Torah Commentary
Before The Law: Creating Real Systems Of Justice
Parashat Vayeshev teaches us the importance of ensuring that we enact justice in light of the ease with which our systems of justice can be abused.
Improving Our Speech
The consequences of what we say are extremely far-reaching, demanding that we choose our words carefully.
Being Truly Present To God And People
We can learn from Jacob's encounter with Esau to meet others as we would meet God.
Overcoming Envy
Esau and Jacob are able to reconcile only when each is secure in his achievements.
Two Kinds Of Intelligence
To be fully educated and human we must study a range of disciplines--humanities and sciences, secular and Judaic.
Why the Angel Asks Jacob His Name
By asking Jacob his name, his wrestling adversary challenges him to examine himself.
Interpreting From The Outside
Joseph's status as an outsider, and the outsider status of the Jewish people, allow for critical insight into the deeper truths of the surrounding people.
Laban’s Excuse: Labor Ethics and Community Standards
Laban and Jacob's business relationship teaches us about the importance of ensuring ethical working conditions.
God Was In This Place And I Did Not Know
Jacob's response to his dream provides us with two models of discovering God's presence.