When the holiday came to a close last Tuesday, I was scared to turn on the news. Throughout this holiday it seemed like things were spiraling out of control with difficult news from Israel. It … more

Developments in Israel have co-opted Rabbi Freedman writing time, so we’re reprinting his column from the week of Parsha Noach in 2012. He looked like a teenager, until he began to tell his … more

Harry Potter fans know that Lily Potter gave her life for her son, and what saved his life in his various encounters with the villain of the series (who must not be named) is Love. The theme of … more

When we think of Noach we tend to envision a flood and a world covered with water. However, in the historical sense, the biblical saga of Noach is transcended by a short listing of mitzvo that, if observed properly, can properly define the civilizational quality of our world. more

This summer I reread one of my favorite Israeli authors, S.Y. Agnon. Of course, in order to receive the full delight and experience of this Nobel Laureate’s writing, you need to read him in the … more

What is better – to see something in its entirety, or to experience a smaller portion of that entity? This is the debate which winds itself through the commentaries on Devarim 34, as … more

He was a tough kid, with obvious “stuff” going on inside — always getting into fights, spending time in the hallway, and always with that sad, lost look. Years ago, I took a … more

Continuity is a societal and individual’s experience that represents an important element of stability in our spiritual lives. This experience can be found in many of our sacred writings at … more

My husband Jerry and I were reflecting on Yogi Berra last week, shortly after his death. Yogi was known for his many hysterical “Yogisms,” as a great catcher, and as quite a character. He … more

The melodies of the Days of Awe engulf me. Long before arriving to shul for formal prayers, I am preparing myself with the tunes and melodies, singing them to myself. Often I occupy myself with the … more