The Torah in Parashat Emor introduces the Misva of the Korban Ha’omer – the special sacrifice which was offered on the 16th of Nissan, the second day of Pesach. This sacrifice included the offering of an “Omer” of...
In the Beginning A man comes to the psychiatrist, shouting that he is in dire need of help. The psychiatrist attempts to calm him down but to no avail. The man is in a state of panic, screaming...
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 this custom? Are there different customs? What is included in the...
I. AI Interfaces One of the most persistent motifs in science fiction is the Frankenstein plot: a human creates a machine, which then becomes independent and ultimately turns against its creator. The underlying question is one of responsibility — who...
Parashat Ahareh-Mot begins with the description of the special Yom Kippur service in the Bet Ha’mikdash. The service was performed by the kohen gadol, who offered a series of special sacrifices in order to earn atonement for the...
The pasuk in Parshas Acharei Mos says, “For on this day atonement shall be made for you, to cleanse you, from all your sins before Hashem.” (Vayikra 16:30). The Ribono shel Olam gives us one day out of the...
There are many people who agonize over why they don’t have friends. This is no small issue at all. Chazal teach us, “O! chavrusah O! misusah – Either companionship or death!” Such is the importance of having good comrades....
At this time of the year, Klal Yisroel breaks out one of its national treasures: the Mishnayos of Pirkei Avos. This anthology of select ethical teachings, transmitted to us by our gigantic teachers, presents us with a truly great...
A man came to Rebbe Hirsh of Riminov zt’l and said, “My wife is in labor, and she is Miksha Leileid. The doctors say that her life is in danger if she doesn’t give birth soon.” Rebbe Hirsh Riminover sat deep in...