Standing Together in Covenant
Rabbi Howard Cohen explores the notion of standing at Sinai to receive Torah— not as a one-time event, but as a task for every generation.
It Reached No Further
When divine inspiration comes, is it accessible to all? Or must we cultivate ourselves to receive it?
Silence as Protest
Modern audiences are repelled by the violence found in Parashat Pinkhas. But is a form of protest embodied even in the Torah itself?
Tzara'at and Selfishness
Rabbi Howard Cohen examines the meaning attributed to disease in this Torah portion, and considers its application for today.
On Shabbat HaGadol
Rabbi Howard Cohen reflects on Shabbat HaGadol, the Sabbath before Passover.
Symbolism of Rainbows
Rabbi Howard Cohen explores the symbolism of the rainbow in the Flood story.
"Hearing" The "Voice" of God
What does it mean to “hear” the commanding “voice” of God? A key word in this Torah portion suggests that it is not necessarily all that clear.
Covenant as Marriage
Shabbat Bemidbar usually falls near Shavuot: the day traditionally designated as the anniversary of the revelation of Torah at Mt. Sinai. According to a midrash, Shavuot is like the wedding anniversary of God and the Jewish people.