim, welcoming guests? The parsha opens with Avraham sitting at the entrance of his tent,…
Lech Lecha: From “Me” to “We”
“If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I?” – Pirkei Avot 1:14 Avraham is the paradigm of chesed and compassion, of caring for others. For this reason, Rashi’s commentary on the opening words of Parshat Lech Lecha is surprising. Noting the kefel lashon,…
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About Me
I’m Karen Miller Jackson, a Matan Morah l’Halakha, Jewish educator and writer. This blog provide Torah from a woman’s perspective for modern, busy people. To subscribe by email please sign up just below.
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