Study

The academic study of Jewish mysticism was established by a single, ground-breaking scholar.

The actions and people that brought about the plagues teach us not only sensitivity towards people but also towards the environment.

The divine name that God tells Moses at the burning bush expresses the different and evolving relationship that God has with every individual.

Shifra and Puah's defiance of Pharaoh's decree and allegiance to God set the stage for the liberation of the Israelites.

By listing the names of Jacob's family members who went into Egypt the Torah reminds us of the number of people who affect our lives.

Isaac and Rebecca provide us with two models of parenting--love dependent on a specific interaction and love that is unconditional.

God and Abram's covenant between the pieces raises issues of conditionality and obligation still relevant today.

Jacob's death provokes the latent fear in Joseph's brothers that Joseph bears a grudge against them and the desire to make peace with him.

Joseph serves as a model of creating opportunities for repentance and forgiveness.

Joy and laughter, often embodied in children, can help us begin to live again after extreme disappointment and tragedy.

Like Jacob's struggle, each of us must recognize, confront and struggle with our darker side.

Adam's naming of the animals raises complex issues, including the deeper meanings of our names.