Time for Torah: A Short Video on Parashat Bo

In this week's Torah portion, Bo, our focus is on the ten plagues.  The Israelite people are enslaved and Pharaoh refuses to let them go free.  God sends plagues such as blood, frogs, and even death of the first born in order to move Pharaoh towards compassion.

Yet, the Torah teaches that Pharaoh's heart is hardened.  Pharaoh is unable to let go and to admit his mistake.  We learn the important lesson that it takes true strength and courage to admit our mistakes and move on.

Time for Torah: A Short Video on Vayiggash

This week's Torah portion focuses on the relationship of Joseph and his brothers.  The last time Joseph met his brothers, they sold him into slavery and lied to their father.  Now, decades later, Benjamin, Joseph's brother, has been taken into custody as well.  He's about to become a slave which would break their father's heart.  This time, Judah stands up and protects his brother. 

This story about Joseph and his brothers is a human story that describes our understanding of Teshuvah, repentance.  It reminds us that each of us are capable of growth and change.

Time for Torah: A Short Video on Beresheit

In this week's Torah portion, Beresheit, we once again begin "In the Beginning."  Jewish tradition teaches that God created the world, but left the rest up to us.  We learn in the Midrash Ecclesiastes Rabbah that we must not destroy this world, for if we do, there will be no one left to repair it.  Our responsibility is to not just stop pollution and protect the environment, but to become partners with God to complete the task begun so many years ago.

Time for Torah: A Short Video on Nitzavim

In this week's Torah portion, Nitzavim, the entire Israelite community is gathered together. Moses speaks to young and old, rich and poor, men and women, teaching them that we have the ability to make choices. As the the High Holy Days approach, we are reminded of a Chasidic Story in which a young man wanted to become a learned person. The Kotzker Rebbe tells the man that what matters most is not becoming a Torah scholar, but to do good and be good.

Time for Torah: A Short Video on Shoftim

In this week's Torah portion, the Israelites are preparing for battle against a very large army. The Israelites are terrified about the prospects of war. The Torah provides them with words of encouragement: "Don't fear, don't panic, for God is with you." Most of us will not go into battle, but that doesn't mean we don't encounter fear and dread today. How can we find courage during our moments of challenge?

Time for Torah: A Short Video on Va'ethannan

Love can be complex and challenging!  Most of us know what it means to love a significant other, a family member or a friend, but what does it mean to love God?  Rabbi Andy Gordon explores the concept of loving God through a short d'var Torah.  Check out this week's Torah portion, Va'ethannan, as we explore the complexities of love and relationship.

Time for Torah: A Short Video on Mattot

 

The tribes of Reuben and Gad want to settle outside the Land of Israel.  This angers Moses because he fears that the other tribes will follow their lead!  What impact do our actions have on those around us?

Time for Torah: A Short Video on Hukkat

Rabbi Andy Gordon shares his thoughts on the weekly Torah portion, Hukkat.  The people are thirsty and complain to Moses.  Moses lashes out at the people and hits a rock in anger!  But, it isn't just Moses who is punished by God.  Aaron too is punished for remaining silent.  Why was Aaron punished?

Time for Torah: A Short Video on Sh'lach Lecha

A Short Video on this week's Torah Portion, Sh'lach Lecha!  The 12 Spies were fearful about the inhabitants of the Land of Israel.  As they return back from the land, the spies rile of the people and a revolt occurs.  Rabbi Andy Gordon looks closely at this story and asks: What happens when we lose sight of our capabilities, skills, and strengths?