In Jewish thought, many know the Sh'ma as the watchword prayer of our faith. It says who we are as a people in relationship to God. If there's a watchword prayer that summarizes our beliefs, what is the watchword law of Judaism?
This week's double Torah portion, Tazria - M'tzora, is about a serious skin disease called tzara'at. We learn from the Talmud that tzara'at could be contracted by speaking lashon hara : "Reish Lakish says: What is that which is written: 'This shall be the law of the leper (metzora)?' This means that this shall be the law of a defamer (motzi shem ra).'" (Arachin 15b.)
Sh'mini offers us an opportunity to use discernment. Informed choices are the bedrock of our movement. It's a sacred task to study Torah while respecting its historicity. Can you find relevancy in these ancient words and connect them to our modern lives? This is our holy struggle - and struggling with God is very Jewish.
The parashah of Chol HaMo-eid Pesach begins with Moses feeling anxious. God instructs Moses to lead the Hebrews out of Egypt, but Moses is nervous. Moses tries to decline God’s mission. It’s as if he says, "God, I totally want to do this for you, but I don’t know how, and I can’t do it by myself. I really need your help!"
Torah Commentary
What is the “Watchword Law” of Judaism?
A Spiritual Wellness Check Up: Examining My Metaphorical Case of Tzara’at
Reimagining Reform Kashrut through Sh’mini
God Assures Moses: "You’ve Got This"
The Kohanim as Sacred Chefs
Pagination