Monthly Archives: December 2012

EXODUS AGAIN? By Rabbi Baruch Cohon

          Two simple Hebrew words stand out in this week’s reading of the first chapter of the Book of Exodus.  One is am – Nation.  The other is mas – Tax.  Let’s see how they work. First we review the identities of Jacob’s family … Continue reading

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WHEN LIFE ENDS by Rabbi Baruch Cohon

WHEN LIFE ENDS – Sedrah Va-y’khee     The last reading in the Book of Genesis starts with Jacob’s farewell message to his sons, describes his death, and concludes with the death of one of those sons, Joseph who survived his … Continue reading

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THE POWER OF CONNECTION by Rabbi Baruch Cohon

     Last week, in Genesis 42, Joseph’s epic has him taking advantage of his brothers by accusing them of spying.  Then he demands that they bring their youngest brother Benjamin when they come back to buy more food.  He even takes one … Continue reading

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LIGHTS AND DEDICATION a Hanukkah message from Rabbi Baruch Cohon

          Hanukkah is nicknamed “Feast of Lights” in English, although the Hebrew word means “Dedication.”  Celebrating the experience of the Maccabees who rededicated the Jerusalem Sanctuary after expelling the Greek enemies, Hanukkah’s 8 days commemorate the one little … Continue reading

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DREAMS OF GLORY by Rabbi Baruch Cohon

Of all the dreamers in human history, Joseph stands out.  We meet him in this week’s Sedrah Vayeyshev, at age 17, telling his father and his older brothers about his dreams.   One is a dream of physical glory, in … Continue reading

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