Giving Up Your Life
The choice of words used to describe the sacrifices and the notion that we are bringing our inner beast to the altar are discussed.
Read MoreTrue Sacrifice
The sacrifices one made during Temple times were not simple animal offerings, but symbolic offerings of man’s inner beast.
Read MorePrimordial Man
The bearer of an offering is referred to as an “adam” instead of “ishi.” While both translate to “man,” the former implies that one must emulate Adam when bringing an offering.
Read MoreWhat’s in a Name?
The Hebrew word vayikra, “and he called,” used by the Torah to describe Adam’s calling the name of every creature displays the significance of naming…
Read MoreTerms of Termination
The literal and figurative implications of the Hebrew word “hashbatah,” which means “terminate,” are debated by Talmudic sages Rabbi Judah and Rabbi Shimon.
Read MoreWide Angle Lens
Ethics of Our Fathers teaches: If we view the whole person rather than focus on the parts that are wanting, we will surely find much that is meritorious.
Read MoreThe Dust of History
The cosmic struggle to reconcile spirit and matter are captured in the story of Jacob and Esau and the battle between these two opposing forces.
Read MoreEmor: How Do I Find a True Rabbi? Part 1
Rabbi Simon Jacobson answers a critical question: how does one find an authentic, truthful educator when it comes to Torah learning?
Read MoreMetzorah: In Search of Eden
The continued presence of both the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, and particularly the Euphrates, indicates the ongoing presence of the Garden of Eden in this world.
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