Numbers 19:1 - 22:1

Judges 11:1 - 11:33

In this Torah portion, God instructs Moses and Aaron regarding the red heifer. Miriam, who is the sister of Moses and Aaron, dies. Moses hits a rock to bring forth water rather than speaking to it. At the end of the portion, Aaron dies.

FULL SUMMARY
HAFTARAH FOR CHUKAT

The Call of the Void

The famed red heifer is a key part of a biblical purification process. But why do we need laws to create a system of purity and impurity in the first place?

More on this Torah Portion

Remembering Miriam

A closer look at Moses's sister.

Miriam: Water Under The Bridge?

Miriam's death should motivate us to recognize people today who provide nurture and support.

Responding to Thirst

Moses' frustration and fatigue were no excuse for his refusal to accept the people's cry for help.

Highest Standards

Because of his position of leadership, Moses is judged extremely harshly when he sins.

Parting Is Such Sweet Sorrow

Miriam, whose death is recorded in Parashat Chukat, embodied the honor and glory of the women of Israel.

When To Talk And When To Act

Comparing Moses to Yiftah raises questions about when we should be people of speech and when we should be people of action.

Two Strikes And They’re Out?

Though we may challenge the severity of Moses' and Aaron's punishment, we affirm sacredness by trying to comprehend it.

Tools of Justice

Our actions and our words must be in line with one another.

Water Consciousness

How to send environmental problems down the drain.

Preparing for an Unknown Future

The Torah law about the red heifer was given because it anticipated the temporal nature and limitation of what Miriam had to offer.

The Waters of Lustration: Tears and Tzedakah

Jewish sources suggest tears and tzedakah [charity] as two modern replacements for the Red Heifer.

An Imperfect Hero

Moses' fatal flaw is his inability to wean his people from their dependence on him.

Facing Longstanding Foes

Were the Canaanites the nation of Amalek?

Why Words Can Hurt

Just as words can push people apart, so too can they bring us closer.

Bullying and Name Calling

In his anger, Moses uses a destructive label for his people in public.

When We Lose Control

Chukat: A resource for families

Challah for Parashat Chukat

Slaughtering the red heifer.

Parashat Chukat Quiz

Learn more about the weekly Torah portion.

Haftarah for Chukat

A warrior, once shunned, regains his rightful place at the head of the battle.

Parashat Chukat: Summary

God instructs Moses and Aaron regarding the red heifer; Miriam dies; Moses hits a rock to bring forth water rather than speaking to it; Aaron dies.