Selichot
In addition to the unique prayer services of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, the High Holidays are known for one other service: selichot. A collection of religious poems and verses, selichot…
Appealing for God’s Mercy
As we prepare for the upcoming High Holidays, contemplate the words of the "Thirteen Attributes of God’s Mercy" and recognize the opportunity that we all have to come closer to God. With…
Symbolic Foods
Since Rosh Hashana is the Day of Judgment, it is customary to eat simanim*, foods with symbolic meanings that invoke God’s blessing. We also recite a short prayer before eating them.…
Shop Now
With Rosh Hashana less than a week away, learn more about and purchase some of the special simanim, the symbolic foods that are eaten on Rosh Hashana, so you will be able to recite the…
Annulment of Vows
“I swear that this time I will lose weight.” “I am going to pray every day…” We make promises all the time. We swear that we are going to do something, and then hope that we will be in a…
Be Careful What You Promise to Do
The annual annulment of vows reminds us how careful we need to be when we speak. This is especially true before promising to do something.
Teshuva: To Where Are We Returning?
The process of introspection and repentance in order to accomplish transformation really begins a month before Rosh Hashana, with the advent of the Hebrew month of Elul. During this…
Recall a Better Time
When engaging in introspection during this time of year, try to recall and “return to” a time you are proud of in your past.
Vayeilech,Nitzavim,Weekly Message
Nitzavim-Vayeilech 5784-2024
“Choosing Life” (updated and revised from Nitzavim-Vayeilech 5763-2003) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald There’s something very distinctive about the arrival of the Jewish New Year. Whenever…
A Phoenix in Bnei Brak
Fifty-five years ago, corresponding to the 20th of Elul, which is today, Rabbi Joseph S. Kahaneman, known to the world as the “Ponevezher Rav,” passed away. Fifty-five years ago,…
For the Love of Torah
Learn how the Ponevezh Yeshiva was built in Bnei Brak, Israel and became an outstanding Torah institution.
Saying Amen
The word “Amen” seems to be one of those words associated with prayer throughout the Judeo-Christian culture, but what does it mean? The response Amen at the end of an oath or a prayer…
The Significance of Saying Amen
Don’t miss an opportunity to recite "Amen" to a blessing as it represents an affirmation that the statement made in the blessing is in fact true. In this week’s Parsha, Kee Tavo, we…
Paying the Pledge
It is easy to pledge money to an organization. There are an astounding number of well-intentioned non-profits that send mailings or solicit donations over the phone or by email. There are…
Keeping Your Word
Make certain to take stock of any outstanding pledges which you might owe and fulfill your pledge.
The Five Names of Rosh Hashana
In Jewish tradition, Rosh Hashana has several names that can help us understand the importance and power of this holiday. Rosh Hashana, which begins two weeks from tonight, on Wednesday…
What’s in a Name?
Study the five different names of Rosh Hashana and develop a deeper appreciation for the meaning and significance of each as they pertain to the holiday.
Article VI
September 17th is Constitution Day, in honor of the ratification of the United States Constitution in 1787. The Constitution was a radical document at that time, and one of its unique…
National Gratitude
Be grateful for living in a country that protects an individual's freedom of religion.
Kee Tavo 5784-2024
“Contemporary Implication of an Ancient Ritual” (updated and revised from Kee Tavo 5765-2005) by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In our message for parashat Kee Tavo for…
Forgiveness: An Elul Treat
Many people feel that the three most difficult words to say, in any language are: "I am sorry." Yet, we all know how very important those words are. Indeed, a person saying they are…
Time to Say “I’m Sorry”
ln the run-up to the High Holidays, use the month of Elul proactively by approaching those you may have wronged and ask them for forgiveness.
Positive Thinking
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 a little more than than two…
Putting Life Into Perspective
Consider moments during the past year that seemed, on the surface, to be particularly bleak, but in hindsight, when looking at the bigger picture, things turned out much better than…
Swiss Jews
A Jewish presence in Switzerland can be traced back to the Middle Ages. Until the 19th century, Jews in Switzerland were restricted in both residence and employment. While there were…
Appreciating the Good
If you live in a country such as the United States where kosher slaughter is permitted, be thankful, and recognize that it’s not always the case, especially in parts of Europe today.
9/11 and Jewish History
The attack on the continental U.S. homeland on September 11, 2001 changed the entire complexion of the United States. Almost 200 years had passed since the last attack on the U.S.…
Reflect on This National Day of Remembrance
Spend significant time today remembering the events of 9/11 and/or read uplifting material about the day.
Travel With a Jewish Twist
When traveling, find out if there is, or was, a Jewish community at your destination. If yes, make an effort to visit, if possible.
The Jewish Ghost Town of Utah
As a dry wind blows across the dusty plains just south of Gunnison, Utah, a traveler might be shocked to stumble upon a small, gated Jewish cemetery. Indeed, the burial ground is so small…