ב"ה

Va'etchanan

Your Questions
Why Do We Wrap the Tefillin Straps 7 Times Around the Arm?

Many reasons for a most basic custom
Is Monotheism Hazardous to Life?

Monotheism is a dangerous belief. Perhaps one of the most dangerous beliefs there is. For monotheism to enter the world safely, it must be married to a deeper belief…
Parshah
Shabbat Nachamu Haftarah Companion

The Shabbat following Tisha B’Av is known as “Shabbat Nachamu.” The name is taken from the opening word of the week’s haftarah.
Why a Mezuzah Is Not a Mezuzah

If not for the scrolls, there would be no reason for plain old doorposts...
A Mother's Comfort

Why is there a need for comfort if G‑d plans to provide a solution?
Video
Exile + 1 = Redemption

Hebrew, the Holy Tongue, is utterly precise. In Hebrew, “Exile” is called “Golah.” But this very word also hints the path to redemption. By inserting the letter Alef, the word “Golah — Exile” becomes “Geulah — Redemption.”
How to Avoid Being Jealous

Something Spiritual on Parshat Vaetchanan
Story
The Watercarrier Who Almost Brought a Locust Storm

"I am a water carrier," he said. "My barrel has broken beyond repair, and my children are starving. . ."
The Artist’s Quest

They call him the Artist. Not much is known about his origins, or what drives his relentless search. But one thing is certain: he will stop at nothing to find what he seeks.
Jewish News
In Remote Southern Oregon, Sparks of Judaism Fly to the Western Wall

Chabad serves as a hub for prayer, celebration and learning—and food.
97-Year-Old in Wyoming Wraps Tefillin for the First Time

‘Roving Rabbis’ get a wide-open welcome in the Cowboy State.
Women
Today Was a Very Hard Day . . . or Was It?

Today, G‑d sent me one of those days where I had an opportunity to strengthen my spiritual muscles.
Lifestyle
No-Churn Blackberry Ice Cream

An ox was once being led to sacrifice, but would not budge. A poor man came along with a bundle of endive in his hand. He held it out towards the ox, which ate it... and then allowed itself to be led to sacrifice. In a dream it was revealed to the owner of the ox: "The poor man's sacrifice superceded yours."
— Midrash Rabbah
Print Magazine

Blind faith believes that which it is told, because it wants to believe.

Intellect believes that which it understands, because it wants to attain understanding.

Wisdom believes that which is true, because it is true.

Wisdom doesn’t have to fit that which some self-serving faith wishes to believe. Neither does it await...

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