In brief: Ḥayyei Sarah translates to “Life of Sarah.” This section focuses on Sarah’s passing, the arrival of Rebekah, and Abraham’s passing and burial. It surprised me that the story of Sarah’s passing would be referred to as “life of…
Category: Meander
The 5 Books Meander, Week 4 (Va-Yera’)
In brief: 3 wise men visit Abraham and Sarah and make Sarah laugh, which seems to perplex or perhaps annoy God, who is super no-nonsense about the whole thing (I did not laugh, says Sarah. And God replies, “You did…
The Midnight’s Children Meander, Week 12
This is a post of gratitude. A big overdue thank you to all for joining this trek. Grueling at times, for sure. But I feel like many of the folks on the thread do — weirdly proud to have this…
The 5 Books Meander, Week 3 (Lekh-Lekha)
In brief: Far from the simple shepherd I’ve always pictured, So-called Abram turns out to be complex — a wealthy man, a traveller, a warrior, a slaveowner. Also Lots’ uncle. And a bit quick to say his wife is his…
The Midnight’s Children Meander, Week 11
This week it seemed like history and fiction were spinning faster and faster together in a tight grip, all I’m sure leading to a dizzying conclusion. We also got another quick recap of much of what’s happened before, another mad…
The 5 Books Meander, Week 2 (Noaḥ)
Another wonderful section this week. A few thoughts: Much like Seth, the Raven could use more/better PR. On the other hand, the animals that creep are getting tons of screen time. Holding the child responsible for the sins of the…
The Midnight’s Children Meander, Week 10
Oh my goodness we are close to the finish line! Meanwhile, I’ve been busy writing my thesis on pickles and Midnight’s Children, aptly titled, Midnight’s Pickles. Pickle-shaped noses aside, this section was a particularly rich source of literary dill. Twenty-six…
The 5 Books Meander, Week 1 (Bereshit)
In the Jewish tradition, there’s this idea of Torah portions — parashot plural and parashah singular — that you read each week for about a year. And it starts this week. This very one! Right now! With a couple other…
The Midnight’s Children Meander, Week 9
Well, I cheated. Held off posting for an extra day to buy myself more time. But I finally caught up with you mighty Meanderers! And props to folks who are still reading and just a little bit behind. I am…
The Midnight’s Children Meander, Week 8
Friends, I have no one to blame but myself! I set us an ambitious goal and like a few fellow Meanderers, this is the week that tripped me up. Perhaps both the book and real life had just a little…