Shemini 5770-2010
"The Show Must Go On" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this coming week's parasha, parashat Shemini, the first day of Nissan, the day about which Aaron had been dreaming, finally arrived.…
Shemini 5761 – 2001
"The Responsibilities of Leadership" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In the opening chapters of this coming week's parasha, parashat Shemini, we encounter Aaron and his sons on one of the…
Rosh Chodesh Club
Arrange with a group of friends to get together for lunch or drinks each Rosh Chodesh (New Month). Rosh Chodesh Kislev is observed both today and tomorrow.
Shemini 5780-2020
“The Responsibilities of Leadership” (Revised and updated from Parashat Shemini 5761-2001) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In the opening chapters of this week’s parasha, parashat…
Is Chanukah Really Eight Days?
Today is the eighth day of Chanukah, known as “Zot Chanukah,” a reference to the Torah portion that is read on the eighth day of Chanukah. Chanukah is set apart as an eight-day holiday.…
Is Chanukah Really Eight Days?
Today is the eighth day of Chanukah, known as “Zot Chanukah,” a reference to the Torah portion that is read on the eighth day of Chanukah. Chanukah is set apart as an eight-day holiday.…
Reuben, Son of Jacob
Our forefather Jacob’s departing words to his firstborn son were: “Reuben, you are my firstborn, my strength and my initial vigor, foremost in rank and foremost in power. Water-like…
An Egyptian Treasure Trove
The 12th of Kislev marks the 104th anniversary of the passing of Rabbi Solomon Schechter, who died on November 19, 1915 in New York City. Born in 1847 in Moldavia to a family of Chabad…
The Story of Degania
Since many of the early settlers in pre-state Palestine identified with the socialist ideology, Kibbutzim (communal farms or settlements) were the desired living arrangement. The first…
Holy Water
There are so many unique components to Jerusalem. Its holiness is celebrated by multiple religions. However, one primary difference between Jerusalem and other ancient cities is that it…