Do you ever hear voices? I do, especially at this time of year. During these ten-days of teshuvah , between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, Jews become more contemplative, serious, and given to … more

This period of the year demands two kinds of spiritual commitment. The first is charatah, regret: an honest inner search of our past year’s behavior, especially conduct that was sinful, immoral, … more

It is the last Sabbath of this year, and we will shortly usher in the New Year. Without a doubt, there is quite a bit of sadness attached to this Sabbath, and indeed, to this time of year. As we … more

How would you translate the opening verse in this week’s Torah portion, Ki Savo? Here are two Jewish translations: “When you enter the land that the L-rd your G-d has given you.” ( JPS … more

For the past several weeks, in anticipation of the upcoming Days of Awe, I have devoted this column to the topic of teshuva , repentance.   Many of us find this topic quite scary. … more

For as long as I can remember, the arrival of Elul has unsettled me. I sense the days of judgment drawing near. I turn inward and ask whether I am ready to “face the music.” Over the years, … more

A h, the benefits of Google and, more recently, of AI. I have frequently said, “Be careful what you pray for lest it come true,” attributing this advice to British playwright George Bernard … more

We have all heard this phrase, “He was in the wrong place at the wrong time,” and many of us have used it. It is especially apt when it is used to describe a person with many virtues and talents … more

Are you feeling depressed? Then dance! Feeling lazy? Work! Angry? Smile! Hostile? Act friendly! These are not merely glib bits of advice when there is nothing better to say. Rather, they reflect … more

Everyone has his or her own voice. Some express it loudly and clearly, some mumble or whisper. Our voices can be expressed through speech, the written word, postures and gestures, and song. In a … more