Atonement and Renewal: Thoughts for Parashat Aharei Mot
At root, seeking atonement is a sign of a responsible human being. Confronting our weaknesses is a sure sign of our strength.
Articles
Israel Should Offer its Own Peace Plan
This op ed by Rabbi Marc D. Angel appeared in the Jerusalem Post, March 25, 2024.
Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik: Judaism and Modernity
Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik is Orthodoxy's most eloquent response to the challenges of modernity and to the critics of Modern Orthodoxy. A Torah giant of the highest caliber, the Rav was also a world-class philosopher. In his studies in Lithuania, he attained the stature of a rabbinic luminary. At the University of Berlin, he achieved the erudition of a philosophical prodigy. He passed away April 9, 1993.
Thoughts for Pessah
The Jewish Press newspaper asked a group of Rabbis, including Rabbi Marc Angel, to comment on the meaning of Pessah during these troubled times.
Holiness: Thoughts for Parashat Vayikra
The Torah reminds us and challenges us to be the best person we can be. Although it is difficult to block out all the negative static in our world, the quest for holiness keeps us human, humane and Godly.
Esther: Peshat and Derash in Megillat Esther
Megillat Esther is among the most difficult biblical books to study anew, precisely because it is so familiar. Many assumptions accompany us through our study of the Megillah, occasionally clouding our perceptions of what is in the text and what is not.
Orthodox Semikha for Homosexuals?
Rabbi Alan Yuter takes issue with an Orthodox colleague who defends granting semikha to homosexuals.
Blessings: Thoughts for Parashat Shemini
The world would be a happier place if we could bless not just those who are closest to us but all those who act righteously and courageously. While curses deepen enmity among people, blessings promote love and mutual respect. One who blesses is worthy of the blessings of the Almighty.
The Chosen People: An Ethical Challenge
Rather than serving primarily as an ethnic description, the Chosen People concept is deeply rooted in religious ethics. It contains a universalistic message that belongs to the community of nations. All are descendants from Adam and Eve, created in God’s Image.
The Disease of Hatred: Thoughts for Parashat Tazria
The Torah states that one plagued with tsara’at needed to undergo a purification process. Similarly, a society suffering from spiritual tsara’at needs to examine the roots of its disease and to purify itself. Leaders in all strata of society need to mobilize against the hatred that is cutting at the soul of our nation.