Noah and the Trauma of Heroic Destiny
Sruli Fruchter examines the story not often told about Noah—the trauma inflicted by immense responsibility amidst immense destruction.
Avraham and Sodom: To Pray Against God
Avraham’s challenge to God’s planned destruction of Sodom raises the fundamental ethical problem of collective punishment. The resolution of this challenge, Sruli Fruchter explains, enables Avraham to realize God’s highest ideals and to confront the conflict between compassion for oppressors and consideration for their victims.
A Golden Anniversary for “Jerusalem of Gold”
Akiva Shapiro offers reflections on Naomi Shemer's culture-changing song.
Yaakov Elman z”l: Breadth, Creativity, and Commitment
David Berger's reflection commemorating the passing of Yaakov Elman, ob"m.
Pesah as Zeman Simhateinu: What Does it Mean to Rejoice Over Victory?
Judah Kerbel discusses why we say an abbreviated Hallel on the last six days of Pesah and contemplates what that says about the war in Israel; self-defense is a must, as is gratitude toward God, but we also hold space for the losses on the other side.
Reflections From A Student
Meira Wolkenfeld's reflection commemorating the passing of Yaakov Elman, ob"m.
Bilam, God, and the Silent and Slanted Spaces
For Eve Grubin, Bilam's hidden messages is a lesson for the Torah and for life.
Pesah and Shavuot, Or: Emancipation and Freedom
Jerome Marcus explores understandings of freedom within halakhah and how they relate to Pesah and Shavuot
Strength in This Time
Rachel Sharansky-Danziger limns the deep collective pain of October 7th on Israelis and forges a way forward amidst its intensity.
Coming Undone: Vows and the High Holy Days
Why is the annulment of vows so central to the High Holy Days? Wendy Amsellem discusses this, with a timely message.
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