Parsha Talk Nitzavim Vayelek 5784 2024

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky.
We are winding our way to the conclusion of our annual Torah Reading. This week’s parashah, Nitzavim-Va’yelekh [Deuteronomy 29:9-31:30] is the penultimate Shabbat reading. The following Shabbat, October 5, is Shabbat Shuvah, the Shabbat between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur; that weekly reading, Ha’azinu, concludes the Shabbat weekly readings on the annual cycle here in the Diaspora. The final parashah, V-zot Ha-b’rakhah [Deuteronomy 33-34] is read on Simhat Torah, this year celebrated on Friday, October 25, 2024. It is a bittersweet celebration this year, as it marks the anniversary of the War in Israel on the Jewish Calendar.
Our conversation focused on a few pesukim [sentences] found primarily [or entirely] in parashat Nitzanim [Deuteronomy 29:9-30:20]. In particular, we discussed the theme of t’shuvah, repentance as it is generally translated, or return, which is both relevant to the Torah Reading and the season of the year.
We continue to be mindful of the hostages, may they be speedily returned to their families, and the soldiers fighting in defense of Israel, may they be removed from harms way. This is our last recording for 5784. We will resume our show after Rosh Hashanah. With best wishes for a Shabbat Shalom and a Shanah Tovah.