When is the optimal time to light Chanukah candles? The Talmud (Shabbos 21a) relates that Chanukah candles should be lit when the sun disappears from view, and should remain lit for half an hour. This 672:1). However, it...
And it was on the third day, which was Pharaoh’s birthday, and he made a feast for all of his servants. Bereishis 40:20 Does the Torah have a perspective on birthday celebrations? Are there Torah sources for such...
Sometimes it’s important to mind someone else’s business. Yosef sat in prison for more than a decade before he was released to become viceroy of Egypt. His path toward redemption began when he interpreted the dreams of his...
The Gemara in Masechet Shabbat (21b) tells the story of the Chanukah miracle, and then adds that “Le’shana Aheret” – the next year – the Rabbis established Chanukah as an annual celebration. The clear implication is that the Rabbis...
In this week’s parsha, Vayeishev, we learn of the tragic episode of Yosef being sold by his brothers to a caravan of Yishmaeilim. “...
Two Perspectives Two cowboys come upon an Indian lying on his stomach with his ear to the ground. One of the cowboys stops and says to the other, “You see that Indian?” “Yeah,” says the other cowboy. “Look,” says...
EASY HOMEMADE DONUT HOLES INGREDIENTS: FOR THE GLAZE: 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar 3 1/2 tablespoons whole milk or soy milk to keep pareve 2 teaspoons vanilla extract FOR THE DOUGHNUT HOLES: 5 cups vegetable oil, for frying 1...
A husband and wife are getting ready to go to sleep. The wife is ready to close her eyes and her husband stands staring at himself in the full- length mirror. “What’s the matter with you?” she says....
During the rule of the Greeks, they decreed three f u n d a m e n t a l prohibitions upon Israel: the abolition of circumcision, Shabbat, and Rosh Chodesh. It is easy to understand their opposition to...
Dear Rabbi and Shira, I’m not sure what to make of this. I’m dating a guy who we have great chemistry with on dates, conversation is good, and we connect very well....