Torah Portion: Parashah

An open Torah scroll with ornate handles rests on a table with other Jewish texts.

Each week, we read a different section of the Torah. Sometimes we read stories about our ancestors’ journeys. Sometimes we read details about the ancient Temple or complex lists of laws. Whatever the content, the Torah portion (or parashah) is frequently the basis for discussions and sermons at Shabbat services in synagogue and throughout the week. Torah text has also been the inspiration for many contemporary songs, poems, and prayers. 

Latest Rituals

“May all the contracted thoughts and obstacles, all the aversions, the wrestling and judgements cease…”
Hands forming a heart shape framing the sun at sunset in a scenic, open field with silhouetted trees.
This painting is part of a series of visual midrash (sacred commentary) on the first Book of the Bible, Bereshit | Genesis.
Abstract green and yellow shapes on a dark background, creating a glowing, organic effect.
Inspiration for me / as I struggle to build / a space inside my heart / where holiness can dwell.
Person in a white shirt holding their chest with both hands outdoors at sunset, suggesting chest pain.
Let this be our prayer. Let this be our stand. Let this be our refusal to accept empire as sacred, or militarism as holy.
Crowd at a protest, holding signs. Urban street setting with old buildings in the background.
“Gripped by the desire to decode what we cannot know, we examine each word…”
Torah parchment
“Beyond the realm of seven’s creation, / Perhaps it is there…”
A hand holding a marshmallow over a campfire with bright orange flames and burning logs.
“Given any chance, we would never let a mother or a child die…”
Close-up of blooming chive flowers with light purple petals and green stems in a garden.
“I am comforted by a divine sense of wonder…”
Stellar nebula with swirling clouds of gas and dust, illuminated by bright stars against a dark space background.
“Then how Aaron cradles the blossom for you…”
Close-up of a white strawberry blossom with a yellow center next to a green bud, set against a blurred background.

The Reconstructionist Network

Serving as central organization of the Reconstructionist movement

Training the next generation of groundbreaking rabbis

Modeling respectful conversations on pressing Jewish issues

Curating original, Jewish rituals, and convening Jewish creatives

Join us for a special event and receive a new booklet of readings and creative prompts to guide you through the Festival of Lights.

Bring your candles, your curiosity, your voice, and your yearning. 

Get the latest from Ritualwell

Subscribe for the latest rituals, online learning opportunities, and unique Judaica finds from our store.

The Reconstructionist Network