Torah Commentary

Reflected in the names of her children, Leah grows to recognize her own worth, independent of Jacob's feelings for her.

The story of the flood provides us with numerous insights into human nature and human relationships.

Abraham's relationship to the Land of Israel teaches us to use it as a means of building a just and compassionate society.

Abraham and Rebecca, known for their kindness, are strong role models for us.

Isaac and Rebecca's approaches to their sons teach us valuable lessons about education and relating to people with different natural inclinations.

Like Rebecca, we should turn toward God, not away, in our moments of spiritual crisis.

Isaac's decision to bless both of his sons gives us hope for achieving a peaceful solution to the conflict between Jews and Palestinians.

Jacob and Rebecca teach us that we can alter our fates and achieve greatness.

The Midrash explains what it means that Abraham was blessed with everything and what a blessed life could mean for us.

Like Abraham, who introduced a new model for relating to God and humankind, we continue to integrate social justice into religious practice.