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Schindler’s List: Separating Truth from Fiction
In 2017, the 25th anniversary re-release of Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List reignited both criticism and praise for the Oscar-winning film. A story in the Forward titled “What’s Wrong with ‘Schindler’s List?’ Kind of a Lot” revived the main complaint of the movie’s detractors.
What Holocaust Survivors Can Teach Us About Overcoming Trauma
When Holocaust survivors tried to tell their stories, most people – even therapists – would not listen to or believe them. The consequences have been multigenerational.
An Introvert’s Guide to Purim: How to Enjoy a Sometimes-Overwhelming Holiday
Purim can be a particularly difficult holiday for those of us who consider ourselves introverts. Jennifer Epstein shares her tips on how to still enjoy the holiday as an introvert.
What Purim Says About the Jewish Will to Resist
Alongside all its festivities and frivolities, Purim is also a reminder of the very real and continuing threat of antisemitism – and ultimately an inspiration to us today as we continue to stand up to those who wish us harm.
The Book of Esther: A Brilliant Satire of Israel-Diaspora Relations Today
In the Hasidic tale “The Humble King,” Rebbe Nachman of Bratzlav wrote, “If you want to understand the nature of a community, understand its humor.”
How to Harness the Healing Power of Forgiveness and Repentance
So how does one begin the process of forgiveness?
Your Guide to Fasting (or Not) on Yom Kippur
For many Jews, Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is a fasting holiday – a day during which we abstain from eating, drinking, and even brushing our teeth or using perfumes. (Learn more about what we abstain from and why.)
Torah Cannot be Torah Without Us
Torah cannot be Torah without us; it needs us. Therefore, we must read it, we must study it, we must discuss it and debate it. We must carry it. We must dance among its verses, discovering ourselves in its chapters.
Sylvester: To Celebrate or Not to Celebrate?
In North America, many Jews prepare for Rosh Rosh HaShanah, the Jewish new year, by making to-do lists: acquiring seats for High Holiday services, inviting guests, purchasing a new fruit, and preparing chicken soup just like Bubbe used to make.
7 Ideas for Observing Yom HaShoah from Home
Here are just a few of the many stories, prayers, and other resources to help you commemorate this solemn holiday.