Much of the Golden Calf saga confounds. Among the classic elements of inquiry are: What precisely was their sin? What role did Aharon play? Why does Moshe break the tablets? Why does Moshe, the greater defender of the people, start by raising the ante with a proclamation of “you have sinned a great sin”?

“Clothing makes the man – poor” is a revision to which many spouses/parents may relate. In sunny California, where almost all work climates have shed the suit and almost every day is casual Friday, the majesty and formality of garb is fast becoming a relic of yesteryear.

The mishkan section of the Torah might delight the designers or fascinate the architects, but for the dimensionally challenged or the spatially uninspired, this part of Torah challenges one to mine meaning from painful and painstaking detail.

More than once, when I really need my friend’s help and "no" is simply not an option, I've asked for commitment before my request. Usually, they don’t say yes. But the Jews said yes.

A classic breakdown runs of the Aseret HaDibros (Ten Commandments) distinguishes between 1-5 and 6-10. The first five are the man-God commandments and last five are the man-man commandments.

Those who pray are quite familiar with the lines – we say them three times a day. In all likelihood that probably breeds some degree of ignorance/passive acceptance.

How long were the Jews in Egypt? The Torah presents two versions. A good old-fashioned contradiction! Rashi is quick to point out, however, that neither choice is correct.

After an initial burst of Moshe’s positive message, Bnei Yisrael are bitterly disappointed with the results.Pharaoh increases their workload and makes their lives even more miserable.