Third Intifada? Fine. But try something new…
In an article from today’s Haaretz Fatah officials are said to be planning the initiation of a 3rd Intifada: “The first intifada gained significant diplomatic ground as far as the Palestinians are...
View ArticleThe Concept of Shalem and Parashat Vayeishev
Do we truly pay attention to the lessons of our tradition’s wisdom? This is the fundamental question of my relationship to Torah. This is how I try to read the Holy texts of our people. And how Jews...
View ArticleFirst post of the year…
Sorry its been so long, but this was bigger than just a facebook post: So now I am “non-Orthodox?” The majority of the worlds Jews are to be defined by what we are NOT? I refuse to accept that. How can...
View ArticleDon’t be fooled…
In case you have been swayed by the recent “Sholom Rubashkin” did no wrong movement… “A former underage worker cried Monday while testifying she was exposed to harsh chemicals at an Iowa slaughterhouse...
View ArticleFlotilla Thoughts…
I am troubled by the proliferation of (facebook) postings of Fox News clips from people I know consider Fox News to be something short of journalism. My friends we must ask ourselves some tough...
View ArticleA stay of execution
A stay of execution is no victory. It is up to all of us to keep the pressure on. This bill must die. And if you are curious why: “The bill’s controversial third clause states that anyone who “entered”...
View ArticleIf only my problems would just dissapear…
HaRav Ovadia Yosef is no stranger to saying thing that cause many of us to cringe. The latest: “Abu Mazen and all these evil people should perish from this world,” Rabbi Ovadia was quoted as saying...
View ArticleArticle 5
It is Sunday night May 8th, and I am in Jerusalem. Sunset marks the beginning of Yom Hazikaron, the day this state has set aside to remember all those who have been killed – soldiers and victims of...
View ArticleRefocusing the Conversation
http://jewschool.com/2011/06/20/26447/guest-post-refocusing-the-conversation/ byJonah Geffen, Rabbinical StudentKelly Cohen, Jewish Educator We are trapped in a discourse that has no logical end. It...
View ArticleA Blessing and a Curse
There is a challenge to us all found in this week’s parasha – Re’eh – it is there right from the start. Put up or shut up, says God. “Behold, this day I set before you a blessing and a curse.”...
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Better Late Than Never – Parashat Shofetim 5771
The following is the text of the dvar torah I gave this past Shabbat at Congregation Bnai Jeshurun in New York City. Its written to be heard, so might read a little weird – but the ideas are there....
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Watch Your Back and Move Forward
Hi friends, Six weeks ago I was ordained a Rabbi. Two weeks ago I started a new job. Here are some thoughts on Tisha Be-Av that came out of those first days in my new work. I pray they help to provide...
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Seeing The Stars
“All seven days one makes his sukkah permanent and his home temporary.” Mishnah Sukkah 2:9 Sukkot is a holiday that is centered on the little structures we build and eat and sleep in for a week every...
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