All of the Above, or None at all
In Jewish tradition, the giving of names is one of the greatest responsibilities that God entrusted to humankind. In one … Continue Reading
“Weekly D’Var”
Blemished and All
This week, Jews around the world hear that in order to offer sacrifices, a priest has to be without “moom,” … Continue Reading
In Defense of Scapegoating – Part II
How we moved from sending a goat off into the wilderness to blaming others
What Does “Purity” Mean?
Back in rabbinical school (now over fifteen years ago), I had to spend one summer as a hospital chaplain to … Continue Reading
Silence Might Be Golden, But Shouting Goes Platinum
Birds Of Paradise, Strange Fire, And Separating The Signal From The Noise
Clawing for Legitimacy
We fight for attention. We fight for resources. But perhaps we fight most over our own sense of legitimacy – that we belong, deserve a good … Continue Reading
“Nefesh” and Spiritual Materialism
When we talk about the word “soul,” we usually think about something immaterial, ethereal, and divine. But that framing is … Continue Reading
Building Sacred Community – Parashat Vayakhel Pekudai
Building the Mishkan as an example of building community
Skill, Wisdom, and Heart
How do we gain in skill? For that matter, what is a skill? Many assume that it is an ability … Continue Reading