Torah
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Zealotry, priestly politics, and five bold daughters—Parashat Pinchas has it all. In this short video, I unpack the power dynamics behind the text, spotlight the Priestly source, and reflect on what it means to read Torah from the fringe. Respectable beard included.
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I’ve loved learning and studying with you here on Hitzonim. It’s been a privilege and honor to find my voice with you all as my readers. No pressure to follow me to the new place, but I would, of course, love for many of you to subscribe and join me.
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Last call for virtual, asynchronous book study on the Gospel According to John, through a Jewish lens, using primarily AJ Levine’s very recent release. Read the book, watch some videos, participate in group discussion, all at your own pace. I’m sending the welcome email Monday, and the study officially begins the week of October 14.…
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Parsha Nitzavim offers profound insights into the covenantal relationship between the people of Israel and Adonai. The imagery of all individuals standing together, regardless of status, underscores the inclusive nature of this covenant. This Parsha also highlights the historical context of monolatry, where the God of Israel is seen as supreme among other deities.
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The post discusses Parsha Ki Teitzei, reflecting on the tension between injustice and human dignity. It challenges traditional interpretations, emphasizing the need for introspection and pursuing true justice. The content raises discomforting but essential questions about the sacred literature, and by extension, about ourselves.
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Parsha Summary: Shoftim A dear friend, teacher, mentor, and all around mensch turns 90 this week. You are a prophet in our time, my friend. This post is dedicated to you, with love, admiration, and respect. Here’s to you, JG. L’chaim! To life! In Parsha Shoftim, Moses instructs the Israelites on the principles of justice…
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Sorry to be delayed again with this week’s Torah commentary. I have just a little too much packed into my weeks these days! I may need to decide between the weekly Torah post and the weekly gospel through a Jewish lens commentary. Your feedback on this is always valuable! Feel free to comment or email…
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The Johannine Gospel and epistles are debated by scholars; Méndez argues they are pseudepigraphic works of a single author, while Anderson supports their historical authenticity. Méndez encourages caution in interpreting the text, viewing it as a narrative construction rather than a transparent window into history, posing thought-provoking questions.
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“Deuteronomy may well be the first book to pose the problem of modernity” (JPS Jewish Study Bible, 356). I’m excited this morning! Today, for our Thursday Torah Parsha post, we’re into a new book of the Pentateuch: Deuteronomy, beginning with the first assigned portion called Devarim. The cool thing is this, for me anyway. We…
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The post discusses the return of weekly parsha commentaries and gospel interpretations through a Jewish/Talmudic lens. It addresses Parsha Matot, focusing on oaths and a conflict with the Midianites. It critiques the patriarchal society and questions the ethical implications of the narrative. It suggests using Torah for modern discussions and reflects on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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