It’s been almost a year since I started this series (originally called Aftermarket Rabbi). We’re extremely close to the finish line of completing essays that align with the weekly readings from the Five Books of Moses (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Number and Deuteronomy), as well as referencing a majority of the Jewish holidays.

Whoever is interested in seeing all the archives, they can be found here: https://ben-tzion.com/aftermarket-rabbi/

As we get to the final articles, I wanted to clarify what that will look like, as it is extremely easy and common to get the Torah reading calendar mixed up with the general Hebrew calendar, especially around the approaching Jewish holidays. This is particularly noticeable this year, as when a Jewish holiday coincides with the Sabbath, it pushes off the order of the regular Torah reading in the synagogue to the next Sabbath.

Here is an overview of the upcoming articles:

1. We’re more than halfway through the last month of the Hebrew year (Elul). I’ll resend something I wrote about this last year. The reshares are meant for the new subscribers, though original followers may also enjoy a review.
2. This coming Sabbath (September 5) is the weekly reading of the dual portions of Nitzavim-Vayelech, as Moses wraps up his final discourse to the people of Israel (Book of Deuteronomy, Chapters 29-31).
3. The following week is Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, from Friday evening, September 11, until Sunday night, September 13. I’ll again send something relating to Rosh Hashana.
4. The Sabbath of September 19 will be the reading of the poetic portion Haazinu (Book of Deuteronomy, Chapter 32).
5. It is followed by Yom Kippur, from Sunday evening, September 20 until Monday night, September 21. Again, I’ll send something for Yom Kippur.
6. The next weekend (September 23-25) coincides with the beginning of the holiday of Sukkot
7. The following weekend (October 2-4) is the culmination of the holiday (also known as Simchat Torah.
8. This also culminates with the final reading portion of the Torah, the reading of Vezot Haberachah, Moses’ final blessings to each of the tribes of Israel before his death, (Book of Deuteronomy, Chapters 33-34) and then we immediately start from the beginning of the Torah with the portion of Bereshit, the creation of the Universe, the World and Humanity, (Book of Genesis, Chapters 1-6) and starting the yearly Torah reading cycle again.

At this point, my intention is to end the series and start converting these essay into a book version.

Thanks to everyone who has supported me during this effort, both online and offline. Every input was greatly appreciated.

It’s not too early to wish everyone the traditional Jewish blessing for a Good and Sweet Year for the upcoming 5787!

Thanks!

Ben