Parashat HaShavua: Reading and Study
An orientation to the annual Torah-reading cycle, with links to the text, commentaries, and calendar.
The Torah is divided into 54 named portions. Some are joined in particular years, so the number of portions is not the number of ordinary reading weeks.
Israel and diaspora schedules can diverge, especially when a festival falls on Shabbat. Haftarah selections and other reading customs also differ among communities and on special Shabbatot.
Madreiga links each parasha to its Torah range and to available sources and commentaries. To identify the reading for a particular Shabbat, use the calendar setting for that place and year.
What you get in Madreiga
- ·The Torah range for each parasha
- ·Links to the text and available commentaries
- ·Hebrew-date and reading-cycle context
- ·Related Midrash, Chassidut, and study collections
Frequently asked questions
What is Parashat HaShavua?
It is the portion in the public Torah-reading cycle assigned to a particular Shabbat. Some portions are combined in certain years, and Israel and diaspora schedules can temporarily diverge.
How do I know which parasha is read this week?
Use a calendar set for Israel or the diaspora as appropriate. Festivals and special Shabbatot can replace or alter the ordinary weekly reading.
Does every parasha have one fixed Haftarah?
Not in every community or week. Ashkenazi, Sephardic, Yemenite, and other traditions can use different selections, and a special Shabbat may replace the regular Haftarah.
How can I begin studying a parasha?
Read the verses as a continuous unit, note one or two questions, and then consult an available commentary. It helps to distinguish peshat, midrash, and halachic discussion.