The Foods of Tu b’Shevat

Today, Jews around the world will celebrate Tu b’Shevat, the new year of the trees. Tu b’Shevat is often celebrated with the seven species for which the Torah praises the land of Israel:…

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Passover Preparations

Passover Preparations “And this day will be for you as a memorial and you will celebrate it as a festival for G-d. Throughout…

Can You Count to 49?

There is a commandment (Leviticus 23:15) to count the 49 days that immediately follow the first night of Passover and, on the 50th night, to celebrate the holiday of Shavuot. This period…

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Special Cures

The art of discovering cures and concocting remedies is a skill that is a fascinating blend of ancient and modern knowledge. In honor of National Pharmacist Day (January 12), which…

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Can You Count to 49?

There is a commandment (Leviticus 23:15) to count the 49 days that immediately follow the first night of Passover and, on the 50th night, to celebrate the holiday of Shavuot. This period…

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Kee Tavo 5769-2009

"Stretch Those Face Muscles!" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week's parasha, parashat Kee Tavo, we find the fascinating portion regarding the giving of Bikurim, the season's first…

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Kee Tavo 5766-2006

"Respect for the Person and the Office" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In the opening chapter of this week's parasha, parashat Kee Tavo, we read about the ritual of Bikurim -- the gift of…

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The Counting of the Omer

The Counting of the Omer We begin counting the days towards the next festival, Shavuot. Sefirat HaOmer – Counting the Omer 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…

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Shavuot 5762-2002

"Beyond the Book of Ruth: The Untold Story" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Beginning this Thursday night, May 16th and continuing through Friday and Shabbat, May 17th and 18th, Jews…

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