Rabbi Avi Novis-Deutsch, delves into Esau’s character. He suggests that we try to understand why Esau is represented as an undesirable person and how this negativity reflects on us as a society.
The Better Angels of Our Nature
The significance of the dream has been debated and interpreted from many perspectives- from literal to mystical. Eitan Cooper, argues that perhaps the image of angels descending from heaven is a charge to create a better society for all.
Finding Your Truth in Parashat Toldot
Rabbi Dr. Reb Mimi Feigelson, shares a powerful message based on parasha Toldot. What is your truth and how does God help manifest it in the world? What happens when your support system seemingly does not allow your vision to be fully actualized?
Prof. Renée Levine Melammed, Parashat Chayei Sarah and an Unknown Matriarch
Prof. Renée Levine Melammed, shares a story of a special woman, who was renowned for her exceptional intellect in an era when many women did not learn to read. This unknown matriarch, Sarah Rivka Leah Rachel Horowitz, combined an appreciation of women’s traditional roles while demonstrating that women had far more learning abilities than was usually recognized.
Parashat Vayera. Women and our Biblical Heritage
Rabbi Dr. Paul Shrell-Fox, discusses how we read this story today with our own cultural context. In today’s world, the role of women and the role of the patriarchy have changed. Not only that, but the minds of men and women have evolved along with their change in status.
Taking a Stand: Rabbi Dr. David Frankel on Parashat Lech Lecha
Dr. David Frankel, discusses our forefather Abraham’s ability to stand up and to be different. How is Abraham, who forged his own unique path, a model of non-conformity for people today?
Down Came the Rain: Rabbi Prof. David Golinkin on Noah and Gilgamesh
Rabbi Professor David Golinkin, points out that despite the general similarities between the story of Noah and the Mesopotamian Epic of Gilgamesh there is a major theological difference between the stories.
In the Image of God Dr. Tamar Kadari on Genesis
Many different artists try to sketch a portrait of Adam, God’s first human creation. What did Adam look like? Was he heavenly? Earthly? Listen as Dr. Tamar Kadari, Dean of the Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies explores a midrash from Genesis Rabbah.
Aleph or Bet: Dr. Shula Laderman with a Festive Torah Tale
As we enter Sukkot and begin to prepare for Simchat Torah Dr. Shula Laderman, recounts a midrash that illustrates the importance of the Hebrew letters aleph and bet. How was it decided which letter would appear first in the Torah?
Repentance, Prayer and Tzedakah: A New Year Greeting from Rabbi Prof. David Golinkin
