Deuteronomy 33:1-34:12 (2-3 Minute Read) The parasha, or Torah portion, of V’zot haBracha is defined by the series of blessings delivered by Moses to the twelve tribes of Israel before he died. The blessings include: may Reuben have life; may…
An Inspirational Story for Simchat Torah Ben Kerido He was one hundred and twenty years old to the day; his eyes remained sharp and his strength and vigor were unabated . His hair was white and thin, and his long,…
Ecclesiastes 1:1-12:14 (3-4 minute read) During the Jewish festival of Sukkot, sometimes called the Feast of Booths or Tabernacles, the book of Kohelet, or Ecclesiastes, is traditionally read. Written by King Solomon of Israel, Kohelet (Ecclesiastes) has the distinction of…
(3-4 Minute Read) Deuteronomy 32:1-52 Ha’azinu is a relatively brief Torah portion primarily encompassing a poetic declaration by the Almighty for the posterity of the Jewish people. The poem first calls for the heavens and the earth to “hear” (ha’azinu)…
I Samuel 1:1-2:10 (3-4 Minute Read) In addition to reading from the Torah on Rosh HaShanah, also known as Jewish New Year and the Festival of the Sounding of the Shofar (ram’s horn), a portion of the Tanakh is read…
(3-4 Minute Read) Deuteronomy 29:9 – 30:20 The Torah portion of Nitzavim begins with a reiteration of the Almighty’s covenant with the Jewish people relating to the land of Israel. Moses emphasized that there would be severe consequences for idolatry…
(3-4 Minute Read) Devarim (Deuteronomy) 26:1-29:8 Bringing the first fruits of the harvest as a donation before the Almighty is the first theme discussed in the parasha, or Torah portion, of Ki Tavo. Following that, the Almighty through Moses outlined…
(3-4 Minute Read) Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9 The Torah portion of Shofetim begins with a reminder of the system of judges and officers that the Most High through Moses had established for the Jewish people. Moses then elaborated on various commandments relating…
(4-5 Minute Read) Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17 The Torah portion of Re’eh commences with Moses reminding the Jewish people of the importance of observing the Torah completely, and of the related blessings and curses. Moses noted the Most High’s instructions that offerings…
(3-4 Minute Read) Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25 Moses’ discourse continues in this week’s Torah parasha, or portion, called Eikev. Moses repeatedly encouraged the Jewish people to observe all of the commandments of the Torah, revering none but the Almighty. Moses further reminded…
(4-5 Minute Read) Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11 The Torah portion of Vaetchanan begins with Moses pleading with the Almighty to allow him to cross over the Jordan River into the land of Israel. The Most High refused, but instead permitted Moses to…
A Tale for Tisha B’Av By Ben & Sarai Kerido “Eikha…” The choked sound was little more than a desperate whisper from an old man. Tears streamed down from the eyes of the renowned prophet of the Jewish kingdom, tracing…
