Shabbat in Netanya, Israel: The Israeli Judaism We Need
This is liberal Judaism on the edge: Flinging doors open wide to those who would otherwise be left behind. The community is a voice of Judaism that is open to all who seek it.
pitur peter rechem
Lit.
How the Reform Movement is Responding to Hurricane Harvey
We are now starting to get accurate reports of the damage – and they are staggering. Building on our initial response, here are a few new developments and details.
Vayishlach for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
In this parasha, Jacob and Esau are going to meet, possibly to fight, but first Jacob meets someone who tells him of his great future. Jacob is renamed Israel (which means “one who wrestles with God”) and goes to meet Esau, and they have a joyous reunion. Isaac then dies, and sadly, so does Rachel as she gives birth to her last child. Listen to learn more about the family.
Leaving Lucy Pear
Award-winning novelist Anna Solomon’s second novel Leaving Lucy Pear, now out in paperback, is a masterfully woven web of ambition and lies.
What Is Jewish About Japan?
My family and I recently spent time backpacking through Japan. Witnessing people at their holy sites, we were struck by how familiar their customs were to us as Jews.
Honoring a Congregation and its Leader of More Than Six Decades
Rabbi Henry Cohen became the spiritual leader of Congregation B’nai Israel in 1888, he couldn’t know that he would remain at the synagogue for the next 64 years.
Finding Unique Blessings in Every One of Us
In the double portion, Tazria/M’tzora, we have the responsibility, even if it isn’t our pleasure, to investigate texts on birth and its aftermath, bodily afflictions and emissions, skin ailments, and leprosy. They were once taboos that raised fears in the community and turned priests of their day into guardians of purity.
What, if anything, can be done with the etrog after Sukkot?
The etrog is the citron fruit used as a component in the arba minim, the four species.
We Will Not Let Hitler's Legacy Rise Again
If you won't stand for Hitler's legacy to rise again, then I ask you: When hate is screeched from the airwaves, you must stand on higher mountains and call out words of love and affirmation.