What’s the purpose of a miracle? There are of course many answers, including those that are specific to the particular miracle in question. For instance, I recently learned how Abarbanel (15th-century Portuguese commentator) explains the purpose of one particular miraculous moment in the Book of Judges. In Judges Chapter 13, a malach appears to the […]
Dear Jew in the City- What’s the significance of the number eight in the Chanukah story? Thank you, Noam Dear Noam – Sometimes I read a question and I have to ask, “What’s this person really asking?” This is one of those times. The reason I don’t take your question at face value is because […]
As traditional media will tell you again and again, religious Jews who leave observance primarily do so because they are shrewder and more clever than their co-religionists. The community is mostly made up of patsies who can’t see past the theological garbage they’ve been indoctrinated by. But those of exceptional intelligence are able to free […]
When you dig into your Thanksgiving turkey this year, remember that it’s not only an American tradition, and an opportunity to express gratitude for our great country, but a mitzvah. Surprised? Let me explain. The Torah, in Leviticus Chapter 7, discusses a “korban todah”—a “thanksgiving sacrifice.” The commentator Rashi explains that a person brought such […]
Years ago, as an agnostic college grad, I searched for answers as I struggled with my Jewish identity. A shul in my New Jersey hometown invited me to experience Shabbos. Having a special day each week to contemplate life, join kind families in conversation and song, raid bookshelves and go to shul was wonderful. I […]
As I type this, the winner of the 2020 US Presidential is still unknown, and there is no clear indication of when that will change. Both sides are accusing the other of not playing fairly. Both sides have spoken of their certainty that they will prevail. If the divisiveness leading up to the election wasn’t bad enough, […]
