Magazine Articles Reader

Why Was Samuel Upset by the Request for a King

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 12:00:00 EST

And why did G‑d deem the request a rejection, when appointing a king is entirely legitimate according to the Torah?

What Is the Jewish Perspective on the Bible Codes?

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 12:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

7 Inspiring Jewish Lessons From Fish

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 12:00:00 EST

The zodiac sign of Adar is fish. What can we learn from these aquatic creatures?

On Didactics, Depravity, and Decapitating Donkeys

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 12:00:00 EST

Killing the foal seems so pointless. What possible good could come of it?

When G-d Needs You

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

How should we respond to that cynical voice within?

The Butler, the Baker ... the Dynamite Maker

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

You can take the lead of your own life and start writing better scripts. It’s not easy, but it’s doable.

The Soul’s Wrestling Match: Can It Be a Peaceful Battle?

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

The G‑dy soul has a secret weapon.

‘Home Away From Home’ at Miami University

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

Unexpectedly, Alan started to feel sick.

What Is a Gemach?

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

My Father, My Superman

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

I watched my father, encloaked not in a red cape but in a weathered, white tallit, a joyful Chassidic melody on his lips.

Living From Within, Hearing With Your Soul

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

Hasidism is not simply a doctrine or a theory; it’s an experience to be felt, to be lived from within.

A Model of Love

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

Real love is an experience that intensifies throughout life. It is the small, everyday acts of being together that makes love flourish. It is sharing, caring, and respecting one another.

What’s Up With Esau’s Kiss?

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

We should never underestimate the power of our good behavior on others, even someone with a long history of belligerence like Esau.

Why Jacob Prepared for Three Eventualities

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

Don’t get caught on a single-minded track just because it’s always worked for you. Be Like Jacob, and think outside the box.

Why Aren’t Shellfish Kosher?

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

Shellfish do not have kosher signs. But what if they did?

A Chabad Friendship Saved My Life

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

I was informed that had I not gone out for lunch and had been sitting at my desk as usual, the end results would have been deadly.

Benjamin in the Bible

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

Learn about the life and impact of Jacob's beloved, youngest son.

Feeling Rejected by My Former Shabbat Hosts

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

They don’t seem to have much time for me anymore.

Mothering Teens Is Harder Than I Thought

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:00:00 EST

On the one hand, I saw myself traveling, working long hours, being busy with a busy career; on the other hand, I always had this desire to be a mommy.

Don’t Get Stuck Like an Elephant!

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 12:00:00 EST

When someone tells you, “You can’t,” don’t listen to them. Be like Jacob and say, “Who said? Watch me—I will!”

Why Is the Contemporary Prayer Book So Long?

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 12:00:00 EST

During the days of the First Temple, no formal prayer was needed.

Judaism and Pet Ownership: 18 FAQs

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 12:00:00 EST

Explore some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Judaism and pet ownership.

Why Jacob Loved Rachel

Mon, 8 Nov 2021 14:00:00 EST

Leah’s soul stemmed from the world of thought; Rachel’s, from the world of speech. Leah was introspective, a master of meditation. Rachel was a communicator, charismatic and appealing.

The Reason Isaac Went Blind

Mon, 8 Nov 2021 14:00:00 EST

Isaac had attained such a lofty nature that his body was a loyal agent of his soul.

My Husband Gets Agitated Over Every Request

Mon, 8 Nov 2021 14:00:00 EST

I feel like I can’t request anything from him at all! And when I tell him how hurt I feel from his behavior, he just gets mad.

A Tale of Two Butchers

Mon, 8 Nov 2021 14:00:00 EST

Melbourne has often been named one of the most livable cities in the world. Lesser known, but most important, is that this “shtetl” is famous for its kindness—it’s hachnasat orchim—generously hosting and caring for its guests, and for the enormous compassion that the people have for each other.

Fighting the Pre-Shabbat Madness

Tue, 3 Aug 2021 14:00:00 EST

I need to see beyond the consciousness of division. To stay present in reality.

7 Life Lessons From My Pool Robot Cleaner

Tue, 3 Aug 2021 12:00:00 EST

Chassidic teachings encourage us to learn from everything we encounter in life.

Why Does G-d Send Us False Prophets?

Tue, 3 Aug 2021 11:00:00 EST

Why would G-d need to send a prophet to test us and find out what He surely already knows?

The Kind Benefactor Who Was Barred From Heaven

Mon, 2 Aug 2021 12:00:00 EST

“Suddenly, I saw an angel walking toward me. It blocked my way forward, and began to drag me back out of Gan Eden!”

I Have a Weird Fear of Death

Mon, 2 Aug 2021 12:00:00 EST

Should I try not to fulfill my mission so I can live, or do good deeds and die?

His Name Shone

Mon, 2 Aug 2021 12:00:00 EST

The Rebbe picked up a note: “Who wrote this note? His name glistens and shines!”

Can You Bribe G‑d?

Mon, 2 Aug 2021 12:00:00 EST

What does the question even mean? How would one “bribe” the Creator anyway?

Five Comforting Quotes From Nachamu, Isaiah’s Prophecy of Comfort

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 14:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

11 Unique Jewish Wedding Traditions From Around the World

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 14:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Hachnasat Kallah

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 14:00:00 EST

Literally “bringing in the bride,” it refers to the mitzvah of providing bride and groom with all that they need to marry.

The Ignorant Groom’s Transformation

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 14:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

The American Soldier Who Stood Up to the Nazis—and Won!

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 13:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Inner Voices and Dumb Choices

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 13:00:00 EST

Brush up your inner judge, and never be duped again.

The Sobering Reality of Sober Living

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 13:00:00 EST

What price will our long-term relationship pay for us not allowing her home?

Why Does G-d Want Us to Get Frustrated?

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 13:00:00 EST

The floor was covered with rusty tools and toilet parts, and all I had to show for it was a now empty bag of cookies.

Singing on Foreign Soil

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 13:00:00 EST

Exile is not just a physical displacement from our land; it is a spiritual displacement.

Losing My Diamond Ring Helped Me See the Real Gem

Wed, 7 Jul 2021 14:00:00 EST

When my current husband and I married, I asked him to “gift” me my Aunt Dot’s ring. I understood that the diamond was only a symbol, and that the practice of committing oneself to love and understanding of one’s partner was the true treasure.

The Empowering Art of Framing

Wed, 7 Jul 2021 14:00:00 EST

Why is it important to list the journeys? The Torah isn’t a history book, nor is it a travelogue, so what’s the purpose of this list?

Being Honest Should be Completely Obvious

Wed, 7 Jul 2021 14:00:00 EST

The summary verse of the first part of Matot appears to omit the most salient point!

What Is the Significance of King David’s Harp?

Tue, 6 Jul 2021 12:00:00 EST

As a lad David played for Saul, and at the end of his life, he is described as the “sweet singer of Israel.”

18 Facts About Rabbi Nachman of Breslov

Tue, 6 Jul 2021 12:00:00 EST

The founder and sole Rebbe of Breslov, R. Nachman’s earthy and relatable teachings continue to touch hearts and light up thousands of souls to this very day.

Why Were the Temples Destroyed?

Thu, 1 Jul 2021 10:00:00 EST

Learn the reasons given by the sages, as well as what they mean to us today.

Dear G-d, Bring Us Home!

Thu, 1 Jul 2021 10:00:00 EST

Mi Keamcha Yisroel, “Who is like your People, the Nation of Israel!”

Judging a Stranger Favorably at the Cemetery in Tzfat

Thu, 1 Jul 2021 10:00:00 EST

I signal her for a ride but she seems to be ignoring me. What nerve! She is sitting comfortably in her nearly empty, air-conditioned car and is patently ignoring me.

Braiding Challah and Learning Torah in the Rebbetzin’s Kitchen in Japan

Thu, 1 Jul 2021 10:00:00 EST

The rebbetzin made herself available to me, despite having not a free second for herself.

Promises Fulfilled: Buried Near the Shaagas Aryeh

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

The men of the chevra kadisha were not inclined to believe him, and did not plan to honor his request.

The Daily Grind and the Daily Lamb

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

You see, religious life is thankfully full of high-voltage, electric moments. Such moments are indeed important, and it’s safe to say that no person, no matter how pious or devout, could survive without them. The problem is that such moments are not constant.

Why Orphans Are Not Made to Give Charity

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

What happens in a situation where a person has income but is in a physical or mental state that renders him unable to fulfill his charitable obligations? Is he exempt from being charitable, or must others contribute from his resources on his behalf?

Why the Jewish People Await Moshiach

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 14:00:00 EST

There’s a secret reason the Jewish people have always wanted Moshiach, and that reason is very relevant to your life, right here, and right now.

Abigail, King David and the Secret of the Black Halo

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 14:00:00 EST

The black holes that G‑d sends our way are not always easy to avoid.

17 Facts About Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 11:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Who Was Apostomus, Who Burned a Torah Scroll?

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

The Mishnah tells us that he burned a Torah scroll on 17 Tammuz. Who was he, and why was this so significant?

How to Explain Death to Small Children

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

What happens when you die? Where do you go? Is it scary?

The Man Who Sold His Place In Heaven

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

“My pockets are practically empty,” the man said. “I only have one coin left.”

What Happened to the Clouds of Glory?

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 10:00:00 EST

Sometimes the term “clouds of glory” is used, while at other times it simply refers to “clouds.” Why is this?

The Song of the Well

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 11:00:00 EST

It’s all very poetic, but what exactly happened that inspired them to burst into this serenade?

Is the Snake-on-a-Rod Medical Sign Kosher?

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 11:00:00 EST

Some of us think it is of Jewish origin, while others believe it comes from the Greeks.

Is It a Mitzvah to Believe in G‑d?

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 11:00:00 EST

Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah II.

The Lesson of the Lost Pictures

Wed, 9 Jun 2021 14:00:00 EST

I began to snap photos of the people on the street, even though it was clear that they didn’t want their pictures taken.

A Prison Guard’s Journey Home

Wed, 9 Jun 2021 14:00:00 EST

My childhood was a scrambled mix of Christmas trees and Chanukah menorahs, church visits and the occasional Jewish service.

A New Epoch in Torah Learning

Wed, 9 Jun 2021 14:00:00 EST

When the Rebbe initiated his campaign, it may have seemed like just one more way to promote the learning of Torah. But it is much more than that. It's a new epoch of Torah learning.

My First Al-Anon Meeting

Wed, 9 Jun 2021 14:00:00 EST

I am trying not to let my built-in judgmentalism take over …

Do You Procrastinate?

Wed, 9 Jun 2021 14:00:00 EST

The Hebrew word for almond is etymologically related to the word “shaked,” which means “quick.”

Moses Never Gave Up on Them

Wed, 9 Jun 2021 14:00:00 EST

Moses sets an example for us how to never give up trying to inspire positive change in ourselves and others.

Did Chabad's Founder Envision an American Future?

Wed, 9 Jun 2021 14:00:00 EST

A historical reflection on the significance of “America” in Chabad thought.

Must One Honor Abusive Parents?

Fri, 4 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

There are many kinds and levels of abuse, and different people can cope with and tolerate different situations and relationships.

I Chose Shabbat Over a Rocket Launch

Wed, 2 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

We had committed time and money to this event, yet we would have to miss it because driving to watch the launch on Shabbat was not an option.

The Unplanned Trip to the Gym That Turned Into a Spiritual Workout

Wed, 2 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

One never knows the twists and turns that life can bring—the chance meetings that turn into lifelong friendships and opportunities beyond measure.

Have I Hit Rock Bottom Yet?

Wed, 2 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

What if I am only partially crushed? Is that enough for the healing and recovery to begin?

Summoned by a Soul

Wed, 2 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

Eventually, the stress affected the butcher, and he died broken-hearted and exhausted.

Defeating the Inner Defeatist

Wed, 2 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

Who hasn’t been faced with a task and then spent needless amounts of time coming up with creative reasons why it’s going to be too hard?

How Did the Mission of the Twelve Spies Go So Wrong?

Wed, 2 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

Moses felt that the Israelites had no reason to fear the inhabitants, as they had all seen the great miracles wrought against the much more powerful Egyptians.

Mechateich - Cutting

Wed, 2 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

16 Mezuzah Facts Every Jew Should Know

Wed, 2 Jun 2021 12:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Who Honored Miriam, and How?

Thu, 27 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

The Torah specifies that “the people” did not abandon Miriam, whereas Rashi suggests that it was an honor accorded to her by G‑d.

Learning to Co-Parent With G-d

Thu, 27 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

There are those seriously difficult moments—terrifying in fact—when you, if you are honest, you might ask yourself: Is it worth the effor?

Is There a Limit to What We Can Make Holy?

Thu, 27 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

How did fish get involved? By Moses’s own recounting, the people were asking for meat, so why did he talk about giving them (or not giving them) fish?

Mesarteit - Ruling Lines

Thu, 27 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

The hides used to cover the Mishkan were measured, cut to size, and attached to one another.

10 Miriam Facts Everyone Should Know

Thu, 27 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

Learn about Miriam, the prophetess of the Bible, whose life and legacy is celebrated until today.

Shuckling: Why Do Jews Rock While Praying?

Thu, 27 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

When we praise G‑d, we do so with all of our being: the mind, heart, and mouth express the prayer through speech, and the rest of the body does so by moving.

The Tailor Who Did Not Know He Was Special

Thu, 27 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

The poor tailor became a beggar, and it seemed to the local population that he had lost his mind.

The Gift of a Child in Addiction & Mental Health Recovery

Thu, 20 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

These gifts, although they may not seem so at first, are better than any we could’ve asked for.

Memachek - Smoothing

Thu, 20 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Does Every Day Matter?

Thu, 20 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

If G‑d created Sunday, and then Monday, and then Tuesday, they must be different from one another.

Why Eat Fish on Shabbat?

Thu, 20 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Letters of Love From a Distant Mother-in-Law

Thu, 20 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

Did my mother in-law miss us? Of course. Did she want us near her? Absolutely.

The Seven Eras of Torah Scholarship

Thu, 20 May 2021 11:00:00 EST

How did we get from the revelation at Sinai to the halachah we have today?

13 Facts About Learning Torah

Tue, 11 May 2021 13:00:00 EST

Torah study occupies a central place in Jewish life, but how much do we really know about this activity?

Love in the Desert

Tue, 11 May 2021 13:00:00 EST

This is going to be, eventually, a column about love.

Knowledge and Power: Teaching the Awesomeness

Tue, 11 May 2021 13:00:00 EST

It seems that Rashi's second comment is twice as long, yet half as clear.

Finding Purpose in Our Daughter's Addiction

Tue, 11 May 2021 13:00:00 EST

Today I want to focus on one very simple element: how it can serve us.

Meditating on the First Commandment Can Change Your Life

Tue, 11 May 2021 13:00:00 EST

Take a few minutes to consider significant events in your life as part of your soul destiny, not as a punishment, karma or a mistake you made.

How Do We Know the Torah Is Real?

Tue, 11 May 2021 13:00:00 EST

I could believe the world was real. But was it possible to know it? What had to be added to that belief in order to convert it into knowledge?

The Last Time I Drove on Shabbat

Tue, 11 May 2021 13:00:00 EST

The car sputtered, smoke wafted from the engine, and there were no gas stations in sight.

The Miraculous Salvation of Iraq’s Jews

Tue, 11 May 2021 13:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Why Do We Say Yizkor When We Do?

Fri, 7 May 2021 10:00:00 EST

Yizkor is recited four times a year: on the last day of Passover, on the second day of Shavuot, on Shemini Atzeret and Yom Kippur.

Can We Ever Really Change?

Fri, 7 May 2021 10:00:00 EST

How can we change outward actions into penetrating, moving actions that transform our attitude?

What I Didn’t Find in a Tibetan Monastery, I Found at Chabad

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

“If you are looking for mystical Judaism, I have to send you to Chabad,” said Robert Frazin, rabbi of Temple Solel in Hollywood, Fla., to Paul Sussman.

10 Facts About Pesach Sheni Every Jew Needs to Know

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

If someone was unable to participate in the Passover offering at the proper time, they would offer the sacrifice a month later.

Healed by the Talmud Class

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

A Jew in Poland suffered from a lung ailment, which his doctors informed him he would not survive.

Why G‑d Didn’t Put the Courts Over the Priests

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

Rashi’s comment at the very beginning of our Torah portion seems over complicated.

He Won't Commit!

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

He says our relationship is fine as it is and we don’t need to be married.

A Life of Joy in Spite of Pain: Lessons From My Dear Aunt

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

When I feel empty in my pain, not capable of uttering a word despite my sincere desire to pray, I think of my beloved Aunt Vera.

Abandoned Mitzvahs

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

Must the “right” or “good” thing always be hard, or is a quick fix just as good?

Mafshit - Skinning

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

One may not remove the skin of raw chicken or fish on Shabbat, as this would violate mafshit.

11 Facts About the Month of Iyar Every Jew Should Know

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

Both Nisan and Tishrei are referred to as the start of the Jewish calendar. Iyar is the second month from Nisan and month number eight from Tishrei.

Waters of Goodness

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

A transformation had occurred. Word soon spread that the innkeeper had delicious water in his well.

Shochait - Slaughtering

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Does Judaism Allow Genetic Engineering and Designer Babies?

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

The miracle of modern technology leads to all sorts of ethical, moral and halachic dilemmas.

Fake It Until They Make It?

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

Can you simply call your struggling business colleague a “success story” and expect him to perform?

The Effects of Emotional Trauma

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 12:00:00 EST

Robbing is akin to slaying someone, but if the aggressor has remorse we let him off the hook!?

Jerusalem Stone: What Is It, and Why Is It Used?

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 11:00:00 EST

I saw that a Jewish organization will be built with “Jerusalem stone.” What exactly is it and is there a custom to specifically use Jerusalem stone?

15 Facts About Rabbi Shmuel of Lubavitch

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 11:00:00 EST

These vignettes give a small glimpse into the life and legacy of the fourth Rebbe of Chabad.

Does It Matter Which Words Rashi Quotes?

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 11:00:00 EST

See how a nuance in a simple one-line Rashi can be examined, unpacked, and understood in an entirely new light.

Is It Wrong to Like a Lot of Stuff?

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 11:00:00 EST

Is it OK to enjoy a good shopping spree and to delight in yet another Amazon box at your doorstep?

Milk Demons

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 11:00:00 EST

How were the poor wretches supposed to raise money from the confinement of their prison cells?

Why Are People Afraid of Dogs?

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 11:00:00 EST

Whenever I walk mine past an observant family, all the kids hide behind their mother's skirt in terror. Is there some curse on dogs?

Radios and Judaism

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 12:00:00 EST

The ability to send invisible, silent signals through the air, to pass them through a mechanical device and transform them into soundl—now that’s what I call a miracle!

My First Orthodox Wedding and the Unveiling of My Own Truth

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 12:00:00 EST

I stood in awe of the people who knew exactly what was happening. Everyone seemed at ease, familiar with each step of the ceremony.

Feeling Held by G-d During My Quest for a Baby

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 11:00:00 EST

Why? Why do I want a baby so badly? What is the force that is running me, bringing me to constant consultations with medical experts as well as rabbis knowledgeable in the intricate workings of Halachah, as I proceed with my fertility treatments and endless blood tests?

How Traditional Are Matzo Balls?

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 10:00:00 EST

Known in Yiddish as a kneidel, the matzo ball has become a staple in many Ashkenazic Jewish homes. Here's why.

The Small Aleph

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 10:00:00 EST

In the titular opening word of the third book of the Torah - Vayikra (Leviticus), the Aleph is small. What is the signifigance of this small Aleph?

What Does the Last Name Levy Mean?

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 10:00:00 EST

This name is the second most popular family name in Israel, belonging to approximately 1.2 percent of the population.

The Rebbe Who Did Not Praise

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:00:00 EST

When I was newly married and living with my in-laws in Kotzk, I fell ill to the point of no return. The family sent word to my father in Biala that he should come immediately.

Stop Thinking and Start Doing

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:00:00 EST

Sometimes, it’s time to put the self-help books aside and jump into the action.

What Does the Jewish Last Name Cohen Mean?

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:00:00 EST

The name Cohen is common among both Sephardim and Ashkenazim, making it one of the most widespread Jewish names of all time.

14 Kosher Myths and Facts

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:00:00 EST

Are you ready to challenge some of the things you’ve always thought to be true about the Jewish dietary laws? Let’s begin!

Coming Home: 65-Year-Old Hidden Jew Celebrates His Bar Mitzvah

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:00:00 EST

Discarding all documents and photographs that might reveal the family’s Jewish ties, they refused to discuss their lives prior to arriving at Ellis Island.

What Is Purim?

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:30:00 EST

Purim is a joyous Jewish holiday that celebrates the miraculous events told in the Book of Esther. It is celebrated by reading the Megillah, giving gifts, distributing charity, and feasting.

How to Celebrate Purim @ Home: 10 Tips

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:30:00 EST

If the past year has taught us anything, it’s that when there’s a will, there’s a way. And since G‑d certainly wills it, it’s up to us to find that way.

Down to the Details

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:30:00 EST

"In Parshat Tetzaveh we see that there are functions that are indispensable for the Tabernacle’s overall structure to work and achieve its purpose; without them, it simply does not respond"

The Enemy of Your Enemy

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:30:00 EST

Is it really that simple? What if you don’t have a common enemy?

Why Read the Megillah Twice?

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 11:00:00 EST

Why do we read the Megillah twice every Purim, once at night and once during the day?

What Does Kaplan Mean?

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 11:00:00 EST

Are the Kaplans priests? Are they all one family? And where did the name come from?

Kissing G-d Outside

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 11:00:00 EST

Spending so much time on the dark side makes one want the bright side that much more

How to Overcome the "Amalek" of Today

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 11:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

The First Crowdfunding Campaign

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 11:00:00 EST

"The Tabernacle was based precisely on the totality of what the people have inside them, on each person’s generosity and capacity for giving: the small and the great, the rich and the generous. From the combination of all of them together, from top to bottom, a sanctuary is made, and in the entirety of what is built, G‑d’s glory resides."

The Faithful Innkeeper

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 11:00:00 EST

The inn, meanwhile, had undergone a drastic reformation. With his son in charge, it was no longer a quiet and sleepy roadside tavern. The local nobility began to frequent the inn and held their meetings, parties, and events there.

The Difference Between Promising and Trying

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 12:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Why Is Gordon a Jewish Last Name?

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 12:00:00 EST

Gordon, Jewish or Scottish? Given name or surname? Find out!

The Innkeeper Almost Abandoned Judaism

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 11:00:00 EST

Zelig felt distant from his Judaism and contemplated his next move. Then he took a trip to his Rebbe…

Halacha = Motion

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 11:00:00 EST

What to do when you get "stuck in a rut" with regards to Judaism

Divinity Is in the Details

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 11:00:00 EST

The contraction that manifests itself in Parshat Mishpatim exists in the nature of the world as well. In our lives, the most profound and uplifting things are found precisely in the mundane details of the daily routine.

Is It Kosher to Short Stocks?

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 11:00:00 EST

Find out Jewish law and perspective on the loaded issue of shorting stocks

The ‘Bittul’ of Motherhood: Giving and Getting in Unforeseen Ways

Tue, 9 Feb 2021 17:00:00 EST

Motherhood is intense. It’s continuous. It evolves and adapts and changes all the time.

A Fulfilled Dream: Converting to Judaism Despite Terminal Diagnosis

Tue, 9 Feb 2021 17:00:00 EST

Julia’s diagnosis didn’t discourage her from studying Torah, as well as learning and observing Jewish customs. She believed that each day offers an opportunity to get closer to G‑d, family and friends.

The Runaway Convert

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 13:00:00 EST

"After the Jewish businessman left, the mother called her son and reprimanded him. The child looked at his mother in surprise. His eyes conveyed his thoughts: Mom, what’s the big deal? After all, he is just a Jew"

Nine Ways to Be Like a Tree

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 13:00:00 EST

Since the Torah compares man to “a tree of the field,” we’ve collected nine lessons from the mystics that we can learn from trees.

Koraya - Tearing

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 13:00:00 EST

Tearing is forbidden on Shabbat, as it is actually part of the sewing process.

Why We Love Old Songs

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 11:00:00 EST

And as many times as you hear it, you’re moved all the same. If the tune grabs you from the get-go, it will almost always continue to do so.

Who “Invented” the Holiday on 15 Shevat?

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 11:00:00 EST

When did Tu Bishvat become a thing, and why specifically now?

Moses Returns

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 11:00:00 EST

So let’s say Moses turns up today. What would he liberate us from? What sort of miracles would he make this time around?

7 Life Lessons I Learned From Yudi Dukes

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 12:20:00 EST

During his 241-day hospitalization he impacted every single person he came into contact with.

Teaching My Son Multiplication and Myself About Challenges

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 12:00:00 EST

He plants seeds. Seeds of experience, seeds of challenge, seeds of tears. Seeds that make us think, “Why do I need to go through this experience or meet that person?”

Why I Didn’t Come to Your Baby’s Brit

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 12:00:00 EST

The thought of attending caused me so much anxiety that I decided to be kind to myself and give myself permission not to attend.

Why Is the Firstborn Donkey Holy?

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 11:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

In the First Place

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 11:00:00 EST

Just as there are first fruits of the soil, there are also first deeds and first dreams. Here as well, people become more sophisticated as they mature, as do their aspirations and dreams. Nevertheless, there is a special significance to one’s first dreams.

Six Juicy Russian Chassidic Expressions

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 11:00:00 EST

A sample of local peasant culture can be found in certain phrases, often punchlines of poignant tales told by the Rebbes and chassidim, which have become part of everyday parlance.

What Is the Secret of Chabad?

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 11:00:00 EST

Professor Scholem was curious to know what turned an educated young man towards tradition. David’s answer was straightforward: “I discovered the Book of Tanya. I found Chabad.”

Under the Darkness

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 11:00:00 EST

When you’re able to “see” another person and revel in the positivity and unity it brings, it will automatically make you better, as well.

10 Ways to Celebrate 10 Shevat

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 11:00:00 EST

Looking for ways to channel this day’s inspiration into your life? Here are our suggestions.

I Thought I Made the Mistake of My Life. Then I Went Swimming

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 19:00:00 EST

Swimming daily meant I was no longer invisible—that there were witnesses to my life, however small it was. If I didn’t show up, there were women who noticed and would call to find out how I was. People cared, more than I cared for myself. I owed it to them to make an effort.

12 Things Children Wish Their Parents Knew

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 12:40:00 EST

Please remember how difficult it is to change. Help me work on one thing at a time. I can’t change all my faults at once.

Why Did G-d Smite the Firstborn?

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 12:00:00 EST

Our job is to find the divine sparks hidden within each person, each object and each event, and let that shine.

Rebbe, My Parents Are Fighting!

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 12:20:00 EST

When he will see that she doesn't want to argue and fight, his desire to argue will also weaken and decrease over time.

Pharaoh's Repentance

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 12:20:00 EST

It can be a great accomplishment for a person to admit, “I have sinned this time.” But there is a higher level, where a person’s soul searching moves him to such a degree that he declares, “G-d is righteous, and I and my people are wicked.”

What to Tell Yourself When Things Go Wrong

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 12:20:00 EST

In the meantime, it’s dark, confusing, and difficult. That’s only because the process of getting to a deeper place can give space for negative consequences. But just around the bend is a time, a space that is even deeper and greater, that it will make this period worthwhile.

The Unlikely Bandit

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 17:00:00 EST

The thump of the bandit falling to the ground aroused the captive from his reverie. With the small amount of water he had, he managed to revive him from his faint.

What Does the Jewish Last Name Jaffe Mean?

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 17:00:00 EST

Learn the meaning and significance of this famous Jewish surname.

Why Write "G‑d" Instead of "G-o-d"?

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 17:00:00 EST

Like many Jewish publishers, we are particular to not spell out the name of our Creator, even in English. Here’s why.

My Dad's Jewish, Why Should I Convert?

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 17:00:00 EST

Isn’t it a little unfair that all my life I was more Jewish than my friends, was even subjected to anti-Semitism, and after all that I’m told I need to convert?

Yes, I Struggle With Dressing Modestly

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:00:00 EST

“Why are you wearing winter clothes?” asked the 10-year-old camper, rather incredulous. She was bouncing a ball, sweating, as she stared at me and my getup. It was 90 degrees and I was wearing a long-sleeved shirt under a short-sleeved camp shirt, as well as a long skirt and socks.

The Woman Who Didn't Speak for 40 Years

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:00:00 EST

As the second half of my enchanted year of studies began, my handwriting suddenly became totally illegible for no reason that I could ascertain. My voice inexplicably became monotonic, also apparently without reason.

Can a Serial Shoplifter Make Amends?

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 10:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Deaf Angels and Failed Dates

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 10:00:00 EST

When a matchmaker dispaired of arranging fitting spouses for the children of R. Levi Yitzchak, the rabbi replied with a keen spiritual insight.

The Concealed 'End of Times'

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 10:00:00 EST

Jacob attempts to cut through the veil that conceals the events of the future, but he is stopped at a certain stage. Why does this happen to him?

Your Judaism’s Too Dry? How About Some Wine?

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 10:00:00 EST

Much of Judaism is a vast, sprawling set of laws that govern what you do. Where’s the G‑dliness, the holiness, in it all?

7 Parables of the Maggid of Dubno

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 10:00:00 EST

Rabbi Yaakov Kranz (1741–1804), the Maggid (Preacher) of Dubno, was known for his ability to make almost any point by way of a parable.

Can I Use Vaccines Made From Fetal Tissue or Non-Kosher Animals?

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 12:00:00 EST

We will start off with the question of non-kosher ingredients and work our way to vaccine made with fetal tissue.

The Soul's Journey

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 12:00:00 EST

Whatever the direct cause of the separation of the soul from the body, whether a fatal accident or a fatal illness, it could affect only any of the vital organs of the physical body, but could in no way affect the spiritual soul.

Circumcision, Berzerkeley, and the Power of Five Minutes

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 11:40:00 EST

Rabbi Chanan Feld was a towering fixture of my childhood—my friend’s father, and my father’s friend. He had the cuddly torso of a teddy bear, the magical beard of a wizard, and the twinkling eyes of a Rebbe. This is how I remember him.

Why Judah Lost His Cool

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 11:40:00 EST

A fire ignited within him, an urgent drive that granted neither time nor space to negotiate. He summoned his inner ninja and did the unthinkable: he confronted the prince of Egypt himself and demanded the release of the Jewish boy. There was nothing to discuss—it simply had to happen!

10 Facts About the Tenth of Tevet

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 11:40:00 EST

Refresh your memory and learn something new about the fast of 10 Tevet with this interesting compilation.

Perseverance Vs. Perfection

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 11:37:00 EST

The Joseph-Judah relationship and the points at which their paths converge continue throughout history. From the sale of Joseph onward, Judah and Joseph constantly interact with each other, and their relationship continues in various forms. Here, in Parshat Vayigash, their interaction is a confrontation, as the Midrash comments, “‘Then Judah went up to him’ – advancing to battle.”

13 Chanukah (Hanukkah) Myths and Misconceptions

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 10:00:00 EST

Who did the Maccabees fight? Did the Rabbis suppress Chanukah? Find out here!

13 Tips for an Amazing Hanukkah at Home

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 10:00:00 EST

For many, this Hanukkah will be like no other, celebrated in isolation, either alone or only with close family members.

When You Want to Just Give It a Break

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 10:00:00 EST

The Talmud states, “For the wicked, sleep is good for them and good for the world, but for the righteous, it is bad for them and bad for the world.” There is no rest for the righteous. When a tzaddik wants to rest, God does not let him, as if to say that the lack of tranquility is an essential part of being a tzaddik.

So You Want to be Spiritual? Proceed with Caution

Thu, 3 Dec 2020 13:00:00 EST

Sometimes it’s just a camel when it’s supposed to be a cow. A non-kosher offering to a pagan god.

A Pet Shelter, a Tin Menorah, and an Averted Suicide

Thu, 3 Dec 2020 13:00:00 EST

An 8-year-old girl’s suggestion saves a kindly man’s life

Saved by an Arab Angel

Thu, 3 Dec 2020 13:00:00 EST

I will never forget that night, five years ago, when my husband and I almost died. It was an event of pure terror coupled with the deepest faith in G-d. Even now, so many years later, tears come to my eyes when I speak about it.

Can We Add Our Own Jewish Holidays?

Thu, 3 Dec 2020 13:00:00 EST

Chabad.org lists some newer “holidays.” How can we add holidays?

The Peril of Perfection

Thu, 3 Dec 2020 13:00:00 EST

In this world, we cannot attain absolute perfection, absolute truth, or absolute good. What is required of us is an incredibly difficult form of existence. We must live continually with partial truth, which stems from compromise.

13 Hanukkah Facts Every Jew Should Know

Thu, 3 Dec 2020 13:00:00 EST

Become an expert on this widely celebrated but barely understood Jewish festival.

‘I Am Enough’: Finding My Value Without Comparison

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

The world doesn’t need millions of clones. The Torah wants our individuality.

The Holy Shopkeeper

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

"That night I could not sleep. Early in the morning, I returned to the store to witness with my own eyes how G-d would help."

Did Abraham Really Invent Monotheism?

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

One doesn’t have to look hard to find individuals who recognized and served “the one G‑d.”

The Answer Is “No.” Would You Like to Know Now or Later?

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

If Jacob saw that Leah was the one with the blessing of children, why did that not command more of his attention?

Nothing Is Coincidental, Not Even a Set of Sofas

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

It’s not often that we learn of the complexity of someone’s circumstances or what role we play in seemingly random occurrences.

Leah in the Bible

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

At first Leah appears to be negative, weak and pale. But the more we dig, the more we learn and come to appreciate Leah, her strength, her quiet inspiration and her unending devotion.

15 Historical Facts About Rabbi DovBer of Lubavitch

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

Join us as we discover the life and times of a Jewish leader and Torah scholar.

Matir - Untying

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

The act of untying a knot.

When Jacob Discovered He Was Israel

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

Far from home, Jacob now must struggle to maintain his inner spirituality.

The Challenge of Being an Isaac

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Why Are the Jews Called “People of the Book”?

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

Throughout history, Jews have been called the “People of the Book” (or “Am HaSefer”) by both Jews and non-Jews.

Koshair - Tying

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

The act of binding by tying a knot.

The Jewish View on Hunting for Sport

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

Does Judaism have anything to say about hunting as a sport?

The Greedy Liar and the Grateful Merchant

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

“I came to honor the holy rabbi, to tell this story and express my gratitude,” continued the rich businessman who had traveled all the way to Fez to see Rabbi Yehuda Ben-Attar. “I am certain the ruin of my ex-partner is because he used your name to swear falsely”

Do You Really Think G-d Speaks to Us?

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

“How can I know what G‑d wants me to do?” a woman once asked the Rebbe.

The Deception

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

Why did Isaac, the quintessential spiritual person, someone who was prepared to offer himself as a sacrifice to G‑d, want to bless his older son, the one who abandoned the tents of study and who spent his time out in the field leading a hunter’s lifestyle?

14 Facts About Esau Everyone Should Know

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 0:00:00 EST

Esau was the twin of Jacob, but his polar opposite in many respects. Read this article to learn more about him.

The Crouching Lion

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 0:00:00 EST

The details differ (a tiger raised in a Brooklyn apartment, a circus lion losing it in the ring) but the basic story is the same: a large cat "suddenly" sheds its domesticated persona and... well, you don't want to be in its way when that happens

I Ate Non-Kosher Food, Now What?

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 0:00:00 EST

Last week, I bought a tomato sauce that I thought was kosher. I always buy this brand, but this time it seems I chose a different flavor than usual. After cooking with it and feeding my family, I read the ingredients, and to my horror, the sauce wasn’t kosher!

The Bible Reads Like a Soap Opera!

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 0:00:00 EST

I don't understand why there are constant ups and downs and such hardships in the Torah.

Is There Mystical Meaning in Klezmer?

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Torah and Geometry

Wed, 18 Jun 1952 0:00:00 EST

Parallels that are worlds apart

The Unique Place

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Why was the Tabernacle erected in the wilderness, a seemingly inopportune time and setting for such an endeavor?

Why Did Some of Mordechai's Peers Disapprove of Him?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Mordechai was "great ... and accepted by most of his brethren." Why just most? Was it just "politics"?

Attachment Theory 2.0

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

How can we be free from our deep enmeshment with physicality and its trappings, and the “highs” we experience from it?

Women at War

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

The Jewish people—men and women—defied every Greek law with enormous self-sacrifice, yet it was largely by and for the sake of Jewish women that the Maccabees were led to declare war . . .

Why the Simple Pine Casket?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Long ago the wealthy would be buried in expensive materials, and the poor were embarrassed.

A Bar Mitzvah for Diamond Dave

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

The Stolen Ring and the Surprised Thief

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

“You are young and agile; run after the thief and tell him that he can have the ring as a gift.”

Eliezer of Damascus in the Bible

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Eliezer, the faithful servant of Abraham, is mentioned by name only once in Scripture, but there is lots to know about him.

Eve, Noah, Sarah: Sin, Stupor, Serenity

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

From the dawn of history, people have been searching for a sense of joy, which is as elusive as it is desirable.

A Hospital Miracle and the Power of a Favor

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Unlike the other people in the waiting room, my husband was attentive to the woman’s plight.

Why a Happy Marriage Is Like Matzo Ball Soup

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

8 delicious, humorous, and insightful tips just waiting to be sampled and internalized.

The Marriage That Was Meant to Be

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

As the visit wore on, a sense of unexplained anxiety seemed to overcome the groom.

Why Were There Famous Rabbis Called Ishmael?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Don't we have a custom not to name a child after a wicked person?

How to Be a Luminary

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

No longer will it suffice for Abraham to be a spiritual person. From now on, Abraham's task will be to connect the spiritual with the physical.

13 Facts About Rabbi Shalom DovBer of Lubavitch

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Join us as we discover the life and times of a Jewish leader and Torah scholar.

How Could Abraham Let Sarah Be Abducted?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Abraham’s plan would effectively remove himself from Pharaoh’s hit list . . . and make Sarah available for Pharaoh’s hedonistic abuse! Talk about a lack of chivalry! Is this Abraham, the first Jewish husband and the ultimate mentch?

The Odd Prayer and the Lost Bandit

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

“Oh Eliyahu, you’ve stopped praying with me, said the Baal Shem Tov. “Let me tell you why I repeated that verse over and over.”

Journey of the Soul

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Abram’s physical journey was a symbol of his spiritual journey.

She Never Knew Her Great-Great-Grandma Was Jewish

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

We can count the number of apples on an apple tree, but we can never know how many trees will grow from the seeds hidden in each apple.

Undoing the Distortions of a Dream

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Our feelings are generated as a direct result of our thoughts.

Rachel in the Bible

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Along with Sarah (wife of Abraham), Rebecca (wife of Isaac), and Leah (her sister and fellow wife of Jacob), Rachel is one of the four mothers of the Jewish people.

Fifty-Year-Old Honey

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

The entire town would be paying attention to the new rabbi’s first ruling. Everyone was sure to wonder: Why is the law of the Torah so opposite to common sense?

Lunar Flood, Solar Year

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

How a year plus eleven days makes a year

12 Rosh Chodesh Facts Every Jew Should Know

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

“Rosh Chodesh” marks the start of a new lunar month. Learn more about it here.

Five Judaism Lessons My Cat Taught Me

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Over the years, my feline friends have taught me much more than I’ve ever taught them.

Looking Forward to a World Where All Beans Are Counted

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

How can it be that mere theft brought a much worse punishment than open rebellion against G‑d?

Two Cultures, One Identity: How Persian Chabad Welcomed Two Soviet Jews

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

The Trickle-Down Effect

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Who is pulling your soul with thick cords of love?

Why Is Sukkot Happier Than Any Other Jewish Holiday?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Passover is the "Season of Our Liberation," Shavuot is the "Season of the Giving of Our Torah" and Sukkot is described simply as the "Season of Our Rejoicing!"

12 Sukkot Customs And Traditions You Should Know

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Join us as we explore a sampling of the Sukkot customs, ranging from ubiquitous to virtually unknown.

Got the Post-Yom Kippur Blues?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Every year I get all inspired. But somehow it dissipates pretty quickly . . .

10 Tips for an Amazing Sukkot @ Home

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

You can create an over-the-top joyous Sukkot at home, one to remember fondly long after the pandemic has been relegated to the dusty annals of history.

Why Start Yom Kippur With Kol Nidre?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Contrary to what one may expect, Kol Nidre is neither flowery nor inspiring (at first blush).

Yussie's Yom Kippur Prayer

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

"G‑d, I am sorry," Yussie began. "I want to go inside to pray, but I haven't eaten anything for a day and a half, and I am afraid I will pass out and embarrass myself. So, please, G‑d, would you mind hearing Yussie's forgiveness prayer out here?"

14 Tips for an Amazing Yom Kippur at Home

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Many of us will be celebrating Yom Kippur alone. Here are our pro tips to making your at-home Yom Kippur meaningful and memorable.

On the Essence of Shabbat Shuvah

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

There is an essential problem in the combination of Shabbat and teshuvah.

Torah Studies: Words of Closeness and Distance

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Which path is the Jew to follow? Is he to strive towards heaven and keep himself aloof from worldly events? Or is he, like Isaiah, to find his spiritual home in the things of the earth?

9 Yom Kippur Myths and Misconceptions

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Here’s your chance to rethink some things that “everyone knows” about the holy day.

The Corona Birth That Actually Went Right

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

She reached her ninth month and finally was just about to start her 38th week when her husband came home with the news that his coworker was diagnosed with COVID-19.

When the King Asked for Berel the Wagon Driver

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Before we stand before Him in judgment on Rosh Hashanah, G‑d wishes to see all the different types of Jews join in true unity—the leaders together with the lay people; born Jews and converts, men, women and children.

Blessings and Curses

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Why does the Torah cite only the curses and not use the positive language of the blessings?

9 Tips for an Amazing Rosh Hashanah at Home

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

If you are planning to spend Rosh Hashanah in isolation, here are some tips and reminders just for you.

The Rebuke and the Unhappy Shoe Salesman

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Do we look at G‑d’s commandments as responsibilities and chores? Or do we see a mitzvah as another opportunity to become closer to Him?

The Need to Hit the Refresh Button Every Night

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

How fortunate we are that G-d, in his abounding kindness, wove the institution of nightly sleep into the fabric of our daily lives!

The Belated Dinner

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

After waiting for what seems like an eternity, his wife places a plate before him. He takes a look, and all he sees is a hard-boiled egg and a potato!

Gozez - Shearing

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

The Three Forms of Betrothal

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Judaism’s perspective and insight into the profound meaning, beauty, romance and mystery of marriage can be discovered by exploring the meaning behind the seemingly technical details of the law.

Why Must I Work at My Marriage?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

In the real world we don’t just ride into the sunset and live happily ever after.

How I Will Celebrate Rosh Hashanah Alone

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

I’m an older woman, living alone. I'll be observing the holidays at home, by myself.

How Do You Feel Connected to a Man You Never Knew?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

What is 770? What is Eastern Parkway? You’re born and raised in Brooklyn, a 30-minute drive from there, but you have no idea that place exists or why it does.

10 Ways to Be More Responsible

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

While it’s true that everything is directed from Above, the one thing that isn’t are our choices and reactions, and to a large extent, they help determine our destiny.

How Two Russian-Born Crypto-Jews Rediscovered Their Identity

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

One day, as I was washing my grandmother’s hands before eating challah, Svetlana smiled and said that she, too, was Jewish. I was surprised because she often mentioned her Greek Orthodox beliefs and wore a crucifix around her neck.

Am I just a Figment of Someone's Imagination?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Unpredictable + Self-Conscious = Free Choice. Bingo, we have a formula for free-choice figments!

Seven Thoughts About Elul to Help Us Turn Inward and Forgive

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Welcome to the month of turning inward, the month of forgiveness, the month of spiritual accounting, the month of deepening.

Holy Witnesses

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

A deeper perspective on the function and purpose of witnesses.

The Wise Words That Saved a Life

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

The two bright scholars spent much time conversing, and the young aristocrat particularly enjoyed hearing his friend’s ingenious Torah insights.

Who Are Sephardic Jews?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

16 Kaddish Facts Every Jew Should Know

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Get to know one of Judaism’s best-known but least-understood texts.

Discovering the Real Resting Place of Rabbi Levi Yitzchok of Berdichev

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Multi-Layered Festivals

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

In Judaism, the natural and the miraculous are not a dichotomy

Bishul - Cooking

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Being Kosher: What Do the Kosher Signs Teach Us?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

In Reckless Waters: Falling in Love with a Non-Jew

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

I didn't intend to like Colin, to dip my toes into the forbidden waters of the non-Jew. After all, I grew up deeply religious my whole life, in strong deference to the traditions imparted from my parents and grandparents...

Why Is the Ketubah Written in Aramaic?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Why was it originally written in Aramaic, not Hebrew? And why is it still written in that language today?

Losh - Kneading

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

From Catholic Italian to Jewish Rabbi: David Martinetti Shares His Story

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

The rabbi walked toward me with a smile, extended his hand warmly, and offered me my first Jewish greeting: ‘Shalom.’ I froze, completely overwhelmed.

The Chassid and the Fool at the Leipzig Fair

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

“I don’t understand,” he complained. “You wanted to spend Shabbat with the rebbe, and you promised to hurry with your prayers. Now you’ve ruined all our chances of reaching Lubavitch on time!”

The Dancing Maidens of Jerusalem

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

The souls of Israel include “beautiful” souls, souls “of prestigious lineage,” and “ugly” souls, each of whom contribute their own unique dimension to our relationship with G‑d.

The Challenge of Scripted Prayers

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Can a person’s relationship with his Creator be expressed in a scripted prayer? Is it possible to dictate the feelings one should be conveying to G-d?

7 Joyous Events That Happened on the 15th of Av

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

A list of the joyous events that occurred on the 15th of Av, as detailed by the sages of the Talmud.

The Rhyme of No Reason

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Our verse implies that our unconditional connection with G‑d is itself conditional! Can that be right?

What the Spies Taught Us About Education

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

I wanted to change him. I started to argue with him, and then there came this inner voice that said, “Elana, just accept him. Just love him.”

Why a Mezuzah Is Not a Mezuzah

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

If not for the scrolls, there would be no reason for plain old doorposts...

Meraked - Sifting

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

10 Tips for a Meaningful Tisha B’Av at Home

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Listen to a wide array of Jewish wisdom and ideas, inspiration, and stories selected from Chabad.org’s weekly articles.

Hear the Oneness

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

G‑d is the one truth that pervades all existence and we, in turn, must create that oneness within our hearts.

Why Is Tisha B'Av Afternoon Less Mournful?

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

Why are mourning practices suspended in the afternoon, the very time the Holy Temple was actually set on fire?

Confessions of a ‘Highly Sensitive’ Chabad Rebbetzin

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

While my day-to-day involvement in Chabad activities and programs has waxed and waned depending on what my children were up at that particular period of time (think colicky babies), there is one area that I never wanted to cut back on: the time I invested in personal relationships with community members.

Don’t React, Respond! 3 Cases on How to Avoid Confrontation

Mon, 1 Jan 0001 0:00:00 EST

The nature of panic mode is such that it hyper-focuses us on the most obvious and immediate problem, often blinding us to the subtle yet deeply important messages that the problem signals.

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Why Was Samuel Upset by the Request for a King

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When G-d Needs You

The Butler, the Baker ... the Dynamite Maker

The Soul’s Wrestling Match: Can It Be a Peaceful Battle?

‘Home Away From Home’ at Miami University

What Is a Gemach?

My Father, My Superman

Living From Within, Hearing With Your Soul

A Model of Love

What’s Up With Esau’s Kiss?

Why Jacob Prepared for Three Eventualities

Why Aren’t Shellfish Kosher?

A Chabad Friendship Saved My Life

Benjamin in the Bible

Feeling Rejected by My Former Shabbat Hosts

Mothering Teens Is Harder Than I Thought

Don’t Get Stuck Like an Elephant!

Why Is the Contemporary Prayer Book So Long?

Judaism and Pet Ownership: 18 FAQs

Why Jacob Loved Rachel

The Reason Isaac Went Blind

My Husband Gets Agitated Over Every Request

A Tale of Two Butchers

Fighting the Pre-Shabbat Madness

7 Life Lessons From My Pool Robot Cleaner

Why Does G-d Send Us False Prophets?

The Kind Benefactor Who Was Barred From Heaven

I Have a Weird Fear of Death

His Name Shone

Can You Bribe G‑d?

Five Comforting Quotes From Nachamu, Isaiah’s Prophecy of Comfort

11 Unique Jewish Wedding Traditions From Around the World

Hachnasat Kallah

The Ignorant Groom’s Transformation

The American Soldier Who Stood Up to the Nazis—and Won!

Inner Voices and Dumb Choices

The Sobering Reality of Sober Living

Why Does G-d Want Us to Get Frustrated?

Singing on Foreign Soil

Losing My Diamond Ring Helped Me See the Real Gem

The Empowering Art of Framing

Being Honest Should be Completely Obvious

What Is the Significance of King David’s Harp?

18 Facts About Rabbi Nachman of Breslov

Why Were the Temples Destroyed?

Dear G-d, Bring Us Home!

Judging a Stranger Favorably at the Cemetery in Tzfat

Braiding Challah and Learning Torah in the Rebbetzin’s Kitchen in Japan

Promises Fulfilled: Buried Near the Shaagas Aryeh

The Daily Grind and the Daily Lamb

Why Orphans Are Not Made to Give Charity

Why the Jewish People Await Moshiach

Abigail, King David and the Secret of the Black Halo

17 Facts About Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch

Who Was Apostomus, Who Burned a Torah Scroll?

How to Explain Death to Small Children

The Man Who Sold His Place In Heaven

What Happened to the Clouds of Glory?

The Song of the Well

Is the Snake-on-a-Rod Medical Sign Kosher?

Is It a Mitzvah to Believe in G&#8209;d?

The Lesson of the Lost Pictures

A Prison Guard’s Journey Home

A New Epoch in Torah Learning

My First Al-Anon Meeting

Do You Procrastinate?

Moses Never Gave Up on Them

Did Chabad's Founder Envision an American Future?

Must One Honor Abusive Parents?

I Chose Shabbat Over a Rocket Launch

The Unplanned Trip to the Gym That Turned Into a Spiritual Workout

Have I Hit Rock Bottom Yet?

Summoned by a Soul

Defeating the Inner Defeatist

How Did the Mission of the Twelve Spies Go So Wrong?

Mechateich - Cutting

Is It a Mitzvah to Believe in G‑d?

The Gift of a Child in Addiction & Mental Health Recovery