Jewish Texts
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Cruelty in the Conquest of Canaan
It is my impression that, during the conquest of Canaan, the Israelites were often commanded to destroy entire populations. This was certainly carried out in the case Jericho (Joshua 6:21-25), with the exception of Rachav and her family. My question…
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Where are the Ancient Enemies of Israel?
I always read about countries like Babylon, Canaan, Amalek, and the Philistines in the Bible. I believe those countries and still exist even today. Who are they and are they still enemies of Israel today? Answer: Good question. You know,…
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Balaam
When I was reading Numbers 22 – 24 I had a hard time understanding Balaam’s position. Was he a son of G-d or a False prophet? What is Balaam’s history and how can I understand his position? Answer: Balaam was…
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Abraham: First Jew? Convert?
Was Abraham the first Jew? Was he a Convert? Answer: You are asking a great question. In Jewish tradition, Abraham is indeed considered the very first Jew. This title is bestowed on him for he was the first person in…
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Authors of the Haftorah Portions
Who actually writes the Haftorah portions? Answer: From the time that God gave the Torah to the Jews about 3300 years ago, and throughout the time that the Jews lived in the Land of Israel, until about 2400 years ago…
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Refugee Slaves
Deuteronomy 23:15-16. verse 15: Thou shalt not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee: verse:16 He shall dwell with thee, even among you, in that place which he shall choose in one of…
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Hebrew Grammer: Paraoh vs. Pharaoh
I’ve been reading the book of Exodus in Hebrew, and I have noticed that the word Pharaoh is spelled alternatively with a “pey” [the “p” sound] and a “fey” [the “f” sound]. I would like to know what the significance…
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Hebrew From Right to Left
Why is Hebrew written and read from right to left? Answer: Fascinating question. Perhaps I should just say that I don’t know! But I’ll mention something that might help. In the world of Torah understanding, right is always associated with…
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Adam’s Garments
What were the heavenly garments that G-d made for Adam (Genesis 3:21)? Answer: That is a great question that several of our Sages have addressed, and I will share with you some of their answers. Indeed, according to our understanding…