Parashat Devarim: 'And from my students more than from all'
This dynamic of student inquiry and the teacher’s patient, honest response is essential for effective and meaningful learning – for both the teacher and the student.
This dynamic of student inquiry and the teacher’s patient, honest response is essential for effective and meaningful learning – for both the teacher and the student.
The story of Pinchas reminds us that even someone who once acted boldly in zeal can also become a leader of peace and understanding.
Compassionate eyes and a kind heart – yes. Probing eyes and a gossiping tongue – no.
Faith – even when things don’t make sense. Faith – even when life is hard. Even when we have questions, we will always remain steadfast in our beliefs.
The war with Iran was something else entirely. It was swift. It was decisive. It was beyond imagination. It felt branded by God Himself.
What is repentance? It is a small, good thought filled with love – the kind of thought that saved the sons of Korah from a tragic fate; a moment of introspection that can save any Jew from harm.
The 10 spies teach us what happens when fear rules the heart. The ma’apilim teach us of the danger of forcing reality to revive an old fantasy.
The Torah recounts the argument that erupted between the 10 pessimistic spies and Joshua and Caleb, the two optimistic ones.
We are all entitled to even the strongest of our beliefs and opinions. And yet, we should never be so sure of what we think that we are not open to a different voice, a different opinion.
Speak up! Share your opinion! Try to bring about change – but not through gossip and not with hurtful words.
When you live a life filled with meaning, spiritual fulfillment ... you receive a remarkable gift: a profound inner peace and emotional serenity that no material wealth can offer.