Beliefs & Practices

How Does Jewish Matchmaking Work?

Finding a partner through a matchmaker (shadchan) is traditional in some Jewish communities.

The History of Mah Jongg Snacks

Nearly synonymous with the playing were the ring jells, Bridge mix, Entenmann’s coffee cake and other iconic snacks that were served.

Ask the Expert: Can I Choose My Own Jewish Name?

I was never given a Jewish name. What are the rules around choosing one for myself?

Common Prayer Words

50 of the most frequent Hebrew words that appear in the siddur.

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Next Torah Portion

Summary

In this Torah portion, Moses stays with God on Mount Sinai for 40 days and 40 nights. There, he is given the 10 Commandments on stone tablets. Fearing Moses will never return, the Israelites turn to Aaron, who demands that everyone bring him their gold, so he can make a golden calf. When Moses comes down the mountain and sees the people dancing around this idol, he smashes the tablets on the ground. God punishes with a plague all the Israelites who were involved. Moses builds a tent to be his meeting place with God.

FULL SUMMARY
HAFTARAH SUMMARY

Parashat Ki Tisa

Exodus 30:11-34:35; Numbers 19:1-22

Ezekiel 36:16-38 | Shabbat Parah

Holiness Cannot Be Mass Produced

The artisan is as important as the ingredients used.

Daf Yomi

A global project of Talmud study, Daf Yomi covers the entire 2,711 pages of the Talmud in 7.5 years of daily study. Click below to join by signing up for our Daily Dose of Talmud newsletter and to see our most recent Daf Yomi essays.

Menachot 54

Back on Menachot 6, Rabbi Shimon explained that the Torah prohibits adding oil to the meal offering of a sinner …

Menachot 55

In its discussion of meal offerings, yesterday’s daf examined the question of whether we measure items according to their original …

Menachot 53

In the Book of Genesis, when God announced the imminent destruction of the wicked city of Sodom, Abraham famously argued …

a year of zohar

A series of seasonal essays exploring Judaism’s most important mystical text.

The Secret of Youth

The Zohar’s counterintuitive claim that the Shekhinah dwells only where the spirit of youth prevails.

Redemption Songs

For those who have suffered trauma, the joy of redemption sets in slowly.

Jazz Kabbalah

The art of sacred improvisation.


FEATURED ON MY JEWISH LEARNING

How to Plan a Passover Seder

A simple, step-by-step guide to hosting Passover.

Mac and Cheese Noodle Kugel Recipe

An indulgent, savory take on noodle kugel.

Does Judaism Allow Organ Donations?

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

Gail Simmons’ Matzah Ball Soup Recipe

A tried-and-true, perfect recipe from the Jewish “Top Chef” judge.

Fourteen Things You Need to Know About King David

The mighty warrior and sweet singer slew Goliath, stole the throne, and conquered Jerusalem—and that’s just a start!


Recharge Now

Our weekly Shabbat newsletter, Recharge, features a thoughtful, timely essay to enrich your Shabbat.

Playing Holy Twister

In these unstable times, keeping our balance means leaning on community.

Don’t Let AI Write Your Sermons

Sure, technology can do it faster, but this is an art form worth preserving.

The Unfolding Now

How to survive a terrible time and keep flourishing through it.

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