When anyone has a swelling or a rash or a shiny spot on their skin that may be a defiling skin disease, they must be brought to Aaron the priest or to one of his sons who is a priest. — Leviticus 13:2
Each week in synagogue, Jews read through the Torah from Genesis to Deuteronomy. The Torah portion for this week is a double reading, Tazria-Metzora, from Leviticus 12:1—15:33. Tazria means “conceived,” and Metzora means “diseased.”
You probably remember as a child, as I do, that sing-song response to someone who just called you an unkind name: “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.” However, as I’m sure you also experienced as you grew older, we learned that this simply wasn’t true. Cruel words hurt!
Since 1983, various stories of destitute Jewish people, whose names and photos may have been changed for privacy and security have been used to bless Israel and her people. Through these retellings, generous friends like you have helped feed, clothe, and shelter as well as provide medical care and heating for tens of thousands of those who struggle greatly.
