The story of the spies lies at the heart of the entire book of Bamidbar; it determines who will – and who will not – be able to enter the Land of Israel. While the spies have generally drawn the scorn of traditional commentators, who are stunned by their lack of faith, I’ve always had such compassion for them.

This new school year, like every new year, is full of possibility and promise. We were reminded in last week’s parsha, parashat Shoftim, of the Torah’s call to build communities rooted in justice and integrity. The portion famously commands, “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof - Justice, justice shall you pursue.”