The Office of Rabbi Sacks

Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week. Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2020. To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/tetzaveh/dressing-to-impress/ You can also find our written article on Parshat Tetzaveh from 2012 on a similar theme, available to read, print, and share, by visiting: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/tetzaveh/the-aesthetic-in-judaism/ (Multiple translations of the essay are also available here.) For intergenerational discussion on the weekly Parsha and Haftara, a new FAMILY EDITION is now also available: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation-family-edition/tetzaveh/the-aesthetic-in-judaism/ ----- For more articles, videos, and other material from Rabbi Sacks, please visit www.RabbiSacks.org and follow @RabbiSacks. The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. With thanks to the Schimmel Family for their generous sponsorship of Covenant & Conversation, dedicated in loving memory of Harry (Chaim) Schimmel.

Dive into the significance of the Mishkan’s dimensions, revealing how intricate details reflect the divine presence among the Jewish people. Explore the tabernacle as a symbol of God’s chosen presence, emphasizing the connection between physical space and spiritual order. Discover thought-provoking insights on how moral and spiritual frameworks mirror the precision of the universe, showcasing the necessity of order in our lives.

Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week. Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2018. To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/mishpatim/the-power-of-empathy/ You can also find our written article on Parshat Mishpatim from 2012, available to read, print, and share, by visiting: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/mishpatim/the-slow-end-of-slavery/ Multiple translations of the essay are also available here. For intergenerational discussion on the weekly Parsha and Haftara, a new FAMILY EDITION is now also available: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation-family-edition/mishpatim/the-slow-end-of-slavery/ ----- For more articles, videos, and other material from Rabbi Sacks, please visit www.RabbiSacks.org and follow @RabbiSacks. The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. With thanks to the Schimmel Family for their generous sponsorship of Covenant & Conversation, dedicated in loving memory of Harry (Chaim) Schimmel.

Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week. Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2019. For the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/yitro/mount-sinai-and-the-birth-of-freedom/ You can find our written article on Parshat Yitro from 2012, available to read, print, and share, by visiting: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/yitro/the-custom-that-refused-to-die/ Multiple translations of the essay are also available here. For intergenerational discussion on the weekly Parsha and Haftara, a new FAMILY EDITION is now also available: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation-family-edition/yitro/the-custom-that-refused-to-die/ ----- For more articles, videos, and other material from Rabbi Sacks, please visit www.RabbiSacks.org and follow @RabbiSacks. The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. With thanks to the Schimmel Family for their generous sponsorship of Covenant & Conversation, dedicated in loving memory of Harry (Chaim) Schimmel.

Dive into the fascinating narrative of the Red Sea's miraculous splitting, exploring whether it’s a supernatural event or a natural phenomenon. The discussion uncovers the implications of these interpretations on faith and community. Delve into lessons of strength and weakness as they analyze how these themes echo throughout Jewish history and thought. Get ready for insights that challenge perspectives and inspire deeper understanding of ancient texts!

This discussion delves into the vital role of questioning in Jewish tradition, especially in Parshat Bo. It emphasizes that inquiry is essential for spiritual growth, contrasting it with blind obedience. The talk also highlights the significance of education in rabbinic Judaism, showcasing how historical lessons from the Exodus inform modern practices. Overall, it’s a celebration of intellectual exploration and understanding one's heritage.

Delve into the intricate dance of truth and deception between Moses and Pharaoh during the plagues. Discover how half-truths served as tools for liberation and reflect on similar tactics used by historical figures facing oppression. Explore the moral weight of truth in a world plagued by tyranny, emphasizing Judaism's unwavering commitment to intellectual honesty. The conversation highlights that a true society cannot flourish under oppression, making the act of truth-telling both powerful and perilous.

The podcast delves into Moses' profound identity struggle as he grapples with feelings of unworthiness while encountering God. It draws fascinating parallels with other biblical figures who questioned their abilities yet embraced their destinies. Additionally, it explores the complexities of Jewish identity through the historical narratives of notable figures, highlighting themes of belonging and the collective responsibility that comes with it. The discussion weaves together personal and community aspects of identity, offering rich insights into the Jewish experience.

The podcast explores the delicate balance of truth-telling within families, particularly through Jacob's death and the fears of his sons. It discusses the concept of white lies in Jewish law for the sake of peace, contrasting scriptural narratives with insights from Jewish sages. Philosophical reflections on human nature highlight a midrash about the creation of humanity, emphasizing tensions between truth and mercy. Finally, it tackles the complex relationship between truth and peace in Judaism, particularly within familial dynamics.

Explore the fascinating intersection of Jewish thought and psychology, highlighting contributions from influential figures like Viktor Frankl. Dive into Joseph's transformative journey as he reveals his identity to his brothers, showcasing themes of forgiveness and purpose. Discover how Joseph's ability to reinterpret past traumas resonates with modern psychological insights, embodying a path from resentment to meaning. This dialogue on the human soul emphasizes choice and emotional well-being, blending ancient wisdom with contemporary thought.