You Think It Couldn’t Happen at Your Synagogue? So Did I
When I learned there had been 400 men chanting “Jews will not replace us” on the University of Virginia grounds, my first thought was for Congregation Beth Israel.
V’zot Hab’rachah for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
Moses blesses the tribes. Listen to this rap to hear a summary of things we’ve learned before Moses says his last words.
Chol HaMo-eid Sukkot for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
The Israelites are given more commandments and make a pact. Listen to this fun rap about the holiday.
Vayigash for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
Listen in to this parasha as Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers and their father finds out! The whole family is allowed to go back to live in Goshen, but it won’t end there! Listen now!
How Fair Trade Gelt Embodies Hanukkah's Message
Public Statement of Reform and Progressive Organizations, Communities and Congregations in Israel and from throughout the world on the intention to appoint Mr. Efi Eitam to the position of Chairperson of Yad Vashem
After Charlottesville, 5 Jewish Ways to Help Kids Deal
How do we help our children understand this world? How do we both protect them and make sure that they are knowledgeable enough to take action when needed?
Why Firstborns Are Such a Big Deal in the Torah
The research abounds: birth order has an impact on development. The Internet teems with articles on expected personality traits for firstborn and later-born children and, in a rare moment of consensus, experts agree that birth order matters.1 It influences a child’s need for attention, interest in interacting with adults versus peers, reactions to challenge and pressure, and relationship with parents. As the mother of two young sons (and a firstborn myself), I see evidence of this research daily and often wonder how birth order will affect my children’s lives.
Birth order matters in Parashat Bo, too. Bo begins with the final four plagues, culminating in that infamous, horrifying last plague: makat b’chorot, the killing of the firstborn. God takes this concept to its extreme, condemning every single firstborn — whether human or animal — to perish. The Israelite firstborns were saved by placing lambs’ blood on their doors.
Now Introducing Bonim Kehilah for Jewish Young Adults
R’eih for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
In this parasha, God explains blessings and curses, and when you receive each. Moses then discusses laws of worship and sacrifices during the Pilgrimage Festivals. Listen in to hear what these holidays are.