Deuteronomy 16

Explore the process of spiritual self-improvement as outlined in 2 Peter 1:5-7, in light of Jewish thought. Learn how Jewish sources provide step-by-step outlines for personal growth, and delve into the importance of the pursuit of holiness and entrance to what Peter calls "the Eternal Kingdom." 

Books mentioned:

• With Heart in Mind by Alan Morinis
• The Path of the Just by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzatto

The holiday we usually refer to as "Passover," the Torah refers to as "Chag Ha-Matzot," the Festival of Unleavened Bread. A holiday celebrating the exodus from Egypt makes sense, but how did flatbread end up stealing all the attention? Learn the deep symbolism of matzah and its leavened couterpart, chametz, as we prepare for the Passover holiday.

A new Sukkot teaching about how the mitzvah to rejoice during the festival of Sukkot opens the secret to inner joy and the spirit of the Messianic Era. 

Life is full of good intentions: "One of these days, I'm going to start exercising and eating healthy." "One of these days, I'm going to get my life back on track." Have you ever noticed that "one of these days" never comes? This teaching about the Sabbath and God's Holy Days demonstrates how HaShem's appointed times are designed to interrupt our routine and provide opportunities for self-improvement, increasing godliness, and drawing nearer to God.

If the road to Gehenna is paved with good intentions, the road to Olam Haba is paved with good habits. At Beth Immanuel, we are bringing daily prayer and study, daily acts of charity, and regular attendance at the house of study into the daily routine. This teaching from Parashat Shoftim derives the obligation of daily Torah study from the laws of the king in Deuteronomy 17.

Find our daily study page at www.bethimmanuel.org/daily

On June 26, 2015, the United States Supreme Court ruled in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage. What does the Torah have to say about the decision? This teaching offers a kingdom-perspective on the controversy with a discussion on Parashat Shoftim, the establishment of courts of law and a judicial system, and the authority of the government.