Torah Commentary

The lingering trauma of Isaac’s near-sacrifice is felt in his relationship with his wife Rebecca and in the generations that follow.

Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son should be seen as a unique situation never to be repeated.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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