Perception of the Eye
Within Jewish law there is a concept known as maarit ayin, which translates to “perception of the eye.” It is a shorthand term for the rabbinic prohibition of doing a permitted act that…
Choosing Perception
When something good happens, thank God by thinking about the multiple manipulations that had to happen for it to come about.
Va’eira 5784-2024
Urgent message: Given the most challenging situation in Israel at this time, I urge all to pray for the bereaved families, the hostages, the missing and the many casualties. Please try to…
Va’eira 5764-2004
"The Names of G-d and Their Meanings" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In this coming week's parasha, parashat Va'eira, G-d speaks to Moses and says to him (Exodus 6:2): "Ah'nee Hashem," I…
Noah 5760-1999
"Does the Torah ever distort the truth?" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald There is a fascinating and enlightening story brought down in Genesis 11, of this week's parasha, Noah. It is…
Lech Lecha 5767-2006
"The Souls That Were Made in Haran" by Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald In parashat Lech Lecha, the dynamic Abram (his name had not yet been changed to Abraham), enters upon the biblical scene…
Filene’s Credit Union
On June 26, 1934, Congress passed the Federal Credit Union Act, allowing for the creation of what is now known as CUNA (Credit Union National Association). Credit unions provide a safe…
Behar,Weekly Message,Bechukotai
Behar-Bechukotai 5781-2021
“The Extraordinary Mitzvah of Tzedakah--Charity” (updated and revised from Behar-Bechukotai 5762-2002) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Once again, this week, we read two combined parashiot…
Va’eira 5783-2023
“The Exodus--A ‘Primitive’ Story with Revolutionary Implications” (updated and revised from Va’eira 5763-2002) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald Jewish history is often perceived, with great…
Terumah 5783-2023
“Identifying the Essentials of Life” (updated and revised from Terumah 5765-2005) by, Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald This week’s parasha, parashat Terumah, is the first of four parashiot:…