The Value Of
It is easy to be judgmental. Some might say that being judgmental is a necessary survival skill because it allows people to evaluate if they are being threatened. Those who study Mussar,…
Vayeishev 5764-2003
"The Two Sides of Joseph" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald There are few characters in world literature who are as dynamic, charismatic, successful and as enigmatic as the patriarch Joseph.…
Vayeishev 5783-2022
“The Two Sides of Joseph” (updated and revised from Vayeishev 5764-2003) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald There are few characters in world literature who are as gifted, dynamic,…
Mikeitz 5769-2008
"Measure for Measure" by Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald In ancient civilizations, it was not uncommon for legal systems to practice what is known as Lex Talionis, an eye for an eye or measure for…
Kee Tisah 5766-2006
"The Role of Aaron and the Golden Calf" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald The central focus of this week's parasha, parashat Kee Tisah, is the episode of the Golden Calf. Moses had ascended…
Shemini 5774-2014
“This is What the L-rd Meant When He Said” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Shemini, we read of the untimely and tragic deaths of Aaron’s two sons, Nadav and…
Eikev 5762-2002
"Worshiping G-d With All One's Heart" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Traditional Jewish prayer is a study in contrasts. On the one hand, prayer is meant to be a spontaneous outpouring of…
Eikev 5781-2021
“Worshiping G-d with All One’s Heart” (Updated and revised from Eikev 5762-2002) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Traditional Jewish prayer is a study in contrasts. On the one hand, prayer…
Terumah 5764-2004
"Being Transported by Torah" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this coming week's parasha, parashat Terumah, the Al-mighty reveals His plans for His glorious Tabernacle, the Mishkan, that…
Passover 5774-2014
“The Opening Act” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald As every good scriptwriter, playwright or novelist knows, the opening act of a television presentation, a Broadway show or the opening…