Rabbi Shabbat Greetings

This week’s Torah portion, Ki Tavo (Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8), contains a long list of curses. It lists virtually every awful thing that can happen to a human being. These curses are the punishment if…

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Hamas is widely recognized as a terrorist organization by various countries and international bodies. It is known for its militant activities and has been involved in conflicts with Israel, including…

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I am comfortable with being uncomfortable. Whether it’s on a journey in a new place when I do not know the area or even teaching something I just mastered the knowledge of,…

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This week’s portion, Re’eh (Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17) is, like the rest of Deuteronomy, one long soliloquy by Moses as his final act before he dies. It opens with, See, this day I set before you…

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I read in an article that Chef Kwame Onwuachi shares that in rural Nigeria if you want a 10-piece chicken wing bucket, you have to raise five chickens.  I read…

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This shabbat is a unique shabbat. It is called “Shabbat Nachamu” – the Shabbat of Consolation. After three weeks of sadness, and Tuesday’s fasting and mourning for the destruction of the Holy…

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Some would say that this Shabbat is a Shabbat of opportunities.  First of all, we begin the final book of the Torah, Devarim, Deuteronomy, which is also this week’s Torah portion…

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Monday will be Rosh Chodesh Av– it’s the beginning of the second to last month of the year in the Hebrew calendar.  That may not mean much to you, but to your…

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Continuing from last week’s portion, Balak, we meet Pinchas, who at the conclusion of the story of the plague of Baal-peor (Num. 25), does a violent act. Balak ends with…

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Our connection with animals is a nuanced blend of affection and perceived superiority. In our homes and daily lives, animals are integral, sharing our intimate spaces and offering companionship that…

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