Study
The Jews of Italy
Jews have been present on the Italian peninsula from the time of Judah Maccabee.
Am Yisrael Chai: The Meaning and History of this Jewish Rallying Cry
This slogan of Jewish resilience was popularized by the legendary songwriter Shlomo Carlebach.
Do Jews Fast for 40 Days If a Torah Is Dropped?
This idea is widespread but has scant support in Jewish text.
Why Kabbalah Is Considered Dangerous
The potential for misuse and mental trauma led to restrictions on who could study Jewish mysticism.
Revelation at Sinai
The giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai is among the most significant events in Jewish tradition.
Ancient/Medieval Jewish History
Mount Sinai
The desert peak upon which the Hebrew Bible says God gave the Torah to Moses.
Jews and Drugs
What does Jewish tradition have to say about the use of recreational drugs?
Judaism and Cancel Culture
Jewish tradition prizes a multiplicity of voices, but it also considers some ideas too dangerous to circulate freely.
Are Jews a Race?
Jews include individuals of enormously diverse origins and physical appearances, making the idea that Jews could easily be designated a race implausible.
What Is a Nazir (or Nazirite)?
In ancient times, a few select individuals abstained from wine and hair cutting to achieve closeness with God.
Song of Songs as Allegory
The Bible's most erotic book has long been understood as a metaphor.