Author: Shlomo Bar-Ayal

  • The Hubris of Power

    The problems of the scouts that Moses sent was that they were the leaders of the tribes. They felt that they would lose power if they gave a good report. That is why they sabotaged the whole effort.

  • We Have to Earn It

    The reason that Moses was commanded to send the scouts to scout out the Land was because we have a partnership with God. God will help us but He wants us to also have a part in the process. We have to earn the miracle.

  • There Are No Coincidences

    The Torah points out that when bad things happen to the Jewish people then it is necessary for the Jews to look into themselves as to why these things are happening. There are no coincidences because God is in charge.

  • A Conceptual Nation

    The Torah states that the convert is required to celebrate Passover as is the natural born Jew. That is because without Passover there would be no Jewish nation for the convert to join.

  • Prepare the Next Generation

    Moses has to teach Joshua an important lesson in this week’s portion. That if you want a future of the Jewish people then you have to prepare the future leaders to take their positions. Otherwise, there will be no next generation.

  • The Importance of the Rule of Law

    The Torah places a lot of importance on the Rule of Law. This is a concept that without it we will descend into a lawless society which will be no good for us. The Torah is against someone being above or below the law.

  • Make the Common Special

  • Actions Have Consequenes

    Miriam meant well when she commented to her brother Aaron her concern that Moses seemed to be neglecting his wife. Though she meant well she was punished for the sin of malicious gossip. Meaning well is not enough. Your actions matter.

  • Be A Part of the Community

    The Torah stresses that we are a part of the community. The fact that even someone who lives off charity is required to tithe is important. We are all responsible for the upkeep of the community.

  • Betrayal of Society

    Marriage is the basis of society. When there is suspicion that the wife is betraying her husband but there is no proof then the Torah proscribes the ritual of the Mei Sotah, Waters of Contrition. This is to find out the truth and, if possible to save the marriage.