Posts tagged Heschel
We are entering a new chapter in our lives. I’m not just talking about the Book of Exodus: Shmot, or 2022.

We are entering a new chapter in our lives. I’m not just talking about the Book of Exodus: Shmot, or 2022.

Parshat Shmot describes the enslavement of the Hebrews in Egypt, the birth, rescue and adoption of Moses by Pharoah’s daughter. It also highlights Moses’ decision to ally himself with the enslaved people, inviting Pharoah’s wrath and forcing him to flee Egypt.

Read More
Va’Yechi, “and Jacob lived in the land of Mitzrayim seventeen years….”

Va’Yechi, “and Jacob lived in the land of Mitzrayim seventeen years….”

We notice that it doesn’t say “ and Jacob dwelled - VaYeshev - in the land of Egypt...”. The wording, VaYechi, implies he "lived fully" there, reunited with his son, Joseph, and seeing the reconciliation between his children. Jacob now prepares to die. What we see in this Parsha is how he approaches death and the meaningfulness of his final words to his children. In his last days or hours Jacob is both the father and the prophet. Clearly, he put a lot of thought into what he would say. Our anonymous biblical editor certainly did.

Read More
We are now in the Yamim HaNoraim, the Ten Days of Awe.

We are now in the Yamim HaNoraim, the Ten Days of Awe. Below are a few teachings to help us focus on these Days.

“As civilization advances, the sense of wonder declines. Such decline is an alarming symptom of our state of mind. Humankind will not perish for want of information, but only for want of appreciation.” A.J.Heschel

Read More