Preparing to wander in the wilderness for 40 years, the Israelites know that they must provide not only for their physical requirements in the desert, but for their spiritual needs as well. This week's Torah portion continues the discussion of the building of the Mishkan (the Tabernacle), the portable site of worship that our ancestors carried with them throughout their wanderings. Read more...

This week we read the Torah portion of Tetzaveh, in which the Torah describes the elaborate details for the priestly vestments to be used in consecrating the High Priest for service. From the finest linen, richest stones, and majestic colors, the holy dress is to be made, including a robe, headdress, tunic, and breastplate. Read more...

The Shabbat before Purim is most famous for its name - Shabbat Zachor - the Shabbat of remembering. A month before Nissan we begin to read four additional Torah sections to prepare us for Pesach and all that the festival entails (yes, once Purim is over, Pesach cleaning begins...). Till this day, even though we no longer observe the laws of ritual holiness, we still read the section regarding the red heifer in two weeks time. But this coming Shabbat stands out in its proximity to Purim - Shabbat Zachor will always be the Shabbat prior to Purim. Read more...

One of the most terrifying aspects of getting married is the idea of making a commitment to one person for the rest of their life. One of the most daunting responsibilities of parenthood is knowing that another life is dependent on you forever. Even going to the pound to get a pet can intimidate because of the permanence of the commitment. Read more...

This week we read the Torah portion of Tetzaveh, in which the Torah describes the elaborate details for the priestly vestments to be used in consecrating the High Priest for service.  From the finest linen, richest stones, and majestic colors, the holy dress is to be made including a robe, headdress, tunic, and breastplate.  This breastplate had twelve precious stones, arranged in four rows of three, upon which the names of the tribes were engraved: "The stones shall be with the names of the children of Israel, twelve in their names, engraved, each person with his name on it, for Read more...