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Judaism and Suicide

Taking one's life is officially a violation of Jewish law, but many contemporary rabbis recognize that most suicides result from struggles with mental illness.

How Do I Know If I’m Ready To Convert?

Comprehensive knowledge of Judaism isn't a prerequisite for conversion, only a desire to be Jewish and a readiness to align one's fate with the Jewish people.

The Meaning Behind Different Jewish Hats

Kippah, Streimel, Fez and more — a guide to Jewish headgear.

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Discover the latest in Jewish events, podcasts and more at the education hub.

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Sefer Yetzirah: The Book of Creation

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

Bat Kol: A Divine Voice

This heavenly voice is mentioned repeatedly throughout the Talmud.

Explore In Depth

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 Ecclesiastes

The biblical book of Ecclesiastes (“Kohelet” in Hebrew) asks some of the largest questions any of us can ask: Does ...

Do Jews Believe In…?

Have you ever wondered if Jews believe in miracles? What about Satan? Do Jews believe in evolution? My Jewish Learning’s ...

Next Torah Portion

Summary

In this Torah portion, Joseph promises Jacob that he will bury him in Canaan. On his deathbed, Jacob blesses his grandchildren, Ephraim and Menashe, and then blesses each of his sons. Jacob dies and is embalmed. Joseph affirms to his brothers that he has forgiven them for their misdeeds. Ending the Book of Genesis, Joseph dies.

FULL SUMMARY
HAFTARAH SUMMARY

Parashat Vayechi

Genesis 47:28 - 50:26

I Kings 2:1 - 2:12

Parashat Vayechi: The Legend of You and Me

Jacob’s blessing to his son Joseph offers a potent metaphor about maintaining steadfastness in a world defined by rapid change.

Videos

Breaking the Glass at a Jewish Wedding

Why the Jewish wedding ceremony ends with a famous bang.

Is There a Jewish Afterlife?

Judaism is famously ambiguous about what happens when we die.

Hannah Senesh

How this Hungarian Jew became a national heroine of Israel.

Recipes

Nutella Stuffed Challah French Toast Recipe

French toast just got even more decadent, and delicious.

Georgian Chicken Tabaka and Garlic Sauce Recipe

Golden and crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside.

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The Mourner’s Kaddish Is Misunderstood

The prayer does not praise (or even name) God. Here’s why.

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The simple words of this traditional morning blessing draw us back to the dawn of our mythic creation.

King Solomon

Son of King David, builder of the temple, author of three biblical works and the wisest of men, Solomon looms large in Jewish tradition — and beyond.

December Holiday Tips for Interfaith Parents

Interfaith families struggle to be true to the religions of both parents during the winter holiday season.

Jews and Guns

Jewish law forbids hunting, and few Jews own firearms.

Hair Coverings for Married Women

Why some Orthodox women cover their hair, whether with wigs, hats or scarves.