By Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields
In Parashat Ki Tavo, the Torah describes the dramatic moment of bringing the bikkurim—the first fruits—to the Temple. The farmer does not simply drop off produce; instead,...
By Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields
In Parashat Ki Teitzei, the Torah presents a wide range of laws governing everyday life—how we treat others, how we respond to loss, how we act in business, and how we...
By Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields
In Parashat Shoftim, the Torah establishes a system of justice designed to create a fair and orderly society. Judges and officers are appointed “in all your gates,” emphasizing...
By Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields
In our Torah Reading this week, Parashat Re’eh, we are presented with a powerful choice: “See, I set before you today blessing and curse.” The language of seeing is astounding—spiritual...
By Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields
In Parashat Eikev, the Torah emphasizes a reciprocal relationship between action and response: “And it shall be, if you listen (eikev tishme’un)…” Blessing follows attentiveness...
By Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields
Parashat Vaetchanan and Shabbat Nachamu meet at a powerful emotional crossroads. After the devastation recalled on Tisha B’Av, we hear the prophetic call, “Nachamu, nachamu...
By Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields
In Parashat Devarim, Moses begins his final address to the Israelites, retelling their history and preparing them for a future he will not share. Central to his words...
By Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields
In Parashat Matot-Masei, the story of Tzelophechad’s daughters returns as they speak again—this time to ensure their inheritance remains within their tribe. Earlier, they...
By Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields
In Parashat Pinchas, we stand at a turning point. After years of wandering, the generation that left Egypt fades, and new leadership emerges as God instructs Moses to...
By Rabbi Margie Cella
I often ponder the awesome dual nature of water. I only learned how to swim as an adult; I am keenly aware of the danger presented by water for those unable to swim.
I have...
