Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

51 Nitzavim Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

50 Ki Tavo Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

54 Vezot Haberakhah Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

53 Ha'azinu Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

How does the Torah describe God? Not by doctrine or dogma, but by encounter. Not with systematic theology, but with stories. I find this approach refreshing. Stories do not demand agreement or adherence; they invite engagement.

20 Tetzaveh | תצוה Brothers’ Keepers | Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

Following the brilliant insights of Rabbi David Fohrman (alephbeta.org) we discover the profound significance of the cherubim that adorn and protect the Mishkan - the desert sanctuary in which God's presence dwells. We find that they guide us on a journey from our reality into the infinite reality of YHVH.

19 Terumah | תרומה Creating Holy Moments | Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

Our portion begins by legislating how one is to treat one's household slaves. These laws insist that the slave be treated with full humanity. But why does the Torah affirm slavery at all? We explore the ways in which the Torah was perhaps radical for its time, and reflect on our own anachronistic way of projecting our current social norms onto the distant past.

18 Mishpatim | משפטים YHVH, Protector of the Powerless | Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

Drawing on the teachings of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks z"l, we explore the important distinction between "covenant" and "contract." Both the Jewish covenant (brit) and the American covenant require us to commit ourselves to a greater sense of belonging, and a shared sense of ideals.

17 Yitro | יתרו The Ten Utterances | Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

16 Beshalakh | בשלח Spiritual Boot Camp | Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

Our spiritual tradition understands the story of the descent into Egypt and the ascent to the Promised Land as both a physical/political and as a personal/spiritual journey. Today we address the spiritual truth in this tale that can guide us and give us faith and strength.

15 Bo | בא Martin Luther King Is My Rabbi | Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

The Exodus is an archetypal myth, meaning that it describes an essential aspect of the human condition, and rings true on every level of human experience, be it political, or personal. Pharaoh is that aspect of a human being whose heart has been hardened to such a degree that their only goal and reality is to serve their own lust for power and control, even at the expense of everyone and everything around them. Rabbi Jonathan shows how Donald Trump is currently fulfilling the archetype of the hardened heart, and we all are suffering the debilitating and destructive results of his leadership.

14 Va’eira | וארא I Will Be With You | Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

13 Shemot | שמות The Long Walk to Freedom | Jonathan Kligler by Rabbi Jonathan Kligler

After Jacob is buried, Joseph's brother's fabricate a charge that their father supposedly wanted to Joseph to hear, telling him not to bear a grudge against his brothers. Joseph bears no grudge, having forgiven his kin a long time ago. The commentaries do not condemn the brothers for their lie, but rather justify it...this leads us on an excursion into Judaism's teachings about when it is acceptable to bend the truth in order to preserve harmony and peaceful relations.

In Jewish practice, when remembering a loved one, especially a parent, it is customary to honor their memory by teaching some Torah in their name. I wish to remember my father by sharing the story of the mysterious way our lives and family history intersected and merged with the Torah reading of that week.