Countdown to Tishah B'Av: A Primer on the Three Weeks
If you use a Jewish calendar, you may have noticed this notation: “Tzom Tammuz,” the Fast of Tammuz. Read on to learn about the fast and what it signifies.
Creating Successful Tot Shabbats: How We Did It
Tot Shabbat was always part of our synagogue programming, but often ended with kids running laps in the sanctuary. Our clergy team strived for something better.
The Exile of Tishah B’Av: What Is It We're Mourning?
The Jewish holiday of Tishah B’Av is the date on which both the First and Second Temples were destroyed, and a date to reflect on what it means to live in exile.
What Can We Learn From the Juxtaposition of Joy and Sorrow?
Several times during the year, the Jewish calendar places joyous and challenging holidays near each other. What lessons we take from this juxtaposition?
All of Life's Ninths of Av
I have a story to tell you. It’s about a tiny bird. But I’ll come back to that.
After This Tishah B'Av, I Am Sick with Sorrow and Sadness
Last week was a bad week for Israel and the Jews, a week in which the worst instincts of our brethren were enabled and acted upon
Attempt to Enter the Promised Land, Take One: Fail
The end of this week's parashah includes some short, but memorable pieces of legislation: the explanation for why we tithe a little dough when making challah (Numbers 15:20-21); the killing of the man who gathered wood on Shabbat (Numbers 15:32-36); and the instructions to wear tzitzit w
Fateful Words Can Have Fatal Consequences
The Jewish people's turbulent saga of disillusionment with liberation takes a new and momentarily promising turn this Shabbat, with a foray into the land of Canaan by twelve scouts.
Vayak’heil for Tots: Engaging with your community
...all the artisans who were engaged in the tasks of the sanctuary came, from the task upon which each one was engaged, and said to Moses, "The people are bringing more than is needed for the tasks entailed in the work that the Eternal has commanded to be done."
Yitro for Tots: Creating Shabbat Traditions in Your Home
A guide to help adults learn how to engage young children in a discussion about this week’s Torah portion.