N o one really knows what our ancient ancestors ate in their caves, but scholars who have studied them believe they ate mostly vegetation, and some evidence shows they ate as much as 4 to 6 pounds of … more

by Robert S. Wistrich Issue of January 1, 2010/ 15 Tevet 5770 Exactly ten years ago, on a cold winter morning in New York City, the Catholic-Jewish Historical Commission, established to … more

I'm thinking by Micah Halpern Issue of April 16, 2010/ 2 Iyur 5770 It’s common knowledge: Israel has not signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Iran has. Because Israel has not … more

Recently a very special book was issued in honor of a very special man. The book is “Mishpetei Shalom” [YCT/Ktav, 2010], and the man that it honors is Rabbi Dr. Saul Berman, who will be speaking … more

If the Torah is of divine authorship, why does it repeat itself so much? Did G-d forget what He had already written when He chose to repeat an idea? And not just any idea, but an entire verse – … more

Ten years is a long time in the life of any human being. For a book reviewer this daunting subject is a challenge in that this is a topic that deserves more than just cursory treatment. Thus, I … more

Although it’s been almost 30 years since I’ve been to Grossinger’s for Shabbat Nachamu, every year, as it rolls around, I reflect back on the wonderful memories I have of those days gone by. Of course my kids don’t understand why everyone’s parents lament that Grossinger’s isn’t around any more. It was a place where everyone went. more

Dear Editor I hope you will consider printing yet another letter regarding the sale of the number 6 school. By the time this letter is printed the vote on the sale will have been taken and so this letter is not for or against the sale to the Simone Group and Mt. Sinai. Rather I am writing about the School Boards decision to recommend the sale of the building to Mt. Sinai and to put it to the community for a vote. more

As the Torah depicts the early travels of the Israelites, small details from famous stops are recalled. “They crossed the Red Sea toward the desert. They then traveled for three days through the Eitam Desert, and they camped in Marah. From Marah to Elim — in Elim there were 12 water springs and 70 palms. … They left Alush and camped in Rephidim, where there was no water for the people to drink.” (33:8-14) Does the Torah intend to list stops on the journey, or to recall significant events? more

Yaakov is on his return journey, homeward bound for the first time in either 22 or 36 years. His mother is dead (though he does not yet know that), and he is unsure of his status with his brother. Has he been forgiven? He sends one group of messengers to Eisav with a warm greeting, “I’ve been away for awhile. I have made a decent living. I’m coming home — I hope I’ve found favor in your eyes.” The response is that Eisav is approaching with 400 men. more