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D’var Torah on YouTube Parashat Tetzaveh is the 20th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 27:20-30:10 Tetzaveh (“You Shall Command”) opens as God instructs Moses to appoint Aaron and his sons as priests. God details how to make the priestly clothing, how to sanctify the priests and offer sacrifices during the seven days of inauguration in the Mishkan (Tabernacle), and how to build the golden altar. [1] Triennial year 2 1: 28:31-35 · 5 p’sukim · 2: 28:36-38 · 3 p’sukim · 3: 28:39-43 · 5 p’sukim · 4: 29:1-4 · 4 p’sukim · 5: 29:5-9 · 5 p’sukim · 6: 29:10-14 · 5 p’sukim · 7: 29:15-18 · 4 p’sukim · maf: 29:15-18 · 4 p’sukim · Haftarah: Ezekiel 43:10-27 · 18 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria   OU Torah   Jewish Theological Seminary   American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 342 – 346 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 339 – 349) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 470 – 476 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 464 – 483) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 508 – 513 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 503 – 518) Parashat Tetzavé 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת תְּצַוֶּה 24 de febrero de 2024 / 15 Adar I 5784 D'var Torah en YouTube Parashat Tetzaveh es la vigésima porción semanal de la Torá en el ciclo judío anual de lectura de la Torá. Porción de la Torá: Éxodo 27:20-30:10 Tetzavé (“Tú mandarás”) comienza cuando Dios le ordena a Moisés que nombre a Aarón y a sus hijos como sacerdotes. Dios detalla cómo confeccionar la vestimenta sacerdotal, cómo santificar a los sacerdotes y ofrecer sacrificios durante los siete días de la inauguración en el Mishkán (Tabernáculo) y cómo construir el altar de oro. [1] Trienal año 2 1: 28:31-35 · 5 pesukim · 2: 28:36-38 · 3 pesukim · 3: 28:39-43 · 5 pesukim · 4: 29:1-4 · 4 pesukim · 5: 29:5-9 · 5 pesukim · 6: 29:10-14 · 5 pesukim · 7: 29:15-18 · 4 pesukim · maf: 29:15-18 · 4 p’sukim · o maf: 30:8-10 · 3 p’sukim · Haftará: Ezequiel 43:10-27 · 18 pesukim Comentario y Divrei Torá Sefaria OU Torah Seminario Teológico Judío Universidad Judía Americana Hertz Chumash: págs. 342 – 346 Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 339 – 349) Artscroll Chumash: págs. 470 – 476 Trienal Año 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 464 – 483) Etz Jaim Jumash: págs. 508 – 513 Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 503 – 518) Se han escrito muchos libros y artículos a lo largo de los años sobre cómo vestirse profesionalmente, siendo el más famoso “Dress For Success”. En la era moderna, reconocemos que la ropa es importante para los respectivos lugares. Este concepto, entonces, parece remontarse a más de 3500 años. Nuestra porción comienza discutiendo la pureza del aceite, que se usará para ungir a los Sumos Sacerdotes y a sus sacerdotes. Luego recibimos instrucciones sobre cómo se vestirán los sacerdotes, como se indicó anteriormente, para tener éxito. Tienen un papel destacado al oficiar como ministros de Hashem y, por lo tanto, deben ser presentados realemente. Es un contraste interesante que no encontramos los mismos detalles en nuestras Escrituras hebreas sobre nuestros reyes. Esto nos llevaría a considerar que los sacerdotes son más instrumentales en nuestra sociedad. Es importante recordar que todos tenemos una relación personal con Hashem, uno a uno. Los sacerdotes están ahí para ayudar en las diversas vías por las cuales interactuamos con nuestro Dios. Representar esa relación significa que de hecho tienen una presencia espiritual muy real y, por lo tanto, los colores reales de azul, carmesí y púrpura, tejidos con hilos de oro, son apropiados para esa apariencia.

Calendar This is an overview of upcoming events. Details of each event are below Monday, 12 February 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 15 February 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 16 & 17 February 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 18 February 2024-Hebrew School & Miller Course Monday, 19 February 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 22 February 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 23 & 24 February 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 25 February 2024-Hebrew School & Miller Course Thursday, 29 February 2024-Board Meeting Friday & Saturday, 1 & 2 March 2024-Shabbat Services Friday, 1 March 2024-Shabbat Across America Sunday, 3 March 2024-Hebrew School & Miller Course Kabbalah Thought for this week "All of us are in bondage to our reactive whims and egocentric desires. We are also prisoners of other people's perceptions of us. Our ego is our taskmaster - and the ego is so good at its job, most of us don't even realize we are in bondage. Therefore, the Light of the Creator will send us chellenging opportunities to provoke our ego and highlight our self-centeredness." Each day, Jews end their prayer service with Aleinu. There is an affirmation afterwards that is especially timely in addressing today's strife: "Do not fear sudden terror, or the destruction of the wicked when it comes (1). Plan a conspiracy and it will get annulled; speak your piece and it shall not stand, for God is with us (2). Even when you age, I remain unchanged; and even till your ripe old age, I shall endure. I created you and I shall bear you; I shall endure and rescue (3)." These verses express confidence in God's protection and are regarded as auguries of redemption. Proverbs 3:25 Do not fear an evildoer's intention, no matter how dangerous it seems. Isaiah 8:10 Let the enemies of Israel conspire and plan; they will not succeed Isaiah 46:4 God remains the eternal protector of Israel, even though we may have sinned. Announcements -Office Hours -This week’s 10-Minute -Events -Candle Lighting Times for Shabbat (Ontario, CA) -Shabbat Services -School *For your information, I have included below my schedule, including office hours for the next two weeks and specific classes in which I am involved. **For your convenience and information, Zoom links will be provided in separate emails for security purposes. ***I continue to update our Mi Sheberach מי שברך list for those in need of healing. For your convenience, I am attaching this revised list to this email that only goes to members of Temple Sholom of Ontario. Thank you. Office Hours for the next few weeks: Going forward, I am planning on conducting Hebrew School from my office and making Sunday an office day to be more available. Sunday, February 11, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm (In-Person Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Monday, February 12, 2023 9:30am - 2:00pm (?) Friday, February 16, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) Sunday, February 18, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm (Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Tuesday, February 20, 2023 11:15am - 6:15pm (Invocation for Ontario City Council @ 6:30pm) Sunday, February 25, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm (In-Person Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Monday, February 26, 2023 9:30am - 2:00pm (?) Friday, March 1, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Shabbat Across America @ 7:30pm) (Subject to change. Please call for appointments) This week's 10-Minute Torah (17 February 2024): Parashat Terumah 5784 10-Minute Torah on YouTube Adult Torah Study Class Next Session: Monday, February 12 at 7:30 pm PT Zoom Links sent in separate email Monday morning. Please reply if you do not receive them. Parashat Terumah 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת תְּרוּמָה 17 February 2024 / 8 Adar I 5784 Parashat Terumah is the 19th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 25:1-27:19 Terumah (“Donation”) opens as God tells Moses to collect donated materials in order to build a dwelling place for God called the Mishkan (Tabernacle). God describes how to build the vessels that will fill the Mishkan - including the ark, table, menorah, and sacrificial altar - as well as the Mishkan’s walls and curtains. [1] Triennial year 2 1: 26:1-3 · 3 p’sukim · 2: 26:4-6 · 3 p’sukim · 3: 26:7-11 · 5 p’sukim · 4: 26:12-14 · 3 p’sukim · 5: 26:15-21 · 7 p’sukim · 6: 26:22-25 · 4 p’sukim · 7: 26:26-30 · 5 p’sukim · maf: 26:26-30 · 5 p’sukim · Haftarah: I Kings 5:26-6:13 · 20 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria OU Torah Jewish Theological Seminary American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 330 – 333 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 326 – 336) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 452 – 459 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 444 – 463) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 491 – 495 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 485 – 498) Judaic Studies Next session: Thursday, February 15, 2024 @ 7:30pm We will be reading the Torah portion Kedoshim, Leviticus/VaYikra chapters 19-20, together with three commentaries: one is from an Orthodox source, one from a Conservative source, and one from a Reform source.  Read ahead if you like!  But it’s not required. Here is an internet link to the Biblical text of Kedoshim on Sefaria:  https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.19.1-20.27?lang=bi&aliyot=1 Also a PDF file of the text of Kedoshim in Hebrew and English is attached. We will also be reading three commentaries, one from the Union of Orthodox Rabbis, one from the Conservative Jewish Theological Seminary, and one from the Reform movement.  (Note: Judy has changed which Conservative commentary we’re reading, because the most recent one was from a Shabbat that was Rosh Hodesh and the commentary was mostly about that; instead she went back a couple of years to one by Conservative Rabbi Daniel Nevins).  PDF files of all three of these commentaries are attached. Please join us!  It should be interesting. Shabbat Times for Ontario, California, USA 🕯️ Candle lighting / הדלקת נרות Friday, February 16⋅5:17pm ✨ Havdalah (50 min) / הבדלה - 50 דקות Saturday, February 17⋅6:14pm Powered by Hebcal Shabbat Times Upcoming Services Shabbat Ma'ariv Service Friday, February 16, 2024 @ 7:30 pm Shabbat Shachrit Service Saturday, February 17, 2024 @ 9:30 am Zoom Links sent in separate email Friday afternoon. Please reply if you do not receive them. We are now incorporating guitar accompaniment with our Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv Parashat Terumah 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת תְּרוּמָה 17 February 2024 / 8 Adar I 5784 Parashat Terumah is the 19th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 26:1-26:30 Triennial year 2 1: 26:1-3 · 3 p’sukim · 2: 26:4-6 · 3 p’sukim · 3: 26:7-11 · 5 p’sukim · 4: 26:12-14 · 3 p’sukim · 5: 26:15-21 · 7 p’sukim · 6: 26:22-25 · 4 p’sukim · 7: 26:26-30 · 5 p’sukim · maf: 26:26-30 · 5 p’sukim · Haftarah: I Kings 5:26-6:13 · 20 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah  Jewish Theological Seminary   American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 330 – 333 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 326 – 336) Hebrew School at Temple Sholom of Ontario Sunday, February 18, 2024 Hebrew School 10:00am - 12:00pm Zoom Links sent out Saturday Evening after sundown Our Hebrew Class consists of two sessions: 10:00am - 10:40pm Learning Hebrew 10:50am - 11:30am Studying Torah and other related topics Next Miller Course Sunday, 18 February 2024, 11:45am - 12:45pm Module 4: Holidays Shabbat Across America and Canada Friday night, March 1, 2024 Turn an ordinary Friday night into something extraordinary with Shabbat Across America and Canada! Mark your calendar for Friday night, March 1st! Join hundreds of synagogues across the continent taking part in a renowned Jewish event to celebrate what unifies all Jews — Shabbat! Everyone is invited, so no matter your age, or if you are a single, couple or family, large or small - we want you right there with us! Following the events of October 7th in Israel, the world’s Jews need to unite now more than ever! Many reports have shown that following the attacks, there has been a reawakened sense of Jewish pride and willingness to participate in Jewish rituals and experiences. This year, we have a historic opportunity to bring people back into our synagogues and Jewish centers like never before, for Shabbat Across America and Canada, the original Shabbat unity event. That’s the magic of Shabbat Across America and Canada, now in its 28th year. By participating in this continent-wide event, you will enable those in your community to share the Shabbat experience with thousands of North American Jews. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to strengthen the Jewish identity and pride of those in your community by inviting them to join your extended family and celebrate Shabbat at Shabbat Across America and Canada on Friday night, March 1, 2024. NJOP will be happy to share many Shabbat resources to enhance your program. TEMPLE SHOLOM OF ONTARIO MAGIC SHOW FUNDRAISER SUNDAY, MARCH 10TH, 2024 963 West 6th Street, Ontario, CA 91762 (Mail Checks & Form To: Temple Sholom of Ontario, P.O. Box 1487, Ontario, CA 91762) PAUL CASH FROM MAGIC CASTLE MAGIC SHOW 1:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M. ADULTS: $20.00 CHILDREN: $15.00 There will be an Ice Cream Sundae social after the show Please make your checks payable to Temple Sholom of Ontario RSVP APPRECIATED: chrisepstein@ca.rr.com or text 951-265-8853 Please Fill out the form below and either mail payment or drop in the Blue box at TSO inside by the office door Bring your family and friends and join us for a fun afternoon. ESPECTÁCULO DE MAGIA DEL TEMPLO SHALOM DE ONTARIO DOMINGO 10 DE MARZO DE 2024 963 West 6th Street, Ontario, CA 91762 (Envíe los cheques y el formulario por correo a: Temple Sholom of Ontario, P.O. Box 1487, Ontario, CA 91762) PAUL CASH DEL CASTILLO MÁGICO ESPECTÁCULO DE MAGIA 1:00 PM. - 2:00 PM. ADULTOS: $20.00 NIÑOS: $15.00 Habrá un evento social con Ice Cream Sundae después del espectáculo. Haga sus cheques a nombre de Temple Sholom of Ontario. Se agradece confirmar su asistencia: chrisepstein@ca.rr.com o envíe un mensaje de texto al 951-265-8853 Complete el formulario a continuación y realice el pago por correo o envíelo al Caja azul en TSO dentro junto a la puerta de la oficina Traiga a su familia y amigos y únase a nosotros para pasar una tarde divertida. *The titles in blue and underlined are "hyperlinks". If you click on any of those, it will lead to that site/URL. The hyperlink gives a descriptive title with the actual link embedded in that title. Anyone who is concerned about clicking a link or hyperlink can access any of these resources by going to my website, www.modernrabbistephen.com. You can find them in the "Blog" and "Videos" sections, as well as the "Instagram Links" by clicking on the various pictures.

D'var Torah on YouTube Parashat Terumah is the 19th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 25:1-27:19 Terumah (“Donation”) opens as God tells Moses to collect donated materials in order to build a dwelling place for God called the Mishkan (Tabernacle). God describes how to build the vessels that will fill the Mishkan - including the ark, table, menorah, and sacrificial altar - as well as the Mishkan’s walls and curtains. [1] Triennial year 2 1: 26:1-3 · 3 p’sukim · 2: 26:4-6 · 3 p’sukim · 3: 26:7-11 · 5 p’sukim · 4: 26:12-14 · 3 p’sukim · 5: 26:15-21 · 7 p’sukim · 6: 26:22-25 · 4 p’sukim · 7: 26:26-30 · 5 p’sukim · maf: 26:26-30 · 5 p’sukim · Haftarah: I Kings 5:26-6:13 · 20 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah  Jewish Theological Seminary   American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 330 – 333 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 326 – 336) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 452 – 459 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 444 – 463) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 491 – 495 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 485 – 498) Now that we have the beginning of the structure of our society, the heritage and ethics that will evolve into the religion of Judaism, we now get the venue. Being physical and material beings that exist in a physical and material world, our relationship with Hashem—the  unseen, non-physical material Being that is Ein Sof—a physical and material venue would be appropriate. This would also facilitate the rituals that would enable to keep a close relationship. The furniture and accoutrements that we are directed to make would reflect the respectful and exalted nature of our relationship.  The symbolism is also appropriate.  We have gold interspersed overlayed with wood. We are told to make altars for sacrifices, a Menorah with seven lamps symbolizing completion, the Ark of Covenant with Cherubim angels that are close to Hashem, and a table for the twelve loads of bread representing the tribes which are replaced each week. These items physically represent spiritual values.  The sacrifices are involved in worshipping and keeping our material pursuits in sync with ethics and morality. The other various furniture help us perform activities that also help us keep in mind the first commandments that were proclaimed to us in the last two parashyot. Likewise today, we also have our spiritual instruments.  We have our prayer books, our bema instead of the altar and Ark containing our Torot instead of the Ark of Covenant.  This way, Judaism and its lofty principles remain in place for us and future generations. Parashat Terumá 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת תְּרוּמָה 17 de febrero de 2024 / 8 Adar I 5784 Parashat Terumá es la decimonovena porción semanal de la Torá en el ciclo judío anual de lectura de la Torá. Porción de la Torá: Éxodo 25:1-27:19 Terumá (“Donación”) comienza cuando Dios le dice a Moisés que recolecte materiales donados para construir una morada para Dios llamada Mishkán (Tabernáculo). Dios describe cómo construir los vasos que llenarán el Mishkán, incluidos el arca, la mesa, la menorá y el altar de sacrificios, así como las paredes y cortinas del Mishkán. [1] Trienal año 2 1: 26:1-3 · 3 pesukim · 2: 26:4-6 · 3 pesukim · 3: 26:7-11 · 5 pesukim · 4: 26:12-14 · 3 pesukim · 5: 26:15-21 · 7 pesukim · 6: 26:22-25 · 4 pesukim · 7: 26:26-30 · 5 pesukim · maf: 26:26-30 · 5 pesukim · Haftará: I Reyes 5:26-6:13 · 20 p'sukim Comentario y Divrei Torá Sefaria OU Torah Seminario Teológico Judío Universidad Judía Americana Hertz Chumash: págs. 330 – 333 Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 326 – 336) Artscroll Chumash: págs. 452 – 459 Trienal Año 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 444 – 463) Etz Jaim Jumash: págs. 491 – 495 Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 485 – 498) Ahora que tenemos el comienzo de la estructura de nuestra sociedad, la herencia y la ética que evolucionarán hacia la religión del judaísmo, ahora tenemos el lugar. Siendo seres físicos y materiales que existen en un mundo físico y material, nuestra relación con Hashem (el Ser material invisible y no físico que es Ein Sof) sería apropiado en un lugar físico y material. Esto también facilitaría los rituales que permitirían mantener una relación cercana. Los muebles y accesorios que se nos pide que fabriquemos reflejarían la naturaleza respetuosa y exaltada de nuestra relación. El simbolismo también es apropiado. Tenemos oro intercalado superpuesto con madera. Se nos dice que hagamos altares para los sacrificios, una Menorá con siete lámparas que simboliza la finalización, el Arca de la Alianza con los ángeles Querubines que están cerca de Hashem y una mesa para las doce cargas de pan que representan las tribus que se reemplazan cada semana. Estos elementos representan físicamente valores espirituales. Los sacrificios están relacionados con la adoración y el mantenimiento de nuestras actividades materiales en sincronía con la ética y la moralidad. Los otros muebles nos ayudan a realizar actividades que también nos ayudan a tener presente los primeros mandamientos que nos fueron proclamados en las dos últimas parashyot. De la misma manera hoy, también tenemos nuestros instrumentos espirituales. Tenemos nuestros libros de oraciones, nuestra bema en lugar del altar y el Arca que contiene nuestro Torot en lugar del Arca de la Alianza. De esta manera, el judaísmo y sus elevados principios permanecen vigentes para nosotros y las generaciones futuras.

Kabbalah Thought for this week "The righteous are made to suffer trials and afflictions in this world, precisely because they do not associate with the Other Side, whose realm this is. Yet Hashem will deliver the righteous from all ills." Each day, Jews end their prayer service with Aleinu. There is an affirmation afterwards that is especially timely in addressing today's strife: "Do not fear sudden terror, or the destruction of the wicked when it comes (1). Plan a conspiracy and it will get annulled; speak your piece and it shall not stand, for God is with us (2). Even when you age, I remain unchanged; and even till your ripe old age, I shall endure. I created you and I shall bear you; I shall endure and rescue (3)." These verses express confidence in God's protection and are regarded as auguries of redemption. Proverbs 3:25 Do not fear an evildoer's intention, no matter how dangerous it seems. Isaiah 8:10 Let the enemies of Israel conspire and plan; they will not succeed Isaiah 46:4 God remains the eternal protector of Israel, even though we may have sinned. Announcements -Office Hours -This week’s 10-Minute -Events -Candle Lighting Times for Shabbat (Ontario, CA) -Shabbat Services -School Calendar This is an overview of upcoming events. Details of each event are below Thursday, 8 February 2024-Board Meeting Friday & Saturday, 9 & 10 February 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 11 February 2024-Hebrew School & Miller Course Monday, 12 February 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 15 February 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 16 & 17 February 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 18 February 2024-Hebrew School & Miller Course Monday, 19 February 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 22 February 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 23 & 24 February 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 25 February 2024-Hebrew School & Miller Course *For your information, I have included below my schedule, including office hours for the next two weeks and specific classes in which I am involved. **For your convenience and information, Zoom links will be provided in separate emails for security purposes. ***I continue to update our Mi Sheberach מי שברך list for those in need of healing. For your convenience, I am attaching this revised list to this email that only goes to members of Temple Sholom of Ontario. Thank you. Office Hours for the next few weeks: Going forward, I am planning on conducting Hebrew School from my office and making Sunday an office day to be more available. Thursday, February 1, 2024 - Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Out of Office Thursday, February 8, 2024 1:00pm - 7:00pm (Board Meeting @ 7:00pm) Friday, February 9, 2024 1:30pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) Sunday, February 11, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm (Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Monday, February 12, 2023 9:30am - 2:00pm (?) Friday, February 16, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) Sunday, February 18, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm (Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Tuesday, February 20, 2023 11:15am - 6:15pm (Invocation for Ontario City Council @ 6:30pm) (Subject to change. Please call for appointments) This week's 10-Minute Torah (10 February 2024): Parashat Mishpatim 5784 10-Minute Torah on YouTube Adult Torah Study Class Next Session: Monday, February 12 at 7:30 pm PT Out of town on Monday February 5 Zoom Links sent in separate email Monday morning. Please reply if you do not receive them. Parashat Terumah 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת תְּרוּמָה 17 February 2024 / 8 Adar I 5784 Parashat Terumah is the 19th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 25:1-27:19 Terumah (“Donation”) opens as God tells Moses to collect donated materials in order to build a dwelling place for God called the Mishkan (Tabernacle). God describes how to build the vessels that will fill the Mishkan - including the ark, table, menorah, and sacrificial altar - as well as the Mishkan’s walls and curtains. [1] Triennial year 2 1: 26:1-3 · 3 p’sukim · 2: 26:4-6 · 3 p’sukim · 3: 26:7-11 · 5 p’sukim · 4: 26:12-14 · 3 p’sukim · 5: 26:15-21 · 7 p’sukim · 6: 26:22-25 · 4 p’sukim · 7: 26:26-30 · 5 p’sukim · maf: 26:26-30 · 5 p’sukim · or maf: 27:17-19 · 3 p’sukim · Haftarah: I Kings 5:26-6:13 · 20 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria OU Torah Jewish Theological Seminary American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 330 – 333 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 326 – 336) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 452 – 459 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 444 – 463) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 491 – 495 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 485 – 498) Board Meeting Thursday, February 8, 2024 Judaic Studies Next session: Thursday, February 15, 2024 @ 7:30pm Preempted on February 8 due to Monthly Board Meeting We will be reading the Torah portion Kedoshim, Leviticus/VaYikra chapters 19-20, together with three commentaries: one is from an Orthodox source, one from a Conservative source, and one from a Reform source.  Read ahead if you like!  But it’s not required. Here is an internet link to the Biblical text of Kedoshim on Sefaria:  https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.19.1-20.27?lang=bi&aliyot=1 Also a PDF file of the text of Kedoshim in Hebrew and English is attached. We will also be reading three commentaries, one from the Union of Orthodox Rabbis, one from the Conservative Jewish Theological Seminary, and one from the Reform movement.  (Note: Judy has changed which Conservative commentary we’re reading, because the most recent one was from a Shabbat that was Rosh Hodesh and the commentary was mostly about that; instead she went back a couple of years to one by Conservative Rabbi Daniel Nevins).  PDF files of all three of these commentaries are attached. Please join us!  It should be interesting. Rosh Chodesh Adar I 2024 / רֹאשׁ חוֹדֶשׁ אַדָר א׳ 5784 Start of month of Adar I (on leap years) on the Hebrew calendar 🌒 Rosh Chodesh Adar I for Hebrew Year 5784 begins at Sundown on Thursday, 8 February 2024 and ends at Nightfall on Saturday, 10 February 2024. Start of month of Adar I (on leap years) on the Hebrew calendar. Adar I (אַדָר א׳) is the 12th month of the Hebrew year, occurs only on leap years, has 30 days, and corresponds to February or March on the Gregorian calendar. רֹאשׁ חוֹדֶשׁ, transliterated Rosh Chodesh or Rosh Hodesh, is a minor holiday that occurs at the beginning of every month in the Hebrew calendar. It is marked by the birth of a new moon. Shabbat Times for Ontario, California, USA 🕯️ Candle lighting / הדלקת נרות Friday, February 9⋅5:10pm ✨ Havdalah (50 min) / הבדלה - 50 דקות Saturday, February 10⋅6:08pm Powered by Hebcal Shabbat Times Upcoming Services Shabbat Ma'ariv Service Friday, February 9, 2024 @ 7:30 pm Shabbat Shachrit Service Saturday, February 10, 2024 @ 9:30 am Zoom Links sent in separate email Friday afternoon. Please reply if you do not receive them. We are now incorporating guitar accompaniment with our Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv Parashat Mishpatim 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת מִּשְׁפָּטִים 10 February 2024 / 1 Adar I 5784 Parashat Mishpatim is the 18th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 21:1-24:18; Numbers 28:9-15 Triennial year 2 1: 22:4-8 · 5 p’sukim · 2: 22:9-12 · 4 p’sukim · 3: 22:13-18 · 6 p’sukim · 4: 22:19-26 · 8 p’sukim · 5: 22:27-23:5 · 9 p’sukim · 6: 23:6-13 · 8 p’sukim · 7: 23:14-19 · 6 p’sukim · maf*: Numbers 28:9-15 · 7 p’sukim · *Shabbat Rosh Chodesh Haftarah*: Isaiah 66:1-24 · 24 p’sukim  *Shabbat Rosh Chodesh Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah  Jewish Theological Seminary  American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 311 – 318 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 306 – 322) In-Person Hebrew School at Temple Sholom of Ontario Sunday, February 11, 2024 Hebrew School 10:00am - 12:00pm Preempted on February 4 as I will be out of town Join us as we learn about and discuss Shabbat Hebrew School at Temple Sholom of Ontario Sunday, February 18, 2024 Hebrew School 10:00am - 12:00pm Zoom Links sent out Saturday Evening after sundown Our Hebrew Class consists of two sessions: 10:00am - 10:40pm Learning Hebrew 10:50am - 11:30am Studying Torah and other related topics Next Miller Course Sunday, 11 February 2024, 11:45am - 12:45pm Module 3: Diversity Preempted on February 4 as I will be out of town *The titles in blue and underlined are "hyperlinks". If you click on any of those, it will lead to that site/URL. The hyperlink gives a descriptive title with the actual link embedded in that title. Anyone who is concerned about clicking a link or hyperlink can access any of these resources by going to my website, www.modernrabbistephen.com. You can find them in the "Blog" and "Videos" sections, as well as the "Instagram Links" by clicking on the various pictures.

D'var Torah on YouTube Parashat Mishpatim 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת מִּשְׁפָּטִים 10 February 2024 / 1 Adar I 5784 Parashat Mishpatim is the 18th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 21:1-24:18; Numbers 28:9-15 Mishpatim (“Laws”) recounts a series of God’s laws that Moses gives to the Israelites. These include laws about treatment of slaves, damages, loans, returning lost property, the Sabbath, the sabbatical year, holidays, and destroying idolatry. The portion ends as Moses ascends Mount Sinai for 40 days. [1] Triennial year 2 1: 22:4-8 · 5 p’sukim · 2: 22:9-12 · 4 p’sukim · 3: 22:13-18 · 6 p’sukim · 4: 22:19-26 · 8 p’sukim · 5: 22:27-23:5 · 9 p’sukim · 6: 23:6-13 · 8 p’sukim · 7: 23:14-19 · 6 p’sukim · maf*: Numbers 28:9-15 · 7 p’sukim · *Shabbat Rosh Chodesh Haftarah*: Isaiah 66:1-24 · 24 p’sukim  *Shabbat Rosh Chodesh Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah  Jewish Theological Seminary  American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 311 – 318 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 306 – 322) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 426 – 437 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 416 – 443) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 465 – 474 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 456 – 480) Parashá Mishpatim 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת מִּשְׁפָּטִים 10 de febrero de 2024 / 1 Adar I 5784 Parashat Mishpatim es la decimoctava porción semanal de la Torá en el ciclo judío anual de lectura de la Torá. Porción de la Torá: Éxodo 21:1-24:18; Números 28:9-15 Mishpatim (“Leyes”) relata una serie de leyes de Dios que Moisés da a los israelitas. Estas incluyen leyes sobre el trato a los esclavos, daños, préstamos, devolución de bienes perdidos, el sábado, el año sabático, los días festivos y la destrucción de la idolatría. La porción termina cuando Moisés asciende al monte Sinaí durante 40 días. [1] Trienal año 2 1: 22:4-8 · 5 pesukim · 2: 22:9-12 · 4 pesukim · 3: 22:13-18 · 6 pesukim · 4: 22:19-26 · 8 pesukim · 5: 22:27-23:5 · 9 pesukim · 6: 23:6-13 · 8 pesukim · 7: 23:14-19 · 6 pesukim · maf*: Números 28:9-15 · 7 p’sukim · *Shabbat Rosh Jodesh Haftará*: Isaías 66:1-24 · 24 p’sukim *Shabbat Rosh Jodesh Comentario y Divrei Torá Sefaria OU Torah Seminario Teológico Judío Universidad Judía Americana Hertz Chumash: págs. 311 – 318 Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 306 – 322) Artscroll Chumash: págs. 426 – 437 Trienal Año 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 416 – 443) Etz Jaim Jumash: págs. 465 – 474 Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 456 – 480) Primero que nada, feliz Rosh Jodesh. Este es uno de esos Shabatot que coinciden con el nuevo mes. Así que este Shabat somos doblemente bendecidos. Mishpatim continúa la promulgación de leyes después de que Moisés recibió los Diez Mandamientos. Los Diez Mandamientos sientan las bases para que Israel desarrolle un marco ético y moral como base para nuestra nueva religión. Después de obtener las instrucciones más importantes, ahora comenzamos a leer el resto de nuestra guía para vivir con integridad y humanidad. Considere el flujo de esta parte y la anterior. Primero Jetro, el suegro de Moisés, le da algunos sabios consejos sobre cómo delegar la responsabilidad de la adjudicación para que él y el proceso se vuelvan más eficientes. Allí tenemos una discusión sobre Moisés enseñando a sus discípulos principios importantes. Como si fuera el momento justo, ahora recibimos las enseñanzas más importantes, los Diez Mandamientos, seguidas de otras enseñanzas para reforzar nuestra ética y guiar a estos nuevos jueces. En Mishpatim, se nos indica cómo respetar a los esclavos y sirvientes contratados, las personas más vulnerables de nuestra sociedad. A esto le siguen reglas que protegen la santidad de la vida y la propiedad. Comenzamos así el camino hacia el desarrollo de una sociedad humana y respetuosa como modelo de cómo los seres humanos debemos tratarnos unos a otros.

Kabbalah Thought for this week "...[T]he most significant choice that each of us must make...[is] whether to follow the Evil Inclination--a force present and persuasive from the moment of human conception--or the Good Inclination, which does not express itself until a person is dthirteen years or age. A righteous individual...is one who does not put credence in the Evil Inclination, but rather waits for the arrival of the Good." Each day, Jews end their prayer service with Aleinu. There is an affirmation afterwards that is especially timely in addressing today's strife: "Do not fear sudden terror, or the destruction of the wicked when it comes (1). Plan a conspiracy and it will get annulled; speak your piece and it shall not stand, for God is with us (2). Even when you age, I remain unchanged; and even till your ripe old age, I shall endure. I created you and I shall bear you; I shall endure and rescue (3)." These verses express confidence in God's protection and are regarded as auguries of redemption. Proverbs 3:25 Do not fear an evildoer's intention, no matter how dangerous it seems. Isaiah 8:10 Let the enemies of Israel conspire and plan; they will not succeed Isaiah 46:4 God remains the eternal protector of Israel, even though we may have sinned. Announcements -Office Hours -This week’s 10-Minute -Events -Candle Lighting Times for Shabbat (Ontario, CA) -Shabbat Services -School Calendar This is an overview of upcoming events. Details of each event are below Sunday, 28 January 2024-Hebrew School & Miller Course Monday, 29 January 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 1 February 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 2 & 3 February 2024-Shabbat Services Thursday, 8 February 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 9 & 10 February 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 11 February 2024-Hebrew School & Miller Course Monday, 12 February 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 15 February 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 16 & 17 February 2024-Shabbat Services *For your information, I have included below my schedule, including office hours for the next two weeks and specific classes in which I am involved. **For your convenience and information, Zoom links will be provided in separate emails for security purposes. ***I continue to update our Mi Sheberach מי שברך list for those in need of healing. For your convenience, I am attaching this revised list to this email that only goes to members of Temple Sholom of Ontario. Thank you. Office Hours for the next few weeks: Going forward, I am planning on conducting Hebrew School from my office and making Sunday an office day to be more available. Sunday, January 28, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm (Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Monday, January 29, 2023 9:30am - 2:00pm Thursday, February 1, 2024 - Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Out of Office Friday, February 9, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) Sunday, February 11, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm (Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Monday, February 12, 2023 9:30am - 2:00pm (?) Friday, February 16, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) Sunday, February 18, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm (Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Monday, February 19, 2023 9:30am - 2:00pm (?) (Subject to change. Please call for appointments) This week's 10-Minute Torah (3 February 2024): Parashat Yitro 5784 10-Minute Torah on YouTube Adult Torah Study Class Upcoming Session: Monday, January 29 at 7:30 pm PT Zoom Links sent in separate email Monday morning. Please reply if you do not receive them. Parashat Yitro 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת יִתְרוֹ 3 February 2024 / 24 Sh’vat 5784 D’var Torah on YouTube for Yitro 5784 Parashat Yitro is the 17th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 18:1-20:23 Yitro (“Jethro”) begins as Moses reunites with his father-in-law Yitro and accepts his advice to appoint judges who will help govern the Israelites. The Israelites prepare to encounter God at Mount Sinai. God descends amidst fire, smoke, thunder, and the blast of a shofar and gives the Ten Commandments. [1] Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah  Jewish Theological Seminary   American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 288 – 301 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 288 – 301) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 394 – 415 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 394 – 415) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 432 – 450 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 432 – 450) Next Session: Monday, February 12 at 7:30 pm PT Zoom Links sent in separate email Monday morning. Please reply if you do not receive them. Parashat Terumah 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת תְּרוּמָה 17 February 2024 / 8 Adar I 5784 Parashat Terumah is the 19th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 25:1-27:19 Terumah (“Donation”) opens as God tells Moses to collect donated materials in order to build a dwelling place for God called the Mishkan (Tabernacle). God describes how to build the vessels that will fill the Mishkan - including the ark, table, menorah, and sacrificial altar - as well as the Mishkan’s walls and curtains. [1] Triennial year 2 1: 26:1-3 · 3 p’sukim · 2: 26:4-6 · 3 p’sukim · 3: 26:7-11 · 5 p’sukim · 4: 26:12-14 · 3 p’sukim · 5: 26:15-21 · 7 p’sukim · 6: 26:22-25 · 4 p’sukim · 7: 26:26-30 · 5 p’sukim · maf: 26:26-30 · 5 p’sukim · or maf: 27:17-19 · 3 p’sukim · Haftarah: I Kings 5:26-6:13 · 20 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria OU Torah Jewish Theological Seminary American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 330 – 333 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 326 – 336) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 452 – 459 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 444 – 463) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 491 – 495 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 485 – 498) Judaic Studies Next session: Thursday, February 1, 2024 @ 7:30pm Those present voted that we would devote our next class to combining two things: (1)  studying part of Leviticus (va-Yikra), chapters 19:1 - 20:27 (Parshat Kedoshim), (2)  and then comparing/contrasting the points of view of three commentaries: from the Orthodox Union, the Jewish Theological Seminary (Conservative), and Reform Judaism.  Before class, it would be good if you could read the Torah portion (it’s just two chapters) and these three commentaries.  But, whether or not you read them, we will as usual put them on the screen for our discussion. For your convenience, I provide all of the individual links here: Here’s the link to the Torah portion Kedoshim in Sefaria:  https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.19.1-20.27?lang=bi&aliyot=1 Here’s the link to three Orthodox Union commentaries on Kedoshim from Rabbi Eliyahu Safran. https://outorah.org/series/3111?parsha=Kedoshim&size=30 Let’s agree to discuss only the first, “Loving Your Neighbor while Standing on One Foot.”  But feel free to read more. Here’s the link to several Jewish Theological Seminary commentaries on Kedoshim from the Jewish Theological Seminary: https://www.jtsa.edu/jts-torah-online/?parashah=kedoshim Let’s agree to discuss only the most recent, “Making God Holy,” by Amram Altzman.  But feel free to read more. Here’s the link to several Reform commentaries on Kedoshim. https://www.jtsa.edu/torah/making-god-holy/ Let’s agree to discuss only the most recent, “Finding Holiness,” by Barbara Weinstein.  But feel free to read more. For your information, the website maintained by HebCal has links to every Torah reading, to commentaries from various sources, and, at the end, a list of books on the particular Torah reading.  Here’s the link to the page in Hebcal for Kedoshim: https://www.hebcal.com/sedrot/kedoshim At the end of our next class, we will discuss whether to continue the discussion of Kedoshim, to go on and do text-and-commentaries on another Torah portion, or whether to go on to read selections from the runner-up topic, "The Wisdom of Ben Sira (Ecclesiasticus).”  A very brief introduction to “The Wisdom of Ben Sira,"  and the full text, may be found on Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Ben_Sira?tab=contents Shabbat Times for Ontario, California, USA 🕯️ Candle lighting / הדלקת נרות Friday, February 2⋅5:03pm ✨ Havdalah (50 min) / הבדלה - 50 דקות Saturday, February 3⋅6:01pm Powered by Hebcal Shabbat Times Upcoming Services Shabbat Ma'ariv Service Friday, February 2, 2024 @ 7:30 pm Shabbat Shachrit Service Saturday, February 3, 2024 @ 9:30 am Zoom Links sent in separate email Friday afternoon. Please reply if you do not receive them. We are now incorporating guitar accompaniment with our Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv Parashat Yitro 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת יִתְרוֹ 3 February 2024 / 24 Sh’vat 5784 Parashat Yitro is the 17th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 18:1-20:23 Triennial year 2 Yitro is read in its entirety in 5784. See Full Kriyah. 1: 18:1-12 · 12 p’sukim · 2: 18:13-23 · 11 p’sukim · 3: 18:24-27 · 4 p’sukim · 4: 19:1-6 · 6 p’sukim · 5: 19:7-19 · 13 p’sukim · 6: 19:20-20:14 · 20 p’sukim · 7: 20:15-23 · 9 p’sukim · maf: 20:19-23 · 5 p’sukim · Haftarah for Ashkenazim: Isaiah 6:1-7:6, 9:5-6 · 21 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria OU Torah Jewish Theological Seminary American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 288 – 301 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 288 – 301) Shabbat Mevarchim Chodesh Adar I Saturday, February 3 Molad Adar I: Fri, 29 minutes and 5 chalakim after 21:00 The molad occurs when the moon has moved far enough from this position that a thin crescent of its illuminated surface becomes visible, marking the start of a new Jewish month. The Hebrew word molad (plural moladot) means birth , and it is also a generic term for New Moon, in the sense of that Moon is born again at the beginning of each lunar cycle. Rosh Chodesh Adar I 2024 / רֹאשׁ חוֹדֶשׁ אַדָר א׳ 5784 Start of month of Adar I (on leap years) on the Hebrew calendar 🌒 Rosh Chodesh Adar I for Hebrew Year 5784 begins at sundown on Thursday, 8 February 2024 and ends at nightfall on Saturday, 10 February 2024. Start of month of Adar I (on leap years) on the Hebrew calendar. Adar I (אַדָר א׳) is the 12th month of the Hebrew year, occurs only on leap years, has 30 days, and corresponds to February or March on the Gregorian calendar. רֹאשׁ חוֹדֶשׁ, transliterated Rosh Chodesh or Rosh Hodesh, is a minor holiday that occurs at the beginning of every month in the Hebrew calendar. It is marked by the birth of a new moon. Hebrew School at Temple Sholom of Ontario Sunday, February 11, 2024 Hebrew School 10:00am - 12:00pm Preempted on February 4 as I will be out of town Zoom Links sent out Saturday Evening after sundown Our Hebrew Class consists of two sessions: 10:00am - 10:40pm Learning Hebrew 10:50am - 11:30am Studying Torah and other related topics Next Miller Course Sunday, 11 February 2024, 11:45am - 12:45pm Module 3: Diversity Preempted on February 4 as I will be out of town *The titles in blue and underlined are "hyperlinks". If you click on any of those, it will lead to that site/URL. The hyperlink gives a descriptive title with the actual link embedded in that title. Anyone who is concerned about clicking a link or hyperlink can access any of these resources by going to my website, www.modernrabbistephen.com. You can find them in the "Blog" and "Videos" sections, as well as the "Instagram Links" by clicking on the various pictures.

D'var Torah on YouTube for Parashat Yitro 5784 Parashat Yitro is the 17th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 18:1-20:23 Yitro (“Jethro”) begins as Moses reunites with his father-in-law Yitro and accepts his advice to appoint judges who will help govern the Israelites. The Israelites prepare to encounter God at Mount Sinai. God descends amidst fire, smoke, thunder, and the blast of a shofar and gives the Ten Commandments. [1] Triennial year 2 Yitro is read in its entirety in 5784. Full Kriyah 1: 18:1-12 · 12 p’sukim · 2: 18:13-23 · 11 p’sukim · 3: 18:24-27 · 4 p’sukim · 4: 19:1-6 · 6 p’sukim · 5: 19:7-19 · 13 p’sukim · 6: 19:20-20:14 · 20 p’sukim · 7: 20:15-23 · 9 p’sukim · maf: 20:19-23 · 5 p’sukim · Haftarah for Ashkenazim: Isaiah 6:1-7:6, 9:5-6 · 21 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah  Jewish Theological Seminary   American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 288 – 301 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 288 – 301) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 394 – 415 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 394 – 415) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 432 – 450 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 432 – 450) This is the portion in which we get the Ten Commandments.  Since this is such a crucial part of the Torah, even though we read according to the Triennial portions, we read this Parashat in its entirety.  We are familiar with these commandments, the basis of our religion: One, true, God; No other Gods before us; Respect for God’s name; Shabbat; Honor parents; Don’t murder, steal or commit adultery; Don’t bear false witness; and don’t covet. We are also introduced—through Jetro, Moses’ father-in-law and now a disciple—to delegate responsibility for adjudicating issues.  Moses had been sitting in judgement himself, being Hashem’s prophet, and he would exhaust himself and thus perhaps not be at the top of his game as time went on.  He should share this responsibility with other elders to adjudicate smaller matters. Consider this an awesome decision.  For these righteous people to sit in judgement, one would expect  them to learn the laws. Thus by dissemination Israel would become familiar with our humane and righteous principles.  What better way to teach and learn? Parashat Yitró 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת יִתְרוֹ 3 de febrero de 2024/24 Sh'vat 5784 Parashat Yitro es la decimoséptima porción semanal de la Torá en el ciclo judío anual de lectura de la Torá. Porción de la Torá: Éxodo 18:1-20:23 Yitro (“Jethro”) comienza cuando Moisés se reúne con su suegro Yitro y acepta su consejo de nombrar jueces que ayudarán a gobernar a los israelitas. Los israelitas se preparan para encontrarse con Dios en el monte Sinaí. Dios desciende en medio del fuego, el humo, los truenos y el sonido del shofar y da los Diez Mandamientos. [1] Trienal año 2 Yitro se lee en su totalidad en 5784. Kriya completa 1: 18:1-12 · 12 pesukim · 2: 18:13-23 · 11 pesukim · 3: 18:24-27 · 4 pesukim · 4: 19:1-6 · 6 pesukim · 5: 19:7-19 · 13 pesukim · 6: 19:20-20:14 · 20 pesukim · 7: 20:15-23 · 9 pesukim · maf: 20:19-23 · 5 pesukim · Haftará para los Ashkenazim: Isaías 6:1-7:6, 9:5-6 · 21 p’sukim Comentario y Divrei Torá Sefaria OU Torah Seminario Teológico Judío Universidad Judía Americana Hertz Chumash: págs. 288 – 301 Trienal Año 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 288 – 301) Artscroll Chumash: págs. 394 – 415 Trienal Año 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 394 – 415) Etz Jaim Jumash: págs. 432 – 450 Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 432 – 450) Esta es la porción en la que recibimos los Diez Mandamientos. Dado que esta es una parte tan crucial de la Torá, aunque leamos de acuerdo con las porciones trienales, leemos esta Parashat en su totalidad. Conocemos estos mandamientos, base de nuestra religión: Uno, verdadero, Dios; No hay otros dioses antes que nosotros; Respeto por el nombre de Dios; Shabat; Honrar a los padres; No asesinar, robar ni cometer adulterio; No des falso testimonio; y no codicies. También se nos presenta, a través de Jetro, el suegro de Moisés y ahora discípulo, para delegar la responsabilidad de resolver problemas. Moisés había estado juzgando él mismo, siendo el profeta de Hashem, y se agotaría y, por lo tanto, tal vez no estaría en la cima de su juego con el paso del tiempo. Debería compartir esta responsabilidad con otros ancianos para resolver asuntos menores. Considere esto como una decisión increíble. Para que estas personas justas se sentaran a juzgar, uno esperaría que aprendieran las leyes. Así, mediante la difusión, Israel se familiarizaría con nuestros principios humanos y justos. ¿Qué mejor manera de enseñar y aprender?

Kabbalah Thought for this week "Rabbi Yitzchak said: "Fret not yourself because of evildoers" (Tehilim 37:1). HE ASKS, Who are these evildoers, for it is not written 'sinners' or 'wicked?' HE RESPONDS, Rather "evildoers" are those that bring evil to themselves and to those who join up with them. Rabbi Yehuda said, "FRET NOT YOURSELF BECAUSE OF evildoers," IS DEFINED as staying away from evildoers so that you do not become friends and associate with them. Also, this is so that their actions do not hurt you and you are not caught for their sins." Each day, Jews end their prayer service with Aleinu. There is an affirmation afterwards that is especially timely in addressing today's strife: "Do not fear sudden terror, or the destruction of the wicked when it comes (1). Plan a conspiracy and it will get annulled; speak your piece and it shall not stand, for God is with us (2). Even when you age, I remain unchanged; and even till your ripe old age, I shall endure. I created you and I shall bear you; I shall endure and rescue (3)." These verses express confidence in God's protection and are regarded as auguries of redemption. Proverbs 3:25 Do not fear an evildoer's intention, no matter how dangerous it seems. Isaiah 8:10 Let the enemies of Israel conspire and plan; they will not succeed Isaiah 46:4 God remains the eternal protector of Israel, even though we may have sinned. Announcements -Office Hours -This week’s 10-Minute -Events -Candle Lighting Times for Shabbat (Ontario, CA) -Shabbat Services -School Calendar This is an overview of upcoming events. Details of each event are below Sunday, 21 January 2023-In-Person Hebrew School & Miller Course Monday, 22 January 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 25 January 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 26 & 27 January 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 28 January 2024-Hebrew School & Miller Course Monday, 29 January 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 1 February 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 2 & 3 February 2024-Shabbat Services Thursday, 8 February 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 9 & 10 February 2024-Shabbat Services *For your information, I have included below my schedule, including office hours for the next two weeks and specific classes in which I am involved. **For your convenience and information, Zoom links will be provided in separate emails for security purposes. ***I continue to update our Mi Sheberach מי שברך list for those in need of healing. For your convenience, I am attaching this revised list to this email that only goes to members of Temple Sholom of Ontario. Thank you. Office Hours for the next few weeks: Going forward, I am planning on conducting Hebrew School from my office and making Sunday an office day to be more available. Sunday, January 21, 2023 9:00am - 2:00pm (In-Person Hebrew School 10:00am - 12:00pm & Miller Course 12:15pm - 1:15pm) Monday, January 22, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm Friday, January 26, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) Sunday, January 28, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm (Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Monday, January 29, 2023 9:30am - 2:00pm Thursday, February 1, 2024 - Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Out of Office Friday, February 9, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) Sunday, February 11, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm (Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Monday, February 12, 2023 9:30am - 2:00pm (Subject to change. Please call for appointments) This week's 10-Minute Torah (27 January 2024): Parashat Beshalach 5784 10-Minute Torah on YouTube Adult Torah Study Class Next Session: Monday, January 22 at 7:30 pm PT Zoom Links sent in separate email Monday morning. Please reply if you do not receive them. Parashat Beshalach 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת בְּשַׁלַּח 27 January 2024 / 17 Sh'vat 5784 https://youtu.be/2MglvZ9HA6s Parashat Beshalach is the 16th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 13:17-17:16 Beshalach (“When He Let Go”) describes the splitting of the Red Sea and the song the Israelites sing upon crossing through. In the desert, God sweetens bitter water and provides manna and quail. The portion ends recounting the victory of the Israelites against an attack by the Amalekites. [1] Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah  Jewish Theological Seminary  American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 268 – 276 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 265 – 281) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 370 – 385 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 366 – 393) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 403 – 416 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 399 – 422) Tu BiShvat 2024 / טוּ בִּשְׁבָט 5784 New Year for Trees 🌳 Tu BiShvat for Hebrew Year 5784 begins at sundown on Wednesday, 24 January 2024 and ends at nightfall on Thursday, 25 January 2024. 🌳 🌱 ט״ו בִּשְׁבָט שָׂמֵחַ 🌱 🌳 Tu BiShvat or Tu B’Shevat or Tu B’Shvat (Hebrew: ט״ו בשבט‎) is a minor Jewish holiday, occurring on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat. It is also called “The New Year of the Trees” or (Hebrew: ראש השנה לאילנות, Rosh HaShanah La’Ilanot‎). Tu BiShvat is one of four “New Years” mentioned in the Mishnah. Judaic Studies Next session: Thursday, January 25, 2024 @ 7:30pm What next? We’ll go back to the “what do we study next?” drawing board. Shabbat Times for Ontario, California, USA 🕯️ Candle lighting / הדלקת נרות Friday, January 26⋅4:56pm ✨ Havdalah (50 min) / הבדלה - 50 דקות Saturday, January 27⋅5:55pm Powered by Hebcal Shabbat Times Upcoming Services Shabbat Ma'ariv Service Friday, January 26, 2024 @ 7:30 pm Shabbat Shachrit Service Saturday, January 27, 2024 @ 9:30 am Zoom Links sent in separate email Friday afternoon. Please reply if you do not receive them. We are now incorporating guitar accompaniment with our Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv Parashat Beshalach 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת בְּשַׁלַּח 27 January 2024 / 17 Sh'vat 5784 https://youtu.be/2MglvZ9HA6s Parashat Beshalach is the 16th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 13:17-17:16 Triennial year 2 1: 14:15-20 · 6 p’sukim · 2: 14:21-25 · 5 p’sukim · 3: 14:26-15:21 · 27 p’sukim · 4: 15:22-26 · 5 p’sukim · 5: 15:27-16:3 · 4 p’sukim · 6: 16:4-7 · 4 p’sukim · 7: 16:8-10 · 3 p’sukim · maf: 16:8-10 · 3 p’sukim · Haftarah for Ashkenazim: Judges 4:4-5:31 · 52 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah  Jewish Theological Seminary  American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 268 – 276 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 265 – 281) Hebrew School at Temple Sholom of Ontario Sunday, January 28, 2024 Hebrew School 10:00am - 12:00pm Zoom Links sent out Saturday Evening after sundown Our Hebrew Class consists of two sessions: 10:00am - 10:40pm Learning Hebrew 10:50am - 11:30am Studying Torah and other related topics Next Miller Course Sunday, 28 January 2024, 11:45am - 12:45pm Module 2: TaNaKh (Hebrew Scriptures) *The titles in blue and underlined are "hyperlinks". If you click on any of those, it will lead to that site/URL. The hyperlink gives a descriptive title with the actual link embedded in that title. Anyone who is concerned about clicking a link or hyperlink can access any of these resources by going to my website, www.modernrabbistephen.com. You can find them in the "Blog" and "Videos" sections, as well as the "Instagram Links" by clicking on the various pictures.

Parashat Beshalach 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת בְּשַׁלַּח 27 January 2024 / 17 Sh'vat 5784 https://youtu.be/2MglvZ9HA6s Parashat Beshalach is the 16th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 13:17-17:16 Beshalach (“When He Let Go”) describes the splitting of the Red Sea and the song the Israelites sing upon crossing through. In the desert, God sweetens bitter water and provides manna and quail. The portion ends recounting the victory of the Israelites against an attack by the Amalekites. [1] Triennial year 2 1: 14:15-20 · 6 p’sukim · 2: 14:21-25 · 5 p’sukim · 3: 14:26-15:21 · 27 p’sukim · 4: 15:22-26 · 5 p’sukim · 5: 15:27-16:3 · 4 p’sukim · 6: 16:4-7 · 4 p’sukim · 7: 16:8-10 · 3 p’sukim · maf: 16:8-10 · 3 p’sukim · Haftarah for Ashkenazim: Judges 4:4-5:31 · 52 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah  Jewish Theological Seminary  American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 268 – 276 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 265 – 281) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 370 – 385 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 366 – 393) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 403 – 416 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 399 – 422) A defining event in our history, the crossing of the Sea of Reeds. Hashem rescued us when Pharaoh pursued us after being forced to release us.  In so doing, Hashem was glorified and showed the world the one, true God.  This was such a monumental event that the sages felt it should be part of our morning prayer service.  And thus it is at the end of Pesukei D’Zimra, our hymns of praise for Hashem. While our ancestors had been enslaved too long to truly appreciate Hashem efforts, it gives us today some reassurance.  Yes, it took a while, but Hashem did indeed rescue us from the hand of Pharaoh.  Hashem also guided us, maintained us and sustained us all throughout our years in the wilderness and beyond.  Hashem also made sure we defeated Amelek when they attacked our weaker people at the end of the train. Let’s remember this when life seems hopeless for us and we are outnumbered.  Hashem will come through. Parashat Beshalaj 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת בְּשַׁלַּח 27 de enero de 2024/17 Sh'vat 5784 https://youtu.be/2MglvZ9HA6s Parashat Beshalach es la decimosexta porción semanal de la Torá en el ciclo judío anual de lectura de la Torá. Porción de la Torá: Éxodo 13:17-17:16 Beshalach (“Cuando lo soltó”) describe la división del Mar Rojo y la canción que cantan los israelitas al cruzarlo. En el desierto, Dios endulza el agua amarga y proporciona maná y codornices. La porción termina contando la victoria de los israelitas contra un ataque de los amalecitas. [1] Trienal año 2 1: 14:15-20 · 6 pesukim · 2: 14:21-25 · 5 pesukim · 3: 14:26-15:21 · 27 pesukim · 4: 15:22-26 · 5 pesukim · 5: 15:27-16:3 · 4 pesukim · 6: 16:4-7 · 4 pesukim · 7: 16:8-10 · 3 pesukim · maf: 16:8-10 · 3 pesukim · Haftará para los Ashkenazim: Jueces 4:4-5:31 · 52 p’sukim Comentario y Divrei Torá Sefaria OU Torah Seminario Teológico Judío Universidad Judía Americana Hertz Chumash: págs. 268 – 276 Trienal Año 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 265 – 281) Artscroll Chumash: págs. 370 – 385 Trienal Año 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 366 – 393) Etz Jaim Jumash: págs. 403 – 416 Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 399 – 422) Un acontecimiento decisivo en nuestra historia, el cruce del Mar de Juncos. Hashem nos rescató cuando Faraón nos persiguió después de haber sido obligado a liberarnos. Al hacerlo, Hashem fue glorificado y mostró al mundo el único Dios verdadero. Este fue un evento tan monumental que los sabios sintieron que debería ser parte de nuestro servicio de oración matutino. Y así es al final de Pesukei D’Zimra, nuestros himnos de alabanza a Hashem. Si bien nuestros antepasados habían estado esclavizados durante demasiado tiempo como para apreciar verdaderamente los esfuerzos de Hashem, hoy eso nos da cierta tranquilidad. Sí, tomó un tiempo, pero Hashem efectivamente nos rescató de las manos del Faraón. Hashem también nos guió, nos mantuvo y nos sostuvo durante todos nuestros años en el desierto y más allá. Hashem también se aseguró de que derrotáramos a Amelek cuando atacaron a nuestra gente más débil al final del tren. Recordemos esto cuando la vida nos parezca desesperada y nos superen en número. Hashem saldrá adelante.

Kabbalah Thought for this week "The power to triumph over dark forces within us, and those in our midst, is given to us through the Light of Blessings that reveal deeper, mystical truths." Each day, Jews end their prayer service with Aleinu. There is an affirmation afterwards that is especially timely in addressing today's strife: "Do not fear sudden terror, or the destruction of the wicked when it comes (1). Plan a conspiracy and it will get annulled; speak your piece and it shall not stand, for God is with us (2). Even when you age, I remain unchanged; and even till your ripe old age, I shall endure. I created you and I shall bear you; I shall endure and rescue (3)." These verses express confidence in God's protection and are regarded as auguries of redemption. Proverbs 3:25 Do not fear an evildoer's intention, no matter how dangerous it seems. Isaiah 8:10 Let the enemies of Israel conspire and plan; they will not succeed Isaiah 46:4 God remains the eternal protector of Israel, even though we may have sinned. Announcements -Office Hours -This week’s 10-Minute -Events -Candle Lighting Times for Shabbat (Ontario, CA) -Shabbat Services -School Calendar This is an overview of upcoming events. Details of each event are below Sunday, 14 January 2024-Miller Course Monday, 15 January 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 18 January 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 19 & 20 January 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 21 January 2023-In-Person Hebrew School & Miller Course Monday, 22 January 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 25 January 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 26 & 27 January 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 28 January 2024-Hebrew School & Miller Course Monday, 29 January 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 1 February 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 2 & 3 February 2024-Shabbat Services *For your information, I have included below my schedule, including office hours for the next two weeks and specific classes in which I am involved. **For your convenience and information, Zoom links will be provided in separate emails for security purposes. ***I continue to update our Mi Sheberach מי שברך list for those in need of healing. For your convenience, I am attaching this revised list to this email that only goes to members of Temple Sholom of Ontario. Thank you. Office Hours for the next few weeks: Going forward, I am planning on conducting Hebrew School from my office and making Sunday an office day to be more available. Sunday, January 14, 2023 9:00am - 2:00pm (Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Thursday, January 18, 2024  12:00pm - 7:00pm (Board Meeting @ 7:00pm, rescheduled from last week) Friday, January 19, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) Sunday, January 21, 2023 9:00am - 2:00pm (In-Person Hebrew School 10:00am - 12:00pm & Miller Course 12:15pm - 1:15pm) Monday, January 22, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm Friday, January 26, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) Sunday, January 28, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm (Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Monday, January 29, 2023 9:30am - 2:00pm Thursday, February 1, 2024 - Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Out of Office (Subject to change. Please call for appointments) This week's 10-Minute Torah (20 January 2024): Parashat Bo 5784 10-Minute Torah on YouTube Adult Torah Study Class Next Session: Monday, January 15 at 7:30 pm PT Zoom Links sent in separate email Monday morning. Please reply if you do not receive them. Parashat Bo 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת בֹּא 20 January 2024 / 10 Sh'vat 5784 Parashat Bo is the 15th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 10:1-13:16 Bo (“Come”) recounts the last three plagues that God inflicts on the Egyptians: locusts, darkness, and death of firstborns. God commands the Israelites to offer a Passover lamb sacrifice. After the last plague, Pharaoh and the Egyptians demand that the Israelites leave. [1] Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah   Jewish Theological Seminary  American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 252 – 258 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 248 – 263) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 346 – 357 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 340 – 339) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 379 – 386 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 374 – 365) Board Meeting Thursday, January 18, 2024 Rescheduled from last week Judaic Studies Next session: Thursday, January 25, 2024 @ 7:30pm Preepted January 18 due to rescheduling Board Meeting What next? We’ll go back to the “what do we study next?” drawing board. Shabbat Times for Ontario, California, USA 🕯️ Candle lighting / הדלקת נרות Friday, January 19⋅4:49pm ✨ Havdalah (50 min) / הבדלה - 50 דקות Saturday, January 20⋅5:49pm Powered by Hebcal Shabbat Times Upcoming Services Shabbat Ma'ariv Service Friday, January 19, 2024 @ 7:30 pm Shabbat Shachrit Service Saturday, January 20, 2024 @ 9:30 am Zoom Links sent in separate email Friday afternoon. Please reply if you do not receive them. We are now incorporating guitar accompaniment with our Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv Parashat Bo 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת בֹּא 20 January 2024 / 10 Sh'vat 5784 Parashat Bo is the 15th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 10:1-13:16 Triennial year 2 1: 11:4-10 · 7 p’sukim · 2: 12:1-10 · 10 p’sukim · 3: 12:11-13 · 3 p’sukim · 4: 12:14-16 · 3 p’sukim · 5: 12:17-20 · 4 p’sukim · 6: 12:21-24 · 4 p’sukim · 7: 12:25-28 · 4 p’sukim · maf: 12:25-28 · 4 p’sukim · Haftarah: Jeremiah 46:13-28 · 16 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah   Jewish Theological Seminary  American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 252 – 258 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 248 – 263) In-Person Hebrew School at Temple Sholom of Ontario Sunday, January 21, 2024 Hebrew School 10:00am - 12:00pm Our special in-person learning will feature a special Tu B'Sh'vat seder. Next Miller Course Sunday, 21 January 2024, 12:00pm - 1:00pm *The titles in blue and underlined are "hyperlinks". If you click on any of those, it will lead to that site/URL. The hyperlink gives a descriptive title with the actual link embedded in that title. Anyone who is concerned about clicking a link or hyperlink can access any of these resources by going to my website, www.modernrabbistephen.com. You can find them in the "Blog" and "Videos" sections, as well as the "Instagram Links" by clicking on the various pictures.

D'var Torah on Youtube Parashat Bo 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת בֹּא 20 January 2024 / 10 Sh'vat 5784 Parashat Bo is the 15th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 10:1-13:16 Bo (“Come”) recounts the last three plagues that God inflicts on the Egyptians: locusts, darkness, and death of firstborns. God commands the Israelites to offer a Passover lamb sacrifice. After the last plague, Pharaoh and the Egyptians demand that the Israelites leave. [1] Triennial year 2 1: 11:4-10 · 7 p’sukim · 2: 12:1-10 · 10 p’sukim · 3: 12:11-13 · 3 p’sukim · 4: 12:14-16 · 3 p’sukim · 5: 12:17-20 · 4 p’sukim · 6: 12:21-24 · 4 p’sukim · 7: 12:25-28 · 4 p’sukim · maf: 12:25-28 · 4 p’sukim · Haftarah: Jeremiah 46:13-28 · 16 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah   Jewish Theological Seminary  American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 252 – 258 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 248 – 263) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 346 – 357 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 340 – 339) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 379 – 386 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 374 – 365) The “signs and wonders”, the plagues, have now reached their crescendo.  Pharaoh was given nine chances to release Israel and each time, did not. Rabbi Dr. Hertz makes an interesting point that while Hashem may have hardened Pharaoh’s heart, He did not interfere with his free will.  Pharaoh could have relented at any time. The killing of the first born of Egypt was considered measure for measure.  Pharaoh had ordered the killing of Israelite first born to prevent a savior from arising.  Not only did his deadly action not succeed, but he is now to pay for those deaths.  It is sad that it was only through such tragedy that we were to become a nation and the Jewish religion is born. Thus also the world would see the consequences of such brutality. The Passover starts our formal worship of Hashem and starts our Hebrew calendar.  It is our first holy day and that which defines us as a people. And in the month of “Abib”, the spring, the month that is now called Nissan, we commemorate these events by in essence reliving them, because this is what Hashem did for us. Parashat Bo 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת בֹּא 20 de enero de 2024 / 10 Sh'vat 5784 Parashat Bo es la decimoquinta porción semanal de la Torá en el ciclo judío anual de lectura de la Torá. Porción de la Torá: Éxodo 10:1-13:16 Bo (“Ven”) relata las últimas tres plagas que Dios inflige a los egipcios: langostas, oscuridad y muerte de los primogénitos. Dios ordena a los israelitas que ofrezcan un sacrificio de cordero pascual. Después de la última plaga, el faraón y los egipcios exigen que los israelitas se vayan. [1] Trienal año 2 1: 11:4-10 · 7 pesukim · 2: 12:1-10 · 10 pesukim · 3: 12:11-13 · 3 pesukim · 4: 12:14-16 · 3 pesukim · 5: 12:17-20 · 4 pesukim · 6: 12:21-24 · 4 pesukim · 7: 12:25-28 · 4 pesukim · maf: 12:25-28 · 4 pesukim · Haftará: Jeremías 46:13-28 · 16 p’sukim Comentario y Divrei Torá Sefaria OU Torah Seminario Teológico Judío Universidad Judía Americana Hertz Chumash: págs. 252 – 258 Trienal Año 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 248 – 263) Artscroll Chumash: págs. 346 – 357 Trienal Año 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 340 – 339) Etz Jaim Jumash: págs. 379 – 386 Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 374 – 365) Las “señales y prodigios”, las plagas, han llegado ahora a su punto culminante. Al faraón se le dieron nueve oportunidades de liberar a Israel y cada vez no lo hizo. El rabino Dr. Hertz señala un punto interesante: si bien Hashem pudo haber endurecido el corazón de Faraón, no interfirió con su libre albedrío. El faraón podría haber cedido en cualquier momento. La matanza de los primogénitos de Egipto se consideró medida por medida. El faraón había ordenado matar a los primogénitos israelitas para evitar que surgiera un salvador. No sólo su acción mortal no tuvo éxito, sino que ahora debe pagar por esas muertes. Es triste que sólo a través de semejante tragedia nos convirtiéramos en una nación y naciera la religión judía. Así también el mundo vería las consecuencias de tal brutalidad. La Pascua inicia nuestra adoración formal a Hashem y comienza nuestro calendario hebreo. Es nuestro primer día santo y el que nos define como pueblo. Y en el mes de “Abib”, la primavera, el mes que ahora se llama Nisán, conmemoramos estos eventos esencialmente reviviéndolos, porque eso es lo que Hashem hizo por nosotros.

Kabbalah Thought for this week "When the light of the sun passes through a prism, the beam refracts into the seven colors of the spectrum. The colors are many, but they are one. Spiritual Light follows the same profound principle, with each grade of Light offering another frequency of fulfillment. Three colors in the Divine specttrum of Light shine through to our souls and help us to merit a portion in tthe World to Come, and connect us to the Divine energy radiating from the Land of Israel." Each day, Jews end their prayer service with Aleinu. There is an affirmation afterwards that is especially timely in addressing today's strife: "Do not fear sudden terror, or the destruction of the wicked when it comes (1). Plan a conspiracy and it will get annulled; speak your piece and it shall not stand, for God is with us (2). Even when you age, I remain unchanged; and even till your ripe old age, I shall endure. I created you and I shall bear you; I shall endure and rescue (3)." These verses express confidence in God's protection and are regarded as auguries of redemption. Proverbs 3:25 Do not fear an evildoer's intention, no matter how dangerous it seems. Isaiah 8:10 Let the enemies of Israel conspire and plan; they will not succeed Isaiah 46:4 God remains the eternal protector of Israel, even though we may have sinned. Announcements -Office Hours -This week’s 10-Minute -Events -Candle Lighting Times for Shabbat (Ontario, CA) -Shabbat Services -School Calendar This is an overview of upcoming events. Details of each event are below Sunday, 7 January 2023-Hebrew School: Welcome Back! Monday, 8 January 2024-Torah Study Tuesday, 9 January 2024-Sofer-On-Site Thursday, 11 January 2024-Board Meeting Friday & Saturday, 12 & 13 January 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 14 January 2024-Miller Course Monday, 15 January 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 18 January 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 19 & 20 January 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 21 January 2023-In-Person Hebrew School & Miller Course Monday, 22 January 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 25 January 2024-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 26 & 27 January 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 28 January 2024-Hebrew School & Miller Course *For your information, I have included below my schedule, including office hours for the next two weeks and specific classes in which I am involved. **For your convenience and information, Zoom links will be provided in separate emails for security purposes. ***I continue to update our Mi Sheberach מי שברך list for those in need of healing. For your convenience, I am attaching this revised list to this email that only goes to members of Temple Sholom of Ontario. Thank you. Office Hours for the next few weeks: Going forward, I am planning on conducting Hebrew School from my office and making Sunday an office day to be more available. Tuesday, January 9, 2024 8:30am - 2:00pm (Sofer-On-Site 9:00am - 12:30pm) Thursday, January 11, 2023 11:00am - 7:00pm (Board Meeting 7:00pm - 9:00pm) Friday, January 12, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) Sunday, January 14, 2023 9:00am - 2:00pm (Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am & Miller Course 11:45am - 12:45pm) Monday, January 15, 2024  9:00am - 2:00pm Friday, January 19, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) Sunday, January 21, 2023 9:00am - 2:00pm (In-Person Hebrew School 10:00am - 12:00pm & Miller Course 12:15pm - 1:15pm) Monday, January 22, 2024 9:00am - 2:00pm Friday, January 26, 2024 2:00pm - 7:30pm (Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv @ 7:30pm) (Subject to change. Please call for appointments) This week's 10-Minute Torah (13 January 2024): Parashat Vaera 5784 10-Minute Torah on YouTube Adult Torah Study Class Next Session: Monday, January 8 at 7:30 pm PT Zoom Links sent in separate email Monday morning. Please reply if you do not receive them. Parashat Vaera 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת וָאֵרָא 13 January 2024 / 3 Sh'vat 5784 Parashat Vaera is the 14th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 6:2-9:35 Vaera (“I Appeared”) opens as God promises to redeem the enslaved Israelites and bring them to the Promised Land. When Pharaoh repeatedly refuses to let the Israelites go, God sends a series of plagues: water turning to blood, frogs, lice, wild animals, death of livestock, boils, and hail. [1] Triennial year 2: Exodus 7:8-8:15 Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria OU Torah Jewish Theological Seminary American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 232 – 240 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 236 – 244) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 324 – 331 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 318 – 339) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 357 – 362 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 351 – 368) Sofer-On-Site will visit our synagogue to check our Torah Tuesday, 9 January 2024 9:00am Come join us for this educational experience to see just how a Torah gets checked. ✡️ Yom Kippur Katan Wednesday, January 10, 2024 Minor Day of Atonement on the day preceeding Rosh Chodesh Sh'vat Rosh Chodesh Sh’vat 2024 / רֹאשׁ חוֹדֶשׁ שְׁבָט 5784 Start of month of Sh’vat on the Hebrew calendar 🌒 Rosh Chodesh Sh’vat for Hebrew Year 5784 begins at sundown on Wednesday, 10 January 2024 and ends at nightfall on Thursday, 11 January 2024. Start of month of Sh’vat on the Hebrew calendar. שְׁבָט (transliterated Sh’vat or Shevat) is the 11th month of the Hebrew year, has 30 days, and corresponds to January or February on the Gregorian calendar. רֹאשׁ חוֹדֶשׁ, transliterated Rosh Chodesh or Rosh Hodesh, is a minor holiday that occurs at the beginning of every month in the Hebrew calendar. It is marked by the birth of a new moon. Board Meeting Thursday, January 11, 2024 Judaic Studies Next session: Thursday, January 18, 2024 @ 7:30pm What next? We’ll go back to the “what do we study next?” drawing board. Shabbat Times for Ontario, California, USA 🕯️ Candle lighting / הדלקת נרות Friday, January 12⋅4:43pm ✨ Havdalah (50 min) / הבדלה - 50 דקות Saturday, January 13⋅5:42pm Powered by Hebcal Shabbat Times Upcoming Services Shabbat Ma'ariv Service Friday, January 12, 2024 @ 7:30 pm Shabbat Shachrit Service Saturday, January 13, 2024 @ 9:30 am Zoom Links sent in separate email Friday afternoon. Please reply if you do not receive them. We are now incorporating guitar accompaniment with our Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv Parashat Vaera 5784 / פָּרָשַׁת וָאֵרָא 13 January 2024 / 3 Sh'vat 5784 Parashat Vaera is the 14th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Exodus 6:2-9:35 Vaera (“I Appeared”) opens as God promises to redeem the enslaved Israelites and bring them to the Promised Land. When Pharaoh repeatedly refuses to let the Israelites go, God sends a series of plagues: water turning to blood, frogs, lice, wild animals, death of livestock, boils, and hail. [1] Triennial year 2 1: 7:8-13 · 6 p’sukim · 2: 7:14-18 · 5 p’sukim · 3: 7:19-25 · 7 p’sukim · 4: 7:26-29 · 4 p’sukim · 5: 8:1-6 · 6 p’sukim · 6: 8:7-11 · 5 p’sukim · 7: 8:12-15 · 4 p’sukim · maf: 8:12-15 · 4 p’sukim · Haftarah: Ezekiel 28:25-29:21 · 23 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria  OU Torah   Jewish Theological Seminary   American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 232 – 240 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 236 – 244) Hebrew School at Temple Sholom of Ontario Sunday, January 7, 2024 Hebrew School 10:00am - 11:30am We will have two sessions: 10:00am - 10:40am Learning Hebrew and Hebrew Reading for more advanced students 10:50am - 11:30am Discussing the weekly Torah parashat and other Bible topics Next Miller Course We are planning our next Miller Course to start tentatively on Sunday, 14 January 2024. Stay tuned for more information. *The titles in blue and underlined are "hyperlinks". If you click on any of those, it will lead to that site/URL. The hyperlink gives a descriptive title with the actual link embedded in that title. Anyone who is concerned about clicking a link or hyperlink can access any of these resources by going to my website, www.modernrabbistephen.com. You can find them in the "Blog" and "Videos" sections, as well as the "Instagram Links" by clicking on the various pictures.