Jewish Texts
Protecting The Sacredness Of Life
The laws of the Cities of Refuge emphasize the sacredness and infinite value of every human life.
Parashat Pinchas: Summary
God gives Pinchas a covenant of peace; God explains the apportionment of the Land of Israel; the daughters of Tzelophechad petition to inherit their father's portion; Moses appoints Joshua his successor.
Parashat Korach: Summary
Korach and his followers rebel against Moses' and Aaron's leadership and are killed; God instructs Aaron regarding laws of the priesthood.
The Revival of Jewish Mysticism: Causes and Concerns
The renewed interest in Jewish mysticism can partially be attributed to a renewed interest in non-traditional spirituality.
Jewish Mysticism Renewed
In the last three decades, Jewish mysticism has gone from an underground discipline to a mass phenomenon.
Parashat Chukat: Summary
God instructs Moses and Aaron regarding the red heifer; Miriam dies; Moses hits a rock to bring forth water rather than speaking to it; Aaron dies.
The Stability of the Priestly Blessing
The priestly blessing with which parents bless their children on Shabbat gives parents an opportunity to partner with God in shaping Jewish history and ensuring continuity.
Parashat Sh’lach: Summary
Moses sends scouts to explore the Land of Israel; ten of them convince the people that it will be too difficult to conquer the land.
A Summary of the Torah
A description of the highlights of the Torah, according to the divisions of the weekly portions.
Parashat Nasso: Summary
God describes the service of the Gershon family of Levites; laws relating to the suspected adulteress and the nazirite are given; God tells Moses and Aaron the priestly blessing; the heads of tribes bring gifts to the Tabernacle.