Prayer Musings

Modeh Ani: It’s Not Just About Gratitude

The first prayer traditionally recited upon awakening in the morning is commonly translated as “I thank you,” but that’s not all it means.

Shabbat 101

A weekly observance, the Sabbath is more than just a day off from labor.

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.

Jews and Guns

What Judaism teaches about firearms, hunting and more.

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Next Torah Portion

Summary

In this Torah portion, Moses reviews the justice system for the Israelites. Moses talks about the limits future kings should have on their possessions. Moses explains that the priests and Levites should not be paid and should survive on donations from the people. Finally, Moses explains the laws of warfare.

FULL SUMMARY

HAFTARAH SUMMARY

Parashat Shoftim

Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9

Isaiah 51:12-52:12

Doing God’s Work

Ensuring justice is the means to cast out idol worship and ensure God’s presence resides among the people.

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.


Recharge Now

Our weekly Shabbat newsletter, Recharge, features a thoughtful, timely essay to enrich your Shabbat. Here are a few of our recent pieces:

Caves and the Mystic Quest

In the Torah, caves are sites where worlds meet and sacred encounters happen.

History and Memory

How do we acknowledge our trauma while forging a Jewish identity that transcends mere survival?

Of Grief and Love

It is said that we grieve because we love, but the inverse may be more true: We love because we grieve.


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Conspiracy Theories and the Jews

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Your guide to choosing a kosher fish.

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The notion that souls can be reborn after death figures prominently in Jewish mysticism.

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

Jewish Clothing

Garments for synagogue and, for some, all-day wear.

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