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
Rabbi Professor David Golinkin, examines Unetane Tokef, the poem that has been a part of the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur liturgy for centuries.
This is Your Wake-Up Call Dr. David Frankel on Yom Kippur
Dr. David Frankel, invites us to consider how the call Jonah receives encourages us to take action in modern times. Can you wake up? Can you hear the call?
On Ben Gurion, the Bible and an Unusual Press Conference
Dr Ari Ackerman, describes an extraordinary press conference Ben-Gurion held devoted entirely to his understanding of the Biblical account of the Exodus from Egypt. What was problematic about Ben Gurion’s approach and how does Schechter’s approach to Bible education differ?
A Tisket, a Tasket, a Bikkurim-Filled Basket: Rabbi Prof. David Golinkin on Ki Tavo
Rabbi Professor David Golinkin, President of The Schechter Institutes explores four of the basic values found in Parashat Bikkurim.
Everyday Obligations: Dr. Shula Laderman on Parashat Ki Teitzei
Dr. Shula Laderman, wonders why the Torah stresses the importance of returning lost property and being aware of overworked animals. How will paying attention to these rules impact our everyday moral lives?
Must We Listen to Our Leaders? Dr. David Frankel on Parashat Shoftim
Dr. David Frankel, discusses a little known version of this same verse that appears in the Jerusalem Talmud. Is it ever permissible to disagree with our leaders or must we always follow their instructions?
Seeing and Being Seen: Parshat Re’eh
Eitan Cooper, points out in Parshat Re’eh that in order to fulfill our human potential and become the image of an invisible God, to make the Land a blessing rather than a curse for its inhabitants, we need to be visible, to be there and be responsible for each other.
Traveling Tombstones: Professor Doron Bar on Herzl’s Reburial in Israel
