Study
Do We Have to Cross the Jordan?
The request of the tribes of Reuben and Gad to settle outside of the Land of Israel raises the issue of balancing communal and individual needs.
Trying To Remember The Reason I Forgot
Being constantly engaged in learning allows us to guard against the pervasive forgetfulness around us.
Leaving Childhood Behind
The specific complaints of the Israelites in the wilderness illustrate their inability to develop mature, adult relationships.
The Search for Moses’ Successor
In identifying Moses' successor, God emphasizes that inspiration, not passion or popularity, makes a successful leader.
The Connection And Stability Of Blessing
Parashat Beha'alotcha illustrates three paths of achieving meaning in life.
Making Sense Of The Census
The prohibition against the direct counting of the Israelites cautions us to remember the human faces behind abstract statistics.
Mordecai Kaplan: Founder of Reconstructionist Judaism
An examination of the philosophy of one of the 20th century's most prominent Jewish thinkers.
Princely Gifts
The princes' gifts to the Tabernacle illustrate important principles of leadership and methods of balancing personal and communal needs.
Ancient Rituals, Enduring Values
The rituals described in this week's portion remind us to allow our values and principles to guide us in balancing our physical and emotional imbalances.
Situational Ethics And God
The importance of preserving the relationship between a husband and wife provides an example of the Torah's use of relative morality.
Naming Names
Conducting the census by naming each Israelite teaches us the importance of recognizing the uniqueness of every individual.
Standing Guard
The details of how the tribes camped around the Tabernacle teach us lessons about giving respect and honor to the people and causes we care about.