Pesach (Passover)
Shabbat Shalom! This week we’re sharing an Orthodox Jewish commentary on the traditional reading of Song of Songs during Passover with Sondra Oster Baras.
Mezora (Leper) – Leviticus 14:1 – 15:33
This week’s Torah portion, Mezora talks about disease! But what exactly is this disease, often translated as “leprosy”?
Tazria (Conceived seed) – Leviticus 12:1-13:59
This week we read portion Tazria, but Shmuel is already looking ahead to next week’s portion, Mezora which deals with the topic of leprosy. Could leprosy be a tool to help the affected person?
Shmini (Eighth) – Leviticus 9:1 – 11:47
In this week’s video Shmuel discusses the foundation for the laws of kosher food, as well as his personal adventures of keeping kosher as a world traveler.
Tzav (And He Commanded Moses) – Leviticus 6:1 – 8:36
Portion Tzav describes the sacrifices performed in the Tabernacle. Shmuel connects this portion to Psalm 107, A psalm of thanksgiving.
Pikudei (And He (Moses) Gathered/Accounts) Exodus 35:1 – 40:38
The book of Shemot (Exodus) ends with the portion Pikudei. In this portion, the Shekhinah- the Divine Presence, finally arrives at long last. Why did it take so long?
Vayakhel (Gathered) Exodus 35:1-38:20
Portion Vayakhel discusses coming together. This principle has led to community life becoming a firm foundation for the Jewish people. Join Shmuel as he discusses bowling leagues, social capital, and the importance of community.
Ki Tisa (When You Raise Up/Count) – Exodus 30:11 – 34:35
Let’s talk about Shabbat! Did you know that the building of the Tabernacle influenced the laws of Shabbat?
Tezave (You Shall Command) – Exodus 27:20 – 30:10
Welcome to the ordinary days of life around the tabernacle. This portion conveys the importance of consistency. Serving G-d, maintaining relationships, or developing a new habit all must be built on a foundation of consistency. Join Shmuel to learn about the daily sacrifices in the Tabernacle, true love, and consistency.