Vayakhel in a Nutshell Exodus 35:1–38:20 The name of the Parshah, “Vayakhel,” means “And he gathered” and it is found in Exodus 35:1. Moses assembles the people of Israel and reiterates to them the commandment … Read More
Ki Tisa in a Nutshell Exodus 30:11–34:35 The name of the Parshah, “Ki Tisa,” means “When you take” and it is found in Exodus 30:11. The people of Israel are told to each contribute … Read More
Tetzaveh in a Nutshell Exodus 27:20–30:10 G‑d tells Moses to receive from the children of Israel pure olive oil to feed the “everlasting flame” of the menorah, which Aaron is to kindle each day, “from … Read More
Ki Tavo in a Nutshell Deuteronomy 26:1–29:8 Moses instructs the people of Israel: When you enter the land that G‑d is giving to you as your eternal heritage, and you settle it and cultivate it, … Read More
Shoftim in a Nutshell Deuteronomy 16:18–21:9 The name of the Parshah, “Shoftim,” means “Judges” and it is found in Deuteronomy 16:18. Moses instructs the people of Israel to appoint judges and law enforcement officers in … Read More
Va’etchanan in a Nutshell Deuteronomy 3:23–7:11 The name of the Parshah, “Va’etchanan,” means “I entreated,” and it is found in Deuteronomy 3:23. Moses tells the people of Israel how he implored G‑d to allow him … Read More
G‑d instructs Moses to command Aaron and his sons regarding their duties and rights as kohanim (“priests”) who offer the korbanot (animal and meal offerings) in the Sanctuary. The fire on the altar must be … Read More
Jacob returns to the Holy Land after a 20-year stay in Charan, and sends angel-emissaries to Esau in hope of a reconciliation, but his messengers report that his brother is on the warpath with 400 … Read More
Vayetze in a Nutshell Genesis 28:10–32:3 Jacob leaves his hometown of Beershebaand journeys to Charan. On the way, he encounters “the place” and sleeps there, dreaming of a ladder connecting heaven and earth, with angels … Read More
Genesis 18:1–22:24 G‑d reveals Himself to Abraham three days after the first Jew’s circumcision at age ninety-nine; but Abraham rushes off to prepare a meal for three guests who appear in the desert heat. One of the three—who are angels disguised as men—announces that, in exactly … Read More