To get the most out of the Parashah Project, here are some reading strategies that many people have found helpful.
Daily Strategy
READ THE BIBLE FIRST: Begin each day by reading the Scripture passages in full before engaging with the Parashah Project commentary. “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). Approach the text expectantly, inviting God to speak to your heart before commentary interpretation.
WORK THROUGH THE COMMENTARY: After reading the passages, return to the commentary. Take it section by section, allowing it to guide your attention to insights you may have missed in your first reading. The commentary is designed to highlight the flow of the narrative, the theological patterns, and the connections across Scripture.
LOOK UP REFERENCES: Use the references provided to deepen your study. These notes are windows into surrounding passages, historical context, and thematic threads that stretch through the Torah, the Prophets, and the Apostolic Writings. Following them helps you see the unifying storyline of God’s redemptive plan.
LINGER…PONDER AND WANDER: Scripture is not meant to be rushed. Take time to sit with what you’ve read, reflecting on how God’s Word intersects with your life. Pray, meditate, and allow God to lead you down “rabbit trails” of discovery. Let curiosity, awe, and devotion guide your exploration of His Word.
How To Approach a “Double Portion” Week
Some weeks the Torah arrives with two portions joined together. This happens to keep the annual cycle whole, accommodating the interruptions of holidays and the demands of the sacred calendar. What looks like an obstacle is an invitation to deeper engagement with the living God.
The simplest approach:
Sunday through Tuesday: Work through the first portion using the Daily Strategy above.
Wednesday–Friday: Bring the same attentiveness to the second portion.
Shabbat: Rest in what God has given you this week and share it in community.
There is no rule requiring you to complete both in full. The text is the host. Come to the Table with what you have.