The other day I sat through a discussion between Christian friends about conservatism and religion. One commented that some of the conservative theorists’ ideas about man’s imperfections … more

It is with certainty that Yom Kippur is the most intensely and widely observed of all Jewish holidays. Within the context of this observance there are numerous liturgical, biblical, theological and … more

In his forthcoming book “The New Philistines,” Wall Street Journal correspondent Sohrab Ahmari devotes a few paragraphs to a symposium on art and identity convened by the radical … more

Holocaust survivor Marlit Wendel shared her incredible story with my students … more

There are at least two reasons why Parshat Nitzavim is read before Rosh Hashana. First, it talks about teshuvah (repentance) (Biur Halacha 428: “9 Av”). Second, it serves as a buffer … more

Our parasha, Nitzavim, contains a celebrated narrative passage that focuses upon the concept of teshuvah (repentance): “And you will return to the L-rd, your G-d (v’shavta od Hashem … more

Way back in Medieval Germany, dumplings were a culinary innovation, only recently arrived from Asia. These were simple, doughy balls. They weren’t filled with meat, potatoes or cheese; they … more

With Rosh Hashana at the doorstep, culinary markers accompany Elul’s piercing shofar blasts and the recitation of Selichot prayers. Aside from the endearing ritual of the classic simanim … more

In this strangest of presidential election years, the first of three debates between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump was just as it should have been — strange.  The first third of the … more

With Yom Hazikaron, the Jewish Day of spiritual remembrance, approaching, I dedicate this week’s essay review to the sacred memory of a dear friend, Rabbi Gershon Burd, of blessed memory, … more