“As for Me, this is my covenant with you: you shall be a father of a multitude of nations.” (Genesis 17:4) Parashat Lekh Lekha documents the next step in God’s … Continued
Parashat Noach (Genesis 6:9-11:32)
JCC Association joins with rabbis and leaders of the Reform, Conservative, Orthodox and Reconstructionist movements and the Conference of Presidents in declaring this weekend, October 16 – 17 (Parshat Noach), … Continued
My Heart is in the East
I am in New York, but my heart is in Israel. Work has called me to America, but the news turns me around so that I face east, worrying about … Continued
Parshat B’reishit (Genesis 1:1-6:8)
“The man names his wife Eve, because she was the mother of all the living.” (Genesis 3:20) Parashat B’reishit stands as a timely commentary on the recent and recurring violence … Continued
Free Exercise Meets the Establishment Clause in Military Service
Responding to Religious Freedom in the US Military by Harold L. Robinson, director, JWB Jewish Chaplains Council A wounded Marine, a Catholic, endures the agony of physical therapy on his … Continued
Parashat V’Zot Habracha (Deuteronomy 33:1-34:12)
“…I have let you see it with your own eyes, but you shall not cross there.” (Deuteronomy 34:4) The present moment is where past and future meet and always is … Continued
Parashat Ha-azinu (Deuteronomy 23:1-32:52)
“For the Lord’s portion is his people, Jacob his own allotment (Deut. 32:9) Parashat Ha-azinu is the next-to-last parasha, or portion, in the Torah. It is read either right before … Continued
Parashat Vayelech (Deuteronomy 31:1-31:30)
“Take this book of Teaching and place it beside the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord your God, and let it remain there as a witness against you.” (Deuteronomy … Continued
Parashat Nitzavim (Deuteronomy 29:9-30:20)
“Surely, this commandment which I command you today is not too baffling for you, nor it is beyond reach.” (Deut. 30:11) Parashat Nitzavim is the most inclusive parasha, or portion, … Continued
Shana Tova from Jerusalem
The days are getting shorter. Leaves are blowing in the wind and wandering birds fly high above, looking for serenity. The Days of Awe surround us; fill our hearts and … Continued