Torah Studies

Does every part of Judaism excite you the same way? A tragic death during the most joyous of times in the desert clues us in as to how we ought to approach our religious life–the exciting, the mundane, and even those parts that feel boring.

The story of sacrificial scents wafting in the air inspiring Jews to do a radical mitzvah in the middle of the night sounds too fantastical to be true. Thankfully, it is true, and the message it tells us is one of attainable and practical change.

Parenting is arguably the most and least rewarding job on the planet. It’s tremendous work, but yields immeasurable joy. Judaism has always promoted family life; in fact, the very first mitzvah in the Torah is to have children. Discover how this value has served us so well—and should continue to do so.

It’s a classic question: What does it mean that G-d "rested" on the seventh day? Was He tired? Discover the true core of what Shabbat is all about—and the tremendous opportunity that comes with it. You may be surprised: it’s not  about sleeping in.

As the “People of the Book,” Jews have applied themselves to the Torah, using it to sharpen their minds and inform their values along the path to a fulfilling life. Perhaps slightly overlooked is this one incredibly important detail: the Torah is not a psychotherapy manual, nor is it an academic guide; rather, it is G-d’s wisdom. Let’s keep that in mind.

There’s something about a cute little child that perhaps causes us to dismiss them, not seriously considering just how important they are in the chain of history. A detail about the Levite count in the desert sets the record straight.

A year, a month, or even a week is arguably consequential. But a day? A day is but a mere blip on the radar, gone before one can think! The Levites’ songs in the Temple and our memorialization of them in the morning prayers forcefully argue to the contrary: every day is an entirely new tune.

It’s a struggle of identity that has challenged humanity since the beginning of time: How do we maintain our unique individuality while identifying with the broader community? Many years ago, the veteran sage Hillel presented a bold answer while discussing the laws of the Passover sacrifice, and we’re privileged to explore it still.

Juggling personal morals and values with the need to help another is a thorny ethical dilemma. Taking a closer look at the Torah’s juxtaposition of two random events makes one thing very clear: staying in your own comfort zone is not an option. 

For too long, Korach has been perceived as a one-dimensional villain. This class argues that there’s much to learn from his intentions. After all, there’s something to say about someone who has a passionate drive to connect with the Divine. Ask yourself: Does a lack of G-d in your life make YOU cry?

It’s wonderful, even necessary, to understand and appreciate religion. But just as you don’t love your spouse, your children, or your parents strictly because it makes sense, so it is with G-d: to really enjoy the relationship, your commitment must run faith-deep. Discover this idea in the obscure laws of the red heifer.

Ask anyone in synagogue what Messiah is, and you’ll get answers about utopia, peace, love, and harmony. While that’s not untrue, it’s time to take a proper look at the legal definition of Messiah so we know what we’re waiting for. The answer may surprise you.