The Rabbis moralized the condition of tzara’at (often translated as leprosy), the subject that dominates both Tazria and Metzora. It was, they said, a punishment rather than a medical … more

On March 27, 2012, to celebrate the diamond jubilee of the Queen, an ancient ceremony took place at Buckingham Palace. A number of institutions presented Loyal Addresses to the Queen, thanking her … more

This previously published Noach column by Rabbi Weinreb focuses on trauma, making it especially relevant this week. There are many words in the English language that originally had great power … more

Notes from a working mom By Ayala Cohen Issue of Sept. 5, 2008 You can hear profanity everywhere these days: in the office, at the supermarket, on the train. The other day I heard a … more

By Jewish Star Staff Issue of Dec. 12, 2008 / 15 Kislev 5769 El Al, which celebrated 2008 as its 60th year, began almost by accident. In September 1948, Israel’s new government wanted a … more

Virtuous testimony By Rabbi Avi Billet Issue of March 20, 2009 / 24 Adar 5769 After the debacle of the Golden Calf, the question must be asked: were the Israelites completely forgiven for … more

By Rabbi Avi Billet Issue of July 3, 2009 / 11 Tammuz 5769 Imagine a group of strangers knock on your front door. They seem imposing. But they are nonetheless polite and assure you they mean … more

Issue of Oct. 2, 2009 / 14 Tishrei 5770 Stalin not such a bad guy? To the Editor: A recent article by Jay Gerber (“A myth destroyed”; September 4, 2009) alleges that Stalin … more

The Kosher Bookworm by Alan Jay Gerber Issue of January 15, 2010/ 29 Tevet 5770 Last Wednesday, January 6th was the 806th yahrtzeit of the Rambam [Maimonides]. Some scholarly … more

by Micah Halpern Issue of April 30, 2010/ 16 Iyar, 5770 The Western world, with the United States at the helm, is working hard to cajole the other countries of the world to join them in their … more