This morning we discuss a fascinating, critical character in our Torah portion, Shemot, without whom Jewish history would have been drastically different - Batya, the daughter of Paro. We analyze the depth of her compassion for the baby she sees in a basket in the river, and the conviction of her courage in not only saving him, but in adopting him as her son. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks sees here the light of humanity even within the heart of darkness. There have always been Batya-like people, and we must recognize and thank them, especially as we are surrounded by enemies and those we thought were friends who now celebrate our defeats. There will always be a Batya.
Michael Whitman is the senior rabbi of ADATH Congregation in Hampstead, Quebec, and an adjunct professor at McGill University Faculty of Law. ADATH is a modern orthodox synagogue community in suburban Montreal, providing Judaism for the next generation. We take great pleasure in welcoming everyone with a warm smile, while sharing inspiration through prayer, study, and friendship.
Rabbi Whitman shares his thoughts and inspirations through online lectures and shiurim, which are available on:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5FLcsC6xz5TmkirT1qObkA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adathmichael/
Podcast - Mining the Riches of the Parsha:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/mining-the-riches-of-the-parsha/id1479615142?fbclid=IwAR1c6YygRR6pvAKFvEmMGCcs0Y6hpmK8tXzPinbum8drqw2zLIo7c9SR-jc
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3hWYhCG5GR8zygw4ZNsSmO
Please contact Rabbi Whitman (
[email protected]) with any questions or feedback, or to receive a daily email, "Study with Rabbi Whitman Today," with current and past insights for that day, video, and audio, all in one short email sent directly to your inbox.