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Nitzavim: preparation for Rosh Hashanah

Nitzavim: preparation for Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah is a time for self-reflection, repentance, and the acceptance of G-d’s kingship; this concept applies not just to Jews but also to all of humanity, as all people are judged on this day. So, what does this holiday mean for Noahides? Bnei Noah recognizes that repentance is a fundamental commandment for Jews, but for non-Jews, it is more of a moral obligation that stems from the first commandment to believe in G-d. The story of Jonah (Jonah 3)…

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Ki Teitzei: transforming evil to good

Ki Teitzei: transforming evil to good

In the Torah portion of Ki Teitzei, the theme of lashon hara—evil speech—comes into focus, particularly concerning Miriam, the prophetess and sister of Moses. Though she was respected as a prophet and leader, she was punished by G-d with leprosy for speaking negatively of Moses. This teaches us that even someone as elevated as Miriam, who played a critical role in the redemption of the Israelites, is not above the laws of proper speech. Her punishment was a powerful reminder…

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Shoftim: Appointing righteous judges

Shoftim: Appointing righteous judges

The Torah portion of Shoftim describes the judges that should be appointed and the importance of establishing a just justice system. In Deuteronomy 16:18, the Torah emphasizes the need for righteous judges who will render fair judgment, without bias or corruption, and ensure that the law is maintained in accordance with the principles of the Torah. For the Jewish people, this commandment is a cornerstone. The appointed judges are expected to be people of integrity, wisdom, and deep knowledge of…

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Re’eh: The virtue of giving charity

Re’eh: The virtue of giving charity

In our Torah portion,, we study about the Noahide obligation of giving charity, which is mentioned twice in the Torah portion, each time using a double expression. The first commandment is: “You shall open your hand,” and the second commandment is: “You shall give him.” In both commandments, the Torah uses a double expression: “open, you shall open” and “give, you shall give.” This double expression means that the obligation to give charity is not limited to just one time,…

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Eekev: Ongoing struggle between evil and good

Eekev: Ongoing struggle between evil and good

The Torah portion of Eekev (Deuteronomy 7:12–11:25) emphasizes the rewards that come from observing God’s commandments and the importance of faithfulness to the covenant. In this portion, Moses reminds us of the blessings that will follow obedience to G-d’s laws, including prosperity, protection from enemies, and the establishment of a just society. However, it also warns against forgetting G-d and following other paths, such as idolatry, which would lead to downfall and destruction. We can notice that the warning against…

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