Martyrdom in Judaism
The notion of what constitutes a Jewish martyr has changed significantly since ancient times.
Tu Bishvat 2023
In 2023, the "birthday of the trees" begins at sundown on Sunday, Feb. 5 and ends at sundown on Monday, Feb. 6.
A Jewish Guide to Dealing With Loneliness
Human loneliness is baked into the fabric of creation, but we do have tools to lessen its sting.
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Discover the latest in Jewish events, podcasts and more at the education hub.
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Tu Bishvat and the Repudiation of Cynicism
The Jewish new year for trees is the rare time where we celebrate potential — not product.
Abortion and Judaism
The Jewish position on abortion is nuanced, neither condoning it nor categorically prohibiting it.
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Jews and Ukraine: It’s Complicated
Jews have a long and rich history in Ukraine going back more than a millennium. It was once one of ...
Sign Up for My Jewish Learning’s New Shabbat Newsletter
Welcome to Recharge, a weekly collection of Shabbat readings to refresh your soul. Each Saturday morning we’ll bring you a ...
Journey Into the Book of Daniel
A deadly lion’s den, ominous writing on the wall, parades of scary beasts, a towering statue with a golden head: ...
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Summary
In this Torah portion, God tells Moses to have the Israelites set up camp at the Sea of Reeds, but then Pharaoh changes his mind about freeing the Israelites and chases his former slaves. With the Egyptians on the Israelites’ tail, God splits the sea and Moses leads the Israelites through it. When the Egyptians enter, God closes the waters, and the Egyptians drown. Miriam leads all the Israelite women in song and dance to celebrate. Soon after, the Israelites begin to complain about life in the desert. God provides quail and manna to feed them. The Israelites battle the Amalekites and win.
Featured Commentary
Parashat Beshalach: Sustaining Creation Through Song
Why the creation of the Jewish nation in Parashat Beshalach was marked by singing praises to God.
Videos
Breaking the Glass at a Jewish Wedding
Why the Jewish wedding ceremony ends with a famous bang.
Tu Bishvat, the Jewish ‘Birthday’ of the Trees
A minor festival seemingly tailor-made for today's Jewish environmentalists.
The 10 Best Yiddish Words You’ve Never Heard Of
These Yiddish terms aren't widely known, but they're a lot of fun to use.
Recipes
Egyptian Golden Potato Soup Recipe
A comforting Shabbat soup from the Egyptian Jewish community.
Moroccan Braised Chicken with Dried Fruit for Tu Bishvat
A sweet and savory chicken recipe for the holiday of the trees.
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