This week's portion covers a diverse array of subjects: the symbolic adornments of the Tabernacle; the service of the Levites; the pillars of cloud and fire that guided the people; the manna from Heaven; and the story of Miram's gossip.
The latter is fascinating. Miriam is stricken with tzara'at -- often translated, rather inadequately, as "leprosy" -- for gossiping about her brother's wife, who was not originally Jewish. This is the Biblical basis for the prohibition on gossip.
That prohibition, called "lashon hara" -- "evil tongue" -- applies not only to talk that is slanderous, but to speech that is true. It creates a moral and ethical dilemma for a journalist like me: it is necessary that I write about other people!
I think that journalism, and writing more generally, can be squared with this principle by conducting it in a spirit of good intentions. That means refraining from gratuitous attacks and pointless coverage, and aiming toward higher goals.
Today's episode is devoted to the second anniversary of the October 7 terror attacks. It was produced before the announcement of a ceasefire deal, yet remains current & relevant.
Please listen, and #bringthemhome.
SiriusXM Patriot 125, 7-10 p.m. ET (4-7 PT)
This week's portion is a beautiful poem, containing the Covenant between God and the people of Israel. But given the breaking news that Hamas may actually have agreed to release all of the Israeli hostages, I will devote my remarks to that.
One hopes it is true; if so, it makes this week's additional reading, from II Samuel 22, even more relevant: David's song of praise to the Lord for delivering him from the hand of his enemies.
"18 He rescued me from my powerful enemy,
from my foes, who were too strong for me.
19 They confronted me in the day of my disaster,
but the Lord was my support."
So much to focus on this week -- and much breaking news. A peace deal in the Middle East, perhaps? Eric Adams dropping out of the mayor's race? And a looming shutdown as Democrats push their demands beyond absurdity.
Special guests:
- Bradley Jaye - Breitbart News congressional correspondent, on the shutdown
- John Carney - Breitbart News financial editor, on the upcoming jobs report
- Jerome Hudson - Breitbart News entertainment editor, on the Kimmel fallout
- Frances Martel - Breitbart News foreign editor, on the UN and Gaza talks
- Matisyahu - award-winning reggae artist, on his new album, "Ancient Child"
Tune in: 7-10 p.m. ET, 4-7 p.m. PT
Call: 866-957-2874
