Midnight
A day is divided into 24 equal units of time (hours). Different cultures, however, define the beginning (and end) of a day differently. For instance, while a day on the Gregorian calendar…
The Blessings of the Amidah: On Behalf of the Righteous
The nineteen blessings of the Amidah make up the core of the Jewish prayer service. The thirteenth blessing is the opposite of the one before; it is a prayer for the righteous, with the…
Re’eh 5764-2004
"Identifying a True Prophet" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week's parasha, parashat Re'eh, the Torah warns the Jewish people not to follow false prophets. The difficulty with this…
Lech Lecha 5785-2024
“Was Hagar Abused?” (updated and revised from Lech Lecha 5765-2004) by Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Lech Lecha, we are introduced to the great patriarch and…
Extraordinary Role Models
Learn about great pious men and women, so their lives can serve as a model for us, even if many years later. Distinguished rabbis who lead their community are often known for their…
Plan Ahead
In addition to sumptuous food and playing with friends, it behooves those responsible for children to identify spiritual pursuits for children as well, be they prayers, or Torah study.…
The Rebbe
Jews worldwide observe the yahrzeit (anniversary of death) of the seventh Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, of blessed memory, on the 3rd of Tammuz, which is observed…
Time to Prepare
Use this Shabbat and the Sh’loshet Y’mei Hagbalah, the three days that follow before Shavuot to learn more about and to delve into the wisdom of the Sages by visiting NJOP’s Shavuot…
Bamidbar 5784-2024
“Lessons from Traveling in the Wilderness” (updated and revised from Bamidbar 5765-2005) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Bamidbar, the people of…
Isaac, Son of Abraham
Born to aged parents (Sarah was 90, Abraham was 100), Isaac was Abraham’s sole heir. This meant more than inheriting his wealth, it meant becoming the leading advocate of monotheism.…