Jewish Texts

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Parashat Vayakhel-Pekudei: Our Bodies, Our Holiness

This Torah portion teaches that holiness is not meant to suppress our physicality, but to elevate it.

Parashat Tetzaveh: Pinterest for Priests

The Torah’s elaborate description of the priestly vestments reminds us that clothing has the power to change how we feel.

Parashat Terumah: Hidden Gifts

In building a sanctuary in the wilderness, God calls on the Israelites to contribute the gifts they don’t even know they have.

Parashat Mishpatim: Overcoming Victimhood

This Torah portion offers a vital ethical message for a people who have suffered centuries of oppression.

Parashat Yitro: On Leadership and Family

In a Torah portion long understood to be a lesson in leadership, we are led to believe Moses all but ignored those closest to him.

Parashat Beshalach: Sustaining Creation Through Song

Why the creation of the Jewish nation in Parashat Beshalach was marked by singing praises to God.

Parashat Bo: The Miracle of Mixed Multitudes

Parashat Bo reminds us of the beautiful world that can be built in an instant, even after destruction and heartache.

Parshat Vaera: What the Torah Leaves Out

This Torah portion features a passage recounting the genealogy of Moses and Aaron -- with some glaring omissions.

Parashat Shemot: The Essential Name of God

Moses’ inquiry about God’s name reveals the essential quality of how God manifests in the world.

Parashat Vayechi: The Legend of You and Me

Jacob’s blessing to his son Joseph offers a potent metaphor about maintaining steadfastness in a world defined by rapid change.

Parshat Vayigash: A Tale of Two Brothers

This Torah portion opens with a passionate exchange between Joseph and Judah, two brothers with distinct personalities.

Parashat Miketz: Coercion vs. Love

This Torah portion begs the question of whether it’s acceptable to use coercive power to have people to do something that’s good for them.

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