Study

Abraham's responses to the destruction of Sodom and Gemorrah and to the command to sacrifice Isaac provide two conflicting models.

In his covenant with Avimelech, Abraham provides us with an example of how to build peace, justice, and kindness where they seem to be absent.

Abraham's servant teaches us the power of spontaneous prayer, a concept that challenges our contemporary focus on consistency and conformity.

Rebecca provides a model of a powerful biblical woman who asserted her independence and her control over the future of the covenant.

Sarah's protection of Isaac and family challenge us to strengthen our families, making them the cornerstones of the covenantal community.

Abram provides us with a model for loving God and people for their own sake and not for any manifestation of that love.

The talmudic discussion of Noah's righteousness sheds light on our understanding of leveling the playing field.

When Jews did not have power, our righteousness was synonymous with blamelessness. How do we define righteousness today, in an age in which Jews do possess power?

The importance of protecting biodiversity both for our survival and for our appreciation of God's presence in the world and the order of creation.

As Abram and God demonstrate, Judaism understands faith as deep trust despite doubt, confusion, and suffering.

The seven Noahide commandments mediate God's love for all of humanity and God's unique relationship with the Jewish people.

Noah's father saw in him the possibility for greatness -- something parents experience even today.