Click HERE (video) to fulfill hearing the Shabbat Zahor chanting of Deuteronomy 25:17-19. The Torah explains that we must remember Amalek’s cowardly attack on our way out of Egypt. Lessons from our history show that we must not only rely on God’s redeeming power but empowering ourselves for self-defense when necessary. Thusly, Purim – a time of self-defense – and Passover – a time of God’s redeeming power – become linked as a holiday season just as much as Passover and Shavuot becomes a period of celebration and remembrance on our calendar. Listen just before Shabbat candle lighting or just before you make Havdalah to fulfill the mitzvah this year during the Pandemic.
Click HERE for audio only.
Click HERE (video) for the Shabbat Sermon: Ancient Sacred Spaces, Lessons for Life in the Material World. This week’s parsha concerns the contributions called for from our ancient ancestors, to build a portable sanctuary in the wilderness. What are the eternal lessons the Torah teaches about the power of sacred space and the purpose of calling for gifts from those whose hearts move them?
Click HERE (video) for Torah study with Rashi on Exodus 25:2. Moses tells the Children of Israel to bring gifts of gold, silver, oil, spices. Rashi’s commentary explores the intentions and inspiration to be gleaned by contributing tzedakah to building sacred spaces and to those in need.
Click HERE (video) for an Adar Talmud teaching “But Have You Tried the Dates?! A Sense of Humor Will Help Get You Through.” Who says Talmudic discussions aren’t humorous? Especially as we read with “Adar eyes” the Sages’ discussions reveal sophisticated comedy, irony and a dry sense of humor. Daily Talmud study this week referenced enemies and exiles but Ulla’s response was unexpected!