Evergreen
Ashrei: Psalm 145
The internal and external structure of this carefully-crafted Psalm serves to reinforce its theme of praising God as the caring, divine ruler of all creation.
Who Has Not Made Me a Woman
Different versions and parallels from classical sources and manuscripts provide an interesting perspective on this controversial blessing.
Philanthropy and Transformation
A prominent female Jewish philanthropist reflects on her experiences, and offers her vision.
The Limits Of Power And Conquest
The Book of Numbers, full of bloodshed and division, ends with a call for unity and a discussion of the sanctity of life.
Cities Or Sanctuaries
Cities of Refuge are symbols of God's unconditional love and constant presence among people.
The Family Album
The list of places through which the Israelites traveled in the wilderness teaches us to understand Judaism through our everyday experiences.
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.