Author Archives: Aleinu

In Israel, this week’s parashah is Bechukotai, Leviticus 26:3 – 27:34.1 Bechukotai (in my statutes) opens with a discourse on the benefits of keeping or observing HaShem’s statutes (mitzvot) followed by the natural consequences of disobedience to HaShem’s mitzvot. The ultimate consequence is exile … Continue reading →

While preparing a few Thoughts on this week’s parashah, Emor, Leviticus 21:1 – 24:23, two items seemed to take root while meandering through various sources. The first item was a poem entitled Let Me Give from an anonymous collection of sermon illustrations. … Continue reading →

This week’s parasha, Kedoshim, Leviticus 19:1–20:27,1 starts with, “Speak to all the congregation of Bnei-Yisrael and tell them: You shall be kedoshim (holy), for I,  ADONAI your God, am holy” (19:2) and as it to a conclusion, “So consecrate yourselves and be holy, for I am ADONAI your … Continue reading →

For we all stumble in many ways. If someone does not stumble in speech, he is a perfect man (or woman), able to bridle the whole body as well. … For every species of beasts and birds, reptiles, and sea … Continue reading →

In the last chapter of this week’s parashah, Bnei-Israel was instructed concerning the animals permitted and prohibited to eat that form the basis of kashrut, kosher food laws.2 Specifically mentioned are land and sea creatures, birds of the air, and insects … Continue reading →

Reading this week’s parashah, I was impressed by the importance of what seems to be a mundane activity even though it is necessary for an activity of seemingly greater importance is to be performed. First, consider the context, which begins … Continue reading →