Mental Cataracts: Thoughts for Parashat Mikkets
It is easier to have cataracts removed from our eyes than to eliminate “mental cataracts” from our minds. But proper vision—physical and intellectual—demands both operations.
Articles
Teaching the History of Jewish Life in Europe
Teaching the History of Jewish Life in Europe Pre Kristallnacht to young adolescents asks us to question our motivations, objectives and focus. The study and experience of history occurs in informal and formal ways. With good teachers, students can develop and connect their understandings and experiences to what is presented.
Hanukkah: Then, Now and Tomorrow
Will our descendants 100 years from now be living proud, happy and meaningful Jewish lives? This will largely depend on choices we make today. The Jewish future will consist of those — like Matityahu of old — who heroically maintain Jewish faith, traditions, and values; for whom Judaism and Jewishness are primary sources of identity and personal fulfillment.
Upcoming Classes with Rabbi Hayyim Angel
Rabbi Hayyim Angel continues to offer educational opportunities that are available to members of our Institute.
On Monday, December 15, from 1:15-2:15 pm EST, Rabbi Hayyim Angel will give a class on the Haftarah of Hanukkah: Zechariah chapters 2-4. This Zoom class is sponsored by Lamdeinu, and registration is required. You may register here: https://www.lamdeinu.org/donations/donation-form-02-2/
Hanukkah: A Vote Against Religious Zealotry
Although the medieval recasting of Hanukkah as a celebration of the victories of the Maccabees is important, the core of the talmudic observance celebrates the Sages' stand against assimilation and religious zealotry.
End of Year Campaign
THE INSTITUTE FOR JEWISH IDEAS AND IDEALS NEEDS YOU!
Thank you for your support and encouragement. You have helped the Institute in its work to foster an intellectually vibrant, compassionate and inclusive Orthodox Judaism. Please support our End of Year Campaign.
Torah min haShamayim: Conflicts between Religious Belief and Scientific Thinking
We tend to think of our religious commitments as being built on a concrete foundation. Every perceived crack raises a fear that the entire edifice might collapse. But we can view our commitments as a boat, held aloft by the surging waters of a river that are continually rising and falling, but always, in aggregate, carrying the boat forward, downstream toward the sea.
A Menorah of Spears?
The very weapons with which our enemies sought to destroy us—those very weapons were used to spread the light of Judaism! The Maccabees were demonstrating that their victory was not merely successful in a military sense. Rather, it was also—and pre-eminently—a spiritual victory. The enemy’s spears were transformed into branches of the Menorah, bringing light into the Temple, restoring worship of the One true God.
Integrity, Courage, and Commitment to Principle
Special individuals, like their many illustrious predecessors, have in common a commitment to the truth, abhorrence of corruption, and the fearlessness that enables them to speak out in support of what is right and just. They serve as role models for the Jewish people wherever they may reside.
Rabbi Dr. David de Sola Pool: Sephardic Visionary and Activist
Rabbi Dr. David de Sola Pool (May 16, 1885-December 1, 1970) was the foremost Sephardic rabbi in the United States during the middle decades of the 20th century. While scholars can list his many accomplishments and publications, the distinctive religious worldview that animated Dr. Pool’s life has remained relatively unexplored.