Rabbi Neal J. Loevinger

Rabbi Neal Joseph Loevinger is currently the rabbi of Temple Beth-El in Poughkeepsie, NY. A former student at Kolel, he served as Kolel's Director of Outreach from late 1999-2001. He was ordained in the first graduating class of the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies of the University of Judaism, and holds a Master's of Environmental Studies from York University in Toronto.


Articles by Rabbi Neal J. Loevinger

If Not Now, When?

Rashi understands Moses' final words to the people as an expression of Hillel's philosophy of self-examination.

The Times Are A-Changing

In his final poetic speech to the Israelites, Moses encourages them to understand the potential for change in every generation.

Integrating Knowledge

Knowledge of God does not always translate into actions.

Self-Deception

Before the Children of Israel enter the land, Moses cautions them against self-deception, an appropriate warning for the High Holidays as well.

It’s The Joy, Not The Oy

Our religious and spiritual experiences of serving God should be joyful and uplifting.

All Is Not Fair In Love And War

By linking the incident of the female prisoner of war to the hated wife and rebellious child, Rashi encourages us to consider the consequences of treating others as objects.

The Emergence Of Environmentalism

From the commandment not to cut down trees in war, we derive the prohibition against the careless destruction of nature.

Not Seeing Is The Sin

Like Balaam, we should open our eyes to seeing the problematic paths we take in life.

Reflect Before You Respond

Moses' response to Korach's challenge teaches us to reflect on our own actions in any situation of conflict or anger.

Seeing Beneath The Surface

Unable to see beyond their own fears and insecurities, 10 of the 12 spies despaired of conquering Canaan.