Judaism, Homosexuality, and the Supreme Court
Any moment now, the United States Supreme Court is going to decide on two cases that involve same-sex marriage. Advocates on both sides of this issue are anxiously awaiting either a moment of celebration or of despair. Of course, it is possible that they will get neither.
On Yesterday's Grief and Today's Rejoicing
What a rollercoaster of a week. Yesterday the Supreme Court of the United States handed down a ruling that gutted the Voting Rights Act.
From Jewish Camp Counselor to Professional Success
"My Gay Identity and My Jewish Identity Work Together"
Two weeks before Boston Pride last year, having recently broken up with my girlfriend of several months, I texted my friend Jamie: “I need to see everyone. There’s more to this story.”
Galilee Diary: Out of Zion Shall Go Forth Torah
Rabbi Abba said in the name of Samuel: For three years the Schools of Hillel and Shammai were in conflict, each saying, “the law is according to our view.” A heavenly voice announced: “Both are the words of the living God – but the law is according to the School of Hillel.” But if bo
Pride and Prejudice
During June, designated as LGBT Pride Month, we often read Parashah Balak. It is a curious tale, replete with a talking donkey and the roundabout air of prophecy; a story of attempted curses that ultimately lead to blessings.
A Blessing Over a Middle Eastern Apéritif
I'm not sure when I first tasted arak. Wikipedia tells me it's the traditional alcoholic beverage across Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Iraq.
Summertime Slowdown for Shabbat
How to Find Your Place in College, Jewishly and Otherwise
At college, I found the little moments in a Shabbat dinner with a group of upperclassmen girls, baking challah, ordering take-out, and hearing their stories of their time at school so far.