Vayikra: Order of the Korbanot
The subtle distinction between how Vayikra & Tzav list the order of the korbanot reflects a strong difference in the perspectives of Moshe & Aharon.
Pekudei: The Essense of the Mikdash
The world advances through the dialectical relationship between historical periods with & without a Temple (an ’embassy’ of higher worlds).
Vayaq’hel: Shabbat & the Mishkan
The deeper connection between the 39 malakhot of Shabbat & the construction of the Mishkan.
Ki Tisa: The Ideal Versus the Real
HaShem’s choice of Israel isn’t like some human decision that could be revoked, but rather an act that transforms the nation into a Divine creation that for all eternity won’t ever be changed.
Tetzave: Divine Service & Offerings
The priestly garments – intended ‘for honor & for glory’ – are designed to act upon the ‘negative imagination’ by purifying & transforming it into a force of prophetic ‘pure imagination.’
T’ruma: Moshe’s Mishkan & Aharon’s Mishkan
Prophecy returns in the time of our redemption & all the hearts will once again move closer together.
Mishpatim: Mystery of the Mal’akh
There is a different between a created mal’akh & a mal’akh that’s actually direct Divine guidance.
Yitro: Israel’s Torah & Israel’s Political Life
Receiving a legal code at Sinai was an unexpected twist that seemed to have nothing to do with Israel’s understanding of liberation. There suddenly arose a need to strengthen the people’s trust in Moshe.
Beshalaḥ: The Necessity of the Mann
Since the Torah was forced on Israel, some could argue that it doesn’t naturally fit our identity.
Bo: Blood in the Basin
The very act of eating a lamb – an Egyptian deity – on the eve of the Exodus symbolizes the consumption & internalization of those Egyptian values that were worthy of being uplifted as part of the redemption.
Va’eira: Plagues
The plagues demonstrate the ethical gap between the nations of Israel & Egypt in the ancient world.
Sh’mot: The Importance of Names
In order for us to participate in bringing the redemption, it’s necessary to know in whose Name we are acting, what mission mankind is fulfilling, & in what style HaShem is guiding the world.