Vayechi 5774-2013
“Reconciliation and Death” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Vayechi, we learn of the passing of two great historic personages, Jacob and his beloved son,…
Parts of the Soul
Have you ever wondered about the idea of a soul? It is a word that implies something metaphysical, something spiritual, and yet ‘soul’ is a word that is used so frequently that the very…
Return of the Dead
The relationship of the living and the dead is an oft debated topic by the sages. Judaism firmly believes that, post mortem, a person's neshama (soul) goes to an afterworld…
I Got Worries
“Our Rabbis taught: Seven things are hidden from men... the day of death, and the day of comfort, the depth [extent] of judgment; and man does not know what is in his neighbor's heart;…
The Ghetto Of Venice
The Jewish ghetto of Venice, made famous in William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice ( “Shylock” ), was actually the very first “ghetto.” That does not mean that when the Venetian…
Return of the Dead?
The relationship of the living and the dead is an oft debated topic by the sages. Judaism firmly believes that, post mortem, a person's neshama (soul) goes to an afterworld known as Olam…
Uncategorized,Twebrew School Lessons
Choosing a Hebrew Name
When naming a child, parents are often faced with a great deal of outside pressure. Family, friends, co-workers--everybody has an opinion. Stressed-out parents should feel some relief…
Nitzavim-Vayeilech 5762-2002
"The Promise of Total Return" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This coming week's parashiot, Nitzavim and Vayeilech, are among the final parashiot of the book of Deuteronomy and contain the…
Shelach 5765-2005
"Bread Alone" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald As the name of the parasha, "Shelach lecha"--send for yourself, indicates, this week's parasha focuses on the 12 scouts that were sent by the…
B’ha’alot’cha 5760-2000
"Giving Our Disciples A Firm Grounding" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this coming week's parasha, parashat Beha'alotecha, G-d speaks to Moshe and says to him (Numbers 8:2): "Daber el…