Shemos/Exodus With Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Practical Parshah - Pekudei

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Sun, 25 Apr 2021 21:09:29 +0000

Practical Parshah - Pekudei Moses publicly audits what all of the donations were used for in the building of the Sanctuary. To what lengths must one go to clear oneself of suspicion?

Shabbat Vayakhel Pekudei Early Sermon

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Sun, 14 Mar 2021 19:01:37 +0000

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Abandoned Treasures, Shifting Gears And Living In The Moment

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 04:00:52 +0000

Abandoned Treasures, Shifting Gears And Living In The Moment Pre - Shabbat Shira Sermon

Opening Parshat Yitro

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 03:41:47 +0000

Opening Parshat Yitro

The Final Verses Of Parshat Bo

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 18:10:31 +0000

Parsha Climax The Final Verses of: Parshat Bo The narrative of the Exodus concludes with Moses instructing us of its commemorative Mitzvot. Yet surprisingly the final verse focuses on a Mitzvah that will not reach fruition for another four decades. Why rush it prematurely?

STORM OF THE CENTURY The Final Verses Of Parshat Vaeira

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 16:59:55 +0000

Parsha Climax The Final Verses of: Parshat Va’eira In the Seventh Plague G-d unleashes a devastating mix of Lightening, Hail and Fire. Pharaoh admits defeat and pleads with Moses; “pray to G-d and end the storm.” Details of the miraculous mitigation are drenched with insight & inspiration.

- Parshat Shemot

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 16:54:50 +0000

Parsha Climax The Final Verses of: Parshat Shemot ! Demanding the release of the Slaves only worsened the intolerable situation. Moses cries out to G-d, questioning His Justice. G-d’s response is revealing and instructive for anyone experiencing suffering and a Crises of Faith!

Strings N' Straps And The Forget-me-Knot

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 11 Mar 2020 13:51:17 +0000

Parshat Ki Tisa, 4th Portion (Exodus 33:17-33:23)

G-d’s Eyes and our Nation!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 14:44:39 +0000

Parshat Ki Tisa, 3rd Portion (Exodus 33:12-33:16)

Kindle Your Inner Fire

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 12:18:02 +0000

Parshat Tetzaveh, Conclusion

Big Kahuna Ringing —Need for Noisy Devotion

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 03 Mar 2020 12:19:20 +0000

Parshat Tetzaveh, 3rd Portion (Exodus 28:31-28:43)

Wardrobe Accessory Or Communications Device?

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 02 Mar 2020 12:17:26 +0000

Discover the Unique dimensions of the High Priest’s Breastplate of Judgment, and see what that can mean for you in today's day and age! Parshat Tetzaveh, 2nd Portion (Exodus 28:13-28:30)

Mishkanic Face-Off: Wisdom Vs Wealth

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 27 Feb 2020 12:30:35 +0000

Mishkanic Face-Off: Wisdom Vs Wealth Parshat Terumah, 5th Portion (Exodus 26:31-26:37)

Achieving Mishkanic Eternity!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 26 Feb 2020 12:24:51 +0000

Learn about Mishkan wall beams, their fascinating history and glorious and eternal future. Parshat Terumah, 4th Portion (Exodus 26:15-26:30)

The Source of Global Illumination

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 14:16:50 +0000

Parshat Terumah, 3rd Portion (Exodus 25:31-26:14)

The Cherubim: Symbol of Love or Communications

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 24 Feb 2020 12:25:37 +0000

The Cherubim: Symbol of Love or Communications Parshat Terumah, 2nd Portion (Exodus 25:17-25:30)

Seeing Heaven on Earth

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 12:20:14 +0000

Faith, Disloyalties and Disillusionment! Parshat Mishpatim, 5th Portion (Exodus 23:6-23:19)

When Majority Rules...

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 12:35:23 +0000

The working of Torah Courts and the virtue of our Principles of Justice. Parshat Mishpatim, 4th Portion (Exodus 22:27-23:5)

Exploiting the Defenseless!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 12:20:33 +0000

Parshat Mishpatim, 3rd Portion (Exodus 22:4-22:26)

Segueing into Sinia - Mitzvah Mountain Maneuvers!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 13 Feb 2020 12:20:25 +0000

Parshat Yitro — Pre-Torah Prep - Part 3

Becoming G-d’s Treasured Nation

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 12:18:34 +0000

Preparing to Receive the Torah — Part 2 Parshat Yitro, 4th Portion (Exodus 19:1-19:6)

Arriving Exhausted

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 11 Feb 2020 12:18:19 +0000

- Part One Why did our ancestors arrive at Mt Sinia so exhausted and what can it teach us about the widening Jewish political divide today? Parshat Yitro, 3rd Portion (Exodus 18:24-18:27)

When Bread Rains From Heaven

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 06 Feb 2020 12:19:30 +0000

Parshat Beshalach, 5th Portion (Exodus 15:27-16:10)

When Prayer isn’t Appropriate!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 04 Feb 2020 12:17:07 +0000

Parshat Beshalach, 3rd Portion (Exodus 14:15-14:25)

Red Sea Raging

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 03 Feb 2020 14:44:03 +0000

Standing before a raging sea, boxed in by rocky terrain with the Egyptian army fast approaching, the new nation of Israel lost their composure. Dividing into factions - conflicting plans of action were proposed. See how we can learn from their fearful mistakes today! Parshat Beshalach, 2nd Portion (Exodus 14:9-14:14)

Exodus Themes: Freedom or Restriction?

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 30 Jan 2020 12:08:15 +0000

Parshat Bo, 5th Portion (Exodus 12:21-12:28)

The Paschal Offering Matrix

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 29 Jan 2020 12:30:17 +0000

Parshat Bo, 4th Portion (Exodus 11:4-12:20)

Building Character. Correctly!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 29 Jan 2020 02:59:20 +0000

The Torah truism that G-d’s Mitzvot were designed to refine our character, and make us better people would lead us to assume that this strategy to living life appropriately would certainly be reflected in the first Mitzvah. Yet, in identifying that very commandment, this axiom seems to ring hollow. A scriptural detail leads us to an enigmatic teaching in the Zohar, whose elucidation - drawn from profound Kabbalistic insight into human consciousness - ultimately most vividly demonstrates how the first Mitzvah does indeed provide the foundational recipe to correct character building and the maximization of our personal potential! Revealing layers of Torah truth and Kabbalah secrets that will ignite your imagination, and open your eyes to amazing new vistas!

Does G-d Make Impossible Demands?!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 28 Jan 2020 12:20:12 +0000

Parshat Bo, 3rd Portion (Exodus 10:24-11:3)

Parshat Bo — A Rosh Chodesh Special!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 27 Jan 2020 12:28:00 +0000

Parshat Bo — A Rosh Chodesh Special!

The Great Egyptian Frog Fallout

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 23 Jan 2020 12:39:53 +0000

The Great Egyptian Frog Fallout Parshat Va'eira, 5th Portion (Exodus 8:7-8:18)

Lessons for Life from the Pressuring of a Pharaoh

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 22 Jan 2020 12:37:19 +0000

Lessons on Life from How to Break a Pharaoh! Parshat Va'eira, 4th Portion (Exodus 7:8-8:6)

Learning to See Beyond!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 22 Jan 2020 02:39:32 +0000

Kabbalah On Parshat Va'eira ! Experiencing Exodus Personally: How viewing the world differently, can lift your spirit and liberate your soul! Making Good Better Revealing layers of Torah truth and Kabbalah secrets that will ignite your imagination, and open your eyes to amazing new vistas!

Giving Credit Where it’s Due... Who Made Moses?

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 12:35:26 +0000

Giving Credit Where it’s Due... Who Made Moses? Parshat Va'eira, 2nd Portion (Exodus 6:14-6:28)

The Pyramid Paved Road to Riches

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 16 Jan 2020 12:29:09 +0000

The Pyramid Paved Road to Riches Parshat Shemot, 5th Portion (Exodus 3:16-4:17)

Moses, the Burning Bush and Sacred Soil

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 15 Jan 2020 12:36:45 +0000

Moses, the Burning Bush and Sacred Soil Parshat Shemot, 4th Portion (Exodus 3:1-3:15)

Experiencing Inner Freedom!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 15 Jan 2020 03:10:19 +0000

Making Good Better Revealing layers of Torah truth and Kabbalah secrets that will ignite your imagination, and open your eyes to amazing new vistas! ! ! Kabbalah On Parshat Shemot

Moses the Vigilante!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 12:14:52 +0000

The incredibly important lessons we can learn from the affirmative action undertaken by our eternal Teacher on his first day on the job!! Parshat Shemot, 3rd Portion (Exodus 2:11-2:25)

Moses: Man out-of-Water

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 13 Jan 2020 12:32:41 +0000

Parshat Shemot, 2nd Portion (Exodus 1:18-2:10)

Glory on the Go

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 12:40:02 +0000

“Glory on the Go” the Cloud of G-d’s Glory on the Mishkan and on the Road! Parshat Pekudei, 7th Portion (Exodus 40:28-40:38)

Moses the Mishkan-Maker

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 06 Mar 2019 12:28:06 +0000

Moses the Mishkan-Maker: Understanding the unique single-handed participation of Moshe Rabbainu! Parshat Pekudei, 4th Portion (Exodus 39:33-39:43)

Belted Out!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 05 Mar 2019 12:10:26 +0000

"Belted Out!" Why the Cohen’s sash seems to transcend the Torah Teachings! Parshat Pekudei, 3rd Portion (Exodus 39:22-39:32)

Name that Foreman

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 04 Mar 2019 13:55:46 +0000

Name that Foreman —Why the Torah enumerated the Project Leadership yet again! Parshat Pekudei, 1st Portion (Exodus 38:21-39:1)

Extreme Mishkan Makeover

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 28 Feb 2019 12:13:03 +0000

“Extreme Mishkan Makeover” Women’s beauty accessories become part of Hashem’s Tabernacle! Parshat Vayak'hel, 5th Portion (Exodus 36:20-37:16)

Whodunit?!?

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 27 Feb 2019 12:21:54 +0000

“Whodunit?!?” Solving the mystery of who actually built the Holy Ark! Parshat Vayak'hel, 4th Portion (Exodus 36:8-36:19)

MIA Leaders

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 26 Feb 2019 12:17:47 +0000

“MIA Leaders” A well-intentioned but misguided absence of Jewish leadership resets the bar. Parshat Vayak'hel, 3rd Portion (Exodus 35:30-36:7)

The Wisdom of Women

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 25 Feb 2019 12:15:57 +0000

"The Wisdom of Women" Learn to appreciating the women’s unique and historic superior role in Mishkan making! Parshat Vayak'hel, 2nd Portion (Exodus 35:21-35:29)

Shattered Logic

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 21 Feb 2019 12:13:48 +0000

He who broke it must fix it, so why dual shattering rationales’ for Moses’s action? Parshat Ki Tisa, 5th Portion (Exodus 34:1-34:9)

Thou Shalt Knot

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 12:10:04 +0000

Uncovering the metaphorical meaning of the “Knot of G-d’s Tefillin.” Parshat Ki Tisa, 4th Portion (Exodus 33:17-33:23)

Half-Shekel Secrets

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 03:42:18 +0000

Parsha Curiosities: Parshat Ki Tisa Cracking the Code on mysterious themes & ideas in the weekly Parsha! - Eyeing the Half-Shekel giving that enables national-census taking, we see Moses being shown a fiery coin; begging the obvious question: why the superfluous visual aid? A full investigation of this conundrum leads us into a passionate place of parallel perspectives. The emergent emphasis on incomplete pieces seems entirely incompatible with characteristic Mitzvah perfection and wholesomeness. Layers of fascinating insight unfold, providing extraordinary clarity and a profoundly inspiring and enriching spiritual message for the ages!

This Time, It’s Personal

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 19 Feb 2019 12:12:52 +0000

Why Moses will only accept HaShem’s exclusive personal attention! Parshat Ki Tisa, 3rd Portion (Exodus 33:12-33:16)

Pre-Olympic Gold

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 14:37:36 +0000

Taking the people’s gold, Aaron fashioned an idol! How in heaven could he? Parshat Ki Tisa, 2nd Portion (Exodus 31:18-33:11)

Talk & Text

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 14 Feb 2019 12:10:19 +0000

& Discover the Tabernacle’s dual purpose; both focused on connecting with HaShem. Parshat Tetzaveh, 6th Portion (Exodus 29:38-29:46)

Greek to Me

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 12:14:25 +0000

Why Cohens’ inauguration rites required wafers brushed with oil in Greek formation. Parshat Tetzaveh, 4th Portion (Exodus 29:1-29:18)

Heavy Metal – Part II

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 03:35:14 +0000

Parsha Curiosities: Parshat Terumah Cracking the Code on mysterious themes & ideas in the weekly Parsha! Continuing our investigation of “Mishkan Metal” meanings and discovering causes for Gold, Silver & Copper standards; we remained somewhat mystified by Iron’s absence. Now, new evidence points to a fresh conclusion!

Fruit Wars

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 12:10:51 +0000

Big Kahuna Robes: “Fruit Wars” Choosing Cohanic Accessories: Blue wool pomegranates vs. golden apple accessories! Parshat Tetzaveh, 3rd Portion (Exodus 28:31-28:43)

Wardrobe Malfunction

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 12:08:50 +0000

"Wardrobe Malfunction" Find out what happened when the gem-studded Big Kahuna breastplate stopped functioning? Parshat Tetzaveh, 2nd Portion (Exodus 28:13-28:30)

Staging Your Life

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 07 Feb 2019 12:21:50 +0000

How the arrangement of the Mishkan’s furniture provides a plan for living well. Parshat Terumah, 5th Portion (Exodus 26:31-26:37)

Beam Me Up

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 06 Feb 2019 12:47:00 +0000

Learn about Mishkan wall beams, their fascinating history and glorious and eternal future. Parshat Terumah, 4th Portion (Exodus 26:15-26:30)

Heavy Metal (but no iron)

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 06 Feb 2019 03:09:21 +0000

Parsha Curiosities: Parshat Terumah Cracking the Code on mysterious themes & ideas in the weekly Parsha! ( ) After being found everywhere, but dwelling nowhere specific for 2249 years, G-d has informed the Jewish people that he now intends to dwell amongst them. He'd like them to craft a mobile home so that he can move along with them through the Sinai desert. He conveys exact instructions, and even tells them precisely what materials to use –including some “heavy metals” like gold, silver and copper. Tellingly, iron is absent. Why might that be, and if avoiding cheaper utilitarian substances, why not just “go with the gold” – maintaining only highest of standards?!

Menorah Magic

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 12:09:51 +0000

How the grand golden candelabra was crafted and why that’s relevant today. Parshat Terumah, 3rd Portion (Exodus 25:31-26:14)

The Great Cover Up

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 14:41:06 +0000

Appreciating the Holy Ark’s cherub-adorned cover and its unique function. Parshat Terumah, 2nd Portion (Exodus 25:17-25:30)

Medical Morals

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 01:19:14 +0000

Parsha Curiosities: Parshat Mishpatim Cracking the Code on mysterious themes & ideas in the weekly Parsha! A penetrating presentation on the ethical practice of medicine, ultimately addressing questions like: if G-d is the ultimate Healer, why are we permitted to heal, and is the practice of medicine a moral obligation? The entire lecture is ultimately based on a fuller and proper understanding of but two words of Scripture, which speak to us in the context of the obligation to indemnify victims of assault and battery. Many profound insights, fascinating historical tidbits and sacred traditions are mixed to provide an authentic Torah perspective on the science of healing.

Torah Meat-Up

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 12:09:25 +0000

How can we make sense of the Torah’s classic Milk n’ Meat prohibition? Parshat Mishpatim, 5th Portion (Exodus 23:6-23:19)

Donkey Kong

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 30 Jan 2019 12:48:41 +0000

Rule 1: Help Mario! Rule 2: An exception to Rule 1. Rule 3: A spiritual corollary. Parshat Mishpatim, 4th Portion (Exodus 22:27-23:5)

On Borrowed Time

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 29 Jan 2019 12:18:32 +0000

“On Borrowed Time” How detailed laws for the proverbial borrower yield spiritual lessons for life. Parshat Mishpatim, 3rd Portion (Exodus 22:4-22:26)

Wild Bull Gives You Wings

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 12:42:50 +0000

Laws governing the Goring Ox and lessons learned from the Wild Bull. Parshat Mishpatim, 2nd Portion (Exodus 21:20-22:3)

Fire & Fury

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 24 Jan 2019 12:12:05 +0000

& The Torah was given amidst lighting and thunder, but who ordered the fireworks? Parshat Yitro, 5th Portion (Exodus 19:7-19:19)

Ladies First

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 12:15:27 +0000

Why Matan Torah hinged on the great importance of “Foundational Feminine Faith.” Parshat Yitro, 4th Portion (Exodus 19:1-19:6)

Dissipation of Divisions

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 12:34:51 +0000

How our ancient ancestors positively overcame divisive individuality. Parshat Yitro, 4th Portion (Exodus 19:1-19:6)

Sea Change

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 12:37:46 +0000

A remarkable new look at the splitting of the Reed Sea projected in broader contexts. Parshat Beshalach, 3rd Portion (Exodus 14:15-14:25)

Hate Nation

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 14 Jan 2019 12:10:33 +0000

Pursuing their slaves, Egypt advanced as one; the chilling source of their unity! Parshat Beshalach, 2nd Portion (Exodus 14:9-14:14)

Rebel, Rebel

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 12:24:10 +0000

“Rebel, Rebel” Responding to a rebellious child’s frustration with seemingly mindless obedience! Parshat Bo, 5th Portion (Exodus 12:21-12:28)

Precision Pass-Over

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 12:17:00 +0000

Profound insight why the slaying of Egypt’s Firstborns happened so precisely. Parshat Bo, 4th Portion (Exodus 11:4-12:20)

Lunar Learnings

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 02:58:43 +0000

Parsha Curiosities: Parshat Bo Cracking the Code on mysterious themes & ideas in the weekly Parsha! A profound presentation on the verses that segue into the very first Mitzvah we receive as a nation—the Sanctification of the Moon. Learning about our unique Jewish calendar, which incorporates a synergy balancing both the seasonal or solar calendar with the lunar or monthly method of keeping time, leads us to an understanding of why we label the months in a particular way. Yet, we seem to have abandoned this, opting instead for foreign nomenclature. Why?! Fascinating facts, incredible insights and sacred sparks are set into orbit to provide an inspiring explanation.

Mission Possible

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 08 Jan 2019 12:02:43 +0000

“Mission Possible:” A testy exchange between Moses and Pharaoh redefines mitzvah possibilities. Parshat Bo, 3rd Portion (Exodus 10:24-11:3)

A Very Dark Place

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 07 Jan 2019 12:09:02 +0000

Analyzing the Plague of Darkness, we can discern the “Dark Nature of Mitzvot” Parshat Bo, 2nd Portion (Exodus 10:12-10:23)

4th Time’s the Charm

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 03 Jan 2019 12:41:56 +0000

’ Discover why it wasn’t until the fourth plague that Goshen was fully spared. Parshat Va'eira, 5th Portion (Exodus 8:7-8:18)

Snakes on a Plane

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 02 Jan 2019 12:12:01 +0000

A Tale of Two enables us to analyze the inner workings of a miracle. Parshat Va'eira, 4th Portion (Exodus 7:8-8:6)

Speaking Up

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 01 Jan 2019 15:17:57 +0000

How Moses’ speaking impediment made him the greatest communicator ever! Parshat Va'eira, 3rd Portion (Exodus 6:29-7:7)

Parental Guidance

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 12:46:29 +0000

Learn why the noble parentage of Moses and Aaron made all the difference. Parshat Va'eira, 2nd Portion (Exodus 6:14-6:28)

Shoeless at Sinai

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 26 Dec 2018 14:39:48 +0000

"Shoeless at Sinai" Why did approaching “The Burning Bush” have to mean removing footwear for Moshe? Parshat Shemot, 4th Portion (Exodus 3:1-3:15)

Leadership 101

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 25 Dec 2018 14:56:26 +0000

"Leadership 101" Moses matures and takes affirmative action. What does this teach us? Parshat Shemot, 3rd Portion (Exodus 2:11-2:25)

Building Reward

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 24 Dec 2018 12:26:29 +0000

The Jewish midwives defied the Pharaoh. Learn about their remarkable rewards. Parshat Shemot, 2nd Portion (Exodus 1:18-2:10)

MIA Leaders

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 12:34:44 +0000

A well-intentioned but misguided absence of Jewish leadership resets the bar. Parshat Vayak'hel-Pekudei, 1st Portion (Exodus 35:1-35:29) And the princes brought the shoham stones and filling stones for the ephod and for the choshen; and the spice and the oil for lighting and for the anointing oil, and for the incense. (Exodus 35:27-28)

The Wisdom of Women

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 12:09:07 +0000

Appreciating women’s unique and superior role in Mishkan contribution. Parshat Vayak'hel-Pekudei, 1st Portion (Exodus 35:1-35:29)

Shattered Tablets!

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 13:10:49 +0000

He who broke must fix; so why dual shattering rationales’ for Moses’s action? Parshat Ki Tisa, 3rd Portion (Exodus 33:12-33:16)

Exclusive Arrangements

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 27 Feb 2018 12:09:11 +0000

Why Moses will only accept HaShem’s exclusive personal attention! Parshat Ki Tisa, 3rd Portion (Exodus 33:12-33:16)

Pre-Olympic Gold

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 12:18:02 +0000

“Pre-Olympic Gold” Taking the people’s gold, Aaron fashioned an idol! How in heaven could he? Parshat Ki Tisa, 2nd Portion (Exodus 31:18-33:11)

Taber-Talk

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 22 Feb 2018 12:15:28 +0000

"Taber-Talk" Discover the Tabernacle’s dual purpose; both focused on convening with HaShem. Parshat Tetzaveh, 6th & 7th Portion (Exodus 29:42 - 30:10)

Greek Glaze

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 21 Feb 2018 12:24:20 +0000

"Greek Glaze" Why The Cohens’ inaugural rites required wafers brushed with oil in Greek formation. Parshat Tetzaveh, 4th Portion (Exodus 29:1-29:18)

Go for the Gold

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 20 Feb 2018 12:12:53 +0000

Choosing Cohanic Accessories — Blue wool pomegranates vs. golden apples Parshat Tetzaveh, 3rd Portion (Exodus 28:31-28:43)

Wardrobe Malfunction

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 19 Feb 2018 15:00:23 +0000

"Wardrobe Malfunction" What happened when the gem-studded breastplate stopped functioning? Parshat Tetzaveh, 2nd Portion (Exodus 28:13-28:30)

Sacred Staging

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 15 Feb 2018 11:59:37 +0000

"Sacred Staging" How the arrangement of the Mishkan’s furniture provides a plan for living well! Parshat Terumah, 5th Portion (Exodus 26:31-26:37)

Beam Me Up

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 14 Feb 2018 12:14:04 +0000

"Beam Me Up" Mishkan beams, their fascinating history and glorious and eternal future. Parshat Terumah, 4th Portion (Exodus 26:15-26:30)

Menorah Magic

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 13 Feb 2018 12:13:58 +0000

How the grand golden candelabra was crafted and its relevance to us today. Parshat Terumah, 3rd Portion (Exodus 25:31-26:14)

Keep a Lid on It

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Mon, 12 Feb 2018 12:15:39 +0000

Appreciating the Holy Ark’s Cherubs-adorned cover & understanding its function. Parshat Terumah, 2nd Portion (Exodus 25:17-25:30)

Meaty Explanations

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Thu, 08 Feb 2018 12:40:57 +0000

Can we make sense of the Torah’s classic milk with meat prohibition? Parshat Mishpatim, 5th Portion (Exodus 23:6-23:19)

Torah Donkey Kong Law

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 12:18:14 +0000

Rule 1: Help Mario! Rule 2: An exception to Rule 1. Rule 3: A spiritual corollary! Parshat Mishpatim, 4th Portion (Exodus 22:27-23:5)

On Borrowed Time

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 12:38:20 +0000

How detailed laws for the proverbial borrower yield spiritual lessons for life. Parshat Mishpatim, 3rd Portion (Exodus 22:4-22:26)