Happy 75th
Take a moment to consider and appreciate what Israel’s independence as the Jewish homeland has meant to the Jewish community around the world and all of the incredible accomplishments of…
Acharei Mot,Weekly Message,Kedoshim
Acharei Mot-Kedoshim 5783-2023
“The Jewish Attitude Toward Sexuality” (updated and revised from Acharei Mot-Kedoshim 5764-2004) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Both of this week’s parashiot, Acharei Mot and Kedoshim,…
If These Walls Could Talk
The cryptic "spiritual" dermatological disease of tza'ra'at differs from a medical malady, in that Jewish tradition teaches that the infection is caused by sin, not pathogens.…
The History of the Knesset
The founders of the State of Israel did not have much time to set up and plan the specifics of government. So, it is not surprising that the country emerged from its fight for…
Metzorah,Weekly Message,Tazria
Tazria-Metzorah 5783-2023
“The Torah’s Home Security System” (updated and revised from Tazria-Metzorah 5766-2006) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In parashat Metzorah, the second of this week’s double parashiot, we…
Seven Days to the Sea
The Passover celebration lasts seven days in Israel and eight days, outside of Israel. (For more information as to why, please click here). The first day (and second, outside of Israel)…
Shemini 5783-2023
“The Little Steps that Lead to Big Accomplishments” (updated and revised from Shemini 5765-2005) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald As the narrative of this week’s parasha, parashat Shemini,…
Seek the Answer
The Four Questions (Mah Nishtana – What makes it different?) is one of the most famous features of the Passover seder. In Ashkenazi homes, these four questions are recited by the youngest…
Uncategorized,Weekly Message,Passover
Passover 5783-2023
“With G-d as Our Partner” (updated and revised from Chol haMoed Passover 5764-2004) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This Shabbat, Shabbat Chol HaMoed Pesach, the regular Torah portion,…
The Great Shabbat
The Shabbat immediately preceding Passover is known as Shabbat HaGadol, the Great Shabbat. It is best known for being the Shabbat on which the rabbi of the community (or another leading…