Anti-Semitism & Bigotry

What Were Pogroms?

Anti-Jewish violence sweeping the Russian Empire in the late 19th century spurred many Jews to emigrate and organize politically.

What is Jewish Meditation?

"Truly, you are where your mind is,” taught the Baal Shem Tov.

The Prophet Jeremiah and His Times

Jeremiah is commonly seen as a prophet of gloom, but at times he delivered words of comfort that are second to none in their eloquence.

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

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Prayer as Spiritual Practice

Ask most people about their long-term goals for prayer and they often lack even the vocabulary to venture an answer.

Deutero-Isaiah: A Prophet of Comfort

After first Isaiah’s message of rebuke, another writing under his name came to comfort Israel with immortal poetry.

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Next Torah Portion

Summary

In this Torah portion, God tells Moses and Aaron to go to Pharaoh to demand freedom for the Israelites. Pharaoh refuses, and God unleashes plagues on the Egyptians. Pharaoh promises to free the Israelites, but God hardens Pharaoh’s heart. The portion ends with the plague of hail stopping and Pharaoh changing his mind once again.

FULL SUMMARY
HAFTARAH SUMMARY

Parashat Vaera

Exodus 6:2 - 9:35

Ezekiel 28:25 - 29:21

Who Really Hardened Pharaoh’s Heart?

Was God responsible for the Egyptian leader's intransigence?

Videos

Lighting Shabbat Candles

Everything you need to know about kindling the Sabbath lights.

Does Judaism Allow Organ Donations?

Frequently asked questions about Jewish views on these life-saving procedures.

What Do Jews Believe About Jesus?

How Judaism regards the man Christians revere as the messiah.

Recipes

The Syrian Frittata You Will Make Again and Again

An easy, baked egg dish with spinach and cheese.

Veggie Shwarma Pita Sandwich Recipe

A meaty, but meat-free, sandwich you will love for lunch or dinner anytime.

More From MJL

Shabbat Blessings for Friday Night

Lighting the candles, saying Kiddush and other Shabbat dinner rituals.

The Zohar

This influential work of Jewish mysticism continues to inspire spiritual seekers.

False Messiahs in Judaism

Many have claimed to be the Jewish Messiah, and the results have often been disastrous.

What Is the Temple Mount?

Holy to both Jews and Muslims, this area in Jerusalem's Old City has been a focal point of inter-religious tension for decades.

Shehechiyanu: A Meditation on this Moment

This blessing, traditionally recited for firsts, can be said anytime -- since every moment is new and unprecedented.

Jewish Thought and Philosophy 101

Jewish thought is not a single continuous tradition, but rather a varied mix of works, which reflect the specific ideological and historical positions of those who wrote them.