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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…
The Sages use different titles to refer to different levels of s c h o l a r s because not all rabbis have equal authority. In order of increasing…
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…
LOOKING UP: THE MEANING BEHIND THE SNAKE ON THE POLE NO COMPLAINING After seventy years of communist oppression and seven hours of flying, Boris, a burly immigrant from Moscow steps…
One of the stories told in Parashat Hukat is how Hashem punished Beneh Yisrael after they complained to Moshe about their conditions. Specifically, they complained about the manna which fell…
The entire chumash was dictated to Mosheh Rabbeinu word for word. The Rabbis had a tradition that the Author had more than one intention in any given passuk. “Elokim said…
Last Monday afternoon, the ground in the parking lot at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Yerushalayim opened up. Thank G-d the massive sinkhole swallowed only cars and not people. Korach…
The story of Meh Meriba, when Moshe and Aharon were punished for striking a rock in the desert to produce water for Beneh Yisrael, has baffled commentators for centuries. It…
Hashem’s mode of communication Hashem told Eliyahu HaNavi, “Go to Tzarfata in Tzidon and live there. Behold I commanded a widow who lives there to support you…” (I Malachim 17:9)….
How would you, in the Torah world, define evil incarnate? When the Torah says, “Vayikach Korach – And Korach took…” the Gemora in Sanhedrin asks What exactly did he take?…
During many eras in Jewish history, Jews converted to other religions, whether due to physical, financial or social pressure or otherwise. Many of these wayward Jews returned to the Jewish…
Many are familiar with the “golden mean” or the middle path of the Rambam. Regrettably, some misunderstand this as a prescription for religious mediocrity. Under no conditions did the Rambam…
If someone cuts an onion with a fleishig knife & puts it into a parve blender. Is the blender fleishig? This is a very popular question. Certainly, you shouldn’t put…
INGREDIENTS: 1 medium red onion, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch slices 1 large sweet red pepper, halved, stemmed and seeded 1 small zucchini, cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch slices 1 yellow summer…
FAST FACTS: Name: Zachary Kapono Wilson Born: August 3, 1999 (age 21) in Draper, Utah Height: 6 ft 2 in Weight: 214 lb High school: Corner Canyon (Draper) College: BYU…
FAST FACTS: Name of Gemach: Bobby Pin Gemach Started: The Gemach started two weeks ago in time for the Busy Camp Sport Season, although we do plan on continuing this…
Two years ago, a wonderful young person I know began to spiral downward. Though they couldn’t see it or admit it at the time, alcohol was seriously hindering and sabotaging…
THE FATHER OF SPIRITUAL ANARCHY WISE OR BOORISH? This week’s portion, Korach, relates the tragic story of the mutiny staged by a man named Korach (Numbers chapter 16), who organized…
The Gemara in one place makes an astonishing remark about eating in public. It says that somebody who eats while outside in the marketplace, walking in the street with a…
If one eats a meal on Chanukah, minhag has it that ve-al ha-nissim is included in the Birkat Ha-mazon, though the Talmud clarifies that this is not a halachah. Because…
Parashat Korah tells of the revolt against Moshe’s leadership mounted by Moshe’s cousin, Korah, and a group of loyal followers. This uprising ended in tragedy, with G-d killing Korah and…
Parnassah The Midrash (Vayikra Rabba, Tzav, 9) states, “Shalom is great, for all brachos come from peace…” The Mishnah (Uktzin 3:2) states, “Hakadosh Baruch Hu didn’t find a utensil to…
When the meraglim, the spies, went to check out Eretz Yisroel, Kalev made a personal detour. He traveled to Chevron to the me’oros hamachpelah where the Avos and Imahos are…
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…
May one have a dog or a cat as a pet? Is there an issur to feed bossur b’chalav to a pet animal? What other issues can potentially be a…
INGREDIENTS: 1 pie crust 1 8 oz frozen whipped topping 1 cup marshmallow fluff 6 bars of Viennese crunch, chopped Whip the frozen topping until stiff, add marshmallow fluff and…
FAST FACTS: Name: Mathew Barzal Born: May 26, 1997 (age 24) in Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada Position: Center Height: 6’ Weight: 189 lb Shoots: Right NHL Draft: 16th overall, 2015…
1. Vague Terminologies in Describing the Chilazon – Once in 70 Years One reason is because everyone back then “knew” about the process without explanation required, another was to write…
There is a small, yet growing subfield within psychology called color psychology. Researchers in this field are interested in how people perceive, relate to, and respond differently to various colors….
≠†ףנכה†תיציצ≠†לע†ונתנו תלכת†ליתפÆ And they shall place upon the tzitzis of each corner a thread of†turquoise†woolÆ (Bamidbar 15:38) _____________________________ In 1887, Rav Gershon Henoch Leiner, the Radziner Rebbe, wrote the sefer…
If We Win? An anecdote: The Israeli parliament, or Knesset, some years ago convened an emergency session to figure out a solution for the broken Israeli economy. One brilliant minister…
There are few things more adorable than a newborn baby’s delicious yawn. My new granddaughter and her family are currently staying with us and little does this tiny bundle know…
In January, 1929, the United States was enjoying phenomenal prosperity. The economy was booming, industry was growing, stock investments were soaring, and many people were getting rich. However, many commercial…
Parashat Shelah tells the tragic story of the scouts whom Moshe sent to survey the Land of Israel in advance of Beneh Yisrael’s anticipated entry into the land. The scouts…
Ladders to Heaven The navi Zecharyah foresaw a great mourning in the future, as it states, “On that day, there will be a great eulogy in Yerushalayim…” (Zecharyah 12:11). The…
Here in the Diaspora, one of the highlights of the yomtov davening is the saying of Birkas Kohanim, when the whole congregation is lovingly blessed by Hashem through the conduit…
Throughout the ages, there have been different practices regarding keeping tzitzis tucked into pants or out. In addition, Chassidim wear their tzitzis garment over their shirt, while Ashkenazim wear it…
Should we be careful to wear tzitzis when praying the evening ma’ariv service? Rav Mordechai Eliyahu (Responsa Ma’amar Mordechai, vol. 2 no. 3) explores this question. I. TZITZIS WHILE DAVENING…
In Shul, many men place their tallis over their head for the entire davening. Some do so only after Barchu, while others do not cover their head with a tallis…
The Gemorah in Menochos states, “the mitzvah of tzitzis is equal to all of the other mitzvahs combined.” If one is careful with the mitzvah of tzitzis he merits being…
We would think that To-rah is so vast that no one in-dividual mitz-vah can sym-bolize all the 613 “components”. Surprisingly, the Torah designates one mitzvah as an icon for the…
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…
INGREDIENTS: Salad: 1 package (16 ounces) spaghetti 1 cup frozen shelled edamame 3 cups cubed cooked chicken breast 1 English cucumber, chopped 1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped 1 small…
FAST FACTS: Name: Blake Austin Griffin Born: March 16, 1989 (age 32) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Height: 6 ft 9 in Weight: 250 lb College: Oklahoma (2007–2009) NBA draft: 2009…
A Jewish man heading to a pro-Israel rally says he thought he was going to die after a gang of pro- Palestinian demonstrators assaulted him in Midtown Manhattan, punching him…
THE ECONOMIST An architect, a surgeon, and economist are arguing who of them holds the most prominent position. The surgeon said, ‘Look, we’re the most important. The very first thing…
It’s that time of the year again!! Thoughts of driving down the “seventeen” with the beach chairs, barbecue grill, and other paraphernalia in-tow fill our minds. Or, you might be…
10 % of the people in the world are left-handed. Consequently, the amount of yiddin who are left handed is very little. However, many halachos come up on a daily…
Parashat Beha’alotecha begins with the mitzvah of kindling the menorah. Each and every day, Aharon was to clean the oil lamps of the menorah in the Mishkan and light the…
The obligation to offer a korban Pesach begins at twelve noon on erev Pesach, and the korban must be offered in the Beis Hamikdash before shkia. One is considered to…
We read in Parashat Beha’alotecha of a conversation between Moshe Rabbenu and his father-in-law, Yitro (who is called here by one of his other names, Hobab), before Beneh Yisrael’s journey…
Emunah Resolves the Problems A mashal is told about someone who was looking through a keyhole. He can’t see everything that is in the room, his range of view is…
Every few years, someone claims to have seen a UFO and the suspicion of life on other planets is raised, only to disappear as quickly as it came about. This…
Our time in this world is limited. We strive to do all the good we can and avoid doing wrong. When we sometimes misstep, we try to do teshuvah and…
When it comes to parking, a number of questions can occur. We will discuss one of the questions. Am I allowed to save a spot for my friend by standing…
“We want fish, We want fish”! These ridiculous chants boomed through the Jewish camp as an angry mob clamored for a return to Egypt. Astonishingly, the hordes demanded a return…
Do canned and frozen vegetables need a hechsher? There are a few issues when it comes to canned and frozen vegetables. One is an issue that applies to all vegetables…
INGREDIENTS: 2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves 4 stalks celery, chopped 1 large red bell pepper, diced 1/2 red onion, diced 1 (8.75 ounce) can sweet corn, drained 1/4 cup…
FAST FACTS: Name: Joseph Malcolm Harris Born: September 6, 1991 (age 29) in Chelan, Washington Height: 6 ft 6 in Weight: 220 lb College: Virginia (2010–2014) NBA draft: 2014 /…
As we are now just seeing Shavuos in our rearview mirror, some of us might be wondering why our Torah learning isn’t getting you anywhere. Why is it, perhaps, that…
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…
In 2007, an employee of a New Jersey Dunkin Donuts named Dustin Hoffmann (not that one) made news when the store was nearly robbed by a serial robber who jumped…
The Nuremberg Trials In the film “Judgment at Nuremberg,” American judge Dan Haywood sentences Ernst Janning, an important legal figure in Germany even before the rise of Hitler, to life…
We live in world today where it is very hard to realize what we are missing by not having the Bais Hamikdosh around. We get to comfortable with hour houses…
All of us, I imagine, find life stressful. But at least for most of us, it doesn’t have to be this way. The Torah in Parashat Naso discusses the laws…
The Gemorah (Kiddushin 2b) tells us that the phrase “harei at m’kudeshet li” that we use under the chuppah is not a biblical expression at all, rather it is a…
Parashat Naso incorporates a variety of different topics which, at first glance, appear unrelated: 1) The tribe of Levi’s responsibility to tend to the needs of the Mishkan; 2) The…
A first grade melamed was confronted with a problem; one of the students of his class was stealing. He first realized that there was a problem when the children of…
The posuk in Bamidbar 6:23 says that Hashem commanded Aharon and his sons to bless the Yidden. The Sefer Metzach Aharon discusses an interesting question. Why did Hashem choose the…
I. Misleading Messages One of the approaches to respond to the biblical challenge of the age of the universe is the theory that the world was created fully grown, so…
Jews don’t count people. Instead the Torah creates a system of tabulating the population without actually counting human beings. This indirect counting scheme is delineated in parshat Ki Tisa: each…
Is there an issue with having alcoholic seltzer? Does an alcoholic seltzer need a hechsher? We’ve already certified a very large company that makes alcoholic seltzer; it’s very popular. It…
FAST FACTS: Name: Rowan Alexander “RJ” Barrett Jr. NickName: Maple Mamba Born: June 14, 2000 (age 20) in Toronto, Ontario Height: 6 ft 6 in Weight: 202 lb Position: Shooting…
As general editors of ArtScroll/Mesorah Publications, Rabbi Nosson Scherman and Rabbi Meir Zlotowitz zt”l have led the “ArtScroll Revolution,” a major transformation in the availability of Torah literature in English….
On April 16, 1986 reactor number four at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic suffered a catastrophic explosion that exposed the core and sent clouds…
Is It Not Insensitive to Interrupt Shivah for a Holiday? Interruption of Shivah A teaching in the Mishna defines the duties of a Jew who is in mourning at the…
As we stood at Har Sinai, the Torah testifies that, “Vayichan sham Yisroel, neged haHar;” the Jews encamped in front of the mountain. The commentaries immediately pounce that the word…
There is a widespread custom to remain awake on Shavuos night to learn Torah. This custom spawns many halachic queries. Why should we stay up learning on Shavuos night? What…
A university professor once delivered a speech in front of a group of students, and he asked, “How many people in the room consider themselves leaders?” Very few students raised…
It is customary on Shabuot to read Megilat Rut, and one of the reasons given for this custom is that Shabuot marks the Yahrtzeit of King David, and Megilat Rut…
The purpose of mattan Torah is to believe in Hashem. As the Vilna Gaon zt’l (Mishlei 19:22) writes, ידכב†אוה†לארשיל†הרותה†תניתנ†רקיע†הב†םנוחטב‘†ומישיש, “The Torah was given, primarily, so that they will place their…
The Magen Avraham in Orach Chaim 494:1 asks, how can we say that Shavuos, which comes out on Vov Sivan, is the time of Mattan Torah? We pasken like Reb…
A child‘s obligation to honor his parents necessarily infringes on that child’s freedom. Choosing a spouse is one of the most important decisions of a person’s life. On the one…
Why do we eat dairy on Shavuos? The Rama on Orach Chaim 494:3 quotes a widespread minhag to eat dairy foods on Shavuos. The Mishnah Berurah (ibid. s.k.12) proffers the…
It all began on this day, atop a mountain of fire and smoke. For 2500 years, humanity failed to grasp a “One G-d” responsible for all reality. For too long,…
INGREDIENTS: 1 (9 ounce) package brownie mix 1 egg 1 tablespoon cold water 1 (14 ounce) package individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped 1 (5 ounce) can evaporated milk 2 (8 ounce)…
INGREDIENTS: 2 tablespoon salted butter 4 shallots thinly sliced 2 cups coarsely chopped mixed wild mushrooms such as cremini, shitake and oyster 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided 6 cups baby spinach…
Name: Jose. Alberto Pujols Alcantara Born: January 16, 1980 (age 41) in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Drafted: 402nd in the thirteenth round by the St. Louis Cardinals MLB debut: April…
“Did u see the news. We hear tons of ambulances passing. We can’t even leave. This is insane. We are all so scared.” On Thursday evening, I got a flurry…
It has been a week of tears and of numbness. Every time I read the list of 45 I become dizzy and faint, wincing in disbelief. Too many names to…
The parasha states, im bechukotai teilechu. The word chok refers to the mitzvos we keep, without knowing the reason. It also means parnassah (see [Mishlei 30:8]). The Divrei Yisrael of…
Parashat Behukotai describes the blessings that G-d promises to bestow upon Beneh Yisrael in reward for their observance of the Torah. The Parasha begins with the verse, “If you follow…
The Mishnah in Pirkeh Avot (6:3) teaches: One who learns from his fellow one chapter, one law, one verse, one statement, or even one letter, must treat him with respect….
There is a widespread custom to eat dairy products on Shavuos. What is the source of this custom? What are the reasons for this custom? Does it apply to both…
After so many centuries of persecution we understand very well the question of the Jewish people (in the haftorah of parshas Eikev), “Has Hashem forsaken us? Has He forgotten about…
In the last few decades, one of the great challenges of our society has been the ever-growing problem of unemployment. Many factors have contributed to this. Recently, many lost jobs…
The Blind Golfer Charlie Boswell was a great athlete who became blind during World War II while rescuing his friend from a tank that was under fire. When he returned…
I. Learning Torah All Night It is common practice today for men to stay up all night learning Torah the first night of Shavuos. It is not clear to me…
Is one allowed to eat meat after milk? What is the halacha if one makes Kiddush and eats dairy foods, planning to later eat a meat Seudas Yom Tov? What…
INGREDIENTS: For the crust: 2 cups crushed graham crackers 4 tablespoons melted butter 1 tablespoon sugar Cheesecake: 16 oz chocolate – melted in microwave or double boiler 1/3 c sugar…
FAST FACTS: Name: Julius Deion Randle Born: November 29, 1994 (age 26 years) in Dallas, TX Height: 6’ 8” NBA draft: 2014 (Round: 1 / Pick: 7) Position: Power forward,…
This Thursday, May 7th, known in Hebrew as Lag B’omer, the thirty-third day of the omer, is the anniversary of the passing of one of the greatest sages and spiritual…
Lag B’omer is a day which people celebrate with great simcha and joy. What is the reason for this great celebration? When does it start? At night or by day?…
In the first chapter of Pirkeh Avot, we read the following teaching of Shimon, the son of Rabban Gamliel: “My whole life I grew up among sages, and I found…
The Torah commands every Jew to be careful not to cause a chilul Hashem. When an individual Jew acts improperly, he disgraces the entire Jewish people, as well as the…
Recently, an article referencing a conversation we had on Behind the Bima referred to me as a “Modern Orthodox Rabbi.” I was taken aback by that characterization and found myself…
One of the topics discussed in Parashat Emor is the Misva which we observe each night during this period between Pesach and Shabuot – the Misva of Sefirat Ha’omer, to…
The Gemara says, “Reb Akiva had twelve thousand pairs of talmidim (24,000 students). They lived [all over in Eretz Yis-rael] from Gavas until Antifras, and they all died in the…
The Torah reveals, “V’atem tihiu li mamleches kohanim v’goy kadosh – You, Yisroel, should be to me a kingdom of priests and a Holy nation.” The million dollar question is…
Honor is best given rather than received. We are required to honor Torah scholars, older family members, and the elderly in general. However, this becomes complicated when we face conflicting…
The Gemara in Brachos 35b quotes the posuk in Krias Shema discussing gathering your crops. The Gemara asks, what is the chiddush that you will gather your crops? The Gemara…
The festival of Lag Ba’omer revolves around two celebrated personalities – Rebbi Akiva and his talmid, Rebbi Shimon bar Yochai. These two legends lived through the dark period of Roman…
INGREDIENTS: Chocolate Iced Cake Yellow, Red, & Orange hard candy Rolled wafer cookies DIRECTIONS: As we won’t be having any lag B’Omer gatherings with bonfires and activities this year…
It’s been a while since anyone wrote that the New York Knicks are the hottest team in the NBA, but the Knicks are definitely a huge surprise this year. A…
The Torah states in the weekly portion (Acharei Mot) that the High Priest had a special set of garments he donned on Yom Kippur. It was unlike the garments he…
In two locations [Masechtos Kiddushin (81a) and Bava Kama (82a)], Tosefos mentions the minhag of fasting on the first Monday, Thursday, and following Monday of the months of Marcheshvon and…
The last article dealt with many of the customs regarding certain activities during sefira. In this article we will continue to deal with other customs regarding sefira. For example: Are…
The Mishnah teaches us in Pirkeh Avot (1:13), אלד†ףיסי†≠ףיסומ†– “one who does not increase, diminishes.” In other words, if we are not moving forward, then we are moving backwards. If…
All human beings were created b’tzelem Elokim and one of the mitzvos of the Torah (in parshas Ki Savo) is “v’holacto bidrochov”, i.e. to preserve that tzelem elokim which was…
Recently, those watching the men’s NCAA basketball tournament game between Gonzaga and USC saw something that made them gasp, and it wasn’t any play on the court. In the corner…
The Torah in Parashat Ahareh-Mot presents the prohibition against the consumption of animals’ blood, and explains that this is forbidden because the animal’s “Nefesh” (“soul”) is in its blood. Why…
When Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz zy’a was old and feeble, his voice was weak, and only the people standing near him could hear his divrei Torah at the tisch….
Before leading bentching, the grace after meals, the leader typically requests permission from others more worthy to lead. The standard formula is: “With permission of our masters, our teachers and…
In Vayikra 19:13 the posuk tells us that one is not allowed to hold back a paycheck from his worker for even a single night. The Biur Halacha in Hilchos…
Q: Does marijuana need a hashgacha and does it need a bracha? A: If it is plain marijuana that you are smoking or using as vapor, it does not need…
It is literally impossible to reduce Judaism to one saying or one quick maxim. The study of G-d’s will is too intricate, while mitzvoth are too sweeping to be condensed…
FAST FACTS Name: Dean Junior Kremer Hebrew Name: דין קרמר Born: January 7, 1996 (age 25) in Stockton, California Height: 6-3 Weight: 185lb. Position: Pitcher MLB debut: September 6, 2020,…
INGREDIENTS: 2 tablespoon salted butter 4 shallots thinly sliced 2 cups coarsely chopped mixed wild mushrooms such as cremini, shitake and oyster 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided 6 cups baby spinach…
Where Is G-d? A couple had two little mischievous boys, ages 8 and 10. They were always getting into trouble, and their parents knew that if any mischief occurred in…
The Gemora calls our ancient sages Sofrim, people who know how to count. This seems to be an odd name for our great men who were endowed with encyclopedic knowledge,…
The time from Pesach to Shavuos is a time of minimizing joy. However, many question arise as to what is included in this, such as what are the reasons for…
The number 4, as we all know, features very prominently at the Pesach seder. There are four cups of wine, four questions, four sons, four pesukim from the Book of…
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…
LIKE There are 7.4 billion people on earth at this moment. When contemplating that staggering number, it is easy to feel insignificant, inconsequential, even invisible. It is only natural to…
Parashat Tazria speaks at length of the laws of the Sara’at skin disease that would descend upon a person as a punishment for Lashon Hara – speaking negatively about other…
Parashas Tazria discusses the laws of childbirth. These laws follow parashas Shmini, which discusses the laws of kashrus. The Ramban explains that this juxtaposition, (of kashrus and childbirth,) hints that…
I. Holy Profits People are motivated to do good for many reasons, among them — but hopefully not primary — is the promise of divine reward. Can that reward be…
In Vayikra 12:3 the posuk tells us that on the 8th day one should have a Bris. Would a Mohel be allowed to walk out of the tchum in order…
In life, before we move forward, we must take inventory. It is true in the business world just as it is true in many areas of life. Without examining and…
Is a Jew Allowed to Eat Synthetic Meat & Then Drink a Dairy Coffee publicly? Right now, we haven’t even finished determining the status of synthetic meat because the technology…
INGREDIENTS: 1.5 – 2lbs ground beef/lamb (you can mix or do either or) 1 cup parsley finely chopped 1 medium onion – finely chopped 1 tsp Baharat (Pereg and Lior…
Rabbi Dr. Zecharia H. Senter zt”l, CEO and founder of Kof-K Kosher Supervision Services, was niftar the last day of Pesach at the age of 84. Rabbi Senter zt”l was…
In Germany they came first for the Communists, and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Communist. Then they came for the Jews, and I didn’t speak up because…
As we engage in the seasonal mitzvah of counting the sefira, and observe the national period of mourning for the tragic deaths of the 24,000 disciples of Rabbi Akiva, we…
The Gemorah in Berochos states, “when the month of Nissin is upon us, one goes out to recite a beracha on a tree that is starting to bud.” The Shita…
Parashat Shemini tells of the events on the eighth and final day of the Mishkan’s inauguration. For seven days, special sacrifices were offered, and Aharon and his sons – the…
The Gemorah (Moed Koton 14B) understands from the pesukim in parshas Shmini that the kohein gadol does not observe aveilus over the death of a relative. (See Sefer Ginat Egoz,…
We have just completed the “season of questions.” Just a few days ago, we bid farewell to a holiday that encourages us to challenge, to inquire, and to ask. Pesach…
Parashat Shemini tells of the events that took place “on the eighth day” – meaning, the day after the seven-day Miluim process during which Aharon and his sons were prepared…
There’s a limit how much spirituality a man can endure, as it states, “Man cannot see Me and live” (Shemos 33:20). Nadav and Avihu surpassed that limit and their neshamos…
The period between Pesach and Shavuos contains a mourning period–different days depending on one’s custom–during which certain joyous behaviors are forbidden (commonly called Sefirah because this period also includes the…
Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira, a leading Chassidic Rabbi was one of the most prominent Rabbinic victims of the Holocaust. A leader of the Warsaw ghetto, he secretly ran a shul…
In Vayikra 9:22 the posuk tells us that Aharon lifted his hands and bentched Klal Yisroel. The Gemara in Sotah 38a says that we learn from the word “Ko“ that…
Are Animal Rights activists onto something? Absolutely! The Torah is very concerned about Tzar Balei Chaim, and we have to be concerned about it as well; we are very sensitive…
INGREDIENTS: 1 cup warm water 1 1/2 Tbsp yeast 1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup oil 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla 4 cups bread flour 1/2 Tbsp salt DIRECTIONS: The…
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…
Yaakov Shwekey will be busy this Pesach performing both live and virtually! He sat down with Ari Hirsch of the Jewish Vues to discuss what he has been up to,…
Not the Cookie Cutter Model “The Torah speaks of four children: One is wise, one is rebellious, one is simple and one does not know how to ask.”—Haggadah This simple,…
The annual holy narrative of the Pesach Seder is a multi-faceted experience with which we should familiarize ourselves so that we can get the most out of this rarified opportunity….
One of the most interesting customs of the Pesach seder is to “steal the afikoman.” Weeks before Pesach the children plan their afikoman present and where to hide the afikoman….
One of the more intriguing stages of the seder on Pesach is yahatz – when we split the middle matzah. We take the larger piece and put it in a…
I. Berachah Rishonah on Maror Tosfos (Pesachim 115a, s.v. vehadar) raises a basic question regarding the maror eaten at the seder. Why, when we eat maror, do we not recite…
In too many homes, marror is not the most bitter thing at the seder table. There are people who suffer from chronic negativity, who drag down those around them and…
The Torah in Parashat Bo tells of the final three of the ten plagues that G-d brought upon Egypt, including the plague of darkness. The Sages tell us that this…
The Chida zt’l says that we should tell the following story at the Seder: A woman in Tzefas was once plagued by a dibuk. A spirit of a rasha had…
When we prepare for Pesach, we get rid of all of our chametz, either by selling it or destroying it. However, what about chametz in your garbage can? Is that…
The Shulchan Aruch in siman taf peh zayin, seif daled writes that we recite the complete Hallel with a bracha at the beginning and end of the first night of…
What is the status of baby formula on Pesach? Baby formula on Pesach is a very difficult question because almost all formula is kitnios and we Ashkenaz Jews don’t eat…
The Pesach tale is a story of many stories. It is a story about theology and religion: G-d introducing monotheism into an ancient pagan world. It is a story of…
INGREDIENTS: 1 large cabbage, cored and sliced 1 1/4 cups ketchup 4 cups ginger ale 2 lbs chopped meat 1 egg Salt and pepper to taste DIRECTIONS: This recipe…
INGREDIENTS 3 1/4 cups of matza farfel – you can use whole wheat 1/2 cup oil 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup margarine 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup chopped nuts…
INGREDIENTS: 9 eggs – 7 separated. Beat the 7 whites until stiff in a separate bowl. Add the remaining 2 whole eggs and 7 yolks to the rest of the…
Rav Moshe Tuvia Lieff Shlita, the Morah D’Asra of Agudath Israel Bais Binyomin in Brooklyn, New York, is a respected Talmid Chochom and a warm and dynamic individual, loved by…
There is nothing like waking up to a text that says, “Did you see what they posted about you on Instagram?” On the one hand, when you are a public…
INGREDIENTS: 3⁄4 cup oil 3⁄4 cup cocoa 2 cups sugar 4 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla 2 cups potato starch 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 cups powdered sugar, for rolling cookies…
INGREDIENTS: 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon sugar 3 tablespoons mayonnaise This dressing is best served with a simple fresh salad of: Romaine lettuce, tomatoes, Persian cucumbers, colored peppers,…
INGREDIENTS: 1 -3½–4-pound whole chicken Kosher salt 1½ pounds russet potatoes, scrubbed, thinly sliced crosswise 2 tablespoons margarine, melted 1 tablespoon thyme leaves 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided Freshly ground…
Ten Ways to Know He’s Not for Your Daughter Someone sent me this email. Here are the top ten ways to Know the guy your daughter brought home for the…
Maggid Before saying Maggid, many read the following section from the Zohar: “Every person who tells the story of yetzias Mitzrayim, and he is happy with it, will be happy…
There are two reasons why we eat matzah. Actually, there are two OPPOSITE REASONS why we eat matzah: 1) The pasuk, which we quote in the Haggadah, explains that Beneh…
The Midrash observes that in the Torah’s account of the creation of light in Parashat Bereshit, the word “Or” (“light”) appears five times. These five instances of the word “Or,”…
On the seder night we do yahcatz before we begin magid, i.e. we break the middle matza in half, and put away the larger half for the afikoman, before we…
Wow!! It’s hard to believe: Purim has come and gone, and now we are facing a job that doesn’t pass so quickly: the purifying of the home for the Pesach…
It has become trendy to post a picture of yourself receiving a Covid vaccine. This was particularly true in Israel, where people received vaccines earlier than those in America, but…
Weeks before Pesach the newspapers are full of advertisements for romaine lettuce that does not need to be inspected for insects. What is the ideal item to use for marror…
Jewish holidays recount seminal moments of Jewish history. These annual celebrations shape our collective memory just as they animate our common future. The celebration of our history creates eternal meaning…
This year, erev Pesach falls on Shabbos, as it does approximately once every nine years. With proper planning, it need not be a difficult Shabbos. If anything, it gives us…
Dear Rabbi and Shira, Thank you so much for your column. I enjoy reading it each week. I have been in the dating parsha for about a year now. My…
In Vayikra 5:23 the posuk teaches us that one should return an item that he or she stole. What happens if a person stole and then paid the money back,…
You can’t make this stuff up. Six of Dr. Seuss’ books “And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street,” “If I Ran the Zoo,” “McElligot’s Pool,” “On Beyond…
In Vayakhel-Pekudai we find an interesting continuation of the construction of the holy vessels and priestly garb from Tetzaveh. It covers the usage of gold, silver, copper, Techeiles (blue-purple wool),…
Parashat Pekudeh begins with a detailed accounting of the precious metals that were donated for the Mishkan, and how were they used. The Torah tells us exactly how much gold,…
One of the most commonly accepted chumros on Pesach is to avoid gebrokts –matzah which was fully baked and then soaked in water. When did this custom start? How binding…
The Inside and the Outside A wealthy Jewish man buys a fabulous home in Beverly Hills, California. He brings in a local workman to decorate the place. When the job…
The Jewish People are known as Yehudim. The word Yehudim means ‘people who give thanks.’ Indeed, this is one of the fundamentals of our Jewish identity: namely that we are…
In this week’s Torah-portions we learn that the Jews constructed the Mishkan and prepared the bigdei kehunah. Although in both cases the Jews followed the directions they had been given,…