Mikeitz 5778-2017
“Returning the Stolen Goblet to Joseph” In this week’s parasha, parashat Mikeitz, the confrontation between Joseph and his brethren reaches its peak when Joseph’s steward accuses…
Mishpatim 5781-2021
“‘An Eye for an Eye’ in Jewish Law” (updated and revised from Mishpatim 5762-2002) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Mishpatim, the Torah introduces the…
Mishpatim 5762-2002
"'An Eye for an Eye' in Jewish Law" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this coming week's parasha, parashat Mishpatim, the Torah introduces the fundamental legal system of Israel. Both,…
Kedoshim,Acharei Mot,Weekly Message
Acharei Mot-Kedoshim 5762-2002
"Shaatnez: Understanding Irrational Decrees" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Once again, this week, we have combined parashiot--Acharei Mot-Kedoshim. The theme of the second parasha,…
Korach 5762-2002
"The Origin of the Big Lie" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this coming week's Torah portion, parashat Korach, we read of Korach and his rebellion against G-d, Moses and Aaron. Although…
Fast Days,Tisha b'Av Resource,Holidays,Tisha b’Av
Tisha b’Av
Tisha b’Av The saddest day in the Jewish calendar, believed to be a day which is destined for tragedy. Guide…
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B’shalach 5769-2009
"Pharaoh Sends the People of Israel out of Egypt" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Parashat B'shalach opens with a well-known verse describing Israel's dramatic exodus from Egypt. The Bible,…
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Chayei Sarah 5773-2012
"Beware Not to Return My Son There!" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Chayei Sarah, we learn that Abraham, who is well-on in years, is deeply concerned about…
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Passover 5767-2007
"Hitting Bottom" by Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald The Al-mighty had told Moses and the Jewish people to prepare for redemption. In Exodus 12:3, the Israelites are instructed to take a lamb on…
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Devarim 5778-2018
“The Final Rebuke" With this week’s parasha, parashat Devarim, we begin to read the fifth and final book of the Torah. The book of Deuteronomy is known in rabbinic literature as…