Jewish Texts

The lack of chronological order in Bamidbar allows expressions of God's love for Israel to precede the trials and tribulations of desert wandering.

The priestly prohibition against excessive drinking reminds us to support those in our community challenged by alcoholism.

Several commentators discuss the relationship of the elders to the priests, the people, Moses and God.

Sacrifices allow us to reach out to God using our physical and emotional drives.

Moral behavior that respects and ensures life is the key to holiness and purity.

The sanctification process of materials for the Tabernacle and Temple teaches us that everything has the potential to be used for holiness.

Parashat Tetzaveh foreshadows the connection the Children of Israel will have with God after the death of Moses.

Moses was sensitive to the needs of the people, changing his appearance in order to enhance their ability to communicate with him.

Holiness is not limited to one sphere.

In claiming power over human lives, a murderer denies that God alone possesses that power.

The images of the angel of God and the pillar of cloud accompanying the Israelites in the desert raise questions about effective leadership.

The glorification of God in the Song at the Sea provides us with several models of attaining spirituality.