Judaism

“Forgiveness Before Sin”

The Midrashic tradition records a dispute regarding Yom Kippur. Was Yom Kippur established to help the People of Israel gain atonement for the sin of The Golden Calf, or was it given by G-d even before that grievous sin?

“The Blame Game”

Life today, as in biblical times, is filled with blaming others for our own shortcomings. The High Holidays present us with a particularly propitious opportunity to correct that behavior by consciously acknowledging our own shortcomings.

“Inspiring the Next Generation”

The ritual of הַקְהֵל--“Hak’hel,” which takes place in Jerusalem on the festival of Sukkot every seven years, is an unprecedented national educational celebration that is meant to inspire future generations of Jews to live committed Jewish lives.

“The Choice Parts to G-d”

From the Bikkurim, the gift of the first-born fruits brought to the Temple, we learn that everything done for the sake of Heaven needs to be done in the most beautiful and elegant manner.

“Lessons from the Wayward Son”

The laws of the rebellious child have much to teach the members of the gluttonous society in which we live.

“Judaism and the Principle of the Sanctity of Human Life”

The principle of the sanctity of life, a foremost principle in Judaism, is highlighted on multiple occasions in parashat Shoftim.

“Coming to Jerusalem–-The Festival Pilgrimages”

The sages maintain that the Torah’s requirement for the Children of Israel to come to Jerusalem to celebrate the three pilgrim festivals, Passover, Shavuot and Sukkot, is meant to serve as far more than mere communal celebrations.

“Stages of Religious Growth”

Moses presents the people an educational and spiritual “journey” of spiritual growth, from reverence of G-d, to loving Him, and, ultimately, uniting one’s soul with the sanctity of G-d’s Divine Presence.

“The Power of Prayer”

Moses’ prayers were able to make the heavens tremble, but there is nothing more powerful than the prayers that emanate from a broken heart.