Parsha: Acharei-Kedoshim (2025)
I feel so lucky and privileged to be writing this message sitting in the holy city of Jerusalem. As many of you may know I have joined the Mission to Israel trip, organised by the Rabbinical Council of NSW. It’s hard to find the words that would describe the immense feelings I had when arriving […]
Parsha: Tarzia (2025)
This week’s Torah portion, Tazria, speaks about the laws of ritual purity and impurity involving a woman giving birth. This brings to our attention G-d’s numerous kindnesses, even to the unborn. This is a reminder that often, we should take a moment to stop and appreciate the miracle of life. What’s fascinating is that even […]
Parsha: Shimin (2025)
There is a lot of chatter that goes on in our lives. Some of it is the chatter in our own heads, some of it, is from others. And sometimes it may be from us talking too much. It is the custom in Jewish communities to learn Pirkei Avot (Ethics of our Fathers) during the […]
Parsha: Tzav and Pesach (2025)
Dear Kehila, What a wonderful Chag we had! It was great to see so many of you in Shule over yomtov. I’m sure you all had meaningful and joyous Seders this year. Our communal second night Seder was really special. There was fun, laughter, and inspiration all around. One of the messages I reflect on […]
Parsha: Pesach Message (2025)
When our children teach US. One of the most beautiful parts of the Seder is when we recite the words ״הדמעש איהו״ . It is towards the beginning of the Seder, before some of the children get tired, before some of the adults get hungry, and hopefully before some wine stains on the clean white […]
Parsha: Vayikra (2025)
Do you sometimes try to avoid hard work? Do you at times want to retreat when a task becomes challenging? It is natural to react this way. Jewish wisdom teaches us that we have a “natural soul,” that always wants the easy way out. The Chasidic masters call this soul the Nefesh Habahamit (lit. “the […]
Parsha: Pikudei (2025)
I once heard a quote that “people don’t care how much you know, but everyone wants to know how much you care.” It’s not a line from the Torah or from the Talmud. However, it does bring out an important theme in this weeks Parsha. There are many Mitzvot and customs that we love doing […]
Parsha: Vayakhel (2025)
There is a difference between a house and a home. A house is merely a physical structure, that provides shelter and a place to live. A home carries a more personal and emotional connotation, encompassing feelings of belonging and comfort. It is far easier to have a house than to create a “home.” What is […]
Parsha: Purim (2025)
A day bursting with joy, excitement, and celebration. It commemorates our nation’s miraculous salvation more than two millennia ago. What makes the story of Purim unique is expressed in the words of the Megillah ונהפך הוא – “it turned upside down.” What was first a time of tragedy turned into great success and happiness. When […]
Parsha: Tetzaveh (2025)
As we get ready for Purim we read a special portion of the Torah called Parshat Zachor. It is the story of Amalek, and the commandment to get rid of this enemy. Amalek is the nation that attacked the Jewish people out of pure hatred. They represent the enemies of the Jewish people that want […]