Fearing God
“The fear of God is the beginning of knowledge...” (Proverbs 1:7) The idea of “fearing God” carries with it overtones of fire and brimstone, a puritanical flavor that seems foreign to our…
Over The Rainbow
Somewhere over the rainbow...Well, we all know that there is no real place over the rainbow! After all, a rainbow is caused by the refraction of light during the rain. But when you see a…
Don’t be Quarrelsome
Aaron, the first High Priest of the Jewish people, was renowned for his efforts to make peace between his fellow Jews (“Be among the disciples of Aaron, love peace and pursue peace…”-…
Shemot 5764-2004
"The Message of the Burning Bush" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this coming week's parasha, parashat Shemot, we read of G-d's revelation to Moses from the "s'neh," the burning bush.…
Shelach 5782-2022
“Achieving Immortality” (updated and revised from Shelach 5763-2003) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald One of the most heartrending and challenging juxtapositions in the Bible appears in this…
Matot-Masei 5782-2022
“The Massacre of the Midianites: Does Judaism Countenance Genocide?” (Updated and revised from Matot-Masei 5763-2003) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald At the conclusion of parashat Balak,…
Positive Thinking Day
One of the new holidays that has gained traction due to internet calendars is “Positive Thinking Day,” celebrated this year today, on September 13th. With less than two weeks until Rosh…
Korach 5783-2023
"The Power of Strife" (updated and revised from Korach 5764-2004) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Korach, we learn of the frightful rebellion of Korach and…
Shemot 5784-2024
“The Message of the Burning Bush” (updated and revised from Shemot 5764-2004) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this week’s parasha, parashat Shemot, we read of G-d’s revelation to Moses at…
Eikev 5768-2008
"Fear and Reverence of G-d" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Once again, in parashat Eikev, Moses stresses to the Jewish people that notwithstanding their improprieties, G-d's love for His…