Sh’mot (Names) Ex./Sh’mot 1:1-6:1

: Sh’mot (Names) Exodus/Sh’mot 1:1-6:1

Haftorah Readings: Jeremiah 1:1-2:3

Today we begin a new book of Torah, Exodus or Sh’mot. We will read the names of the people who came to Egypt from Israel. They came with no idea of what would transpire over the coming years. However, as we will see G-d was there and had a plan.

B’resheet (In the Beginning) Genesis 1:1-6:8

: B’resheet (In the Beginning) Genesis 1:1-6:8

Haftorah Readings: Isaiah 42:5-43:10

Today we begin the yearly Torah cycle anew with our first reading in Genesis. Our reading begins with two Hebrew words usually translated as “In the beginning.” However, a more accurate translation would be “In beginning.” The literal translation more accurately expresses the true meaning of the opening words. In the beginning gives the idea that there was already a beginning. However, the Hebrew wording, “In beginning” more clearly states that everything began with G-d. G-d steps in and starts the entire process. He spoke and things appeared from just His word. A small but very important distinction.