The Haftara for Parashat Shemini, taken from the Book of Shemuel II (chapter 6), tells of the tragic events that took place during what was to have been the joyous occasion of the transportation of the Aron (ark)...
“Vayehi bayom hashmini, and it was on the eighth day.” (Vayikra 9:1) The number seven connotes tevah, what is natural, as in the days of the week, while eight is le’ma’ala min ha’tevah —...
A great deal of intelligence can be invested in ignorance. -- Saul Bellow Light travels faster than sound. That’s why most people seem bright until you hear them speak. -- Author Unknown Only two things are infinite, the universe and...
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 DIRECTIONS: These cookies are easy quick and I’ve made them year round for...
Recently, the Princess of Wales announced that she has cancer. In a video recorded in Windsor, the former Kate Middleton disclosed her diagnosis in order to put an end to speculation and gossip that began online but was...
On Monday, April 8, a historic total solar eclipse will take place. This cosmic event will be visible across a narrow route, called the path of totality, which extends through Mexico, the United States, and Canada. During this...
Dear Rabbi and Shira, Hi, Thanks for your column, I enjoy reading it on Shabbos. I have a question for you. I recently “dropped the shadchan” and now am dating someone on...
We are all familiar with the customs of kitniyos on Pesach, but who does it apply to, what is included in the custom, and what about derivates or extracts from kitniyos? The Custom The custom among Ashkenazik circles is...
Many times one is faced with different questions as to what requires tevilah. For example, glass, china, stoneware etc. The halachos of how to tovel were dealt with in a previous issue. In this issue we will discuss which...
In the Israeli army, it is common for fully Torah observant soldiers to serve by the side of soldiers who are not. When a soldier has to serve a shift on Shabbos, this raises the question of whether...