There are at least two reasons why Parshat Nitzavim is read before Rosh Hashana. First, it talks about teshuvah (repentance) (Biur Halacha 428: “9 Av”). Second, it serves as a buffer … more

Our parasha, Nitzavim, contains a celebrated narrative passage that focuses upon the concept of teshuvah (repentance): “And you will return to the L-rd, your G-d (v’shavta od Hashem … more

Way back in Medieval Germany, dumplings were a culinary innovation, only recently arrived from Asia. These were simple, doughy balls. They weren’t filled with meat, potatoes or cheese; they … more

With Rosh Hashana at the doorstep, culinary markers accompany Elul’s piercing shofar blasts and the recitation of Selichot prayers. Aside from the endearing ritual of the classic simanim … more

In this strangest of presidential election years, the first of three debates between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump was just as it should have been — strange.  The first third of the … more

With Yom Hazikaron, the Jewish Day of spiritual remembrance, approaching, I dedicate this week’s essay review to the sacred memory of a dear friend, Rabbi Gershon Burd, of blessed memory, … more

Although his life is the sum of its very different parts, it is the recent ending as president, the shining ending, by which many remember him now … more

Chapter 28 in this week’s parsha of Ki Tavoh is one of the most difficult and harrowing chapters in the entire Torah … more

Twice in Devarim 9, Moshe mentions that he was up on the mountain for 40 days during which time “I did not eat bread and I did not drink water.” It would seem that this … more

Vidui ma’aser (the Declaration Concerning Tithes) is a mitzvah that appears in this week’s parasha, Ki Tavo: “When you have finished tithing all the tithes of your produce in the … more