Chukat

Bringing God's Holiness to All People

By JORDANA SCHUSTER

In Parashat Chukat, Moses strikes the rock and is therefore banned form entering the land of Canaan. Why? Rabbinic and biblical commentators, from Rashi and Maimonides to Ezra offer their interpretations, as well as a modern-day midrash: to give to others in order to bring God's holiness to all who are in need.

Getting Our Just Rewards: Moses and the Land of Israel

By BRENT CHAIM SPODEK

Moses discovers in Parashat Chukat-Balak that in spite of being God's faithful servant, because of his own actions he will die before the Israelites enter the land of Milk and Honey. Why? Many Jewish commentators have offered possible explanations. As humans, we can respond to the plight of the suffering, or we can ignore those in need. It is up to us to act now and use our resources to help others, not to wait for miracles or for God to solve our problems.

Miriam — Water Under the Bridge?

By RABBI BRADLEY SHAVIT ARTSON

The tragedy is that for most women, including Miriam, after-the-fact recognition is often the only kind. The women who raise children, teach students, and tend the sick perform the difficult, tedious tasks that sustain and make human life possible.