Torah With A Twist

Tetzaveh - Home  is   where the light is..... February 23/24. 2018                                            This week's Torah portion begins with the olive oil and the lighting of the menorah daily.  For centuries, women have been and were responsible for carrying on the legacy of the "Temple" in  a minimal manner, but THEY are the ones that brought this, Shabbat to their family's homes! In a time where men only were praying in Temples, and Aaron, as well as his sons, were 'ordained', women were secondary in thought in this manner.  Men followed men and 'the word'.  A most definite seperation of men, women, and "The Hierarchy".  Almost cult-like in regards to the separation, and even the Rabbi's back then dressed differently than the population of the community! This was and still is true in some religions, followings,...

Terumah - What's The Gift ? February 16 and 17, 2018 The word, "Terumah" means "gift', "contribution", "offering" .  This Torah portion continues to detail and share the story of the building of "The Tabernacle, or Temple", and it's ornamentation from the men and women! Women?  Yes, it explicitly states that the instructions that were utilized were intended for BOTH men and women!  This really stands out in indelible ink of sorts, as it is very clear that women were invited and actively open to participate in an inclusive manner, in what might be considered a very male dominated cult-like society!   The interpretation, "Let THEM make a sanctuary", "men AND women, all whose hearts moved them."  This really stands out beautifully, as THE women got to be participants and viewed with some equality, as well as some equity in society! Is the actual "building" of the Temple the gift ...