The 2nd Temple
On the 9th and 10th of the month of Av in the year 70, the Roman legions in Jerusalem smashed through a fortress and into the Holy Temple and set it afire. In the aftermath, many Jews believed that Judaism itself was shattered beyond repair. Read more
Communal Mourning
The fundamental model of Tisha B'Av is a reenactment of the tragic history of ancient Judaism. Jews relive the stages of destruction of the First and Second Temples as well as the loss of Jewish sovereignty. Read more
Ideal Leadership
A number of midrashim use Moses as an example of what constitutes ideal leadership. It is relevant to assess leadership in the Jewish community today in view of these midrashic descriptions. Read more
White Lies
Before you tell a truth that can cause only pain, ask yourself why you should tell it. There are times when a pretty lie is preferable to an ugly truth. Read more
Israeli Markets
Open-air food markets (called "shuk/souk" in Hebrew and Arabic, respectively) serve as a showcase for the country's myriad ethnic cuisines, and offer a space to gather and eat. Read more
There is definitely an amusing sub-genre of literature to be found in the letters kids send home from camp (anyone interested in a book called “Sh*t M...
more »
It was mid-August and the air conditioning was broken in the café on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
more »
It’s difficult to choose only one—she led such an amazing life! The first that springs to mind, though, is the way in which she played the Lehman brot...
more »
Weekly Torah Portion
Parashat Masei
Annual Cycle: Numbers 33:1 - 36:13
Triennial Cycle: Numbers 33:1 - 33:49
Summary of Masei » Real Change in Torah »
Candle Lighting Times
Bagels
Make your own bread with a hole.
Jewish Art
How much do you know about Jewish art?
