Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth–for thy love is better than wine. (Song of Songs 1:2) Because this Shabbat falls during Pesach, the normal cycle of … Continued
A View from Jerusalem
In just a few days, the Jewish world will read the following words from the Haggadah: “For not just one alone has risen against us to destroy us, but in … Continued
Parashat Acharei Mot (Leviticus 16:1-18:27)
“For on this day expiation shall be made for you to purify you of all your sins; you shall be pure before the Lord” (Leviticus 16:30) Parashat Acharei Mot begins … Continued
Parashat Metzora (Leviticus 14:1-15:33)
“When you enter the land of Canaan that I give you as a possession, and I inflict an eruptive plague upon a house in the land you possess, the owner … Continued
Parashat Tazria (Leviticus 12:1-13:59)
“…The priest shall make expiation on her behalf, and she shall be pure.” (Leviticus 12:8) Parashat Tazria catalogues a variety of skin abnormalities that need to be examined by the … Continued
We Must Remain Big-Tent Organizations with Room for Diverse Opinions
Allan Finkelstein, president of JCC Association, reminded readers of JTA that JCCs are the original big-tent organizations, the place where Jews have always gathered to talk, to argue, and sometimes … Continued
Parashat Sh’mini (Leviticus 9:1-11:47)
“…This is what the Lord had commanded that you do, that the Presence of the Lord may appear to you.” (Leviticus 9:6) It is surprising how often things go wrong … Continued
Parashat Tzav (Leviticus 6:1-8:36)
“He poured some of the anointing oil upon Aaron’s head and anointed him, to consecrate him.” (Leviticus 8:12) Parashat Tzav is directed toward Aaron and his sons, who are destined … Continued
The Importance of Jewish Peoplehood
According to Jewish scholar Avraham Infeld, a good friend of JCC Association, “peoplehood” is the knowledge-based sense of belonging and commitment to the Jewish people, its values, its big ideas, … Continued
Parashat Vayikra (Leviticus 1:1-5:26)
“And the remainder of the grain offering shall be for Aaron and his sons, a most holy portion from the Lord’s gifts.” (Leviticus 2:3) Leviticus, the third book of the … Continued