Parashat Masei

A lesson from the Torah's treatment of the Israelites' travels.

The sons of Reuben and Gad have promised Moses that they will help the other tribes settle the Promised Land before settling across the River Jordan.

The list of the Israelites' encampments during their journeys in the wilderness reminds us of the importance of preserving and retelling our own stories.

The Torah's establishment of Cities of Refuge introduces the idea that intention determines the meaning of an action.

The Levites' city dwellings remind us of the importance of green, agricultural spaces for encountering God's creation.

The laws of the Cities of Refuge emphasize the sacredness and infinite value of every human life.

The Book of Numbers, full of bloodshed and division, ends with a call for unity and a discussion of the sanctity of life.

Cities of Refuge are symbols of God's unconditional love and constant presence among people.

The list of places through which the Israelites traveled in the wilderness teaches us to understand Judaism through our everyday experiences.