It has been a long time since I’ve heard anyone say anything positive about the French Socialist Party (PS). Once the giant of that country’s post-war politics, it was trounced into fifth … more

The most prominent Jewish leader in America did not mince words when it came to the question of whether the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) should have an office in … more

Chanukah is almost here with all its fun and tradition and joy and deliciousness. I love Chanukah. I love the lights and the gifts and the candy gelt and the latkes. Ahhh, the latkes. What is better … more

Anger is one of life’s greatest challenges. Who can resist and overcome its formidable temptations? There is a fascinating moment in this week’s parsha of Vayishlach that demonstrates … more

In sefer Ovadiah, this week’s haftarah for parshat Vayishlach, the final verse is particularly well-known, since it is recited every day immediately prior to Yishtabach in tefilat … more

This week in my neighborhood on the Upper West Side there was a bit of a brouhaha. A new “children’s” book was published by someone named Golbarg Bashi, called “P is for … more

This week’s parsha, Vayishlach, is replete with life-events that did not go the way those involved in them would have wanted. And yet, positive thinking people try to find silver linings. … more

This Wednesday, Nov. 29, marks the 70th anniversary of the passage by the United Nations of Resolution 181, specifying a partition plan that would ultimately lead to the establishment of a Jewish … more

On March 26, 1979, the peace treaty between Israel and Egypt was signed in Washington. But it almost never happened. President Jimmy Carter tried to scuttle the talks when Anwar Sadat said he would … more

Which single individual made the following statements? •“Gay people are worse than dogs and pigs. I keep pigs and the male pig knows the female one.” •“I am still … more