The Second Passover
On the first anniversary of the Exodus from Egypt, the Children of Israel prepared to celebrate their first Passover as free people. God decreed that they should eat matzah and maror…
Remember to say “Thank You”
Tonight, after enjoying a delicious meal in honor of Shabbat, recite Birkat Hamazon, the Grace After Meals. In Deuteronomy 8:10, we are told V’achalta v’savata, u’verachta, that you will…
Recognizing the Good
On International Nurses Day, remember to thank nurses and other first responders for their courageous work. In the fifth chapter of Pirkei Avot, Ethics of the Fathers, we are taught,…
Bamidbar 5783-2023
“Surviving the Wilderness” (updated and revised from Bamidbar 5764-2004) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Bamidbar, the Israelites enter the…
Words have Impact
Be aware of the words you choose to avoid transgressing the prohibition of slandering others. Words have a huge impact, and if we’re not careful, our hurtful words can lead to serious…
Thoughtful Questions
Learn how to bring peace and radiance into your home tonight by lighting Shabbat candles. Click here for a free copy of NJOP's Guide to Shabbat Candle Lighting. The Shabbat candles that…
Shabbat Chazon
This Shabbat is known as Shabbat Chazon, the Sabbath of the Vision (prophecy), named after the opening word of the Book of Isaiah, the first 27 verses of which are read as the haftarah on…
Gain a Deeper Insight
Remember to cover your eyes and concentrate when reciting the Shema. Each day, we are given an opportunity to fulfil a Biblical commandment by reciting the Shema. When we do, we testify…
Israel’s Benefactors
There is much to learn from the many Jewish benefactors like Baron Edmond James de Rothschild who helped lay the foundation for modern day Israel. Life in this world is of limited time of…
Burying The Dead
An unusually large body of Jewish law is concerned with interpersonal relationships, teaching how to properly respect each person, since all of humankind is created b’tzelem Eh-lokim, in…