Mattot

Embark on a journey of Jewish learning and discovery, exploring the depth of our Mattot resources, where tagged items including audio, programs, and podcast episodes await your exploration.

Mattot: Split in Half

Rabbi Jay Kelman

The centrality of the land of Israel is a basic tenet of Jewish thought. Our Sages note that mitzvot performed outside the land of Israel are little more than practice (see Rashi, Devarim 11:18)—not unlike spring training, which is necessary…
Article
Aug 1, 2019

Mattot: Moshe and Midian

Rabbi Jay Kelman

"G-d spoke to Moses, saying: Take revenge for the Israelites against the Midianites.  Then you shall die and be gathered to your people" (31:1-2).    How ironic that Moshe's death is linked to the defeat of the…
Article
Jul 17, 2015

Mattot: Promises

Rabbi Jay Kelman

Promises, promises. We are used to hearing them being broken, especially when they are made by our political leaders. Parshat Mattot begins by detailing the laws of nedarim and shevuot, vows, oaths, and the obligations to keep one's word. …
Article
Jul 18, 2014

Mattot-Massei: It's Your Land

Rabbi Jay Kelman

“And Elazar the priest said: This is the law of the Torah, which the Lord commanded Moshe” (Bamidbar 31:21). The Torah goes on to describe the laws of kashering utensils, laws that were pertinent in light of the spoils captured by the…
Article
Jul 5, 2013

Mattot-Massei: A Sojourn in Germany

Rabbi Jay Kelman

“And these are the travels of the children of Israel”. We know little of many of the places the Jewish people encamped during their stay in the desert; the fact that Jews once lived in these places makes them worthy of mention in the Torah. Much of…
Article
Jul 20, 2012