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Rabbi David Stein

The Gift of Impermanence: A Story for Parashat Tazria/Metzora

This story implicitly addresses the question, “Why does the Torah make such a fuss about skin lesions, of all things?” It is situated in the wilderness camp of the ancient Israelites. A girl discovers an odd lesion on her arm. Eventually this leads to a diagnosis of “tzaraat” and of her being declared impure. She is put into isolation outside the camp. As we accompany her along the way, we learn some spiritual lessons that the Torah may have intended for its ancient audience. 

D'var Torah

Be Careful What You Wish For

In Parshat Beha'alotekha, our ancestors experience strong cravings with disastrous results. What can we learn about the power of sudden strong impulses in our own lives? 

D'var Torah