Toledot 5778-2017
“Isaac’s Unconditional Love for Esau” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Toledot, we read of the birth of Esau and Jacob. Isaac was 60 years old when his wife,…
Accepting Wisdom
“Ben Zoma said: ‘Who is wise? One who learns from all people, as it is said (Psalms 119:99): 'From all those who taught me, I gained understanding'” (Pirkei Avot/Ethics of the…
Accepting Wisdom
“Ben Zoma said: Who is wise? An individual who learns from all people, as it is said (Psalms 119:99): ‘From all those who taught me, I gained understanding’” (Pirkei Avot/Ethics of the…
Be Accepting
Always judge others favorably, even if you don't understand their life point of view.
Genesis,Weekly Message,Vayishlach
Vayishlach 5773-2012
"Gid Ha’nasheh: The Sinew of the Thigh" By Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Vayishlach, after twenty two years of fleeing from his brother Esau, who had…
The Blessings of the Amidah: Understanding
The nineteen blessings of the Amidah make up the core of the Jewish prayer service. The fourth blessing recognizes God as the source of our own ability to understand the world. Ah’tah…
Vayishlach 5765-2004
"The Encounter" by Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald In this week's parasha, parashat Vayishlach, we read of the dramatic encounter between Jacob and Esau. Uncertain whether Esau is coming toward…
Vayechi 5766-2006
"The Passing of a Patriarch" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week's parasha, parashat Vayechi, we read of the passing of the patriarch Jacob. The Torah tells us that as soon as…
Understanding Vidui
When confessing sins before God, it is especially important to understand what is being said. If the Hebrew liturgy is unfamiliar, print out before Yom Kippur and review a translation of…
For a Broader Understanding
Click here to read a fascinating thought from Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald about parashat Korach.