This week’s double Torah portion, Tazria-Metzora, challenges us to consider the impact of our words and actions. At first glance, the detailed discussions of tzara’at—the spiritual affliction often linked to gossip (lashon hara)—may feel distant from our modern lives. Yet, its lessons remain relevant at all times.
The Torah teaches that words have the power to build or destroy. Just as tzara’at manifested on one’s skin, clothing, or home, our careless speech can leave visible marks on the lives of others and on our own soul. The process of purification, detailed in these portions, reminds us that healing is always possible. It begins with introspection and humility—qualities symbolized by the afflicted’s isolation outside the camp.
But the Torah doesn’t leave us in isolation. It teaches that reintegration comes through the support of the community and the guidance of the Kohen. This is a reminder that no one is truly alone in their struggles. We are encouraged to lift one another up, to speak words of kindness, and to approach one another with compassion.
The lesson here is obvious: Let us commit to purifying our speech, transforming negativity into blessings. In doing so, we sanctify not only ourselves but also the spaces we inhabit. May we merit to see a world healed and whole, with the coming of Moshiach, when unity and holiness prevail.
Shabbat shalom,
Rabbi Chaim & Chanie Lazaroff
THE COHEN CORNER
Ask what’s wrong before saying someone is wrong.
The Torah speaks of tzara’at, a spiritual affliction that resulted from gossip. Before someone could begin the process of purification, a Kohen had to confirm the diagnosis. Even if a scholar could recognize the signs, only a Kohen had the authority to declare someone afflicted. Why? Because Aharon, the first Kohen’s legacy, was one of peace and love for every Jew. His descendants carried that same compassion, and they would never send someone into the emotionally difficult process of recovery unless they were absolutely certain the diagnosis was correct.
This teaches us a powerful lesson: before jumping to judge someone’s actions or character, we must check our own perspective. Are we seeing clearly, or through the lens of our own flaws? Like the Kohen, we should approach others with empathy, not assumption. When we interact with understanding instead of judgment, we build a loving community.
Have a fabulous Shabbos!
Rabbi Yosef, Chanale & Mushka Cohen
UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS:
- Tuesday, May 6th - Lunch 'N Learn: "Counting With Purpose: A mystical journey through the Omer count" with Rabbi Yosef Cohen. RSVP at Chabaduptown.org/lunch
- Thursdays, May 8-22 at 10:30am - Mommy and Me with Chanale Cohen - Nurturing and engaging program designed for mothers and babies (newborn to 2 years) to learn, play, and connect in a warm Jewish environment. - www.chabaduptown.org/mommy
- Friday, May 16 at 7:30 pm - Join us for an engaging Community-themed Shabbat Dinner with an extra dose of meaning and connection! RSVP at www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
- Sunday, May 18 at 6:30 pm - Pre-Shavuot Women's Babka Bake - Master the art of baking babka and other treats! Reserve at www.chabaduptown.org/babka
- Sunday, June 1 at 11:30 pm - All Night Learn-A-Thon - featuring a lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects!
- Monday, June 2 at 11:15am - Hear the 10 Commandments read on their 3,337th anniversary, followed by our annual Dairy Kiddush & Ice Cream party! Fun-filled Children's Program! More info at www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule
- Tuesday, June 3 at 11:45am - Yizkor Memorial Service
UPCOMING YJP EVENTS:
- Friday, May 2 at 7:30pm - YJP First Fridays - Cinco De Shabbat- Mexican Themed Shabbat Dinner for Young Jewish Professionals. www.yjphouston.org/fiesta
- Wednesday, May 7 at 8:00 pm - Dinner, Class & Social with Chanie
- Wed-Sun., May 7-11 - CYP Encounter Guatemala - Join us for an adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. www.chabadyoung.com/gua
- Four Wednesdays, May 14-June 4 - CYP Academy Worrier to Warrior: The Chassidic Approach to Overcoming Emotional Hurdles. Ever feel like life throws a little too much your way sometimes? Worrier to Warrior is a powerful new course that offers practical tools and timeless Jewish wisdom to help you navigate those inner battles, tap into your soul’s strength, and face challenges with more clarity, calm, and confidence. Build that emotional toolbox—you’ll be glad you did. REGISTER: www.yjphouston.org/warrior
- Thursday, May 15 at 8pm - Lag Ba'omer Steakhouse - Experience the mystical Jewish Holiday with mouthwatering steaks, fire pit and s’mores, open bar and music. RSVP at www.yjphouston.org/steaks
- Thursday, May 22, 7:30 pm - Third Thursdays Happy Hour - Location TBA
- Thursday, May 29 at 8 pm - Met@Chabad Speeddating- www.metatchabad.com/speeddating
- Wed.-Thurs., July 2-10 - CYP Israel Volunteer Trip - Meaningful, memorable and amazing volunteering trip to Israel this summer, eligible ages 18-50 —and the price is insane - as low at $599! www.yjphouston.org/israeltrip
SHABBOS PARSHAS TAZRIA-METZORA
FRIDAY, MAY 2, IYAR 4
7:30 Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat
7:42 Shabbos Candle Lighting
Count Omer 20
8:30 pm RSVP for Cinco de Shabbat - First Fridays Dinner www.yjphouston.org/fiesta
SHABBOS, MAY 3, IYAR 5
9:00 am Chassidus
10:00 am Morning Services
Shabbos Lunch Kiddush sponsored by Yocheved Shwarzman marking the yartzeit of her husband, Yitzchak ben Asher Zelig, a"h
7:40 pm Mincha
Study of Pirkei Avos Ch. 2
8:38 pm Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbat Ends
Count Omer 21
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