Reading
Reflections, divrei Torah, community notes, and updates from the shul.
Latest
Why are Moshe’s three periods on Har Sinai described as “forty days and forty nights,” when the Jewish day normally begins at night? The Chasam Sofer explains that day symbolizes serving Hashem amid this world’s struggles, while night represents the clarity beyond. During the first and third ascents, Israel reached the level of tzaddikim who cherish serving Hashem through challenge. After the Golden Calf, they fell to the nations’ level, yet the same order remained for a very different reason.
Rabbi Sholom Twerski·Jul 31, 2026
The first Luchos promised long life but omitted “good,” since their breaking ended humanity’s freedom from death. True goodness, however, refers to the eternal reward of Olam Haba. Had “good” appeared on the shattered Luchos, it could have symbolized the loss of that reward. Hashem therefore reserved it for the second Luchos, assuring us that our opportunity for eternal goodness can never be destroyed.
Rabbi Sholom Twerski·Jul 24, 2026
The mysterious places opening Devarim recall a journey that often seemed to move sideways or backward. Moshe reassured Klal Yisroel that Hashem had once brought them from Horeb to Kadesh Barnea in only three days, proving His desire to bring them home. Every later detour had a purpose. Likewise, when our own progress feels slow, we must trust that each step is preparing us for our destination.
Rabbi Sholom Twerski·Jul 17, 2026
The Torah teaches the laws of vows to the tribal leaders to highlight the power and responsibility of our words. Although vows can sometimes be annulled, the primary lesson is to think carefully before making commitments and faithfully fulfill them. During the Three Weeks, this reminds us that guarding our speech, especially by avoiding lashon hara, strengthens unity and helps bring the Shechinah back among us.
Rabbi Sholom Twerski·Jul 10, 2026
The two sheep we bring as a Korban Mussaf every Shabbos represents the dichotomy that our service of Hashem must encompass both aspects of Love and Awe. Either one by itself falls short of the true avodah that is expected of us.
Rabbi Sholom Twerski·Jul 3, 2026
In this week's parashah, Bilaam's intended curses were transformed into blessings, with one blessing enduring forever: "How fair are your tents, O Jacob"—a tribute to the sanctity of our shuls and batei midrash. As Beth Joseph looks toward the future, may we unite around a shared vision of growth, harmony, and Torah, building a congregation where Hashem's Presence rests and blessing flows to every member of our community.
Rabbi Sholom Twerski·Jun 26, 2026
