What’s that smell? As we begin the chumash of korbanos, we encounter a phrase that appears again and again: “rei’ach nicho’ach laHashem - a pleasing aroma to G-d.” The Torah uses this language repeatedly when describing offerings...
In the opening verse of Parashat Vayikra, G-d calls to Moshe and invites him into the newly constructed Mishkan to hear His commands. The Midrash finds it very significant that Moshe waited to be called before entering the...
Self-Centeredness A very successful businessman had a meeting with his new son-in-law. “I love my daughter dearly, and now I welcome you into the family,” said the man. “To show you how much we care for you, I’m making...
In the past few days and weeks, many people have spent countless hours online and on hold with airlines, desperately trying to arrange travel out of Israel. People are scrambling for seats on so-called “rescue flights,” constantly refreshing airline websites,...
PESACH YAPCHIK INGREDIENTS: 8 large Russet potatoes 1 Spanish onion 7 eggs 1 cup water 11⁄4 cups olive oil 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon salt 1.5 pounds kolichel, cubed DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 425°F. 2. Using a kugel blade, process potatoes and...
Before addressing the question of the kosher status of electronic cigarettes (vapes), it is necessary to first understand what this device is and how it operates. Once the mechanism is clarified, the halachic discussion can be approached more properly. At the...
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 problem is...
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...
Bedikas Chametz If one arrives at the hotel on the night of bedikas chametz, even if they did not bring chametz, they should place out bread and check for chametz with a beracha. Many people arrive at the hotel...