Rising Early
Anthropologists, sociologists and others who study the ways of different cultures all recognize the importance of language in understanding a people. It is commonly stated (whether true…
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…
Vayeitzei 5762-2001
"From Ish Tam to Business Mogul: The Transformation of Jacob" by Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald As this coming week's parasha, parashat Vayeitzei, opens, we encounter Jacob as he arrives in…
Vayeitzei 5782-2021
“From Ish Tam to Business Mogul: The Transformation of Jacob” (updated and revised from Vayeitzei 5762-2001) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald As this week’s parasha, parashat Vayeitzei,…
Ginger Ail?
Happy “Love Your Red Hair Day”! Those endowed with ginger-ness (In Israel, a redheaded person is called a “gingy”), 1% of the world’s population and 2% of that of the United States, are…
Jewish Law on the Breakdown Lane
The Torah records two similar verses, one of which can be found in this week’s parasha, Mishpatim, regarding helping travelers with animals and burdens. In parashat Mishpatim (Exodus…
Deep in the Caribbean
The thought of a Caribbean vacation readily arouses lovely fantasies as the cold days of winter set in. Consider, perhaps, a trip to Curacao, where one can enjoy sun and surf and also…
Mr. Adams’ Attitude
In honor of President’s Day, Jewish Treats presents an overview of the interesting viewpoint on Jews held by the second President of the United States, John Adams. In 1808, after his…
Bereshith 5763-2002
"Being Moral in an Increasingly Immoral Environment" Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald This week's parasha, parashat Bershith, is one of the richest of all the narrative portions of the Torah. One…
Judaism,Purim,Purim Origins and CustomsLiteracy,Judaism,Purim
Mishloach Manot/Shaloch Manos-Sending Gifts
Sending GiftsMishloach Manot / Shaloch Manos After being rescued from Haman’s attempt to destroy the Jews, scripture…