This week’s Torah portion brings us to a transition. Abraham and Sarah die, and we read about the descendants of Isaac and Ishmael. We also read the beginning of the story of Jacob. In the Jewish world we like to say dor l’dor (i.e., from generation to generation).

Everyone likes to be “in the know.” Has anyone ever shared information with you that makes you feel special because you have been entrusted with knowledge of a situation that only a few people have been made aware of?

The first words of the Torah portion and the first words that God speaks to Abraham is “Go!” Literally the text says” “Go, you go!” It reminds me of the first words of Yeshua to some of his disciples.

There are several themes that bind the Torah together like a thread through the text. Holiness and covenant relationship are two such themes. However, one theme that we do not always think about is the theme of blessing.

This week our Torah portion tells the story of creation and brings us all the way to Noah. This early history of humanity helps us understand why the world is so chaotic and dark.

The Shabbat between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is called Shabbat Shuvah, the Sabbath of Return. It takes place during the Ten Days of Awe when we are preparing for the Day of Atonement.