Monthly Archives: March 2012

A Passover Conversation in Four Voices

Posted on March 26, 2012 by Sicha, Continuing the Conversation

Four conversed about the pine tree.  One defined it according to genus, species and variety.  One held forth concerning its shortcomings in the lumber industry.  One quoted verses about pine trees in numerous languages.  One struck root, stretched out branches … Continue reading →

Posted in Holidays, Passover, Poetry, Talmud | Leave a comment

Kindness, Not Sacrifice

Posted on March 15, 2012 by Sicha, Continuing the Conversation

Lonely and painful winter days invite nostalgia for days of hesed—days of loving kindness and compassion. So says the poet, Yehuda Amichai: “Those were days of hesed,” I heard them say once on a winter street during days of loneliness … Continue reading →

Posted in Midrash, Poetry | 1 Comment

Divine Gaze

Posted on March 5, 2012 by Sicha, Continuing the Conversation

After the fiasco of the golden calf, a resentful God said to the pleading Moses: You cannot see my face, for no one can see my face and live (Exodus 33:20). So says one ancient story teller: It was taught … Continue reading →

Posted in Parshat HaShavuah, Poetry, Talmud | 5 Comments