learning

God's presence rests in a place of charity.

This portion's attention to detail speaks to the kind of vigilance we need in creating a just society.

We are given God's world and the material within to construct a house for God--one of peace, harmony, and sustainability.

People cannot be proprietors over nature--they are not even absolute masters of their own creations.

The ordinances in this portion emphasize issues relevant to society and the interactions among groups.

Whether or not we know the suffering of the slaves, we are commanded to act as if we do.

Relocation from a Jewish perspective.

There is a lot to learn from the commandment not to covet.

There are times we should separate from our neighbors--and times we should reach out.

We are called on daily to "proclaim liberty throughout the land."