Torah Study Guide By Cary Hillebrand

Judaism’s pilgrimage festivals, particularly Shavuot and Passover, were tied to agriculture. Shavuot marked the wheat harvest and the giving of the Torah. Following the Second Temple’s destruction, Shavuot became associated with religious significance. Modern observances include dairy foods and all-night Torah study, reflecting renewed agricultural ties in Israel and communal celebrations. [Read more…]

Cary Hillebrand discusses lesser-known aspects of Passover traditions, including the absence of Moses in the Haggadah, dietary prohibitions like kitniot, and the historical context of blood libels that plagued Jews. [Read more…]

Cary Hillebrand discusses the origins and observances of Purim. [Read more…]

Cary Hillebrand looks at Parashat Tetzaveh, read before Purim. The portion focuses on the consecration of priests and their garments, detailing strict adherence to the rituals and the sacred vestments of Aaron and his sons. [Read more…]

Cary Hillebrand takes a look at the structure of Parashat Terumah. Terumah outlines the construction of the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary symbolizing G-d’s presence among the Israelites during their journey from Sinai to the Promised Land. [Read more…]

Cary Hillebrand takes a look at the structure of Parashat Mishpatim [Read more…]

Cary Hillebrand looks at the structure of Parashat Yitro. [Read more…]

Cary Hillebrand takes a look at the structure of Parashat Beshalach. [Read more…]

Cary Hillebrand looks at the structure of Parashat Bo. [Read more…]

Cary Hillebrand looks at the structure of Parashat Va’era. [Read more…]