Noah 5780-2019

“The Vital Importance of Truthful Judgment” (Updated and Revised from Noah 5760-1999) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald   There is a fascinating and enlightening narrative recorded in…

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Shoftim 5762-2002

"The Torah - the First Environmentalist Treatise" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this coming week's Torah portion, parashat Shoftim, we find many interesting and challenging ideas. It is…

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Rosh Hashana

- Rosh Hashana A celebration of the very creation of the world and a recognition of humankind’s…

Hows and Whys

How's and Why's of Rosh Hashana Table of Contents Rosh Hashana What Happens on Rosh Hashana The Festive Meal The Service The…

Toledot 5769-2008

"The Blessings of a Tzaddik" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week's parasha, parashat Toledot, we read of Isaac's desire to bless Esau, and Rebecca's scheme to divert the blessing to…

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Noah 5760-1999

"Does the Torah ever distort the truth?" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald There is a fascinating and enlightening story brought down in Genesis 11, of this week's parasha, Noah. It is…

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Rosh Hashana Essay

Rosh Hashana Essay “Elul is the time to look back over the past year, sort out our strengths and weaknesses, and see…

Acharei Mot-Kedoshim 5781-2021

“Shaatnez: Understanding ‘Irrational’ Decrees” (updated and revised from Acharei Mot-Kedoshim 5762-2002) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Once again, this week, we have double…

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Bereshith 5784-2023

Urgent message: Given the most challenging situation in Israel at this time, I urge all to pray for the bereaved families, the hostages, the missing and the many casualties. Please try to…

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Vayechi 5769-2009

"Blessing the Children" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Blessing children plays a crucial role in parashat Vayechi. First, old Jacob blesses Joseph's children, Ephraim and Menashe, and then…

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