President Jimmy Carter’s State Funeral was not without controversy. While most of the country’s luminaries attended, there was one notable absence. Former First Lady First Lady Michelle Obama chose to not be present. Her decision prompted debate. Some pointed towards the historical precedence for guidance. For the Bible literate, the Torah offers direction. In fact,Continue reading “The Bible As A Reference”
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The Art of Speculation? Shemot
Before Exodus’ desert wandering, there was readers’ wondering. Prior to Moses’ Burning Bush encounter in which he was conscripted by Israelite Deity to stage a national liberation, the Torah Portion Shemot delivers one of scripture’s most perplexing passages. This enigmatic passage, however, when viewed through Decalogue- themed lenses, unlocks enlightenment. Speculation, in the instance, isContinue reading “The Art of Speculation? Shemot”
The Evolution of Swearing: Vayechi
And He said, “I’ll do according to your word.” And He said, “Swear to me” And he swore to him. Genesis 47:30 Everyone needs assurances. Promises often can be confounded by failing human memory, distraction, or a change of circumstances. Assurances, in scripture, were taken to the next level via oath or a swearing. TheContinue reading “The Evolution of Swearing: Vayechi”
Going Postal For December
writer’s block or blocked writing? With apologies to the poetry blog Skeptic’s Kaddish for the pun, we must tackle December. Personally, there were trying moments. A serious family issue consumed the month. This later was compounded by a hip problem. And then, with the little other time to write, software gremlins ran amok in myContinue reading “Going Postal For December”
Vayegash’s Ten Commandments’ Moment
“Why are you upset, and why has your face fallen? Is it not that if you do well you’ll be raised, and if you don’t do well sin crouches at the threshold. And its desire will be for you. And you’ll dominate it.” Genesis 4:6 Inevitably, people get in trouble. Past misdeeds often pull individualsContinue reading “Vayegash’s Ten Commandments’ Moment”
The Past Should Be History: Miketz
“There shall be one instruction for the citizen and for the alien who resides among you.” Exodus 12:49 Modern sensibilities are a barrier towards education. Loaded with troubling passages, The Torah makes a perfect target for contemporary erasers and white washers. Problematic events, offensive words and horrifying circumstances serve as pedagogical tools. Those representing moralityContinue reading “The Past Should Be History: Miketz”
Should the Chanukah Candles Be On A Birthday Cake?
Yonatan Adler’s The Origins of Judaism, an Archeological-Historical Reappraisal asked the question as to when “strict adherence” to Torah practices first took place. His conclusion suggests that Chanukah could be the moment to celebrate the birth date of the widespread practice of Judaism. Professor Adlers’ archeological data suggests that the societal Torah adherence first occurredContinue reading “Should the Chanukah Candles Be On A Birthday Cake?”
Genesis’ Ultimate Technicolor Ten Commandments’ Portion: Vayeshev
The Torah Portion Vayeshev overflows with Ten Commandments’ moments. Even Vayeshev’s last sentence echos a moment of Decalogue drama and reflection. The last line is literary genius. Short of the Commandments handed down at Mt. Sinai, Yayehev’s tales of Joseph and others touch on an abundance of Decalogue topics. Nine out of the TenContinue reading “Genesis’ Ultimate Technicolor Ten Commandments’ Portion: Vayeshev”
Of Moses & Mangione
The UnitedHealthcare CEO’s assassination tale bares similarity to Moses’ murder of the Egyptian Taskmaster. Laying in wait was the modus operandi for both. In the Moses’ case, it was an unnamed Hebrew Slave’s rebuke of Moses that saved Western Civilization. Mr. Lugi Mangione is the alleged CEO assassin. His background has much in common withContinue reading “Of Moses & Mangione”
Idol Reflections: Vayishlach’s Ten Commandments’ Moment
The Torah Portion analysis should never be done in isolation. The Portion Vayishlach connect intimately with both past and future Torah Portions. Merging the texts unleashes deep context which includes a Ten Commandments’ moment. Vayishlach’s Decalogue moment happens at a time of crisis. Jacob’s sons Simeon and Levi’s committed horrendous acts, the Jacob must respond.Continue reading “Idol Reflections: Vayishlach’s Ten Commandments’ Moment”
The Ten Commandments Project 