Weekly Torah Commentary

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Maintaining Monotheism

Our discomfort with the Torah's command to wipe out other nations stems from the contrast between that directive and the Torah's usual emphasis on respect for human life.

A Count Of Love

The census that occurs immediately after the plague for the sin with Midian reassures the Children of Israel that they are still God's partners in the covenant.

The Search for Moses’ Successor

In identifying Moses' successor, God emphasizes that inspiration, not passion or popularity, makes a successful leader.

Human Vessels For Blessing

By asking the priests to bless the people, God gives them an opportunity to serve as role models of caring for the people.

The Connection And Stability Of Blessing

Parashat Beha'alotcha illustrates three paths of achieving meaning in life.

God Hears, But What We Do Matters Most

Miriam and Aaron's criticism of Moses, and Miriam's punishment of leprosy teach lessons of sibling and communal responsibility.

Parshat Beha’alotcha: Summary

The Israelites receive instructions regarding Passover, journey forth from Sinai and complain to God on several occasions.

Making Sense Of The Census

The prohibition against the direct counting of the Israelites cautions us to remember the human faces behind abstract statistics.

Words That Wound

The Rabbinic and Hasidic understandings of gossip focus on the impossibility of repairing the damage it causes.

The Service Of Song

The duty of the Levites to accompany the Tabernacle service with music and song reminds us to serve God with joy.

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