Torah Commentary
Don’t Just Stand There — Do Something!
Fear paralyzes us, rendering us incapable of addressing our most pressing problems.
Feeling The Presence Of God
God's presence at Jacob's deathbed teaches us that our reactions to the situations in which we find ourselves determine our spiritual perceptions.
The Deeper Meaning Of A Name
In naming his sons, Joseph communicates his thoughts on living in Egypt, alone and distant from his family.
From Fratricide To Fraternal Solidarity
The Joseph story provides us with a domestic model for our national ability to move through reconciliation to solidarity.
Benevolent Dictatorship or Righteous Balance?
Joseph's actions in dealing with the famine challenge us to strive for a delicate balance of power and compassion.
Parashat Vayechi: Summary
On his deathbed, Jacob blesses his sons and asks them to bury him in Canaan.
Meeting The Faces Of Need
By personally handing out rations, Joseph established a human connection and involvement with those for whom he provided.
Parashat Miketz: Summary
Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams and is appointed to implement Egypt's anti-famine plan, which brings him into contact with his brothers again.
Blaming Society
We should strive to emulate Abraham and Isaac rather than emulating Laban, who compartmentalized his values.
Don’t Be Quarrelsome On The Way
Joseph's warning to his brothers not to quarrel on their way instructs us as well in our relationships with our families and the larger Jewish community.