Torah Commentary

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Lech-Lecha: In Praise of Holy Discomfort

A lesson in the role of discomfort in fomenting social change.

Parashat Noach: How Societies Collapse

The story of the flood is an object lesson in the kinds of crimes that pose existential social threats.

Parashat Bereshit: Being Like God

The banishing of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden marks the beginning of humanity’s path to fulfilling its destiny.

Parashat Ha’azinu: Paradigm Shift

Moses' final dramatic message to the Israelites introduces some new names and characteristics of God.

Living Like it’s ‘Hayom’ Every Day

Moses' final address to the Jewish people takes on added significance because of its proximity to his death.

Sins of the Father

The Torah's declaration that parents are not responsible for the sins of their children (and vice versa) is a gem of modern parenting advice.

Forging the Intergenerational Self

The Torah's commandment regarding the first fruits offers a kernel of wisdom about the importance of knowing where we came from.

Doing God’s Work

Ensuring justice is the means to cast out idol worship and ensure God's presence resides among the people.

Telling and Retelling

Why does Moses repeat the history of Israelite people on the eve of crossing into the promised land?

Winning the Divine Lottery

Moses reminds the Israelites that their accomplishments are not solely the result of their own efforts.

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