by Shira Schechter (Moderator) | f 7, 2024 | Light Unto the Nations, Va'eira
In an insightful interpretation by Rabbi Pinchas Polonsky, the story of the Exodus is presented not just as a pivotal chapter in Jewish history, but as a defining moment in the spiritual journey of all humanity. The grand revelation of God during the Exodus, as...
by Shira Schechter (Moderator) | f 4, 2024 | Shemot, Tests and Trials
The beginning of the Israelites’ slavery in Egypt is marked by Pharaoh’s fearful decree: “Let us deal shrewdly with them, so that they may not increase” (Exodus 1:10). Yet, paradoxically, in response to increasing oppression, the Israelites flourished:...
by Shira Schechter (Moderator) | f 4, 2024 | Chosen Nation, Redemption, Shemot, Tests and Trials
The Torah portion of Shemot (Exodus 1:1-6:1), which opens the Book of Exodus, recounts the transition of the Children of Israel from their esteemed position within Egyptian society to a state of harsh subjugation and relentless oppression. This period of suffering and...
by Shira Schechter (Moderator) | f 28, 2023 | Faith, Vayechi
The Fear of Retribution Following the death of their father, Jacob, Joseph’s brothers are gripped by a foreboding fear. They anticipate that Joseph, now free from any obligation to his father, might seek retribution for the grave injustice they had done to him...
by Shira Schechter (Moderator) | f 28, 2023 | Faith, Vayechi
When Jacob neared the end of his life, he called his children together to impart his blessings and share with them his final thoughts. As he gathered them he spoke with prophetic intent, “Come together that I may tell you what is to befall you in days to...
