Two Pillars of Five
Jewish law, and thus Jewish life, rests on two pillars, the mitzvot between a person and God and the mitzvot between one person and another. These two pillars of law are laid out in the…
The Power of Positive – An Anniversary Treat
“Pop psychologists” often like to discuss the power of perspective by referring to the glass half empty versus the glass half full. Alas, it is a common human trait to look for the…
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…
Precious Children
One of the cardinal commandments of Jewish life is the prohibition of worshiping false gods. In fact, idolatry is one of three commandments for which a person is supposed to sacrifice…
Tap on the Head
The history of the Jews of Spain is one of glory and fear. By the end of the 15th century, Jewish life was something celebrated in dark cellars with the ever-present fear of discovery.…
A Sci-Fi Wonder
If you are not familiar with science fiction writer Stanley G. Weinbaum (April 4, 1902 - December 14, 1935), it might be because his rising success was cut short by what was at first…
Pekudei 5776-2016
“The Mishkan--the Tabernacle, as Collateral” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This week’s parasha, parashat Pekudei, opens with a reckoning and accounting of all the precious materials that…
Listen and Ask
When you ask a question about Jewish life, listen to the answer...and don't be afraid to ask more questions.
Being Yotzei
Kiddush, sanctification, is the prayer said over wine through which Jews proclaim the uniqueness of Shabbat and sanctify the day. Reciting or hearing Kiddush on Shabbat is an…
A Day Celebrating Humility
You probably won’t find “Be Humble Day” listed on most commercial calendars, but the concept of the day highlights a core value in Jewish life. The Book of Proverbs declares that “A…