Sometimes (often!) we speak but the microphone isn’t on. Most people don’t hear our words. But we trust that ultimately the words will be transmitted into the back rows, little by little, until they take root in the hearts, minds and souls of the people.
Unfortunately, our world has no shortage of people—Jews as well as non-Jews—who cast aspersions on the Jewish People, on the Jewish Homeland, on Jewish ideas and ideals. To the nay-sayers, we reply proudly and confidently: hazak ve-nit-hazak, we are strong and we will strengthen each other. We will not be discouraged. We will be strong…and we will strengthen others.
Bernice was one of four siblings in our family, the only daughter. Although third-born, she was the first of us to pass away. The mourning symbol of "Keriah" comes to mind. We tear a garment as a sign of grief--but really as a sign of a tear in the fabric of our lives.
Over and over, the Torah lays it out for us. God, family, community, nation, world. Take as much responsibility for the relationships and institutions closest to you and work toward your goals. What is the responsibility the Torah wants us to take? Which step do we take first?
This article by Rabbi Marc D. Angel reflects on past transformations within Sephardic Jewry...and on the relevance of Sephardic civilization to all Jews. As the Jewish People move toward multi-ethnic and post-ethnic realities, we need to be exploring Sephardism and its role in the future of world Jewry.
Rabbi Yitzchak Blau explores Hareidi attitudes toward women, gentiles, Zionism, divine providence, faith, as well as other categories. This exploration reveals dramatic difference between Hareidi and Modern Orthodox communities.
Should Jewish parents send their sons and daughters to schools where anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism are tolerated? What is the impact on their own morality to be steeped in these environments for their formative years? What will this type of education do to them as human beings and as Jews?
Rabbi Sjimon den Hollander writes on Saadia Gaon's treatment of biblical anthropomorphisms. Saadia pointed the way to a philosophically sophisticated approach to reading the Bible.
The respect shown for the other is a yardstick of measuring the development (some would say morality) of a society. Further, it is thus impossible for an individual or community to have a genuine relationship with God, if that individual or society mistreats the other.
All who stand for a civil society must not be intimidated by the haters, bullies and supporters of terrorism. The syndrome of hate eats away at the foundations of society. It must not be allowed to prevail.