Unnecessary Precautions In this week’s Torah reading, Yaakov (Jacob) prepared to meet his brother Eisav (Esau). Yaakov was returning to his homeland, where Eisav lived, after being away for many […]
The Rabbis teach that, ideally, one should light the menorah at the entrance to one’s house, so that the mezuzah is on the right of the doorway and the menorah […]
The Harm of Passive Exposure You’re likely familiar with the Chanukah (Hannukah) story: The Syrian Greek tyrant, Antiochus, outlaws the practice of Judaism and forces our ancestors to worship the […]
Honesty Despite Deceit This week’s Torah reading tells us about the time Yaakov (Jacob) spent with his uncle, who was also his father-in-law, Lavan. Lavan hired Yaakov to be his […]
In the beginning of this week’s Torah reading, Esav (Esau) sold his first-born status to his brother Yaakov (Jacob), in exchange for a dish of lentils. The verse says that […]
An Oorah Holiday Guide Light Up Your Chanukah! While you’re enjoying the lights of your menorah and the delicious tastes of crispy hot latkes and jelly donuts, add something extra […]
Ask the Rabbi with Rabbi Chaim Mintz When studying Tanach (the written Torah) or searching online for a source or translation, can I use commentaries written by non-Jews or non-religious […]
When wet cement is poured, there’s a certain draw to etch something in it. Often people write their initials, in a metaphysical attempt to capture eternity and leave a legacy […]
The Final Test From God The Mishnah (Avos 5:3) says that our patriarch, Abraham, was handed ten major tests by God. Rabbeinu Yonah writes that the final test was an […]
Kindness Through a Messenger – A Deficiency? In this week’s Torah reading, Avraham Avinu (our patriarch Abraham) welcomed three guests, who were angels disguised as humans. Avraham then went to […]
