Shemot

While we’re usually in touch with our suffering, seeing it in others is not so common.

My husband and I discussed potential names for our soon-to-be newborn baby. We pored over lists, girls’ and boys’ names, as well as names of deceased relatives.

As a mother of young children, it is easy for me to lose perspective amidst the peaks and valleys of parenting. It will be years before I will see the fruits of my labor . . .

Of all the portions in the Torah, Shemot most clearly illustrates the strength of the Jewish woman.

I appreciated the empowering message of The Secret, but I also had some questions. Firstly, is “the universe” a new-age, neutral-sounding pseudo-name for G‑d . . . ?

Determining right from wrong is something with which we are constantly challenged throughout our lives. Yet nothing is harder to face and acknowledge than when the “wrong” is happening in our own homes . . .

Now the king of Egypt spoke to the Hebrew midwives... "When you deliver the Hebrew women, and you see on the birthstool, if it is a son, you shall put him to death..."

Childbirth, perhaps more than any other life event, is an experience that demands a strong dose of faith and surrender. No matter how well planned or organized we may be, the inevitable moment will arise...

Scripture tells us that Moses left Egypt a young man, and yet he comes back an octogenarian. Where was he for all those years?

You feel the pain and bitterness, even more deeply than the others, yet you carry in your heart an inextinguishable flame of faith, hope and optimism. You are Miriam, the quintessential Jewish woman.

I appreciated the empowering message of The Secret, but I also had some questions. Firstly, is “the universe” a new-age, neutral-sounding pseudo-name for G‑d . . . ?

When the Jewish people are counted, the greatest and most distinguished is counted exactly the same as the most lowly and simple.

Who isn’t suffering nowadays? We’re surrounded by tragedy, difficulty and challenges.

This weekly study packet is part of theJewishwoman.org “Be a Leader” initiative. Print it out and learn it with your study group.

Seeing beyond the status quo and taking action are characteristics that distinguish great people.