Great ironic grasshopper story in this week’s Torah reading! And with a choice of moral lessons, too! Here’s how it appears in Parshat Shlach (Num 13:1-15:41). Moses sends twelve scouts to tour the land of Canaan. When they return, they file their report before the people (Num 13:1—14:39). “Look at this giant fruit that grows…
Category: Torah
Ten Commandments: Inner Edition
The Ten Commandments. In Hebrew, Aseret Hadibrot. The Hebrew does not tell us to think of them as ten commandments —that would be “Aseret Hamitzvot.” Instead, the Hebrew tells us to think of them as dibrot דיברות, things said in the midbar מדבר, the wilderness, that can fertilize our lives and bring us the honey…
God is a Woman: Omer 42
Malchut. Also known as Shechinah, God’s Maternal Presence. Yesod. Foundation. Malchut she’b’Yesod: Mother God at the foundation of the world. So, this happened to me about two years ago. I am walking on the UBC campus one day. Early in the afternoon, before teaching my class. It’s a damp, grey day, so I’m in a…
Role Models: Omer 33
Spoiler alert: I’ll be talking about Lag B’Omer. And Rabbi Akiva. Soon. But first, today’s Omer quality. Hod. Splendor. Also Gratitude. And Humility. Hod she’b’Hod? What can we make of that? Practically speaking, I mean. Something simple, personal and real that’s a perfect blend of splendour, gratitude, and humility. Here’s an idea: finding a role…
Compromise: Omer 27
Yesod. Foundation. Netzach, Lasting. Yesod she’b’netzach: Foundations of what is lasting. Let’s say, for example, relationship. One of those foundations is compromise. And, in the Torah, Aaron is the master of compromise. Aaron’s sons Nadav and Avihu die, while approaching the altar. It happens in front of thousands of people, during opening day celebration at…
Mother Wisdom: Omer 14
Malchut. Also known as Shechinah, Archetype of the Mother. One whose guidance is always present. Gevurah. Judgment. Malchut she’b’Gevurah. Maternal wisdom, a part of good judgment. Today I just want to celebrate wisdom of the Great Mother. Or, as she’s known in ordinary English, a grandmother. Last night I dreamed: I am driving on a…
Deborah: Bee Peaceful
Deborah: biblical judge, prophet, warrior, singer, peacemaker. Here are three perspectives on her story: feminist, zoological, and Kabbalistic. Deborah, The New Miriam First, a feminist take. Deborah is the new Miriam. She’s a more modern version of a heroic woman. A bolder version. Take a look at the parallels between their stories. Then, note the…
Simon, the Worst Brother
Simon, brother of Joseph. Why does Joseph, Viceroy of Egypt, single him out for punishment? To answer, I’ll give some context, then read between the lines. Years ago, Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery. But, through twists and turns of fate, he becomes Viceroy of Egypt. And, in a time of regional famine, Joseph decides who…
Hanukah's Hidden Light
Hanukah has a clear spiritual meaning. On one level, it’s simple. And, on another, it’s mystical. Winter is a dark time. Daylight is short. Night is long. With just a few hours of sun, we humans don’t get enough vitamin D. So we get a little depressed. We need a lift. Something to substitute for…
A Dream of Dad
I dreamed about my late mother. Just a simple dream. I am walking with my mother. But I can’t keep up. So, she is half a block ahead, waiting for me. My late mother is so precious to me. But, when I was young, she was full of grief. And I still carry the scars.…