Dear Rabbi and Shira, Hi, I read your column every week. It prompts much conversation over the Shabbos table. I’m a regular Flatbush/Midwood guy who is into the Sifrei Chassidus….

In his dream Paro saw seven beautiful, healthy cows grazing in a marsh (achu), alongside the Nile River. Then, seven other cows came. These were ugly and thin, and they…

The Rebbe of Ruzhin zt’l said, “What tzaddikim are able to accomplish on Rosh Hashanah and on Yom Kippur, a simple Yid can accomplish on Zos Chanukah.” The explanation may…

Does one need to tovel electric appliances? There are many different appliances; there is no one rule. For example, an urn should be toiveled. Obviously, after you toivel an urn,…

Chanukah lights. Lights that connect us to the past, to a story that happened over 2,000 years ago, yet speaks to us today. As we kindle the menorah, we recite…

I. Lighting in Danger The Gemara (Shabbos 21b) says that you must light your Chanukah menorah near the doorway (opening, pesach) of your house on the outside. If you live…

Several studies have shown that adopting routines can make you more productive. Routine is a hallmark of efficiency and can also help harness your creativity. Many successfully creative people swear…

As we all know, we use olive oil to light the Chanukah menorah. Recently, olive oil has become very popular for its health benefits. Olive oil has many other uses…

One of the brachos we make on the menorah is, “She’osa nisim lavoseinu bayamim haheim bazman hazeh.” We bless Hashem for making miracles in those days of Chanukah, millennia ago,…

Parashat Miketz begins with Pharaoh’s unusual dreams, and his desperate attempt to find out what they meant. After he was dissatisfied with the interpretations given by his advisors, the Sar…

The Pirkei D’Rabbi Eliezer says (in Chapter 38): In the dialog between the brothers and Yosef, Yosef heard his brothers utter the phrase “your servant, our father” 10 times and…

In the Al Hanisim prayer which we recite on Chanukah, we thank Hakodosh Boruch Hu for delivering the “many in the hands of the few”. This refers to the fact…

Parashat Miketz tells the miraculous story of Yosef’s rise to power in Egypt. After having been falsely accused of assaulting his master’s wife, and sitting in jail for twelve years,…

A MARGARINE POT ON CHANUKAH IN BERGEN-BELSEN It is a riveting story. Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, has two dreams, we learn in this week’s Torah portion, Miketz. In the…

FAST FACTS: Name: Maxwell M. Scherzer Nickname: Mad Max Born: July 27, 1984 (age 37) in Chesterfield, Missouri MLB Debut: April 29, 2008, for the Arizona Diamondbacks MLB statistics (through…

INGREDIENTS: 1 box potato pancake mix, plus ingredients needed on package 1 large potato, shredded and squeezed dry Cooking spray Applesauce and/or sour cream   DIRECTIONS: Take your at latkes…

INGREDIENTS: 2/3 cup unsalted margarine, softened to room temperature 2/3 cup white granulated sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1/4 cup cornstarch 1 2/3 cup all-purpose flour, plus 1-2…

Much has been discussed over the years r e g a r d i n g Thanksgiving dinner. We will discuss whether such a party is allowed, and if turkey…

Chanukah Lighting in Public Places Chanukah lights are kindled in most shuls. This has also expanded to public Chanukah lightings in many cities throughout the world. There is also a…

“Haneiros halalu kodesh heim… These lights are sacred…” The Chanukah lights are holy and have mystical powers. After lighting, we linger by the menorah, and take some time just basking…

Yaakov told Yosef to go check on the welfare of his brothers and the welfare of the sheep and to bring back a report. [Bereishis 37:14] This was a mission…

There is talk in the U.S. about taxing the wealth of the superrich. Without engaging in d i s c u s s i o n about proper policy today,…

When the Founding Fathers included the pursuit of happiness as an American right and entitlement, it is almost as if they conceded that happiness can be pursued, but it is…

The Gemara teaches that Hanukah was established as a time of הלל והודאה” – praise a n d thanksgiving.” What exactly is the difference between הלל and הודאה ?And why…

The Chochmas Shlomo teaches that if someone in jail is given the choice of either lighting the Chanukah candles in prison or to leave the jail for a day to…

The Midrash (cited by Rashi to Bereshit 37:3) tells us that before Yosef was sold as a slave by his brothers at the age of 17, he learned Torah from…

The gemara (Shabbos 21b) tells us that the proper place to put the Chanukah lights is in front of one’s home, so that all the passers-by will notice the lights,…

As we get ready for the very sweet festival of Chanukah, it behooves us to brush-up on its spiritual messages. In this way, we can ensure that it doesn’t become…

INDIAN WEATHER PREDICTION It was autumn, and the Indians on the remote reservation asked their new chief if the winter was going to be cold or mild. Since he was…

Rabbi Mansour is one of the most revered leaders of the Syrian Jewish community, which has experienced astounding physical and spiritual growth over the past few decades. Rabbi Mansour is…

On Chanukah, we insert Al Hanissim into our davening and bentching. It is very practical for us to discuss all the halachos that apply to this. Some questions we will…

The Torah describes Yaakov’s positioning of his family in preparation for the meeting with Eisav: “He put the handmaids and their children first, and Leah and her children later, and…

Parshas Vayishlach opens with Yaakov Avinu and his family leaving the house of Lavan, ready to embark on a return journey home. “Yaakov was greatly afraid and distressed.” (Genesis, Bereishis…

A TALE OF TWO ANGELS BROTHER’S KEEPER One day the zookeeper noticed that the orangutan was reading two books, the Bible and Darwin’s Origin of Species. Surprised, he asked the…

Parashat Vayishlah opens with Yaakov Avinu facing a vexing and frightening problem. His brother, Esav, who despised him for stealing the berachah which their father intended to give Esav, was…

The gemara (Shabbos 21b) tells us that the proper place to put the Chanukah lights is in front of one’s home, so that all the passers-by will notice the lights,…

We read in Parashat Vayishlah of the angel that attacked Yaakob Abinu as he made his way back to Eretz Yisrael from the home of Laban. The Rabbis teach us…

A fter years of research, the Rebbe of Radzin zy”a believed he found the blue techeiles dye, which could be used for tzitzis. To verify his claim, the Rebbe of…

Rabbi Avigdor Miller, Zt”l, Zy”a, makes a fascinating observation. When the Torah records historical events, it invariably starts the narrative with the letter ‘vav.’ Thus, we find in this week’s…

Prior to 1974, the standard practice for dealing with someone who was choking was to whack the afflicted person on the back. Dr. Henry Heimlich argued hitting them that way…

I. What A Rabbi Does Most of us have been to enough Jewish weddings that we know how they work. We can easily officiate. Even without a big crowd, all…

Sh ould a h a s h g a c h a put on the product they certify the beracha one sh ould make on that produ ct? We at…

INGREDIENTS: Topping: 1 cup brown sugar 1/3 cup flour 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans preferred) – you can omit if there are nut allergies 1/2 cup margarine (melted) Sweet Potato…

INGREDIENTS: Orange-Honey Glaze: • 3/4 cup honey • 1 teaspoon, orange zest • 1/4 cup fresh squeezed orange juice • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard…

Leah Was Commended For Recognizing “I Have Received More Than I Deserve” Upon the birth of her fourth son, Yehudah, Leah said, “This time I will thank Hashem” [Bereishis 29:35]….

In this week’s parshah, we are introduced to two of our matriarchs, Rochel and Leah, the wives of Yaakov. “And Leah’s eyes were ‘rakos’, tender and Rochel was ‘yefas toe’ahr,…

HOW RACHEL TAUGHT HER CHILD—AND THE WORLD—THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS WHAT’S THE SHAME? It is a perplexing response in this week’s Torah portion, Vayeitzei. Rachel, who has been childless for…

In many shuls, the question arises regarding waiting when a rabbi is taking time for shemone esrei and people are getting edgy, since they have to make the train to…

Parashat Vayetzeh begins with Yaakov Avinu’s journey from the Land of Israel to Haran, where he was to get married and build a family. The Torah tells us that as…

There is famous brief Hebrew poem composed by one of the Jewish philosophers of the middle ages that runs as follows, “he’avar ayin, he’asid adayin, he’hoveh k’heref ayin, da’aga minyain?…

The Midrash relates that when Yaakob left his parents’ home to flee from his brother, Esav, who wanted to kill him in revenge for his “stealing” Yishak’s blessings, Esav instructed…

There once was a family that moved to a home near the forest. The father said to his young son, “Don’t ever climb over the gate because there are wild…

Rivkah Imeinu had a very dramatic pregnancy. The posuk informs us, “Va’yisrotz’tzu habonim b’kirbah – And the twins ran (and wrestled) inside of her.” The Medrash elaborates, as cited by…

The story is told that one day, as a small child, Thomas Edison came home from school and gave a paper to his mother. He said, “Mom, my teacher gave…

The concept of “Bashert,” a person’s soulmate, warms the heart and plays into our notions of romance. The Gemara (Sotah 2a) says that forty days before the creation of a…

INGREDIENTS: 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree 1/2 cup vegetable or another neutral cooking oil 3 large eggs 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 3/4 teaspoon baking…

The New York Rangers and Adam Fox, have agreed to a historic contract extension. Fox, 23, signed a seven-year deal, taking him through the 2028-29 season. The average annual value…

R’ Eli Stefansky is the president of Prime Quest Management, Daf Yomi maggid shiur, and founder of the widely popular “8 Minute Daf” video series. More people listen to his…

What do you think about Mordy’s new YouTube video ABBA? It was beyond breathtaking. He took the words right out of Tehillim from L’Dovid Hashem Ori and they were beautiful,…

(BASED ON REMARKS DELIVERED AT THE SHLOSHIM IN JERUSALEM, 23 MAR CHESHVAN) The Torah relates ּהָתֹּכְבִלְו†הָרָׂשְל†דֹּפְסִל†≠םָהָרְבַא†אֹבָּיַו†– Avraham eulogizes Sarah. But the Torah doesn’t tell us what Avraham said. Why doesn’t…

Who Is The Wise One? He Who Recognizes That He Was Stupid Parshas Toldos contains the story of Eisav selling the birthright to Yaakov. After the transaction, the Torah uses…

“Va’yetar Yitzchok l’HaShem, l’nochach ishtoh ki akoroh hee – Yitzchok entreated HaShem opposite his wife, because she was barren.” (Bereishis 25:21) Rashi comments that Yitzchok stood in one corner, and…

The Torah tells us that a kosher animal is one which has split hooves and chews its cud; pigs have split hooves, but because they do not chew their cud,…

WHY WERE THE FOUNDING FATHERS OF JUDAISM ENTHRALLED BY WELLS? FREE PLOWING Back in the ‘40s, a Jewish guy was arrested for smuggling guns into Israel, then known as Palestine….

Perfect Order The Chofetz Chaim gave the following mashal: There was a man visiting a distant city. Shabbos morning, he went to the community’s beis kneses and watched the gabai…

M a n y have the custom to bentch their children on Friday night. Where does this custom come from? Should the blessings be given before or after coming home…

Several years ago, our community was privileged to host Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, zt”l. Before he addressed the over 1,000 people in attendance at BRS, I spontaneously asked him if…

The events surrounding the name Yaakov are very puzzling. The Torah explains that he was given the name because upon birth, “V’yodo ochezes ba’akeiv Esav — And his hand grasped…

Even those with only a passing knowledge of the Five Books of Moses recognize the death penalty applied to various sins. The Oral Torah, committed to writing centuries later, explains…

“The Impossible Pork, we didn’t give an ‘OU’ to it, not because it wasn’t kosher per se,” said Rabbi Menachem Genack, the CEO of the Orthodox Union’s kosher division. “It…

FAST FACTS: Name: Travis Emmanuel d’Arnaud Born: February 10, 1989 (age 32 years) in Long Beach, CA Position: Catcher MLB debut: August 17, 2013, for the New York Mets 2021…

INGREDIENTS: 4 TBSP olive oil, divided 1 pound boneless white chicken cutlets, diced 1 large zucchini, diced 3 to 5 cloves garlic, minced green beans sugar snap peas 2 to…

Please explain the word “GLATT”-is it still shayach today? Very, very much! Not only is it relevant today, but it probably has more applications today than it originally did. Glatt…

INGREDIENTS:  1 1/2 lbs. chicken thighs, boneless, skinless, cut into 2-inch chunks 1 Tbsp. canola oil 3 medium carrots, sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch pieces 1 medium sweet onion, cut into…

The avos were commanded to live in Eretz Yisroel. Today we also have this mitzvah, and therefore one may only leave Eretz Yisroel when the conditions there are unreasonable. If…

“Vayehiyu chayei Sarah meah shanah, v’esrim shanah, v’shevah shonim, sh’nei chayei Sarah — Sarah’s lifetime was 100 years, 20 years, and 7 years…. the years of Sarah’s life…” (Genesis, Bereishis…

The parsha begins with the pasuk, “Sarah’s lifetime was one hundred years, and twenty years, and seven years; the years of Sarah’s life.” [Bereishis 23:1]. Rashi comments on the strange…

R e c e n t l y certain kashrus agencies have begun to offer courses for women to make them m a s h g i c h o…

P i d y o n i m Shevuyim means redeeming a captive, paying s o m e o n e ’ s ransom. It is among the highest priorities…

With seven gold medals, including three at the recent Tokyo O l y m p i c s , swimmer Penny Oleksiak is Canada’s most decorated Olympian. But not everyone…

In Parshas Chaya Sarah we can study all about shidduchim. One of the primary lessons is to know that shidduchim are arranged by Hashem. It’s not because I chose, or…

The opening verse of Parashat Hayeh-Sara tells us that our matriarch Sara lived for “one hundred years, twenty years, and seven years.” This is an unusual way of telling us…

The story is told of an Orthodox Jew who went on a business trip and was at the airport for his flight home. As we he went through security, he…

Without a question, one of the greatest women in the history of the world was Sarah Imeinu. The posuk testifies that when she was one hundred years old, she was…

ABRAHAM, ISAAC AND JACOB: THE MORNING, DUSK, AND NIGHT OF JUDAISM ISAAC AND REBECCA The first act of marriage described in the Torah is the one between Isaac and Rebecca,…

William Shakespeare’s play Twelfth Night is probably his most enduring and popular comedy. At one point, the unfortunate Malvolio discovers a letter he thinks has been written by Countess Olivia,…

The career of Sheya Mendlowitz is one of great magnitude. His name is prominently displayed on hundreds of stereophonic systems, tapes, cassette, and compact discs. He was the first to…

I. The Problematic Theology of the Stranger Rabbi Jonathan Sacks zt”l, whose first yahrtzeit falls this year on October 26 (20 Cheshvan), opened up Jewish thought to a broader audience…

The passing of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks zt”l, whose first yahrtzeit falls this year on October 26 (20 Cheshvan), left thousands if not millions of people of faith — Orthodox…

By Virtue of the Running of Avraham, Israel Received the Torah The pasuk [verse] says “And G-d appeared to him in Elonei Mamre.” This is a strange construction. Rather than…

“Vayeira eilov HaShem….” “HaShem appeared to him in the plains of Mamre, while he was sitting at the entrance of the tent…” (Bereishis 18:1) This week’s parshah, Vayeira, opens with…

Through the media, we are constantly bombarded by death. This preoccupation with death tends to prey on a person’s mind and fill him with fears and worries. So too, as…

Akedat Yitzhak, when Avraham was commanded to sacrifice his son and he immediately complied – until at the last minute G-d told him to withdraw his knife, as this was…

We read in Parashat Vayera the famous story known as “Akedat Yishak,” where G-d commanded Abraham Abinu to offer his son, Yishak, as a sacrifice. This story begins by telling…

The Value of a Yid Someone sent his butler to bring a barrel of wine as a gift to the Meor Einayim, Rebbe Nachum of Chernobyl zt’l. (In that era…

The Jewish people have always focused on birthdays. On Pesach, we celebrate the birth of the Jewish nation. We say in Mussaf that the world was created on Rosh Hashana….

While we have been focused on fighting and managing a historic pandemic, another epidemic continues to rage. Substance abuse and addiction don’t discriminate based on religion, economic class, gender, or…

Q: Can one bake an open pan of chicken/ meat in a hot oven immediately after fish was baked in an open pan? What about the opposite, fish after meat,…

INGREDIENTS: 3-3.5 lb. Delmonico roast 3 Cloves Garlic, minced 1 tbsp. Prepared white Horseradish 1 tbsp. Fresh Rosemary, finely chopped 3 tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil Kosher Salt and Pepper…

FACTS: Name: Kemba Hudley Walker Born: May 8, 1990 (age 31) in The Bronx, New York Height: 6 ft 0 in Listed Weight: 184 lb High School: Rice (Manhattan, New…

Avraham Avinu, our father Abraham, the first Jew. Avraham grew up in Ur Kasdim, living in a world of idol worshippers. Despite that, he believed in a G-d above. He…

How Did Rashi Know That? The Almighty informs Avraham Avinu that his wife will have a child: “And G-d said to Avraham, ‘As for Sarai your wife—do not call her…

I. EXTENT OF THE PROHIBITION The Gemara (Gittin 7a) asks from where we learn that music is forbidden. The Gemara answers with a few possible verses, including “Do not rejoice,…

Most of us have become accustomed to using WhatsApp to communicate and in some cases manage our family, social, and professional lives. Indeed, WhatsApp is used to send more than…

Opening Stores Next to each Other In the larger Jewish enclaves, each neighborhood has many pizza and food stores, as well as many shuls and yeshivos. Are there any restrictions…

As we take our yearly tour through the lessons of Bereishis, we see a study in contrasts. On the one hand, we have the cruel selfish behavior of the Sodomites…

Even When the Table is Set… The Ramban (12:10) tells us that Avraham erred when he left Eretz Yisrael to go to Mitzrayim. He should have remained in Eretz Yisrael,…

Parashat Lech-Lecha begins with G-d’s command to Abraham Abinu to “go forth” – “Lech Lecha” – and move to Eretz Yisrael. Rashi explains the phrase “Lech Lecha” to mean, “Le’hana’atecha…

In Parashat Lech-Lecha, Hashem presents to Avraham Avinu the mitzvah of berit mila. He begins by making the following pronouncement: ךתא†יתירב†≠הנה†ינא†– “Behold, My covenant is with you!” The Keli Yakar…

A PALACE IN FLAMES THE GENESIS OF A FAITH How did the Jewish faith, the father of all monotheistic faiths, begin? The Midrash (in this week’s Torah portion) describes the…

Can I drink coffee at a restaurant? It is not possible to make one universal statement about the kashrus of coffee prepared in a non-certified restaurant because each establishment is…

INGREDIENTS: 1 1/2 cups sugar Half a cup brown sugar 2 cups of flour 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar One packet vanilla pudding mix 2 teaspoons baking powder 4 eggs 3/4…

FAST FACTS: Name: Sterling Clay Shepard Born: February 10, 1993 (age 28) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Height: 5 ft 10 in Weight: 196 lb High School: Heritage Hall in Oklahoma…

Mazel Tov on the big news! For those people that do not know, this past Shabbos, Shabbos Parshas Beraishis, the Young Israel of Flatbush merged with the Talmud Torah of…

There appears to be an apparent contradiction in the narrative of the animals’ entry into the Teyva [Ark]. In one place, it appears that they (miraculously) came on their own,…

The Torah commentator, Nachmanides, commonly known as Ramban (1194- 1271), wrote a letter to his son, on how to live a modest and humble life. The letter, “Iggeret HaRamban” (lit….

HENRY KISSINGER’S SUIT There is the old Jewish anecdote about former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger who decides to make for himself a custom made beautiful three-piece suit of the…

The Issur Chazal wanted to protect the Jews from assimilating with the non-Jews and therefore enacted a gezeira that the bread of a non-Jew is forbidden for a Jew to…

When Hashem commanded Noach to build the tevah (ark), He instructed that it must include a רהצ†– a source of light. The Rabbis gave two different interpretations to this word….

Just before the flood, G-d instructs to Noah to board the ark together with his family: “Come…into the ark, because I have seen that you are righteous before Me in…

Avoid Disputes The Chasam Sofer (Vayigash pg. 218) discusses a phenomenon that we are unfortunately familiar with: there are wise, intelligent people, who act rationally with everything they do, but…

In the entirety of Scripture, there aren’t many people who have been given so many accolades by Hashem as Noach. The Torah waxes reverently about Noach’s character. It extols him…

The Torah begins with a description of creation. Of course, we learn of heaven and earth, sun, moon, stars and constellations, the animal kingdom, birds, fish, the earth, vegetation and…

When someone uses profanity, he abuses the divine gift of speech, demonstrating a lack of refinement and self-control. Speaking profanity violates a biblical prohibition. There is reason to forbid not…

Full Name: Clayton Edward Kershaw Born: Dallas, Texas on March 19, 1988 Height & Weight: 6-3, 215 Nickname: Kersh or the Claw Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy playing Ping Pong Player you…

INGREDIENTS: Poppyseed Dressing 1/4 cup white wine vinegar 1/4 cup sugar 1 garlic clove 1 1/2 tablespoons poppy seeds 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 2 teaspoons light mayo…

HAVE A CHARASHO SUKKOS One of the busiest stars in the Jewish music industry, Benny Friedman has made a name for himself, not by being a member of one of…

The subject of whether one should sit in the sukkah on Shemini Atzeres has been the topic of debate and discussion since time immemorial. There are many who have the…

I. Two Types of Teshuvah The modern Ba’al Teshuvah, someone from a non-religiously observant background who becomes religiously observant, does not fit well into classical categories. That leaves room for…

We are taught that, “Mo-adim l’simcha, chagim u’zmanim ul’sason – Festivals towards (promoting) joy, holidays and times for (promoting) exaltation.” Rav Shamshon Rafoel Hirsch asks why doesn’t it say, “Mo-adei…

A GIFT TO A MOTHER Three sons left home, went out on their own and prospered. Getting back together, they discussed the gifts they were able to give their elderly…

A woman in her seventies had a heart attack and was taken to the hospital. While on the operating table she had a near death experience. She had the opportunity…

There is a famous story told of an overworked, underpaid wagon driver who once found himself helplessly lost in a land with no light. He finally met a group of…

Many people enter the season of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur asking themselves, “What’s the point? I went through all this last year, and here I am, the same person…

The Gemara (Succah 3) teaches that a succah must have enough room to contain most of one’s body and a small table. If it is smaller than this dimension, it’s…

The halacha requires that one dwell in the sukkah for the duration of the yom tov in the same way one would live in his own home: eating, sleeping, learning,…

Is a canvas sukkah kosher if the walls move in the wind? Sukkah walls that move in a regular wind are not valid walls. There are different opinions as to…

INGREDIENTS: 3T honey 3T soy sauce 3T ketchup 1 tsp each: onion powder garlic powder and paprika   With so many meals to cook between Yom tov and Shabbos you…

INGREDIENTS: Serves 6: 1 large vidalia onion, sliced 1 Tbsp. margarine or oil 1/2 tsp. salt 1 tsp. brown sugar 3/4 tsp. black pepper 3 portabella mushrooms, cleaned and sliced…

ON SEPTEMBER 11, when two hijacked planes deliberately crashed into the Twin Towers of New York City, it was not only the civilians who work in the towers that were…

FIVE FLOORS ABOVE, Shimmy Biegeleisen phoned his wife from his office at money-management firm Fiduciary Trust International Inc. “There’s been an explosion next door,” the 42-year-old vice president said. “Don’t…

On Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur we kneel on the floor during davening at oleinu and while saying v’kohanim. In addition, many times we wish to kneel on the ground…

I. Who Is Greater? Is it better to be good all your life or to turn your life around? Someone who overcomes sin and returns to full observance, a ba’al…

One of the most urgent segments of our Rosh HaShannah and Yom Kippur liturgy is the proclamation we say with great feeling, “Us’shuvah us’filah u’tzedakah ma-avirin es ro-ah hagizeirah –…

NO BRAINER A freshman in college started his first day of classes. His Jewish teacher was clearly an atheist, and started the day by saying the following: “Students, is there…

We all know the joke about the classic text message from a Jewish mother: “Start worrying. Details to follow.” The truth is there is much to worry about these days:…

During this period of the Aseret Yemeh Teshuba – the Ten Days of Repentance, from Rosh Hashanah through Yom Kippur – the Yeser Ha’ra (evil inclination) is gong to get…

The Gemara teaches, “Teshuvah [repentance] is great, because it reaches the Throne of Glory.” What exactly does this mean? How does our teshuvah reach G-d’s throne in the heavens? And…

The Tune The tefillos of Yom Kippur are sung in special melodies, which have been sung for centuries. The holy sefarim explain that these tunes annul the harsh judgment. As…

The Talmud tells us (Taanis 30b) that every year on Yom Kippur we commemorate the fact that on that very day, so many years ago, Moshe Rabbeinu came down from…

What foods should one eat at the seuda ha’mafsekes (last meal) on erev Yom Kippur? Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 608:4) writes that on erev Yom Kippur, one should eat light…

INGREDIENTS: 16 ounces wide egg noodles 1/2 stick butter (melted) 16 ounces cottage cheese 16 ounces sour cream 4 large eggs (lightly beaten) 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract 3/4 cup…

FAST FACTS: Name: Ednel Javier Báez Nickname: El Mago Born: December 1, 1992 (age 28) in Bayamón, Puerto Rico MLB Debut: August 5, 2014, for the Chicago Cubs 2021 Salary:…

We are all familiar with the simonim that are eaten on Rosh Hashanah. However, some foods are avoided from Rosh Hashanah until as late as Hoshanah Rabbah. What are these…

I. Talking Destroys Shuls Talking in shul has been a problem since time immemorial. People who talk about idle matters during the prayer service not only show disrespect for the…

In last week’s article, we were discussing the proper usage of our ears. One of the wonderful things we can do with our ears is to allow a troubled person…

“Coronation Night” – that is how one of the great spiritual masters would define the night of Rosh Hashanah. In a 1974 sermon, Rabbi Yosef Dov Soleveitchik (1903-1993), one of…

What are the most important relationships, people and activities in your life? Would you say you allocate time to them? Do you think you make them a priority? Now take…

Please forgive me if I don’t send a mass email or group text message or Facebook post asking everyone for mechila. Also forgive me if I see you in the…

The Midrash (Vayikra Rabba) teaches that on Rosh Hashanah, G-d sits on the “throne of judgment,” ready to carefully judge and scrutinize every individual. But when we sound the shofar,…

I, and I’m sure many others, as well, get very excited as Rosh Hashanah approaches, eager to seize the opportunity to pray for a good year. I look forward to…

In anticipation of Rosh Ha-Shana we take haircuts and dress as we do for Yom Tov to demonstrate that we are confident that G-d will be kind to us and…

Rosh Hashana Segulos of Tekiyas Shofar The Shaar HaMelech writes that one should answer amen with kavanah to the brachah, Lishmoa kol shofar, because it’s written in sefarim that this…

What is preferable? To wake up early and recite Selichos before dawn (a.k.a. alos hashachar, which is 72 minutes before sunrise), or to stay up late and recite Selichos after…

“All of humanity pass before You as sheep”. On Rosh Hashanah every human stands before G-d in judgement. He reviews our behavior, scrutinizes our hearts and determines our fate for…

INGREDIENTS: 5-6 lb brisket 3 medium onions 1 Tbsp vegetable oil 3 cloves of minced garlic salt and pepper to taste 12 oz chili sauce 2 15 oz cans of…

INGREDIENTS: 1 package yellow cake mix 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1 cup applesauce 1 1/3 cups peeled and very finely chopped apples (2 medium) 1 cup…

We are all familiar with the simonim that are eaten on Rosh Hashanah. However, some foods are avoided from Rosh Hashanah until as late as Hoshanah Rabbah. What are these…

As Elul arrives and Rosh Hashanah approaches, we need to start thinking about teshuvah, about how we can build positively on all the events of tumultuous past year so that…

Last week, we spoke about how one should work on controlling the seven gateways of the head: the two eyes, two ears, the two nostrils and the mouth. In the…

PEANUT BUTTER Every day at lunch time Yankel would open his lunch sandwich and utter the same complaint. “Oh no, peanut butter again!” One day, after seven years, his co-worker…

In addition to being an outstanding Talmid Chacham and world renowned posek, Rav Hershel Schachter is one of the most prolific Torah teachers of our time. He recently celebrated his…

We are all familiar with the notion that Elul is a time for introspection and self-assessment as we prepare for the judgment of Rosh Hashanah. However, we can perhaps gain…

When we think of Elul and the High Holidays, we generally think in terms of fear, anxiety and trepidation. We intuitively assume that during this period we are supposed to…

Bikurim “Ki v’haya ki tavo el ha’aretz… v’lakachta mreshit kol pri hadama… ubata el hacohen…”. The parashah begins with the mitzvah of bikurim, to bring the first ripened fruit —…

This coming Shabbos, when we read Parshas Ki Savo, we will be fulfilling a double mitzvah: 1) We will be reading the parshas hashavua 2) We will be fulfilling the…

This Rosh Hashanah (5782) will be the beginning of a new Shemitah year. The Torah forbids many agricultural activities in Eretz Yisroel during Shemitah, such as planting, pruning and harvesting….

The experience of Shmita is both fascinating and iconic. Occurring once in seven years, it carries the mystique of something “extraordinary” or even enchanted. Intended as a seminal national experience,…

INGREDIENTS: MEATBALLS: 1 large shallot, very finely chopped – reserve 1/3 for the sauce. 1 lb. ground lamb, beef, or chicken 4–5 large garlic cloves, minced or crushed through a…

FAST FACTS: Name: Saquon Barkely Born: February 7, 1997 (age 24) in Bronx, New York Drafted 2018: 1st Round, 2nd by New York Giants College: Penn State Salary: Base salary…

Changing  Location While Eating In a bungalow colony or camp, people often eat in their room and then go outside on the porch or walk around outside. The halachos of…

I. Respect If a student believes that his rabbi has committed a financial wrong against him, can the student call him to a religious court? Perhaps the respect due to…

On Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we chant slowly the venerable psalm, L’Dovid Mizmor. The saying of this psalm is considered a big segula for parnassa, for one’s livelihood. In…

TWO PHASES In a military class the professor asked the students, “What is the difference between an engagement and a battle?” No one in the group offered any answer. The…

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says a third of us aren’t getting the r e c omme n d e d seven hours of sleep we need. A…

Towards the end of Parashat Ki-Teseh, the Torah presents the Misva of Yibum, which applies when a married man dies without children. His brother is required to marry the widow,…

There is one sports team in America which is much more than just a sports team. Almost every player who joins this team says the same thing: it’s more than…

The parashah begins, “When you go out to war against your enemies, Hashem your G-d will deliver them into your hands…”. This passuk, like all pesukim of the Torah, can…

The official anthology of readings from the works of the Gaon of Vilna is entitled “Even Shleima”. The choice of the title is based on the acronym of the phrase:…

There are very few storylines as dramatic or as harsh as the saga of a ben sorer u’moreh. A wayward adolescent boy exhibits preliminary signs of insubordination, is arraigned by…

Ma’aris Ayin in Kashrus: Can you eat in a treif restaurant for business (with a yarmulke or without a yarmulke, etc.)? That’s a great question. The answer is as follows:…

INGREDIENTS: 4 cups cherry tomatoes, (half for roasting, half raw) Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling 1 cup dry Israeli couscous 1 tablespoon lemon juice, more if desired 1 garlic clove,…

Temimus Ancient sefarim state that the word tamim in the passuk (18:13) “tamim t’hiyeh am hashem elokecha” is written with a large Taf. The Kotkzer zt’l explains that the large…

Often, when a person is going through a trying time, his friends and family will urge him to “think positive.” We might ask, why should such a person think positive?…

Washing Many People’s Hands for a Meal When large groups of people are going on a trip and need to wash their hands for a meal, one should take a…

FAST FACTS: Name: Anthony Vincent Rizzo Born: August 8, 1989 (age 32) in Parkland, Florida Bats: Left Throws: Right Drafter: By the Boston Red Sox in the sixth round of…

The month of Elul is upon us with all of its seriousness and high stakes. First of all, it is the last month of the year and in Yiddishkeit this…

In Devarim 17:15 the Torah tells us that we should appoint a king. The Gemara in Taanis 17a and Sanhedrin 22b says that a king takes a haircut every day,…

Man is at his worst behavior during wartime- destroying lives and devastating his surroundings. Modern war feels slightly more civil, as it is generally brief and is conducted at a…

INGREDIENTS: 1 packet onion soup mix 1/4 scant cup olive oil 1 chicken in eighths 2 medium potatoes cubed 2 large carrots sliced 1/2 cup chicken consomme   ISRAELI SALAD…

I know a number of individuals who, unfortunately, struggled with alcohol addiction, and were helped by joining Alcoholics Anonymous, where addicts come together to receive help and give each other…

FIRST ANECDOTE: A man goes out with a woman on their first date. For the first three hours he talks only about himself, his history, accomplishments and interests. Finally, he…

The Torah tells the soldiers of the Jewish army not to fear the enemy (Devorim 20:3). Rambam understands this as a prohibition, i.e., it is forbidden for the soldiers to…

I. Drinking Before Davening I have seen myself and heard from others that over the past few years, there has been significant growth in the number of people who drink…

I recently drove to a funeral at a cemetery deep in Miami. One of the other attendees asked me which route I took to get there. I thought for a…

Dear Rabbi and Shira, I’m hoping you can help me. I have been friends with this guy for the past few years. We get along well and I have strong…

Rabbi Eisen is the Rav of Kollel Bnei Torah, and the Rabbinic Administrator of the Vaad of The Five Towns & Far Rockaway When were you in Rav Pam’s shiur?…

During the summer in my bungalow colony we like to eat our seudah on the grass. Is that a problem? It is a huge problem to eat on the grass…

THE FIGHT A Jewish congregation was arguing over whether one should stand or sit during the Kaddish prayer. Half of the congregation said one should sit, while the other half…

INGREDIENTS: 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed 1/2 lb sliced pastrami (can also use corned beef or a combination) 2/3 cup sauerkraut, drained 1/2 cup mayonnaise 3 Tbsp ketchup 1 Tbsp…

Accepting Government Programs for Summer Camps The U.S. government offers many programs. One such program provides free food for children from low-income homes who attend a sleepaway camp or day…

Many communities, including Syrian Jews, have the custom to recite throughout the month of Elul the 27th chapter of Tehillim, which begins, ≠’ה†דודל†יעשיו†ירוא†– “[A Psalm] by David: Hashem is my…

The opening section of Parshas Re’eh formulates the principle of bechira chofshis (freedom of will). Although the Rambam has not listed this among what he considered the thirteen principles of…

The Torah in Parashat Re’eh discusses the Misva of Sedaka, charity, commanding us, “Do not harden your heart and do not close your hand from your brother the pauper. Rather,…

The Vision from Above Chassidim were once traveling with Rebbe Naftali of Ropshitz zt’l, and before they boarded the wagon, they agreed on a price with the gentile wagon driver….

Believe it or not, Elul is upon us! How do we juggle the seriousness, gravity and trepidation of Elul with the lazy days of summer? How can we relax and…

Yellowstone National Park, which is larger than the states of Rhode Island and Delaware combined, contains its own Grand Canyon, considered by many to be the most breathtaking sight inside…

I. Asking for Forgiveness In recent years, there has been much discussion about what constitutes a sufficient apology. Sometimes people apologize under pressure and do not really admit to having…

FAST FACTS: Name: Ednel Javier Báez Nickname: El Mago Born: December 1, 1992 (age 28) in Bayamón, Puerto Rico MLB Debut: August 5, 2014, for the Chicago Cubs 2021 Salary:…

Kiddush and Havdala Some mention that one who wears a jacket and hat for davening should wear them for Kiddush as well, as this shows honor for the mitzvah. Others…

I. Whom to Honor Is a child obligated to honor a parent who leaves Torah observance? We are speaking here of the child’s obligation and what is best for the…

The posuk in Mishlei states, “K’kesef l’matzreif vk’cur l’zahav, ish k’fi mehalalo – Like silver in the refinery and gold in the crucible, so is a man according to his…

“The world breaks everyone, and afterwards some are stronger in the broken places.” — Ernest Hemingway Broken The simple reading of the story (recorded twice in Torah, in Exodus, in…

There are many lessons to draw from the Olympics currently taking place in Tokyo. The tenacity, resolve, grit, discipline, drive, and sense of teamwork of each athlete, is simply inspiring…

Parashat Ekeb features the section known as “Ve’haya Im Shamoa” – the second paragraph of the Shema text which we recite each morning and evening. The first paragraph – “Shema…

Rabbi Ephraim Wachsman tells that he once needed to drive from Lakewood to Monsey, and there was a group of yeshiva students who needed a ride, so he took them…

No Worries In this week’s parashah it states “Hashem will remove from you all illnesses and all diseases of Mitzrayim…” (7:15). Notice that the passuk discusses two types of sicknesses:…

Four times a year we read in the Torah about ma’amad har Sinai: on Shabbos when we lein the parshas of Yisro, V’eschanan, and Eikev, and on Shavuos. According to…

In Devarim 10:12 the posuk tells us, “Now, what (ma) does Hashem want from you? Just to have yiras shomayim.” The Gemara Menachos 43a learns from this pokuk that we…

The recent decision to discontinue selling Ben and Jerry’s ice cream in selected areas of Israel has roused the Jewish world, supporters of Israel, and opponents of economic boycotting. Fortunately,…

Can one open a bottle of soda or can of tuna on Shabbos? If I hold that it’s ok to open and my friend does not, can I open the…

INGREDIENTS: 3 -4 lb second cut brisket or deckle 1 1/2 cups water 2 tsp seasoned salt 2 tsp garlic powder 1 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar 1 cup ketchup 1/2…

Position of One’s Bed The Gemara says that a bed should be placed from north to south. One who does so will have male children, and his wife will not…

The tenth and final of the Ten Commandments recorded in this week’s portion (Vaeschanan) reads: “You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife; you shall not covet your neighbor’s house, nor…

In our daily Krias Shema, we say, “V’ahvata es Hashem Elokecha – And you should love Hashem Your Go-d.” Both the Rokei’ach and the Baal HaTurim reveal that the word…

Some – body once showed me the “Ask the Rabbi” c o l u m n that was printed in a certain magazine (that is not connected to our community)….

In one possuk at the end of parshas Va’eschanan (7:3) the Torah prohibits both forms of intermarriage: a Jewish man may not take a non-Jewish woman, nor may a Jewish…

Five conversations that should take place over the course of dating and even within marriage itself. What are the critical things to look for in dating to determine if someone…

There was a bachur who was having difficulty controlling his anger, so he asked the mashgiach of his yeshiva for counsel. The mashgiach told him the following mashal: A band…

The Shabbat after Tisha B’Ab is known as “Shabbat Nahamu,” the “Shabbat of consolation.” This name is based on the famous prophecy which we read as the Haftara on this…

INGREDIENTS: 1 Cup Ketchup 1/3 cup soy sauce 4 teaspoons ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 3 pounds chicken drumettes Optional: Sliced green onions   DIRECTIONS: In a small bowl,…

Many actions are forbidden on Tishah B’Aav, including learning. What is the reason for this? What kind of learning is prohibited? Does this apply to teaching children as well? These…

I. Havdalah Options Havdalah separates between the sanctity of Shabbos and the regular nature of the week. We must observe the prohibitions of Shabbos until we say Havdalah. Additionally, we…

Here on the eastern seaboard, we’ve been having an unusual amount of torrential rain. When viewing this casually, especially during the summer months, we consider rain a big nuisance. It…

WILLPOWER A woman is leaving her multimillion dollar mansion in Beverly Hills when a poor man approaches her and cries, “Oh ma’am, I haven’t eaten in three days.” To which…

On April 11, 1944, a young Anne Frank wrote in her diary: Who has made us Jews different from all other people? Who has allowed us to suffer so terribly…

The Aron – the ark in the Bet Ha’mikdash – featured on top of it two Kerubim, golden figurines which served as a “barometer” of G-d’s relationship with the Jewish…

Halachah instructs, סנכנשמ†ןיטעממ†בא†החמשב† – “When Av enters, we reduce our joy.” Significantly, we are not told to be sad and depressed during this period leading up to Tishah B’Av. Rather,…

Tefillah – it’s power to prevent prevent the churban Had the people living in the era of the churban davened and beseeched Hashem that the churban and the exile shouldn’t…

The Gemarah (Nedarim 38a) tells us that the original plan of the Ribbono Shel Olam was that Moshe Rabbeinu would only tell the Jewish people the dinim of the Torah…

Mourning is a deeply personal and emotional experience. Merely “going through the motions” without authentic inner sadness yields a listless and empty experience. Mourning ancient tragedies of Jewish history on…

A pareve soup is made with dairy utensils and a dairy pot. It’s then warmed up using a fleishig bowl and a fleishig spoon. What’s the status? The halacha is…

The Rema in 451:10 says that if a person makes a siyum during the nine days he may eat meat. There are a number of reasons for someone to make…

INGREDIENTS: 3 Tbsp butter 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 Tbsp crushed garlic 1.5 cups arborio rice Caramelized onions (1/4 cup – can add more to your taste) Sautéed mushrooms (1/4…

INGREDIENTS: 1 lb wide pasta 1/2 cup unsalted butter divided 20 ounces cremini mushrooms sliced 1/3 cup finely chopped shallots (about 2 large shallots) 1/3 cup dry white wine 1…

FAST FACTS: Name: Adam Fox Born: February 17, 1998 (age 23) in Jericho, New York Height: 5 ft 11 in Weight: 181 lb Position: Defense Shoots: Right NHL Draft: 55th…

In this issue we will discuss the halachos that apply to the nine days. During the nine days we are not allowed to do many more actions than those that…

A charitable pledge con-stitutes a vow that must be fulfilled. However, like many vows, it can be nullified if proper regret is presented to a religious court, if it is…

In Parshas Pinchas, the Torah records prominent families of the Bnei Yisroel. There, it states, “V’sheim bas Asher Serach – And the name of the daughter of Asher was Serach.”…

Pastures of love The Old Man Arnold had reached the age of 105 and suddenly stopped going to synagogue. Worried by Arnold’s absence after so many years of faithful attendance,…

Jews of diverse backgrounds, denominations and levels of o b s e r v a n c e seem to all observe yahrzeits of their loved ones based on the…

The three-week period from Shiba Assar Be’Tammuz through Tisha B’Ab, which we are currently observing, is commonly known as the period of “Ben Ha’mesarim” (literally, “in between the barriers”). The…

Most people feel “stuck” in some aspect of their lives. Some feel stuck in a job they don’t like, or which does not pay a high enough salary. Some feel…

The laws of vows are discussed in the beginning of this week’s parashah, and it says, “One shouldn’t make his words insignificant. Whatever he promises, he should keep” (30:3). Rebbe…

At the very end of Chumash Bamidbar the Torah relates that the leaders of shevet Menashe came to Moshe Rabbeinu with the following problem: because Tzlafchad had no sons his…

In a well-documented tale, Napolean once observed French Jews sitting on the floor of a synagogue, mourning their lost Temple. He was amazed at this historical consciousness which stretched back…

Q. I have almost finished learning a Masechta (volume of Talmud). May I slow down (i.e., learn other topics or in greater depth), so that I will be able to…

The following question came before Reb Shmuel Darzi. A young man whose parents were not frum bought him a brand-new car and gave it to him during the three weeks….

INGREDIENTS: 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 4 (6-oz) salmon fillets, patted dry with paper towels Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 3 tbsp. butter 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 1/2…

INGREDIENTS: 2 heads cauliflower florets 1 package @boursin garlic and fine herbs cheese Olive oil Salt and pepper 3/4 cup water   DIRECTIONS: Move over feta pasta bake – this…

Many people are not properly familiar with the halachos of zecher l’churban which apply today even though the bais hamikdosh was destroyed thousands of years ago. The Shulchan Aruch says…

I. No Smell After Shabbos ends, we recite havdalah on wine, a special candle and spices for smelling, each item with its own blessing plus a blessing on separation itself…

One of the great Biblical acts of valor was the zealous execution of the Nasi Zimri and the Midianite Princess Kozbi by the courageous tzaddik, Pinchas. Although the Torah rarely…

IN SEARCH FOR A SUCCESSOR Miriam has died. So has Aaron. G-d tells Moses that his turn is about to come. “Go up this mountain in the Abarim range and…

Michael Jordan, a man associated with success in his field as much as anyone alive, famously said, “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career, I’ve lost almost 300…

In the beginning of Parashat Pinhas, G-d speaks to Moshe and announces that He would be rewarding Pinhas for his bold action during the tragic event of Ba’al Pe’or. As…

Who am I? You are always very close to me. You almost never let me go. You look at me all the time. I know your deepest secrets. I am…

It is brought down in the sefarim about a specific species of birds that build their nests very high up on a tree. It is impossible for snakes (their predators)…

In Parshas Pinchas we read about the institution of semicha. Moshe Rabbeinu was instructed by Hakadosh Boruch Hu to place his hand on his student, Yehoshua bin Nun, in the…

This July 4th weekend, Americans will celebrate their Independence Day. This annual event commemorates the establishment of the “city upon the hill”- the first modern experiment of democracy. Arguably, the…

I am trying to watch my health, and I would like to make homemade smoothies for breakfast. I plan to blend pear and mango in a blender until they become…

In Bamidbar 25:18 the Torah tells us that the first day is “Mikra Kodesh.” The Rosh learns from this posuk that one has to hear krias HaTorah Min HaTorah. There…

INGREDIENTS: 6 hot dogs cut in half 12 lollipop sticks vegetable oil for frying   FOR BATTER: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup cornmeal 2 tbsp sugar 2 tsp baking…

Luke Voit played in just 12 games prior to the Royals series because of preseason knee surgery followed by the oblique strain. Luke re-joined the Yankees lineup and added an immediate punch,…

The time of the three weeks is a time when we avoid many activities. Why do we refrain from such activities? What are included in these activities? Below we will…

I. The Heretic’s Torah The Gemara (Gittin 45b) says that we must burn a Torah scroll written by a heretic. In contrast, if a gentile wrote a Torah, then we…

When Balak, king of Moav, saw that the great giants Sichon and Og fell to the Bnei Yisroel, he was filled with terror. These giants who were born before the…

ON THE ULTIMATE MEANING OF JEWISH EXISTENCE Balaam’s prose It is fascinating that some of the most splendid prose in the Hebrew Bible emerges from the mouth of Balaam, a…

One of the many important national conversations taking place these days involves recognition and awareness of privilege. To some people, privilege is a negative thing and something to be ashamed…

The Torah in Parashat Balak tells the fascinating story of Bilam, who was invited by Balak, the king of Moab, to place a curse on Beneh Yisrael. When Balak’s first…

It happened only once in the history of the world, and it will never happen again. This was a singular moment, an unparalleled miracle, which will not be repeated, ever….

Tefillah The parashah begins by describing the immense fear that befell the nations as Klal Yisrael approached the outskirts of Eretz Yisrael, as it states, “Moav was afraid of the…

The Rambam (towards the end of his commentary to Mishnayot Sanhedrin) lists what he considers to be the thirteen principles of our faith, the twelfth of which is to believe…

The enemy is at the doorstep. The Jewish people are about to enter the promised land and establish the kingdom of G-d. Hastily, King Balak of Moav and his sworn…

Can a frum person be a vegan? What potential problems could they have? A frum person can be a vegan. The two main points I’d like to make is a)…

FAST FACTS Name: Francisco Miguel Lindor Nickname: Mr. Smile or Paquito Born: November 14, 1993 (age 27) in Caguas, Puerto Rico Height: 5’ 11” Weight: 190 lbs Position: Shortstop Uniform…

INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup canola oil 1/4 cup soy sauce 3 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons white vinegar 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1-1/2 pounds beef cubes 1/2 pound…

Many people do dangerous activities thinking that it is permitted even though it is dangerous. However, as will be discussed below this is not the case. If something is dangerous…