Jewish Texts
Summary of Parashat Vayera
Isaac's birth, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the exile of Hagar and the ultimate sacrifice.
Tied To The Land
Both Jacob and Joseph understood the importance of imbuing their descendants with a commitment to the Land of Israel.
From Fratricide To Fraternal Solidarity
The Joseph story provides us with a domestic model for our national ability to move through reconciliation to solidarity.
Parashat Vayechi: Summary
On his deathbed, Jacob blesses his sons and asks them to bury him in Canaan.
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.
Meeting The Faces Of Need
By personally handing out rations, Joseph established a human connection and involvement with those for whom he provided.
Parashat Lech-Lecha: Summary
Abram and Sarai follow God's call to journey to Canaan, where the covenant between God and Abraham is affirmed.
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.
Avoiding Confrontation And Responsibility
Judah's plea to Joseph marks his transition into claiming responsibility and facing the consequences of his actions.
The God Of Isaac
As Jacob descends to Egypt he calls on the God of Isaac to assure him that this decision is correct.