Parasha

The 10 spies teach us what happens when fear rules the heart. The ma’apilim teach us of the danger of forcing reality to revive an old fantasy.

The Torah recounts the argument that erupted between the 10 pessimistic spies and Joshua and Caleb, the two optimistic ones.

We are all entitled to even the strongest of our beliefs and opinions. And yet, we should never be so sure of what we think that we are not open to a different voice, a different opinion.

Speak up! Share your opinion! Try to bring about change – but not through gossip and not with hurtful words.

When you live a life filled with meaning, spiritual fulfillment ... you receive a remarkable gift: a profound inner peace and emotional serenity that no material wealth can offer.

The many hardships endured by the Israelites during their desert journey could have been greatly reduced had the nation learned to appreciate what they had.

The only halachic ruling that was ever given is that “your life comes first” – and nothing beyond that.

The very different circumstances under which two Israeli soldiers were returned puts things in perspective and echoes Jewish values.

Don’t aim for lofty, angelic separation “like Mine” but live a human holiness – the kind of life for which I created the world.