A WEEKLY TORAH THOUGHT FROM RABBI MORDY This week’s Parsha (Vayigash) concludes the story of Jacob’s sons. Joseph is formally reunited with his brothers as he reveals his true identity to them. They embrace and finally reconnect; Jacob is then given the news that Joseph lives as viceroy of Egypt and that he should come down to dwell there together… Read More

A WEEKLY TORAH THOUGHT FROM RABBI MORDY I’m going to deviate a bit from this week’s Parsha (Mikeitz) to talk about Chanukah, specifically—and I believe I’ve talked about this before—Shabbos and Chanukah together as we prepare for it tonight. We will be lighting Chanukah candles immediately followed by Shabbat candles, then tomorrow night, after Shabbos, we will be reciting Havdala and… Read More

This week’s Parsha (Vayeishev) continues the drama between Joseph and his brothers. Joseph was his father’s favorite which instilled jealousy among his brothers (shocker), culminating in their desire to kill, then ultimately scheme to fake his death and sell him to slavery in Egypt. We learn how they plotted to kill him until Reuben, the oldest of the brothers, convinces… Read More

A WEEKLY TORAH THOUGHT FROM RABBI MORDY This week’s Parsha (Vayishlach) concludes Jacob’s time with his “dear” brother-in-law Laban, having amassed a large family, cattle, wealth and an overall sense of maturity. The portion begins with Jacob meeting his brother Esau for the first time since fleeing him two Parshas ago; he’s heard that Esau is bringing 400 soldiers to… Read More

A WEEKLY TORAH THOUGHT FROM RABBI MORDY Parshat Vayeitzei, this week’s Parsha, contains so much drama and, in typical fashion, so many lessons. Jacob is fleeing the wrath of his brother Esau and seeks refuge with his uncle Laban. Laban has two daughters, an older one named Leah and a younger one, Rochel, whom Jacob wants to marry. Laban tricks… Read More