Bo (Ex. 10:1-13:16)

Bo (בא ) has a gematria of 3. That makes me call to mind the 3 Patriarchs. Therefore, it signals what a great leader Moshe Rabbeinu would be for our people. We, too, can and will do great things for our and all people.

Va'era (6:2-9:35)

Moses is nervous but must lead his people. With great power comes great responsibility. Hashem appears as a burning bush in yet another example of the power of light. But before there can be light, there must be a spark. Mitzvot are are sparks to be the light among nations.

Shemot (Ex. 1:1-6:1)

By Moses' life being spared, the Jewish people had a leader. "Whosoever that saves a life, it is considered as if he saved an entire world." (Jerusalem Talmud, Sanhedrin 4:1)

Va-Yechi (Gen. 47:28-50:26)

Jacob is near death
Blesses his sons and grandsons
Buried in Canaan

Va-yigash (Gen. 44:18-47:27)

Joseph lets it be
Known who he is to brothers
Jacob in Egypt

Miketz (Gen. 41:1-44:17)

Joseph interprets
Pharoah's dreams and gains power
Saves Egypt from drought

Va-Yeshev (Gen 37:1-40:23)

Brothers envy Joseph
They want to kill but sell him
Put in Pharoah's jail

Va-yishlah (Gen. 32:4-36:43)

Makes up with Esau
Jacob now named Israel
Father of 12 sons

Va-yetse' (Gen 28:10-32:3)

Jacob flees from home
Dreams of ladder to heaven
True love is Rachel

Toledot (Genesis 25:19-28:9)

Rebecca gives birth
Twin boys equal two nations
Jacob steals birthright

Chayei Sarah (Gen 23:1-25:18)

Sarah passes away
Isaac is deeply saddened
Heart healed by marriage

Va-yera (Gen 18:1-22:24)

Sarah has Isaac
Hashem commands Isaac's death
Just a test of faith

Lech L'cha (Gen. 12:1-17:27)

Haran to Canaan
Abraham, first Patriarch
Covenant by blood

Noach (Gen 6:9-11:32

The slate is wiped clean
The Flood, the dove, the rainbow
No Noah, no man

A New Cycle, A New Goal/Bereishit (Genesis 1:1-6:8

"If you can't explain it simply, you don't know it well enough"-Alber Einstein

My goal for this year of divrei Torah are concise summaries in the form of haiku. More may be added if I feel that is is necessary. So, here we go.


The first beginning
Hashem said "Let there be light"
All good until man

V'zot HaBerach (33:1-34:12)

Is this really the end?

            V’zot HaBerach is the final parasha of Devarim, which makes it also the final parasha of the Torah. But it is certainly not where the story ends, the Neviim and the Ketuvim complete the Tanach and our people have had a rich, influential history full of times of perseverance since then.

            But for Moses, the story was over. Unfortunately, he didn’t get to go in, but the people he led, with G-d’s help, were able to enter The Promised Land. Like the song says “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” (“Closing Time”-Semisonic)

            

Ha'azinu (Deut. 32:1-32:52)

Respect Your Elders

           

Ha’azinu, this week’s parasha covers Moses’ song of praise and his ascention of Mt. Nebo. Deuteronomy 32:5 sees a comparison of G-d and Israel to that of a father and a child; An, at times disobedient, child and an understanding father.

Parent/child relationships are very important in our religion. The fifth commandment states “Honor your father and mother, that you may long endure on the land that the L-rd your G-d is assigning you.” The phrase for honor of your father and mother is “kibud av va-eim.” The word kibud  (כבוד), or honor, is related to kaveid (כבד), or heavy. Hashem understand that serving him may at times be big undertaking, but you must do it. 

Nitsavim/Va-yelekh (Deut 29:9-31:30)

Life Cycles

            This week has us reading a double parasha of Nitsavim and Va-yelekh. It covers Moses preparing for his death and for Joshua to take over as the new leader. Moses accepts that he won’t be entering the Promised Land with grace, realizing the blessings he has already seen and experienced and that life goes on.

            So, too, does Judaism revolve cyclically. Calendar-wise, our holidays bring joy, remembrance, and renewal. For each of us, from baby-naming to bnai mitzvah to keeping mitzvot in life and to our deaths, there is the Jewish life cycle. Rather than curse when something doesn’t go as planned, sing a song of praise as Moses did.

Ki Tavo' (Deut. 26:1-29:8)

In It to Win It

            This week’s parasha is Ki Tavo’. I chose to hone in on the verse Deuteronomy 27:9, which states “Moses and the levitical priests spoke to all Israel saying, “Silence! Hear, O Israel! Today you have become the people of the L-rd your G-d.” Other translations have it beginning as “Attend and hear, O Israel.” One may think that just by being somewhere you’ll hear the speaker’s message. If that was true, standing in a garage would make you a car. I feel that it is saying “Attend” meaning hear with your heart and mind, as well as your ears. We must do the same in a facets of life, in order to be compassionate and understanding children of Hashem.

Ki Tetse' (Deut. 21:10-25:19)

Man’s Best Friend

            Ki Tetse’, this week’s parasha, covers many topics, but I’d like to focus on animals. Some verses in Chapter 22 reflect on kindness to animals. Today with organizations such as PETA and the Humane Society, we have seen examples of how sad it can be when the wrong people are around our four-legged friends. The Talmud also touts the benefit of animals: R’ Johanan observed: If the Torah had not been given, we would have learned modesty from the cat, honesty from the ant, chastity from the dove and good manners from the cock who first coaxes and then mates. (Eruvin 100B)

Shofetim (Deut. 16:18-21:9)

Justice is Blind

            This week’s parasha, Shofetim, covers judges, worshipping other gods, the idea of a king in the Promised Land, how Levites were to be provided for, and war time. Hashem wanted unbiased magistrates and officials, telling them “Justice, justice shall you pursue, that you may thrive and occupy the land that the L-rd your G-d is giving you.” (Deut. 16:20)  We too, must heed that command. They say “justice is blind” and I believe that is because we should look with our hearts and not just our eyes.

Re'eh (Deut. 11:26-16:17)

Don’t be Fooled

            Parasha Re’eh continues the reiteration of laws. Rabbinic interpretation has an interesting view on the focus of dietary laws. At the time of the rabbis’ writing, they compared the pig to the Romans. That is, pigs aren’t kosher because they have hooves, but don’t chew their cud. By having hooves they were seen as being deceptive. This can show us to be careful who we associate with and get close to. Always make sure you read the whole package and don’t just get “Kosher-style.”

'Ekev (Deut. 7:12-11:25)

Above the Influence

            This week’s parasha is ‘Ekev. Moses continues to prep the Israelites for their imminent entrance of the Promised Land. He reminds them of their previous misbehavior in the realm of forgetting their allegiance to the L-rd, i.e. the sin of the golden calf (Ki Tissa’) and Baal-peor (Balak). We must stay on our guard against evil and disrespecting Hashem. The 2^nd commandment is to “have no other gods before me.” (Ex. 20:3). If we choose to live like heathens, we will live our eternity like them.

Va-'ethannan (Deut 3:23-7:11)

More than Words

            This week’s parasha is Va-‘ethannan. In it, is the “declaration of Jewish faith,” the Shema (Deut. 6:4). Along with the V’ahavta, which follows in verses 5-9, it is to be recited twice daily. It is to be said to newborn babies and should be the last words spoken by dying Jews. The latter mitzvah was even done by Rabbi Akiva, ZK”L, as he was tortured to death by the Romans.

            The Shema is only 6 words, but it carries such great meaning. As we recite the words, think of it as renewing a pledge to Hashem. The final letters of the first word and the last word, ayin (ע) and dalet (ד), respectively, are enlarged when written in Torah scrolls and siddurim. Ayin and dalet spell Eid (עד), or witness. Let’s bear witness to Hashem’s greatness and mercy.

Devarim (Deut. 1:1-3:22)

Inspiration through Reiteration

            Devarim is the first parasha of Deuteronomy (Devarim), the final book of the Torah. The name Deuteronomy comes from the Greek “Deuteronomion” or second law. The Israelites are in Moab, right on the cusp of entering the Promised Land after 40 years in the wilderness. Moses is essentially giving them a refresher before they are without him. While they may be wondering why he is repeating himself, I’m sure they realize the benefit. You can never be over prepared. Also, you may pick up something that escaped you the first time. Instead of just learning new things all the time, try revisiting old lessons.

Mattot/Mase'ei (Num 30:2-36:13)

Not About How Fast You Get There

            The final parasha of Sifre Bamidbar is a combination of parashat Mattot and Mase’ei. The Israelites have still not reached the Promised Land, but are still planning their society, specifically cities of refuge. These were places for one who broke a law and were to be exiled. But my focus is translation. Bamidbar translates as “in the wilderness” and Mase’ei, the last parasha, translates as “journeys” or “marches.” This book begins and ends in travels.

            The same goes for our lives. We are constantly in motion. The important thing is to remember that when we are going for goals and aspirations, sometimes the journey is the destination.

Pinhas (Num 25:10-30:1)

My Heroes Had the Heart

            Pinhas is named for a priest, who plays an integral role in saving the Israelite people from themselves. Though the parasha starts out at chapter 25, verse 10, one must begin at the beginning of chapter 25 to get the gist. The Israelites have begun having relations with the Moabite women, which led to the worship of a Moabite god. The L-rd called for the guilty heads of Israel to be impaled. An Israelite man brought a Midianite woman into his chamber in front of everyone. Pinhas then kills both the man and woman. 24,000 died in the plague, but because of Pinhas’ bravery, the Israelites were not wiped out. Readers, sometimes we have to be the change we want to see in the world.

Balak (22:2-25:9)

We Are Family

            Balak, this week’s parasha, tells the tale of a man named Baalam. Baalam is sent by Balak, king of Moab, to put a curse on the Israelites. Baalam disobeys the L-rd and attempts to depart with the Moabites. Hashem leads Baalam’s donkey to stop and speaks through it. Baalam ends up blessing the children of Israel.

            The ancient rabbis’ interpreted Baalam’s name as “without a people.” One without a people or family may seek out acceptance that could lead to camaraderie any way they can get it. This may have lead Baalam to be willing to curse a group of nomads that he didn’t know. But Hashem always has a plan; a curse became a blessing, which became the basis for the “Mah Tovu” portion in the liturgy. During Shavuot, we read the story of another Moabite, who became a blessing to our people. Without Ruth, there would have been no King David. What blessing will you bring?

Hukkat (Num 19:1-22:1)

Nefesh B’Nefesh

            This week’s parasha is Hukkat, known for the law of the red cow. Its [the cow] ashes are used for cleansing. This brings me to the point I’d like to touch on. One who is near a corpse, whether touching it or just in its vicinity, becomes unclean. In order to become clean again, another person who is clean must sprinkle the ashes and water on the unclean person on the third day and on the seventh day. The “sprinkler” will then be unclean until the evening. This parasha shows two things to me: We all need aid sometimes and sometimes we have to lower ourselves for a little to help others.

Korah (16:1-18:32)

Let It Be

            This week’s parasha, Korah, is named after a Levite, who, along with 250 other Israelites, attempted to rise up against Moses. They felt it was unfair that Moses and Aaron had the positions that they did. Moses had them take fire pans with incense and put them before the L-rd. The outcome was the earth swallowing Korah, his people, and their possessions. A fire consumed the 250 lackeys.

           We all know someone or maybe even a few people who just don’t like you, whether it be jealousy or something else. You can’t please them no matter what. But if you notice, Moses doesn’t argue, doesn’t stoop to their level. He immediately falls to his knees and goes to Hashem. We too should not let people like Korah break us, just turn to the L-rd. “Do not be vexed by evil men; do not be incensed by wrongdoers; for soon they wither like grass, like verdure fade away (Ps 37:1-2)

Shelah-Lekha (Num 13:1-15:41)

An Example for the World

            Shelah-Lekha, this week’s parasha, begins with scouts sent to take an account of Canaan. Some felt it was better to lie about the condition, saying it was dangerous, which sent fear into the hearts of the Israelites. These men who said false things were killed by a plague. Later, more commandments are given, ending with the commandment of the tzitzis.

            I would like to share a story from the Talmud (Menachos 44a). A Torah scholar, who was always mindful of wearing the fringes, decided to seek out a prostitute. He had all but undressed until he was just in his tallit katan. Suddenly, he redressed and prepared to leave. She asked why and he explained his faith. She asked him his name, city, rabbi, and beit midrash. Later, she traveled to meet his rabbi and convert to Judaism, inspired by this man’s conviction.

            Readers, we all have urges. We are only human, but we must remain who we are and remember our commitment. We are to be an example to the rest of society. Like the wayward scholar, a questionable situation may lead to answers for another.

Be-ha'alotekha (Num. 8:1-12:16)

Waking The Dawn

            Be-ha’alotekha, this week’s parasha, includes the cleansing of the Levites and the Passover sacrifice. I wish to focus on the first 10 verses of chapter 10, which cover the silver trumpets. Two trumpets were to be made and used for summoning the community. Whether good times (festivals and new moon) or bad (war), their blasts called the Israelites to action. When we daven our daily prayers, it should be as though a military trumpet has called us to salute our L-rd. As it says in the Tehillim (Psalms), “Raise a shout for the L-rd, all the earth; worship the L-rd in gladness; come into his presence with shouts of joy (Ps. 100:1-2). 

Naso' (Num 4:21-7:89)

Dedication

            This week’s parasha is Naso’. It covers a census, the procedure for an unfaithful wife, the priestly blessing, the consecration of the Tabernacle, but I’d like to focus on the Nazirite vow. I would say the most well-known Nazirite was Samson, whose story is found in the book of Judges (Shoftim) (13:2-16:31). Samson’s mother, who was barren, was told by an angel of the L-rd, but that the child must dedicate himself to the L-rd, mainly by keeping alcohol forbidden and not cutting his hair. When he falls in love with a Philistine woman and tells her of his Nazirite status, she cuts his hair while he is sleeping and he loses his strength.

            When we live a righteous and obedient life, we, too, are dedicated to Hashem. We may be able to cut our hair and have alcohol, but when we allow ourselves to be swayed by evil, we break that vow and lose our strength.

Bamidbar (Num 1:1-4:20)

Journeys

            This week’s parasha is Bamidbar, which begins the book of Numbers. We find the Israelites still in the wilderness and taking a census. In the midst of these chapters of counting are various instructions from Hashem on the carrying and set-up of the Tabernacle as the Israelites traveled. Rabbinic interpretation of this parasha explains that even though there was chaos, i.e. living a nomadic life, trying to remember and abide by new commandments, etc, the people were settled by the idea of this brave, new world. We, too, should be open to learning and making changes among our hectic lives. I’ll leave you with this quote: “Wilderness is a temporary condition through which we are passing to the Promised Land.”-Cotton Mather

Behar/Be-hukkotai (Lev 25:1-27:34)

Another Chance

            The final reading in Va-yikra (Leviticus) for this cycle is a combination of parashat Behar and Behukkotai. The subject from them that I’d like to touch on is debt forgiveness. For the purposes of this blog, forgiveness in general. The book of Va-yikra extensively covers commandments and how one is cleansed if the rules are broken. In the days of the Temple, sacrifices were brought to Hashem. Our ancestors renewed themselves in the mikveh. Today we observe the Day of Atonement and other means to be on a clean slate. Hashem welcomes us back with open arms again and again and never turns away. Let’s have the same spirit with our fellow man.

'Emor (Lev. 21:1-24:23)

A Moment like This

            Parasha ‘Emor opens with rules in regards to degradation. It also includes rules for sacrifices and donations. What gave me pause in this week’s parasha was the section about when we take a pause in our lives. That is, the sacred occasions, or yom tov. It begins with the holiday built in to every week, the Sabbath. Shabbat allows us to step back from the hustle and bustle of every day life to worship and enjoy time with our families. The High Holy Days (Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur) are also mentioned; the joy of the New Year and the solemn Day of Atonement. Sukkot and Shavuot are described as well as the third of the festivals, Pesach, which was recently observed.

            The choice of language for our holidays, “observing” rather than “celebrating” denotes the reverence we hold for them. These special days allow us the honor of refocusing to Hashem. “Thank G-d it’s Friday” has so much more meaning than some people think. “More than the Jews have kept Shabbat, Shabbat has kept the Jews”-Ahad Ha’am

'Aharei Mot/Kedoshim (Lev 16:1-20:27)

Wise Choices

            This week’s Torah portion is another combination of parashat, ‘Aharei Mot and Kedoshim. ‘Aharei Mot opens with Aaron purging and cleaning himself, his homestead, and the Tabernacle after the death of his two sons. It ends with commandments on sexuality. Kedoshim expands on laws given in the Ten Commandments, focusing on interpersonal relationships. Rules about stealing, lying, and hurting others in general hone in on how we treat others.

            I want you to consider this. What are the words for true and false in Hebrew? Emet (אמת) and Sheker (שקר), respectively. Emet is made up of three letters (Aleph, Mem, and Tav), which come from the beginning, middle, and end of the Alef-bet. Hashem is also known as the beginning, middle, and end. He was, is, and will always be. Sheker is also made up of three letters (Shin, Kush, and Resh). However, these letters are all from around the end of the Alef-bet. If you think of the letters on a linear plane, Emet is spread and balanced, while Sheker is unequal and misbalanced. Therefore, being truthful and kind in your dealings can only lead to good relationships and success, while lies and unfairness can only crumble.

            

Tazria'/Metsora' (Lev. 12:1-15:33)

Bathed in Tradition

            This week’s Torah portion combines parashat Tazria’ and Metsora’. Tazria deals with female uncleanness by way of childbirth. It also deals with skin conditions, such as rashes, swelling, and leprosy. Metsora’ opens with the cleansing procedure for a leper. It also includes how to deal with male and female discharges. Of all the cleaning procedures mentioned in the reading, only immersion in water remains as there is no Temple to bring sacrifices to. When one visits a mikveh, it is a privilege. Along with our other mitzvot and commandments, it is another experience that is shared with our ancestors.

Shemini (Lev. 9:1-11:47)

What’s for Dinner?

            Parasha Shemini’s hallmark is the dietary laws. From land animals, fish, and birds to insects and reptiles, specifications as to which are clean and which are unclean are given. The book of Va-yikra’ begins with the procedure for asking for forgiveness and in this week’s parasha, we are leaning how to avoid tainting ourselves with food. A big aspect of Judaism, to me, is respect; Reverence for Hashem, honoring our parents and keeping the mitzvot are all very important. The blessings for meals are also a form of respect. By blessing our food before and after consumption, we acknowledge the variety that Hashem has put on this earth. Also, like they say, “You are what you eat.” Many of the non-kosher foods, such as pork, can be quite detrimental to one’s health. By obeying the dietary laws, our communities are strengthened by camaraderie and wellness. What’s on your menu today?

חג פסח שמח

Tsav (Lev 6:1-8:36)

Fire

            Parasha Tsav continues on the subject of burnt offerings. The first two chapters give instructions for sin and guilt offerings, while chapter 8 details the procedure that Moses followed for the first offering at the Tent of Meeting. Whether for sin, guilt, or peace, burnt offerings need to be burnt, obviously. How to we burn? With fire. It is said in Deuteronomy 4:24 that “The L-rd, your G-d is a consuming fire, an impassioned G-d.” G-d’s love for us is truly an aish tamid (an eternal fire). The fire in the burnt offering reminded our ancestors that our L-rd was never going to turn away. Like wild fire, we Jews have in us a ner tamid (an eternal light) that cannot be hidden and should be used to be an example in this world.

Va-yikra' (Lev. !:1-5:26)

What Will You Surrender?

            As we move on to Va-yikra (Leviticus), we open with the subject of burnt offerings. Whether for sin or for peace, it must be without blemish. There may not be a Holy Temple currently, but we still offer sacrifices. In a few weeks, during Pesach, we will purge our homes of chametz and reflect on our ancestors’ quick upheaval from Egypt as we sit our Seder tables. Later in the year, we will fast during Yom Kippur to atone for our sins. Besides these two examples, one could also offer up time and energy volunteering for a good cause or using their talents for the good of someone else. When done for Hashem, it won’t feel like a sacrifice at all.

Va-yakhel (Ex. 35:1-38:20)/Pekudei (Ex. 38:21-40:38)

Note: In common years, Parasha Va-yakhel is combined with Pekudei to help make the number of weekly readings correct.

Working Together

            Va-yakhel describes Moses conveying the L-rd’s instructions to the Israelites, specifically reminding them of the Sabbath, offerings to the L-rd, and the building of the

calling for skilled workers to build the Tabernacle, each worker bringing something different to the table. Have you ever felt bad about yourself for not being able to do something that a friend of yours may be a master in? Hashem does everything for a reason. Sure, certain Israelites may have been a whiz with a hammer and a nail, but it would be for naught without someone to spin the yarn. Talent doesn’t become a gift until it is shared.

Precious Cargo

            The final parasha of the book of Shemot (Exodus) is Pekudei. It opens with the records of the Tabernacle, listing the materials used for its building and for the sacred vestment worn by Aaron. The Tabernacle was set up on the first day of the first month in the second year in the wilderness. The presence of the L-rd filled it and guided the Israelites on their journeys.

            The Israelites set up a beautiful vessel for the Divine Presence. Today, we go to our own various synagogues and temples, but we still are the shomer (guardian) of the precious cargo that is our soul. We must respect ourselves so that we can protect ourselves.

Ki Tissa' (Ex. 30:11-34:35)

Breaking the Law

            Ki Tissa’ finds Moses still receiving commandments from Hashem on Mt. Sinai. After giving Moses instructions on a census, taxes, a layout for the Tent of Meeting, and Ark of the Pact; Hashem inscribes the instructions on two tablets and signs his name. Moses descends the mountain, presumably excited to give these teachings to the Israelites, who have been peacefully waiting. To his horror, the Israelites and Aaron have made a golden calf, which they are now worshipping as their god. Hashem brings a plague upon the people and Moses prays for the L-rd to forgive them. The L-rd brings Moses back up to inscribe the lessons again on a new pair of tablets.

            Imagine how disappointed and angry Moses was to see the misbehavior of the Israelites. How soon they had forgotten of their rescuing from their bondage in Egypt. It made Moses angry to destroy the tablets with Hashem’s signature. Tractate Shabbat Daf 89 offers an interesting take. Rabbi Joshua ben Levi said that Satan showed the Israelites a vision of Moses’ coffin in the heavens and being that the time that he was to return had passed, they believed that he was dead. They told this to Aaron and committed the sin of the golden calf. It is understandable to not be in your right mind when someone you have great respect for is gone, especially when you are then “alone” in a place that you have never been. But we can learn from this event. Sure, we can follow and learn from a righteous person, but remember that they are just mortals. Also, keep your life in check as someone may be “following” you and you may not even realize.

Tetsavveh (Ex. 27:20-30:10)

Dress British, Think Yiddish

            Parasha Tetsavveh continues with instructions from Hashem to Moses. The bulk of the instructions were for priestly garments and the procedure for the consecration of priests. The men selected for priesthood came from the line of Levi. I find this particularly interesting as part of the word Levite is “lev,” the Hebrew word for heart. Today, many people dress however they want, within reason, as it is your heart and soul that truly matter. Some say “clothes make the man” but I believe that his thoughts and actions do.

Terumah (Ex. 25:1-27:19)

The Weight

            Parasha Terumah opens with Hashem telling Moses that he is to have the Israelites bring Him gifts. The specifics of these gifts are given as well as the layout for the Ark of the Pact and the Tabernacle. How do we, living in the post-Destruction of the Temple era, honor our L-rd? It sounds cliché, but it starts with living right and following Hashem’s laws. We “sacrifice” with killing our old, bad ways. We pass the “gift” of being G-d’s Chosen People on to our children. As it says in “Al Shloshah D’varim, the Hakafah selection from Pirkei Avot 1:2, Al Shloshah D’varim haolam omeid: Al HaTorah, v’al haavodah, v’al g’milut chasadim. (The world is sustained by three things: Torah, worship, and loving deeds)

Mishpatim (Ex. 21:1-24:18)

Unbroken Rules, Unbroken Faith

            Parasha Mishpatim, or “Ordinances,” is named for the series of rules that the parasha lists. The rules cover a range of categories, including treatment of slaves and animals, punishment for theft, worship, and more. At the end of the parasha, Chapter 24:12-18, Moses ascends Mt. Sinai to receive the tablets inscribed with Hashem’s commandments. Moses stays on the mountain for 40 days and 40 nights.

            The Israelites are being provided with a model for society before they ever reach the Promised Land. In summarization, I will focus on one of the dietary laws given; the separation of meat and dairy. To quote the scripture: “You shall not boil a kid in its mother’s milk.” I once asked my rabbi about eating a non-meat, turkey, with cheese. I was told that it violates Maris Ayin (Vision of the Eye). In other words, you could give the wrong impression. As Jews, we have the challenge, as well as the privilege of always making the right impression. 

Yitro (Exodus 18:1-20:26)

Words to Live By

            This week’s parasha is Yitro. It is named for Moses’ father-in-law who makes an appearance in the beginning of the parasha to deliver Zipporah and his grandsons to Moses and to make a burnt offering to Hashem. On the third new month since leaving Egypt, the Israelites travel to the wilderness of Sinai. Chapter 20 covers the reading of the 10 commandments. The 10 commandments have truly stood the test of time. Tradition says that we, as Jews, were also at Sinai with our ancestors. When we follow the commandments, it connects us even more to our forefathers.

Be-shallah (Ex. 13:17-17:16)

When You Believe

            Be-shallah begins to tell of the Israelites’ journey from Egypt. Soon after they depart, Pharaoh has a change of heart and sends soldiers after them to bring them back. The Israelites panic upon reaching the Sea of Reeds (Red Sea), but Hashem parts it, giving them dry land to walk on. The Egyptian soldiers attempt to follow, but the L-rd closes the water back on them and they perish. After walking for a few days, the Israelites cry out in hunger, but the L-rd satiates them with quail, manna, and water. The parasha ends with the Israelites defeating Amalek at Rephidim.

            Be-shallah translates as “When he let go.” In the context of the parasha, it refers to Pharaoh and his release of the Israelites. But we need to learn how to let go as well. There is no shame in needing help and of course, nothing is too big for Hashem. We can see from this parasha how G-d can literally make a way out of no way; a great example being the parting of the Sea of Reeds. Faith in Hashem can bring you out of some tough times. “When I am filled with cares, Your assurance soothes my soul.” (Psalm 94:19) 

Bo' (Exodus 10:1-13:16)

Don’t Settle Down

            Parasha Bo’ finds Pharaoh not swayed by 8 of Hashem’s 10 plagues. Moses and Aaron are sent by the L-rd one last time to ask for freedom for the Israelites. Still hard-hearted, Pharaoh says no. The final plague, the killing of the first-born sons of the Egyptians takes place. The Israelites are spared by placing lambs’ blood on their doorways in an event that is remembered today in the festival of Pesach, or Passover. Finally, Pharaoh commands the Israelites to depart.

            Imagine the courage it took for Moses and Aaron to go into Pharaoh’s court, not just once but multiple times. Now consider how brave the Israelites had to have been to leave the only land they had ever known to follow a G-d they couldn’t see or hear. Today, we are basically settled, but we shouldn’t get too content. Like the Israelites, we should be ready to follow Hashem and get a little shaken up at times. We need to get out of our spiritual comfort zones. Whether it be learning a new nigun or taking on more mitzvot, let’s get moving for Hashem.

Va-'era' (Exodus 6:2-9:35)

Don’t Go It Alone

            Parasha Va-‘era’ picks up with Moses under Hashem’s command to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. In the previous parasha (Shemot), Moses feels that because of his stutter, he cannot do what is asked of him. The L-rd tells Moses that his older brother Aaron will be willing to speak for him. The brothers speak to Pharaoh, but to no avail. This causes the L-rd to begin to bring about the plagues.

            In Exodus 7:1-2, G-d says to Moses: “See I place you in the role of G-d to Pharaoh, with your brother Aaron as your prophet. You shall repeat all that I command you, and your brother Aaron shall speak to Pharaoh to let the Israelites depart from his land.” Like Moses, we are also vessels for Hashem on Earth. Through our speech and actions, we show the world our faith, obedience, and living example of G-d’s covenant. Also, like Moses, we can’t go it alone. It goes without saying that we have Hashem on our side, but we need an Aaron as well. Having one true friend is a great thing. A religious study partner will allow you to see another point of view, exposing you to something you may have otherwise missed. What kind of vessel are you being?