Study

The Evolution of Israeli Cuisine

Increasingly trendy worldwide, Israeli food mixes the flavors of the Middle East and the Jewish Diaspora.

The Torah

Five books of story, law, and poetry divided into 54 weekly portions.

Elijah the Prophet

As the herald of the messianic age and a recurring figure in Jewish folklore, Elijah's legacy surpasses that of virtually all the other prophets of Israel.

By the Rivers of Babylon We Remember Zion

This famous psalm is read on the eve of Tisha B'Av and sets the tone for an emotionally challenging holiday.

The Prohibition Against Studying Torah on Tisha B’Av

Why would learning sacred Jewish texts be forbidden on this day of fasting and mourning?

Did God Write the Torah — and Does it Matter?

For many Jews, the Torah's authority does not derive from being a divine document.

The Three Weeks

The destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem is commemorated with a period of mourning.

When Do Jews Fast?

In addition to Yom Kippur, there are many public and private fasts in Judaism.

8 Hanukkah Traditions From Around the World

From bonfires to hanging menorahs to an extra candle, here are some lesser-known Jewish Hanukkah traditions from all over the globe.

Sefer Yetzirah: The Book of Creation

This ancient mystical text introduced many concepts that would be more fully developed by the tradition of Kabbalah.

Maimonides and His Discontents

Maimonides has long been a figure of extraordinary authority. Yet his understanding of Judaism was highly controversial.

Who Was Maimonides?

A philosopher, physician, rabbinic scholar and more, Maimonides was the most famous Jew of the premodern age.