For Yourself
One of the arguments posed by those opposed to organized religion is that religion requires people to act mindlessly. Judaism, however, strongly encourages questioning, and “free will” is…
The Thanksgiving Synagogue Service
While Thanksgiving is most certainly an American festival of gratitude, its founders prominently articulated its religious underpinnings, which ultimately traces to a source in Judaism.…
This is Chanukah
Tonight is the eighth and final night of Chanukah. After the flames die down, many people will pack up the menorah and think little about the holiday again until next year. However, the…
Under Cover of Darkness
Of the ten plagues that devastated the land of Egypt, the plague of darkness appears to be the most benign. Certainly, being trapped in the dark is frightening (sensory deprivation is a…
The Gift of Sight
Remember each morning to recite the blessing thanking God for allowing us to be able to see. The devastating plague of darkness described in the Torah, that severely impacted the ability…
The Sabbath of Remembering
This Shabbat is Shabbat Parashat Zachor, the Sabbath of Remembering. The Torah portion that is read as the Maftir (additional) portion, after the conclusion of the regular weekly Torah…
Tzav 5784-2024
“Do Sacrifices Have Any Relevance for Us Today?” (updated and revised from Tzav 5765-2005) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This week’s parasha, parashat Tzav, continues the Torah’s…
The Other Hand Washing
It’s been a lovely meal, from the fresh-baked French bread to the sinful chocolate mousse — every bite. All that is left to do is to recite Grace After Meals (Birkat Hamazon), thanking…
The Great Shabbat
This 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…
Isru Chag
The day after vacation is often a time of distraction and disorientation. The same is true of the day following a religious holiday, especially after one of the week-long holidays…