Shimon Peres on the Futility of War
After the recent passing of Israeli President Shimon Peres, z"l, I'm remembering the time I sat down with him in a Manhattan midtown hotel in 1994 at the beginning of the Oslo process to discuss the peace process.
The Holiness of Separation
As a kid, Shabbat meant brisket. I loved that. Every once in a while, my mother would get inspired and feel the need to… cook? No, she always cooked in those days.
Anat Hoffman: "World's 5th Most Influential Jew"
The list is in and, according to the Jerusalem Post, our own Anat Hoffman is the 5th most influential Jew in the world.
Living the Scout Oath
Rabbi Eric B. Stark reflects on the meaning of the Boy Scout Oath and how his moral convictions led him to stand with the LGBT community.
Science, Sanctity, and Spirituality
One of the most difficult concepts in ancient Judaism we modern Jews encounter is holiness. We do all right with a concept of holiness that includes a commandment to love our neighbor, but not so well with a holiness that commands us to avoid certain foods, for example, or even certain fabr
Galilee Diary: Jerusalem Day
Pray for the well-being of Jerusalem; may those who love you be at peace. May there be well-being within your ramparts, peace in your citadels.
–Psalm 122:6-7
Rosh Chodesh: A Monthly Ritual
I started a new congregational position this year. The job, which is part-time, is at a wonderful congregation that meets in a 315-year old Presbyterian church. Since my working hours are limited, I am focused on making the most of my time there.
What A Rabbi Learned From Her Roller Coaster Of A Wedding
Everybody says their wedding was a rollercoaster, but mine really was, what with a blackout, a flood and a fire.
The Torah In Haiku: B’haalot’cha
The people complain
"If only we had some meat"
They'd prefer Egypt
G-d: "I'll give you meat"
For a month you will eat it
Until you hate it