People have asked me how I write a dvar Torah. In my own practice, I have several different processes for…
A Shepherd's Care
In Parshat Vayetze, we learn about the young adult lives of our ancestors Jacob, Rachel, and Leah. They are immersed in a shepherding…
Birthright Soup (Recipe)
Why did Esau sell his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of red lentils? Prepare this recipe for “Birthright Soup”…
Self-Correcting Cities
What makes Sodom such a sinful city? Torah tells us that the people would gather into a mob to abuse…
Gates of Tears
From the day that the Temple was destroyed, the heavenly gates of prayer were locked. . . nevertheless, the gates of tears…
Ambiguous Kiss
The Ambiguous Kiss (2009/5770) Brothers Jacob and Esau parted in conflict. Then, after years of separation, they met again. Torah…
The Power of a Rachel
Our biblical ancestor Rachel reminds us to “Never underestimate the power of a woman.” Canadian activist Nellie McClung said that…
Rachel & Leah in the Amidah
“Rachel and Leah answered, saying, is there a place for us in our father’s house?” (Bereisheet/Genesis 31:14) Should the names…
Unselfish Prayer?
In Jewish tradition, we think of prayer as tefillah, self-examination; shevach, praise; and bakashah, request. Traditional bakashot are unselfish general requests that benefit many: healing, world peace, good weather for…