Hospitality

When the Roman emperor Julian ordered the establishment of hostels for transients in every city, he referred to the example of the Jews “in whose midst no stranger goes uncared for.”

I glanced at my watch nervously. Usually, I avoid flying Friday afternoons for fear I won't arrive in time, but this time, I figured I'd be safe. I figured wrong...

Rabbi Pinchas raised his eyes. There stood the first of the Ushpizin--the honored guest for the first night of the festival--outside the door of his sukkah...

Zvi Elimelech's father pulled the boy aside and told him that he must promise never to tell anyone this story until the very last day of his life

The Jewish refugees slept in the train stations, exposed to the elements, awaiting deportation to Siberia. It was strictly forbidden for any Russian citizen to communicate with these “foreign spies” . . .

Disguised as simple beggars, the holy brothers journeyed from village to village, refining their souls with the travails of exile and inspiring their brethren with words of wisdom and encouragement...

The lesson of hospitality from Abraham and Sarah

It was while backpacking around Europe that I first appreciated that the spontaneous hospitality practiced among Jews, which I had hereto taken for granted, was in reality truly exceptional. The friend that we had been relying on to provide Shabbat ...

What consolation can we offer the soul? What can we answer to its cry: Why did I have to come down here?!

Meditate on loving-kindness throughout your daily activities