Torah Commentary

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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.

Dealing Wisely with Torah

In Parashat Vaetchanan, Moses "places" the Torah before the Israelites with a warning.

Culture and Counterculture

Are the giants described in Parashat Devarim primitive foes to be vanquished or a compelling culture to be resisted?

How to Model Genuine Curiosity

In this Torah portion, the biblical character Pinchas shows us how to engender more positive relationships.

What Makes a Family?

The Torah offers several models of familial connection that depart from the standard model.

The Lost Years

The meaning, relationships and transformations that individuals and a nation make in-between milestones.

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