Taste of Torah

Torah seems to suggest that all people fit into one of two categories: male or female. But biology says otherwise. Perhaps Torah isn't as narrow as we think? Perhaps we shouldn't be either.

We add a prayer for rain back into the Amidah on Shemini Atzeret. It's a good reminder that the changes we began on the High Holy Days aren't expected to be overnight transformations. Change takes time. Be patient with yourself.

Sukkot and V'zot ha-berakhah, the last Torah portion in Deuteronomy address change and transition. Moses trusted the next generation. We have every reason to do so, as well.

Teshuvah (repentance) is hard work and certainly helps us identify areas for self-improvement. But recognizing what is good in us can also help us become the people we want to be.

The Rabbis were troubled by the Akedah (Binding of Isaac). Their midrashim attempt to explain why. Perhaps the problem is how we view God, and what questions we ask.