Chanukah and Divine Order
Chanukah always overlaps with at least one Shabbat (if not two), and since Chanukah begins on the 25th of Kislev and lasts for eight days, the holiday always coincides with the…
Chanukah Yum
While Jewish holidays are known for their food (except Yom Kippur, of course), most of them are not known for being particularly healthy. Chanukah is no exception. Forget matzah or…
Blood is Life
January has been labeled National Blood Donor Month, making it an ideal time for Jewish Treats to reflect upon Judaism’s special attitude toward blood. God called the very first human…
Blessed Is He Who Makes Strange Creatures
An individual might not think that Jewish Treats would have much to say about “Peculiar People Day,” as January 10th has been dubbed by those who create new holidays. However, the sages…
Calligraphy
In honor of National Handwriting Day, which is today, Jewish Treats explores the unique calligraphy practiced by a Jewish sofer (scribe). The Hebrew letters used in a Torah scroll, as…
The Four Mitzvot of Purim
This year, Purim will be celebrated beginning Saturday evening, March 23rd, and continue through the following day, Sunday, March 24th. Four mitzvot are associated with the holiday:…
Tzav 5784-2024
“Do Sacrifices Have Any Relevance for Us Today?” (updated and revised from Tzav 5765-2005) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This week’s parasha, parashat Tzav, continues the Torah’s…
Parasha of The Month
This Shabbat we will read Parashat HaChodesh, the Sabbath of “the Month.” The Torah portion that is read as the Maftir (additional reading) after the conclusion of the reading of the…
Setting the Seder Table
Before beginning the seder this coming Monday night, it is important to make certain to prepare everything that will be necessary. No seder table is complete without the following items:…
Chol Hamoed
Most holidays in Western society last for a single day, which is often extended into the weekend. And, while most people are aware that Chanukah is celebrated for eight days, many people…