Weekly Torah Commentary

The survival and success of the Jewish people stems from our ability to mold reality to match our dreams and ideals.

The priestly blessing with which parents bless their children on Shabbat gives parents an opportunity to partner with God in shaping Jewish history and ensuring continuity.

The biblical approach stands in sharp contrast to American federal sentencing guidelines.

Moses sends scouts to explore the Land of Israel; ten of them convince the people that it will be too difficult to conquer the land.

The tzitzit (fringes) on our clothes remind us not to be discouraged or lose hope for social change, based on the realities we see around us.

Unable to see beyond their own fears and insecurities, 10 of the 12 spies despaired of conquering Canaan.

We can all heed Moses' reminder to God, to live up to God's reputation of being slow to anger.

The role of the spies was to determine whether they and the Israelites had the confidence and certainty of God's love to enter the land of the covenant.

Social justice as a sacred communal obligation

The closer we are to God, the more we are able to put our cravings into perspective.