Did You Say Satan?
The word Satan derives from the Hebrew satan, literally “hinderer.” However, the common Christian belief that Satan is a fallen angel who opposes God by tempting humans to sin is…
Did You Say Satan?
The word Satan derives from the Hebrew ha’satan, literally “the hinderer.” However, the common Christian belief that Satan is a fallen angel who opposes God by tempting humans to sin is…
What They Did, What They Do
Try to discover what nusach your ancestors used and what nusach is used in your community now.
I Did It
When you've made an error, admit it in straight-forward language, fix it (if you can), and then move on.
Vayeitzei 5768-2007
"How Dare You Accuse Me!" by Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald After working 20 years for Laban, Jacob and his wives decide that it is time to leave Laban and his family. They see no future for…
Gad, the Son of Jacob
The patriarch Jacob loved his wife Rachel, but it was his wife Leah who initially made him a father (since Rachel was unable to conceive for many years). When Rachel presented her…
Vayeitzei 5770-2009
"Punishment Awaits the Evildoers" by Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald In this week's parasha, parashat Vayeitzei, we read of the deception of Jacob by his father-in-law, Laban. Jacob, of course,…
Vayishlach 5776-2015
“Jacob Tarries in Succot” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Vayishlach, Jacob sends messengers ahead of him to Esau, his brother, to the land of Seir to…