Combined - Parshat Devarim and Why we do what we do - Sitting Shiva and Tisha b'Av

Combined - Parshat Devarim and Why we do what we do - Sitting Shiva and Tisha b'Av

Read each year on the Shabbat before Tisha B'Av, Parshat Devarim sets the tone for the saddest day on the Jewish calendar. The laws of Tisha B'Av closely mirror those of sitting shivah, guiding not only what we do, but how we experience loss. This week, we'll explore the do's and don'ts of the Three Weeks and Tisha B'Av, uncovering the meaning behind the practices of mourning and how they help us remember the past while shaping our future.

Combined - Parshat Matot–Mas'ei and Why we do what we do - Tevilat Kelim

One of the Torah's lesser-known mitzvot is tevilat keilim—immersing new metal and glass utensils in a mikveh before using them. Rooted in this week's parashah, we'll explore where this mitzvah comes from, which utensils require tevillah, and how understanding the "why" behind what we do can deepen our appreciation of everyday halachah.

Why we do what we do - Havdala

Havdala- why the wine, candle, and spices?

Parshat Pinchas: A Different Kind of Leader

As Moshe prepares to step aside, he doesn't ask for someone to replace him—he asks for the leader the people need next. Why doesn't Hashem choose another Moshe? Parashat Pinchas explores one of leadership's greatest lessons: every generation requires a different kind of leader, and true leadership is knowing when to let someone lead differently.

Parashat Chukat–Balak: The Freedom to Choose

Parenting is not about controlling our children; it is about giving them the values, wisdom, and confidence to make good choices for themselves. In Chukat–Balak, we encounter a similar Divine approach. Hashem guides, teaches, and warns, but ultimately allows human beings the dignity—and responsibility—of choosing their own path.