EE & R, Intro_2: Torah Subjects, Stories and Heroes
(For the previous installment of "Exodus, Exile and Redemption," click here. For ToC, click here.)
In our quest to unravel the mysteries of the cosmic drama, we will delve deeply into many facets of Judaism. This journey will span a vast array of subjects, from the philosophy of Judaism’s history to the intricate interplay between humanity and the divine. Along the way, we will seek to illuminate the essence of the Torah and the Prophets, uncovering the foundational ideas that shape their unique perspectives and teachings.
We will venture into the depths of concepts such as sin, repentance, and the enigmatic figure of the suffering tzaddik; we will explore the significance of Exodus and of exile and reflect on the profound meaning behind the bestowment of a land to the Nation of Israel; and we will examine the dynamic relationship between Israel and the nations, the symbolism of the Holy Tongue and the seventy languages, and the intricate meaning behind sacrificial worship. We will also strive to grasp the essence of prophecy and the transformative power of prayer.
At the heart of this cosmic drama lies the story of the Garden of Eden and the creation of man and woman on the first Friday. We will examine the significance of the Tree of Knowledge and the pivotal role of the relationship between the sexes as it unfolds within this grand narrative. Our journey will also delve into the meaning of Shabbos, a cornerstone of the Torah.
Throughout this work, we will illuminate the lives and legacies of the revered figures who grace the Torah’s narratives. These extraordinary heroes, whose names echo through history, include Avraham, Yitzchak, Yaakov, Yosef and his brothers, Moshe, King David, Ezra, Mordechai, Queen Esther, Cyrus the Great, Rabbi Yehoshua, Rabbi Gamliel, Shmuel the Small, and Rabbi Chiya and his sons. By examining their remarkable journeys, we will uncover timeless wisdom to guide our own paths as participants in the unfolding story of the world.
Can hardly wait!