Torah Commentary
Parashat Noach: Summary
A flood destroys all living creatures, aside from Noah, his family and the animals in their ark.
Don’t Just Stand There — Do Something!
Fear paralyzes us, rendering us incapable of addressing our most pressing problems.
The Deeper Meaning Of A Name
In naming his sons, Joseph communicates his thoughts on living in Egypt, alone and distant from his family.
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.
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.
The Redemption of Judah
Judah's plea to Joseph is a sign of his personal growth and ability to empathize with his father's grief.
Meeting The Faces Of Need
By personally handing out rations, Joseph established a human connection and involvement with those for whom he provided.
From Pride Comes Loneliness
Joseph's experience in prison teaches him, and us, that we succeed and flourish when we support those around us.
Controlling Love
Joseph teaches us to temper love with a sense of duty and a knowledge of right and wrong.
The Challenge Of Changing
Despite Jacob's negative experiences with favoritism, he repeats this trait in his own family and home.