Tisha b’Av
This Saturday night at sunset, the saddest day on the Jewish calendar begins. Known as the Fast of the 9th of Av (Tisha b’Av), it’s observance this year is postponed one day because it is…
The Saddest Day
Given the numerous tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people throughout the centuries on Tisha b'Av, contemplate what we each can do in our own lives to improve our actions and…
A Woman in Charge: Bessie Gotsfeld
Mizrachi Women’s Organization of America (MWOA, known today as AMIT – Americans for Israel and Torah) began as part of the religious Zionist organization known as Mizrachi of America. The…
For Religious Education
Recognize the important work of AMIT, which supports and operates over 100 schools and programs as part of Israel’s only government-recognized network of religious Jewish education.…
Rashi and The Tosafot Commentaries
One of the most fascinating aspects of Jewish study are the layer-upon-layer of enlightening and edifying commentaries that can be found when studying texts of the Torah or the Talmud. Of…
The Month of Av
The months of the Jewish year are called in the Torah by number only (the first month, second month, etc.). Over time, during the exile, the months assumed the names given to them by host…
Watch Your Language
Once upon a time in American culture, defiant children who uttered certain improper words would have their mouths washed out with soap. Today, profanities litter the world of common…
Matot-Masei 5782-2022
“The Massacre of the Midianites: Does Judaism Countenance Genocide?” (Updated and revised from Matot-Masei 5763-2003) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald At the conclusion of parashat Balak,…
The Hebrew University
Since its first official overseas program in 1955, the Hebrew University in Jerusalem has attracted hundreds of young Jewish adults from both North America and Europe. Hebrew University…
Hang Your Hammock
Today is National Hammock Day. Hammocking appears to be the ultimate celebration of the lazy days of summer. As we prepare for the onset of Shabbat later this afternoon, Jewish Treats…