Naming Names: Thoughts for Parashat Vaera
Freedom is not static but is a process. The first step and ongoing challenge is to remember and insist: we have names, families, and historical context.
Articles
Emending/Updating the Siddur?
The editors of Alats Libi have dared to update the siddur while drawing on historic rabbinic precedent and while maintaining the basic structure of the siddur. The result will please some, offend others, be ignored by most. This siddur reminds us that when we address the Almighty, we should do so honestly…and joyously.
Conspiracy Theories: Thoughts for Parashat Shemot
Since the days of ancient Pharaoh, the people of Israel have been subjected to grotesque and hateful conspiracy theories. We continue to face such ugliness today. But we are a strong and resilient people, imbued with ultimate optimism for humanity.
A Bridge across the Tigris: Chief Rabbi Joseph Herman Hertz
Rabbi Joseph Hertz was one of the most influential rabbinic figures of the 20th century. He is perhaps best known through his "Hertz Pentateuch" found in many synagogues. As we approach the anniversary of his passing ( he died January 14, 1946), it is instructive to become more aware of his life's work.
Finding Orthodoxy
The novelist, Naomi Ragen, discusses her path to Orthodox Judaism. She reflects on ideals, ideas, frustrations, disillusionments...and hopes.
Selected Writings by Abraham Joshua Heschel
Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel (1907-1972) was a powerful Jewish voice for righteousness, religious tolerance, and inter-group cooperation. We post selections of his writings in commemoration of the anniversary of his death in December 1972.
Looking Back, Thinking Ahead
Rabbi Marc D. Angel was honored at the dinner of the Sephardic Brotherhood of America, Sunday evening December 17, 2023. These are his comments on that occasion.
END OF YEAR CAMPAIGN
The Institute for Jewish Ideas and Ideals is celebrating its 16th anniversary!! The Institute fosters an intellectually vibrant, compassionate and inclusive Orthodox Judaism. Please support our End of Year Campaign. Thank you for your partnership in our important work.
Good Times, Difficult Times: Thoughts for Parashat Mikkets
Pharaoh’s dreams foretold seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. While the story relates to a situation in ancient Egypt, it also alludes to a more universal phenomenon. Societies are subject to wide fluctuations. Sometimes things go very well, and sometimes things are terrible.
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.