Seven Minute Torah

Why is Jacob's name change such a pivotal moment in the Jewish story? And what does it have to teach us about our own lives?

This week's parashah tells the story of the 12 sons of Jacob, who become the 12 tribes of Israel. The symbolism of family has something to teach about the realities of peoplehood and responsibility.

This week's Torah portion teaches about how to disagree respectfully. We could learn a thing or two for our own lives and our political system.

Chayei Sarah is a portion about death that is really about life. The death of Sarah and of Abraham teach us an important lesson about relationships and about living our best life.

Per the episode, my short story "A Wind From the South," which is about Isaac and Ishmael burying their father together, can be found here: https://jewishliteraryjournal.com/fiction/a-wind-from-the-south/.

Vayera is the story of Abraham and Sarah. It teaches us that we can transform the world from mundane to sacred through mitzvot - acts of holy obligation.

Lech Lecha tells the story of Abraham and Sarah's journey to the land of Israel. Turns out it's also about community and relationship.

A conversation with Dr. Mark Washofsky about the Seven Noachide laws. We touch on issues of universalism in Judaism, Natural Law, and what it means to be a society.

In the bonus interview: the relationship between liberal Judaism and traditional Jewish law; what it means to make authentic Judaism choices; and why the Talmud belongs to all of us.

For more information about the Solomon B. Freehof Institute of Progressive Halakhah, visit freehofinstitute.org.

The beginning of season 3! The Torah's opening parashah focuses, in part on Shabbat - on the very real need to take a break from technology and creation.

The final portion of the Torah ends with a message about the ongoing journey of learning.

The Torah portion for Sukkot describes Moses "seeing God's back." What does the Torah mean by that?? We get an answer from the 12th century philosopher Maimonides - and it's perfect for Sukkot!