Talking Torah

In this week's discussion, we explored the commandment to respect the elderly. The Torah emphasizes this by first instructing to rise in their presence and then to honor them. Additionally, it concludes the verse with "and you shall fear God, I am God." The obvious and first question is - why the repetition - why double this commandment? But besides that, looking at t

This week's Parsha delves into the intricacies of a mother's obligation to bring a sacrifice after childbirth. What sets this commandment apart is the Torah's provision for two distinct options: a lamb or a bird. Interestingly, the choice depends on the mother's financial capacity. If she can afford it, a lamb is preferred, but if not, a bird suffices. This principle of offering di

After months of meticulous work on the Mishkan, inauguration day arrives in this week's Parsha. However, amidst the jubilation, great tragedy strikes as fire descends from the sky, claiming the lives of Nadav and Avihu. In the aftermath, Moshe issues a startling command to Aharon, Elazar, and Itamar: they are forbidden to mourn. These commands raise several thought-provoking q

As we conclude the book of Shemot and the construction of the Mishkan, Hashem instructs Moshe to set it up. A notable emphasis is placed on the verb "setting up" (קום) in the Torah. Why does the Torah underscore this action? Furthermore, why was it specifically Moshe tasked with this responsibility? Why not Bezalel who built all the Mishkan, or Aharon who was in cha

In this week's portion, Moshe appoints Bezalel Ben Uri to oversee the construction of the Mishkan. Interestingly, Moshe introduces Bezalel's selection by saying, "Look, I have called the name of Bezalel..." This raises intriguing questions: Where was Bezalel summoned, and why this particular phrasing? What does it mean "look" - what are Am Yisrael sup

In the final passages of the Parsha, Moshe descends from Mount Sinai carrying the new Luchot. However, his return is marked by a striking physical transformation: his face is radiant with an otherworldly glow. This radiant countenance captivates the attention of Aharon and Am Yisrael, evoking a mixture of awe and trepidation. This remarkable occurrence prompts questions: What does

The Choshen, worn by the High Priest (Kohen Gadol), is intricately connected to the Ephod through two special gemstones known as the Avnei Shoham on his shoulders. Adorned with the names of the twelve tribes, both the Avnei Shoham and the stones on the Choshen serve as a reminder, as commanded by the Torah. But what significance does this hold? Why the emphasis on remembrance? Expl

This week, we embark on constructing the Mishkan as Hashem instructs Moshe on crafting its various vessels. Amidst the holiest of sanctuaries, besides the Ark and Kruvim, we encounter a lesser-known vessel: the Kaporet. The Torah dedicates special attention to it, highlighting it as the locus of divine communication. Referred to later as the "House of Kaporet," its signif

In the latter part of the parsha, post-Matan Torah and after the "Mishpatim" are given over, Hashem mentions sending a "Malach" (an Angel) to lead Am Yisrael, and promising prosperity through adherence to commandments.Contrastingly, in Bamidbar after the Golden Calf incident, Hashem wants to punish Am Yisrael by sending a "Malach" to lead the way inste

Delving into the essence of the Ten Commandments, this week's discussion takes a unique perspective. We ponder a seemingly straightforward question: If these are commandments, where is the command? Instead of jumping into the specifics, we question this name - if these are commandments - why does the Torah start with "I am your God" - where is the commandment?? How do