Seven Minute Torah

In this week's haftarah, the prophet Amos contradicts the Torah portion! How can he tell us we're not so special when the Torah called us kedoshim - holy? It's in that juxtaposition of ideas that the true essence of Judaism is found. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. For info on our weekly Zoom study groups and other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To support the production of this podcast, visit either laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution) OR www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

In this week's Torah portion, a moment of celebration and creation turns tragic. What is the relationship between creation and suffering? We look at some midrash and try to understand how these two very human experiences can coexist. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. For info on our weekly Zoom study groups and other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To support the production of this podcast, visit either laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution) OR www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

In a deeply divided society, Jewish tradition has some advice for how to be with each other: actually listen. Rabbi Micah Streiffer explores texts from Torah and Talmud that teach us about community and about recognizing one another's unique gifts. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. For info on our weekly Zoom study groups and other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To support the production of this podcast, visit either laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution) OR www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

The kind of society that you have matters. That's the message under the surface of this dry, number-filled Torah portion. Rabbi Micah Streiffer explores how an accounting of silver half-shekels translates into a message about the worth of human beings and justice in society. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. For info on our weekly Zoom study groups and other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

In challenging times, Jews turn to study not only for comfort and connection, but also to empower ourselves. In this episode, Rabbi Streiffer talks about how our Jewish learning can be an act of empowerment and resistance when those in power attempt to control information and actions. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. For info on our weekly Zoom study groups and other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

In the Torah, God commands the people to "build me a sanctuary." But goes God really need a house? Who is the Mishkan really for? We look at some ancient midrash, and also compare to modern, liberal Jewish ways of thinking about ritual. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. For info on our weekly Zoom study groups and other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

As the Torah tells the story of the Exodus, it sends a strong message that redemption is not only about moving to the geographic Promised Land, but also about moving toward a more just society and a repaired world. This is why the idea of forcibly relocating Palestinians from Gaza is completely anathema to Jewish teaching. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

Should priests and rabbis have something to say about policy? Is it the role of ministers and imams to speak on matters of politics and partisanship? Rabbi Micah Streiffer explores questions about religion and politics, ethics and responsibilities, through progressive Jewish eyes. You can also read this article on JTA.   --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

Jacob's blessing of his grandchildren also invokes the names of his grandparents. It is a reminder that we are links in a chain of tradition. And that we are responsible both to be aware of the blessings of the past and to commit ourselves to a better future. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

Joseph seems to keep finding his way of out hard spots, over and over. Is there something about the way he believes and/or acts that makes that possible? --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

Why does Jacob change the name of Rachel's youngest son from Ben-Oni (child of sorrow) to Binyamin (child of strength)? Rabbi Micah Streiffer explores the Torah's message about finding strength in our pain and sorrow.   --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

This week we explore the emotional lives of Rachel and Sara and how they cope with family and societal expectations. Reading a modern Midrash from Hagit Bartov, we explore her suggestion about "opening up" our picture of what family and identity "should" look like. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

Why did Rebekah fall off her camel when she met Isaac? Is that even what really happened? And what does that have to do with marriage, partnership, and misogyny? In this episode, Rabbi Micah Streiffer explores some Midrash on Rebekah and Isaac, painting two parallel pictures of what the matriarch and patriarch mean for Jewish life today. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

This week's Torah portion contains two stories - the incident of Sodom and Gomorrah, and the incident of Hagar and Ishmael - that teach important Jewish values about justice and about the way we are supposed to relate to neighboring peoples. In this episode, Rabbi Micah Streiffer speaks about the ideas that come out of these narratives, and about how they relate to Jewish life and to Israel today. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

The midrash teaches us that Abraham is an idol smasher. Heschel teaches us that an idol is "any god concerned with me but not with you." In other words, Judaism says that injustice is idolatry, and that we must to stand up against injustice even when - especially when - it is the policy of our own government. This is an important message in the current political moment, as we look to what the next 4 years will bring. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

We mostly think of the story of Adam and Eve as a story about sin and punishment, but Rabbi Micah Streiffer wants to suggest that it is actually a story about what it means to be human. This episode is the beginning of season 6! --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

As we read the Torah's last portion, we ask about the death of Moses, and explore a Midrash about life and death, leadership and legacy. Chazak chazak v'nitchazeik! Be strong, be strong, and let us strengthen one another!   --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

This week's Torah portion suggests a framework for how to include those who live at the outskirts of society. A message of social justice and human dignity that speaks powerfully to our moment.   --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

In a strange passage of Talmud, the Rabbis imagine God putting on t'fillin. They tie it back to this week's Torah portion - to an image of God and the Jewish people "affirming" their covenant with each other. In this episode, Rabbi Micah Streiffer will talk about this surprising image of the Divine, and why it just might help us reclaim t'fillin in liberal Judaism. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at micah@laasok.org. 

As liberal Jews, what are we supposed to do with obscure, esoteric laws in the Torah that seem to have nothing to do with Jewish life today? This portion contains one of the Torah's most obscure laws: the prohibition against mixing wool and linen (shaatnez). Rabbi Micah Streiffer talks about the possible meanings behind it, and how to make modern meaning from a section like this. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

Alden Solovy is a poet and a creator of beautiful modern liturgy. In this episode, he joins Rabbi Micah Streiffer to discuss the idea of communal responsibility (as expressed in an intensely strange event in this week's Torah portion), to talk about the ongoing events in Israel and Gaza, and to read some of his original meditations for the High Holy Days. Alden's newest book is Enter These Gates: Meditations for the Days of Awe from CCAR Press. A 20% discount is available using code HHD5785.   --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

The Torah makes a grand pronouncement: Israelites should distance themselves physically and spiritually from neighboring peoples so as not to be tempted to "follow their ways." But how does this sit with modern, progressive Jews who believe in interfaith dialogue? Isn't it important to learn about other religious and cultural groups? In this episode, Rabbi Micah Streiffer explores what it means to disagree with the Torah on this topic. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email info@laasok.org, or contact Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

Rabbi Shai Held is one of the most important thinkers in modern Jewish life. President and Dean of the Hadar Institute, he is a theologian, rabbi, educator, and author. In this interview, he joins Rabbi Micah Streiffer to talk about the Torah's command to love the stranger, and about the broader idea that Judaism is about love. Rabbi Held's latest book is Judaism is About Love. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email Rabbi Micah Streiffer directly at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

In this portion, Moses faces the prospect of his own death. The Midrash paints a picture of him as a leader who both struggles with own mortality and cares deeply about the welfare of the people he leads. We explore these messages, comparing them with contemporary events. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

Korach claims that "all the people are holy," but his actions seem to be less about the people and more about his own interests. In that sense, he reminds us of some politicians we know today. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

The Torah's famous story of the "scouts" is a pivotal moment - the beginning of the 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. But what did the scouts do wrong? We take a look at a Midrash that suggests that, in part, it was because they made assumptions about what the people of the land were thinking about them. We talk about the cognitive distortion of "mind reading" and how it harms our well-being, our relationships, and our world. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

This parashah tells about a strange incident in which two Israelites prophesy "illicitly." Moses's reaction to them teaches something important about leadership and listening. (Encore from 2022.) --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

A midrash says that the Torah is "one" but has seventy faces. We explore how Jewish life sits at the intersection of unity and pluralism. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

In this interview episode, Micah talks with Rabbi Mark Washofsky about B'midbar, the opening parsha of the book of Numbers. They discuss the census in the desert, why it takes place and what it says about Jewish life. And they go on to talk about a variety of related topics around Reform Judaism and halakhah (Jewish law). Rabbi Washofsky is the author of Reading Reform Responsa. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

Is Jewish life supposed to be lived in the land of Israel? Can you live a fulfilling and meaningful life in diaspora? How do we, as liberal Jews, relate to the traditional Jewish notion of "exile?" We explore some midrash on the topic. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

In this week's Torah portion, God asks the people to provide a Ner Tamid - an eternal light - in the sanctuary. But does God need a light? And by extension, does God need our rituals and prayers? We look at some midrash and explore the question: Who are our rituals for? --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

The Torah commands: "Love your neighbor as yourself?" But who is the neighbor that I'm commanded the love? The answer is not straightforward. In fact, it's one of the great debates of Judaism. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

Sacrifice? Demons? A scapegoat?? This parashah describes the strange, levitical practices of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. What meaning is there to be found for modern Jewish life in this ancient, priestly ritual? --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

How often do we dehumanize or ostracize people who are suffering from disease, poverty, mental health challenges, etc? This week we focus on some Midrash surrounding how you're supposed to treat people afflicted with leprosy. The Rabbis find some surprising and affirming messages embedded in this strange Torah portion. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

Tazria is about scaly skin disease and priestly diagnosis. But when we examine it through the Rabbis' eyes, it is about our responsibility to each other in times of suffering. We explore a story from the Talmud that helps drive home that idea. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

Sh'mini outlines the laws of kashrut - which animals traditionally may and may not be eaten in Judaism. How does liberal Judaism approach the rules and traditions around keeping kosher in modern Jewish life? --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

In this portion we find an obscure rule about the thanksgiving offering: it must be eaten on the day that it is offered. Turns out there is an important lesson there about our need for community. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com  

This week's Torah portion is about sacrifice in the ancient Jewish Temple. It's a good opportunity for us to talk about the purpose(s) of prayer, and about how we can relate to prayer if we're not sure that God is on the other end listening. --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

The book of Exodus ends with the completion of the Mishkan - the portable sanctuary in the desert. Why do the Rabbis compare the creation of the Mishkan with the creation of the entire world? --------------------------------- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

In this episode we explore a Midrash on the Torah portion, in which the Rabbis talk about what it means to have a "good name." --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

A midrash blames the Golden Calf incident on the "mixed multitude" that accompanied the Israelites in the desert. What can we learn from it about acceptance and xenophobia in Jewish life? --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com    

This Torah portion is about clothes: colors, fabrics, hems, designs - the details of the priestly clothing. We talk about why the Torah goes into such a meticulous description, and what it has to do with our own spiritual lives. (Plus I sing for you!) --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support/ (for a tax-deductible one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

In the midst of a tedious Torah portion, the Rabbis tell a story that connects the building of the Mishkan (the portable sanctuary in the wilderness) with an audacious act of hope by Jacob 400 years earlier. --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support-laasok/ (for a one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com.

We explore one of the Torah's most infamous laws - the "eye for an eye" passage in Exodus 21 - to discovery what it's REALLY about, and what it says about the imperative for building a just society. We also briefly explore how this law undergirds Jewish views of abortion. To sign up for Rabbi Leah Berkowitz's class on Reproductive Justice in Judaism (this Thursday, February 8), visit https://laasok.org/current-offerings/#repro --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support-laasok/ (for a one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com.

We are traditionally taught that we ALL stood together at Sinai. And yet the Torah reveals that certain people and certain voices were excluded from that pivotal moment. I talk with Rabbi Dalia Marx about finding and recapturing those silenced voices, in order to create a more inclusive Judaism. Rabbi Dalia Marx is author of From Time to Time: Journeys in the Jewish Calendar. --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support-laasok/ (for a one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com.

In this parashah, the Torah tells the story of the parting of the Red Sea. The Rabbis tell the story of the brave person who made that miracle possible. In doing so, they turn the story on its head - they make it about OUR capacity for miracle-making.  --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support-laasok/ (for a one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com.

The story of Pharaoh and the plagues is a story of how fear leads us toward actions that don't reflect our best selves.   --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support-laasok/ (for a one-time or monthly contribution). For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com.

The idea that God "hardened Pharaoh's heart" is a major theological conundrum. Does it mean there's no free will?? We explore what some of the commentators have said about this, and what it means for our own lives. --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support-laasok/ (for a one-time or monthly contribution). To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com.

As we start a new book of the Torah, why does it sound like we're right in the middle of something? We talk about the significance of this transitional moment for Jewish identity and continuity, and for both Jewish and Palestinian self-understanding. --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support-laasok/ (for a one-time or monthly contribution). To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com.

One of the subtexts of the Joseph story is the ongoing growth of Judah, who increasingly demonstrates an ability to take responsibility and to care about the needs and well-being of others. This makes him a secondary "hero" of Joseph's story. --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support-laasok/ (for a one-time or monthly contribution). To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com.

Joseph's story is the story of how holding a vision of a better world helps us work toward a better world.   --- Seven Minute Torah is a production of LAASOK. For info on our weekly Zoom Torah study groups or other learning opportunities go to https://laasok.org/. To support the production of this podcast, visit either www.patreon.com/sevenminutetorah (for per-episode contribution) OR https://laasok.org/support-laasok/ (for a one-time or monthly contribution). To join the Seven Minute Torah Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevenminutetorahgroup Comments or questions? Email me at rabbistreiffer@gmail.com.