Torah Commentary
Ancient/Medieval Jewish History
Exodus: History or Mythic Tale?
A biblical scholar reviews the historical claims of the biblical book of Exodus.
Parashat Masei: Summary
The sons of Reuben and Gad have promised Moses that they will help the other tribes settle the Promised Land before settling across the River Jordan.
Shavuot 101
Shavuot commemorates the spring harvest and the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai.
Why We Read The Book of Ruth on Shavuot
The connections between this story and the spring harvest festival.
Why Dairy on Shavuot?
A survey of the many explanations given for the tradition of eating milk products.
If Not Now, When?
Rashi understands Moses' final words to the people as an expression of Hillel's philosophy of self-examination.
Remember Your Rock, Your Creator
Moshe poetically reminds the Children of Israel of the importance of remembering God who created them.
Parashat Vayeilech: Summary
Moses concludes his speech to the Israelites, blesses Joshua, and instructs the community to gather every seven years to read publicly from the Torah; God predicts the eventual straying of the Israelites.