(Image: What Sabas/Grandpas Are For) Transmitting a love of Jewish heritage, ritual and tradition to our grandchildren brings so much joy and at the same time can be challenging. Many of our kids are partnered with non-Jews and many of our sons and daughters are conflicted about religion. If you struggle with the December dilemma…
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This is the busiest time of the Jewish calendar. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are just past, we are in the week of Sukkot which culminates in Simchat Torah. The Jewish month that follows is Cheshvan, sometimes called Mar Cheshvan meaning bitter Cheshvan. The most common explanation I’ve been taught is that it is bitter…
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The best start for anyone – Jewish or not – who wants to understand Jewish culture and tradition is to take a Basic Judaism class. I will list the classes that are offered here in the San Francisco Bay Area. Let me know if your synagogue or Jewish institution is offering a beginner’s class so…
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Did you know that Rosh Hashanah was not always called Rosh “Hashanah”? Does that knowledge give you new ideas about the holiday? Looking back over history, and the traditions of Judaism, we see that the knowledge of both yield remarkable new ways to see our present. The facts – and mysticism – of our past…
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(photo of my friend, Martha S’s celebratory round challahs) The year 5784 will begin at sundown on September 15. I’m not ready. But since it will come anyway, here are some tips. S’lichot – S’lichot will be tomorrow night, September 9 at sundown. A Reflection The prayers of S’lichot Getting ready Let’s Eat! I’ve fallen…
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My friend’s 4 year old son made a request for a toy in a store to which my friend said, “We don’t have money for this.” Her little boy cheerfully replied, “You can get money from the wall.” Ah, yes, the trusty ATM. Money is a difficult concept for children on many levels. When my…
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