The joy of Passover desserts eludes many who do not like the taste of matzah meal. They would have to be resigned to fruit compote or tasteless sponge cake. I did not like either of those … more

Have you ever been asked the question, “What is your earliest memory?” I have been asked many times. I was a graduate student in psychology when the question was posed. The answer was … more

There is a fascinating paradox in Tazria that relates to the laws of tzara’as, the spiritual malady, a skin discoloration that affects those who gossip. On one hand, only a kohen can either … more

At the start of this parsha is a cluster of laws that challenged and puzzled the commentators. They concern a woman who has just given birth. If she gives birth to a son, she is “unclean … more

The primary focus of our parasha is the illness known as tzara’at. The unique nature of this class of disease is emphasized by the Rashbam in his introduction to our topic:  “All … more

This Shabbat will be Rosh Chodesh, and we will read Parshat HaChodesh in addition to Tazria — an uncommon opportunity to take out three Torahs. Both Parshat HaChodesh and this Rosh Chodesh … more

In 1948, things did not look promising for the Jews. The armies of Iraq, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, prepared to attack the new State of Israel as soon as the British pulled out, vowing to push the Jews … more

Another week, another gifted commentary on the Haggadah, this time by Dr. Adena Berkowitz. Just released by Israel’s Gefen Publishing House, “The Jewish Journey Haggadah” is … more

For all of you who are familiar with Rabbi Shmuel Goldin’s landmark commentary on the Chumash, Unlocking the Torah Text, this new work utilizing the ‘’unlocking’’ … more

Towards the beginning of Parashat Tzav we find a depiction of the general korban mincha (“meal offering”), and a similar personal offering brought by the High Priest, Aharon. Both … more