Study

Modern Israel

Israeli Settlements: Questions and Answers

An overview of these Jewish communities in the West Bank — and why they are so controversial.

Midrash

What Is Midrash?

These writings, which fill in gaps in biblical texts, falls into two categories: halacha and aggadah.

FAQ

What Do Jews Believe About Jesus?

How Judaism regards the man Christians revere as the messiah.

Modern Israel at a Glance

An overview of the Jewish state and its many accomplishments and challenges.

Black-Jewish Relations in America

Relations between African Americans and Jews have evolved through periods of indifference, partnership and estrangement.

Balaam the Prophet

The infamous story of the prophet with the talking donkey demonstrates the Bible's awareness that powers of divination were not limited to Israelite seers.

The Book of Eicha: Faith in a Whirlwind

At the core of Lamentations is an expression of faith in the human capacity to survive in a broken world.

Jewish Perspectives on End-of-Life Care

Jewish approaches to medical decision-making for the terminally ill.

Converting to Judaism: How to Get Started

How to find an introductory Judaism class.

Israel’s War of Independence

Establishing a new nation and defending it

Judaism and Pets: Questions and Answers

What Jewish tradition says about cats, dogs and other companion animals.

Why Do So Many Orthodox Men Have Beards?

The Jewish reasons for facial hair, including sidelocks (payot).

The Book of Lamentations

This special reading for Tisha B'Av sets the tone for this tragic and mournful day