One of the most attractive elements of Judaism – for both Jews and non-Jews – is the tradition of asking questions. Questions are often followed by an argument that is “for the sake of heaven,” meaning to deepen our understanding, not to defeat the other guy. Whether you are learning about Judaism or teaching someone…
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(Photo credit Shannon Sarna from the My Jewish Learning website) I’m not big on chocolate, but… I’m well aware that most people’s favorite flavor is CHOCOLATE. With that in mind I want to send you a Double Chocolate Chip Challah recipe. Could be good for Shabbat. Jews Indigenous to the Middle East How much do you…
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I received another email from a person who woke up to being a Jew after October 7. It is so hard to suddenly realize you have a larger identity, a larger family and are hated by much of the world. Add to that that people who reach out to me have often lived a completely…
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It’s been a tough year so far and doesn’t seem likely to improve soon. So how about some peaceful and encouraging reading options for Shabbat and the weekend? Willie Mays loved his Jewish friends. The J-weekly shared this story about local baseball legend, Mays. Put your money where your mouth is! Robert Kraft, majority owner of the…
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I just received permission to share Rabbi Chayva Lehrman of Am Tikvah in San Francisco’s message to her congregation. It is about Shavuot, but a question we can ponder throughout life. “Why was the Torah given in the desert?” asks the midrash. One might think that the Torah, the wellspring of Jewish tradition, should have…
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American culture is one of individual RIGHTS. Jewish tradition is one of individual RESPONSIBILITY. At the time of America’s founding our forefathers were leaving behind governments that oppressed them; rights were central to their thinking. Responsibility was already internalized. In modern times we’ve gone over the edge with personal rights and no longer give much thought to…
Read More »Our weekly email goes out to hundreds of interfaith couples & families in the Bay Area. Topics cover the many questions and mysteries that interfaith couples want answered.