The Truth About Mitzvot

It is recorded in the Midrash Rabbah that Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai was once confronted by a man who challenged him about the purifying ritual of the Red Heifer (click here for details)…

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Abigail

Abigail was not only one of “four exceptionally beautiful women in the world” (Megillah 15a), but was also one of seven women considered by tradition to be a prophetess (Megillah 14a). It…

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Giving With a Full Heart

Be aware of the image that you project your image with the clothing that you choose. In its description of the bigdei kehunah, the clothing worn by the kohanim and the Kohain Gadol, the…

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A Brief Synopsis of the Book of Esther

A Brief Synopsis ofThe Book of Esther Table of Contents Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter…

Shemot 5765-2004

"In the Merit of Miriam" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this coming week's parasha, parashat Shemot, we learn of the oppression of the Israelites at the hands of the Egyptians, as well…

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Bo 5764-2004

"The More Things Change..." by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this coming week's parasha, parashat Bo, the enslavement of the Jewish people comes to a dramatic conclusion with the tenth…

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Vayishlach 5771-2010

“The Power of a Vow” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In the second part of this week’s action-packed parasha, parashat Vayishlach, we read of Jacob’s return to Beth-El, the scene of his…

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Kee Tavo 5763-2003

"Watch out for Laban, he's more dangerous than Pharaoh!" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Parashat Kee Tavo is an "ominous" parasha. It is one of two Torah portions that features the…

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Vayeishev 5775-2014

"Who Sold Joseph?" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Vayeishev, we read of the sale of Joseph. The sale of Joseph plays a key role in Jewish history, drawing…

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Chayei Sarah 5778-2017

“Who is Eliezer the Damascan?” by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald   In this week’s parasha, parashat Chayei Sarah, we read of the death and burial of Sarah, the betrothal and marriage of…

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