The Disputation of Paris
The month of June in the year 1240 C.E. was not a good time for the Jews of Europe. The trouble began with a Jewish apostate named Nicholas Donin. Wanting, perhaps, to prove his loyalty…
Passover Spitting
In honor of the annual “Something on a Stick Day,” Jewish Treats will discuss a timely and famous Jewish ritual food that is roasted on a stick: the Korban Pesach, the Paschal Offering.…
Watch Your Language
Once upon a time in American culture, defiant children who uttered certain improper words would have their mouths washed out with soap. Sadly, that time is no more, and profanities litter…
The Rav with the Golden Carriage
The Talmud, which is the written compilation of the Oral Torah, records the discussions and decisions of the scholars who codified Jewish law. Without question, the scholastic scope of…
Special Cures
The art of discovering cures and concocting remedies is a skill that is a fascinating blend of ancient and modern knowledge. In honor of National Pharmacist Day (January 12), which…
All About Abaye
Students of the Talmud, who wrestle with legal arguments and explore Jewish legends and traditions, are also introduced to a myriad of rabbinic personalities, each of whom brings his own…
The Disputation of Paris
The month of June in the year 1240 C.E. was not a good time for the Jews of Europe. The trouble began with a Jewish apostate named Nicholas Donin. Wanting, perhaps, to prove his loyalty…
Watch Your Language
Once upon a time in American culture, defiant children who uttered certain improper words would have their mouths washed out with soap. Today, profanities litter the world of common…
Kee Teitzei 5781-2021
“Transforming an Enemy into a Friend” (updated and revised from Kee Teitzei 5762-2002) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald We are now well into the month of אֱלוּל, Elul, the month that leads…
Va’eira 5782-2021
“Can We Question G-d and Get Away with It?” (Updated and revised from Va’eira 5762-2002) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This week’s parasha, parashat Va’eira, opens with G-d’s response to…