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Parashat Vayakhel-Pekudei “And [Moses] Assembled-Records Of” / Shabbat HaChodesh “Shabbat of the Month” Many chapters ago in Torahland, the Israelites were directed to create a portable sanctuary that could travel with them in the desert. The past…

Parashat Ki Tisa “When You Take a Census” / Shabbat Parah “Shabbat of the Red Heifer” It’s all about the livestock this Shabbat. There are two different cows that make an appearance in our lessons this week.…

Ta’anit Esther “Fast of Esther” / Purim There is a never-ending debate in our Jewish literature: is kavannah (intention) necessary or can I just go through the motions of a religious/spiritual life?…

Parashat Tetzaveh “You Shall Command” / Shabbat Zachor “Shabbat of Remembrance” Purim is finally upon us! It’s that one glorious time of year where rules are optional and conventions are nothing more than suggestions. One…

Parashat Terumah “Donation” Parashat Terumah invites us into a moment of careful, intentional creation. Hashem asks the Israelites to bring offerings — gifts from the heart — to build the…

Rosh Chodesh Adar If we count the Jewish year from the month of Nisan, which is a New Year for kings, festivals and counting the months in Hebrew calendar, then…

Parashat Mishpatim “Laws” / Shabbat Shekalim “Shabbat of Shekels” In Michael Moore’s “Bowling for Columbine,” there’s a scene that made me, a child of the Tuque-heads, oddly proud to be…

Parashat Yitro “Jethro” I became a rabbi because I love my people, our tradition, our Torah, and our God. Loving my people does not mean I turn my back on…