The Rabbi Sacks Legacy
Follow the audio shiurim, lectures and speeches of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, global religious leader, philosopher, author of over 30 books and moral voice for our time. Rabbi Sacks served as Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth between September 1991 and September 2013. A full biography - together with an extensive online archive of Rabbi Sacks' work - is available at www.rabbisacks.org or you can follow him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @rabbisacks.
Episodes
Against Hate (Rabbi Sacks on Ki Teitse, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/ki-teitse/against-hate/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Ki Teitse (written by Rabbi
Learning and Leadership (Rabbi Sacks on Shoftim, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2014, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/shoftim/learning-leadership/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Shoftim (written by Ra
Making Poverty History (Re'eh, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/reeh/making-poverty-history/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Re'eh (written by Rabb
The Spirituality of Listening (Eikev, Covenant & Conversation)
ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/eikev/the-spirituality-of-listening/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Eikev (written by Rabbi Sacks in 2013) is available to read, print, and share, by visiting: https://rabbisacks.org/
Philosophy or Prophecy? (Rabbi Sacks on Va'etchanan, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2017, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vaetchanan/philosophy-or-prophecy/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Va'etchanan (wri
Why Are There So Many Jewish Lawyers? (Rabbi Sacks on Devarim, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2015, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/devarim/why-are-there-so-many-jewish-lawyers/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Devar
The Complexity of Human Rights (Rabbi Sacks on Matot-Masei, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/masei/complexity-human-rights/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Matot-Masei (written
Pacing Change (Rabbi Sacks on Pinchas, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/pinchas/pacing-change/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Pinchas (written by Rabbi Sa
What Makes God Laugh (Chukat-Balak, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/balak/what-makes-god-laugh/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Chukat-Balak (written b
Hierarchy and Politics: The Never-Ending Story (Korach)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/korach/hierarchy-politics-never-ending-story/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Korac
What Made Joshua and Caleb Different? (Shelach Lecha)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/shelach-lecha/what-made-joshua-and-caleb-different/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on
From Despair to Hope (Beha'alotecha, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/behaalotecha/from-despair-to-hope/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Beha'alotecha (w
Lifting Heads (Rabbi Sacks on Naso, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2018, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/naso/lifting-heads/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Naso (written by Rabbi Sacks in
Law as Love (Rabbi Sacks on Bamidbar, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2015, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/bamidbar/law-as-love/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Bamidbar (written by Rabbi Sa
Family Feeling (Rabbi Sacks on Behar-Bechukotai, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/behar/family-feeling/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Behar-Bechukotai (written by
The Duality of Jewish Time (Rabbi Sacks on Emor, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/emor/the-duality-of-jewish-time/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Emor (written by R
Holy People, Holy Land (Acharei Mot-Kedoshim, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/acharei-mot/holy-people-holy-land/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Acharei Mot - Ke
The Sacrifices of Childbirth (Rabbi Sacks on Tazria-Metzora)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
Follow along with the full article, written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2019, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/tazria/the-sacrifices-of-childbirth/
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Tazria-Metzor
Fire: Holy and Unholy (Rabbi Sacks on Shemini, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. Covenant & Conversation examines the ethics and wisdom we can derive from the Torah, week-by-week, parsha by parsha.
You can find the full written article on Shemini available to read, print, and share, by visiting: rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversa…-holy-and-unholy/
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from R
From the Archives: A Pesach Shiur by Rabbi Sacks | From Freedom to Responsibility (March 2013)
Rabbi Jonathan's pre-Pesach 2013 shiur took place in London during the launch of the Koren Sacks Pesach Machzor. Listen as he marks the journey of Bnei Yisrael, drawing parallels both with the period of Creation, and with our journey towards further progress and responsibility in today's world.
This was Rabbi Sacks' final Pesach before stepping down as Chief and officially opening the Office of
(Violence and the Sacred) Rabbi Sacks on Tzav, Covenant & Conversation
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written in 2007 and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2015.
This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Tzav is
The Pursuit of Meaning (Rabbi Sacks on Vayikra, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016.
Follow along with the full written article here: h
The Spirit of Community (Rabbi Sacks on Vayakhel-Pekudei)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2015.
Follow along with the full written article here: h
Between Truth and Peace (Rabbi Sacks on Ki Tissa, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011.
Follow along with the full written article here: h
Inspiration and Perspiration (Rabbi Sacks on Tetzaveh, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2018.
Follow along with the full written article here: h
The Gift of Giving (Rabbi Sacks on Terumah, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016.
Follow along with the full written article here: h
Doing and Hearing (Rabbi Sacks on Mishpatim, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016.
Follow along with the full written article here: h
To Thank Before We Think (Rabbi Sacks on Yitro, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016.
Follow along with the full written article here: r
Looking Up (Rabbi Sacks on Beshallach, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2014.
Follow along with the full written article here: h
The Spiritual Child (Bo, Rabbi Sacks on Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016.
Follow along with the full written article here:
Spirits in a Material World (Rabbi Sacks on Va'era, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016.
Follow along with the full written article here:
The Challenge of Jewish Leadership (Rabbi Sacks on Shemot, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011.
Follow along with the full written article here:
Grandparents (Rabbi Sacks on Vayechi, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011.
Follow along with the full written article here:
Reframing (Rabbi Sacks on Vayigash, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016.
Follow along with the full written article here:
To Wait Without Despair (Rabbi Sacks on Mikketz, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Mikketz was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2015. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/mikketz/to-wait-without-despair/
You can also and download this week's FEATURED essay, and
Refusing Comfort, Keeping Hope (Vayeshev, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Vayeshev was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2019. Follow along, download this week's essay, and see all translations, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vayeshev/refusing-comfort-keeping-ho
Feeling the Fear (Rabbi Sacks on Vayishlach, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Vayishlach was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vayishlach/feeling-the-fear/
You can also and download this week's featured essay, and a
Light in Dark Times (Rabbi Sacks on Vayetse, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Vayetse was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2013. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vayetse/light-in-dark-times/
You can also and download this week's featured essay, and all
Was Jacob Right To Take Esau's Blessing? (Rabbi Sacks on Toldot)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Toldot was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2014. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/toldot/jacob-right-take-esaus-blessing/
You can also and download this week's featured essay
A Call from the Future (Rabbi Sacks on Chayei Sarah, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Chayei Sarah was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2015. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/chayei-sarah/a-call-from-the-future/
You can also and download this week's featured es
Even Higher than Angels (Rabbi Sacks on Vayera, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Vayera was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2019.
Read and download the written essay, and all translations: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vayera/even-higher-than-angels/
For intergeneratio
Journey of the Generations (Rabbi Sacks on Lech Lecha)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Lech Lecha was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2015. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/lech-lecha/journey-of-the-generations/
This week's FEATURED essay on Lech Lecha is avail
Righteousness is not Leadership (Rabbi Sacks on Noach, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Noach was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2013. Follow along here: rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversa…s-not-leadership/
This week's FEATURED essay on Noach is available here: rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversa
The Art of Listening (Rabbi Sacks on Bereishit, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Bereishit was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2015. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation-family-edition/bereishit/the-art-of-listening/
This week's FEATURED essay on Bereishit is
Emotional Intelligence (Rabbi Sacks on Ha'azinu, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Ha'azinu was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2018. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/haazinu/emotional-intelligence/
This week's FEATURED essay on Ha'azinu is available here:
Torah as Song (Rabbi Sacks on Vayelech, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Vayelech was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2015. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vayelech/torah-as-song/
This week's FEATURED essay on Vayelech is available here: https://
Three Responses to Crisis: A Midnight Selichot Address from Rabbi Sacks (Sept. 2012)
In September 2011, Rabbi Sacks delivered his Selichot address at the midnight service in Western Marble Arch Synagogue.
The service included music from the Shabbaton Choir with Rabbi Lionel Rosenfeld and Chazzan Jonny Turgel. This video is just the second part of the full sermon given by Rabbi Sacks.
Watch this inspirational address to learn how Rabbi Sacks outlined our three choices as we face
Why Judaism? (Rabbi Sacks on Nitzavim, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Nitzavim was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2015. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/nitzavim/why-judaism/
This week's FEATURED essay on Nitzavim is available here: https://ra
Be Silent and Listen (Rabbi Sacks on Ki Tavo, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Ki Tavo was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2020. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/ki-tavo/be-silent-and-listen/
This week's FEATURED essay on Ki Tavo is available here: http
Against Hate (Rabbi Sacks on Ki Teitse, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Ki Teitse was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2014. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/ki-teitse/against-hate/
This week's FEATURED essay on Ki Teitse is available here: https:
The Greatness of Humility (Rabbi Sacks on Shoftim, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Shoftim was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2016. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/shoftim/greatness-of-humility/
This week's featured essay on Shoftim is available here: htt
Defining Reality (Re'eh, Rabbi Sacks on Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Re'eh was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2014. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/reeh/defining-reality/
This week's featured essay on Re'eh is available here: https://rabbisa
The Politics of Memory (Rabbi Sacks on Eikev, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Parshat Eikev was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2019.
Follow along with the audio here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/eikev/the-politics-of-memory/
This week's featured essay on Eikev is a
Why Is The Jewish People So Small? (Vaetchanan)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Vaetchanan was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2019. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vaetchanan/why-is-the-jewish-people-so-small/
This week's featured essay on Va'etchanan
The First Follower (Rabbi Sacks on Devarim, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Devarim was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2020. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/devarim/the-first-follower/
This week's featured essay on Devarim is available here: rabbis
Conflict Resolution (Rabbi Sacks on Matot-Masei, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Matot-Masei was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2014. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/matot/conflict-resolution/
This week's featured essay on Matot-Masei is available here:
Elijah and the Still, Small Voice (Rabbi Sacks on Pinchas, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Parshat Pinchas was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2015. Follow along here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/pinchas/elijah-and-the-still-small-voice/
This year's featured essay on Pinchas is
Not Reckoned Among the Nations Rabbi Sacks on Balak, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Parshat Balak was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2019.
Follow along with the audio here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/balak/not-reckoned-among-the-nations/
Read and download the written es
Losing Miriam (Rabbi Sacks on Chukat, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio on Parshat Chukat from Rabbi Sacks was recorded in 2019.
Follow along with the audio here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/chukat/losing-miriam/
Read and download the written essay, and all
Servant Leadership (Rabbi Sacks on Korach, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio from Rabbi Sacks was recorded in 2014.
Follow along with the audio here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/korach/servant-leadership/
This week we are featuring a Rabbi Sacks essay on a simila
Fear of Failure (Shelach Lecha, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio from Rabbi Sacks was recorded in 2019.
To read and download the written essay, and all translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/shelach-lecha/fear-of-freedom/
This week we a
What Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks’ State of the Jewish World Teaches Us Today - AJC & Books and Beyond
In 2014, the late Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks stood on the AJC Global Forum stage and delivered a powerful call to action.
Over a decade later, at AJC Global Forum 2025, AJC’s Director of Jewish Communal Partnerships, Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman, revisits that message in a special crossover episode between 'People of the Pod' and 'Books and Beyond' the podcast that delves deeply into (and beyond) fou
Loneliness and Faith (Rabbi Sacks on Beha'alotecha, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio from Rabbi Sacks was recorded in 2020.
To read and download the written essay, and all translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/behaalotecha/loneliness-and-faith/.
This week
Sages and Saints: Two Versions of the Moral Life (Rabbi Sacks on Naso)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio from Rabbi Sacks was recorded in 2015.
To read and download the written essay, and all translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/naso/the-courage-to-engage-with-the-world/ or
The Ever-Repeated Story (Rabbi Sacks on Bamidbar, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio from Rabbi Sacks was recorded in 2017.
To read and download the written essay, and all translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/bamidbar/the-ever-repeated-story/
For interge
The Economics of Liberty (Rabbi Sacks on Behar-Bechukotai, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio from Rabbi Sacks was recorded in 2015, as part of the Ethics series.
To read and download the written essay, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/behar/the-economics-of-liberty/
This
Holy Times (Rabbi Sacks on Parshat Emor, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio from Rabbi Sacks was recorded in 2016, as part of the Spirituality series.
To read and download the written essay, click here:
https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/emor/holy-times/
This week we
Love Is Not Enough (Rabbi Sacks on Acharei Mot-Kedoshim)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio from Rabbi Sacks was recorded in 2018.
To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/acharei-mot/love-not-enough/
For intergenerational
Israel Undefeated (Yom HaZikaron-Yom Ha'atzmaut 5766 speech by Rabbi Sacks)
19 years ago Rabbi Sacks delivered this Yom HaZikaron-Yom Ha'atzmaut address. He spoke, as was his annual tradition as Chief Rabbi, at the Bnei Akiva ceremony in May 2006, at Finchley Synagogue (Kinloss). These words, 19 years later, could almost have been freshly written for today. His message is timeless, and timely.
Find more content like this on our Israel page: https://rabbisacks.org/israe
The Sacrifices of Childbirth (Rabbi Sacks on Tazria-Metzora)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
This audio from Rabbi Sacks was recorded in 2018.
To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/tazria/holiness-and-childbirth/
For intergeneratio
Limits (Rabbi Sacks on Shemini, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2020.
To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/shemini/limits/
You can also find Rabbi Sacks' writ
Giving Thanks (Rabbi Sacks on Tzav, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2018.
To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/tzav/giving-thanks/
You can also find our written a
Why do we sacrifice? (Rabbi Sacks on Vayikra, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2015.
To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vayikra/why-do-we-sacrifice/
You can also find our
Encampments & Journeys (Rabbi Sacks on Pekudei)
Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2017.
To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vayakhel/encampments-journeys/
You can also find ou
The Spirit of Community (Rabbi Sacks on Vayakhel, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2015.
To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vayakhel/the-spirit-of-community/
You can also find
The Sabbath: First Day Or Last? (Rabbi Sacks on Ki Tissa)
Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2017.
To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/ki-tissa/the-sabbath-first-day-or-last/
You can als
Dressing to Impress (Rabbi Sacks on Tetzaveh)
Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2020.
To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/tetzaveh/dressing-to-impress/
You can also find our
The Architecture of Holiness (Rabbi Sacks on Terumah, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2017.
To read and download the written essay and find all the translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/terumah/the-architecture-of-holiness/
The Power of Empathy (Rabbi Sacks on Mishpatim)
Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2018.
To read and download the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/mishpatim/the-power-of-empathy/
You can also find o
Mount Sinai and the Birth of Freedom (Yitro, Covenant & Conversation)
Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks’ commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
Listen to this audio recording from Rabbi Sacks in 2019.
For the written essay and translations, click here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/yitro/mount-sinai-and-the-birth-of-freedom/
You can find our written
