Before they went out of style, mother-in-law jokes were very popular. Have you ever heard of a father-in-law joke? I suppose if anyone were to author such a joke, it would be our forefather … more

One of history’s great literary revisionism discussions ensues when Moses and G-d converse after the Golden Calf fiasco. If G-d does not forgive the Israelites, “Erase me, now, from the … more

The moment had come. Moses was about to die. He had seen his sister Miriam and brother Aaron pre-decease him. He had prayed to G-d — not to live forever, not even to live longer, but simply, … more

By Rabbi Avi Shafran Issue of May 8, 2009 / 14 Iyar 5769 I don’t often ride the New York subways, but not long ago I found myself leaving a train deep beneath Brooklyn, at the … more

The Kosher Bookworm by Alan Jay Gerber Issue of November 20, 2009/ 3 Cheshvan 5770 This past Shabbat we read the Torah portion of Chayei Sarah, the parsha deals with the passing of our … more

Parshat Korach By Rabbi Avi Billet Issue of June 11, 2010/ 28 Sivan 5770 In general, the Torah portion gets its name from the first, second or third word of the parsha, unless the opening is … more

From the other side of the bench by David Seidemann Issue of October 15, 2010, 7 Cheshvan 5771 We all know that what passes as fashion in Israel does not always pass muster here in the … more

The book and parsha of Vayikra contain the specific essentials with regard to the laws and practices of the korbanot, the sacrificial offerings. And although we do not bring korbanot without a Holy Temple in Jerusalem, the Torah views the bringing of korbanot as an important ingredient in one’s lifelong goal of getting close to G-d. more

I used to dream of making Aliyah, but it has become a far away fantasy. During my single days I spent every summer break there and left my first job to work in Tel Aviv. more

With the observance of Rosh Hashanah now upon us, this week’s essay will be devoted to several observations of this most beloved and respected holidays of our faith. Whereas in other faiths and cultures the welcoming of a new year is marked with revelry and unbridled joy, in Judaism the mood is solemn, and the observance is sober in diet as well as liturgical tone. more