If there is thing that I’ve noticed over the years, it’s that many people are afraid of Onkelos. I’ve seen it both when I was teaching in yeshiva and now in my tutoring. Imagine this scene: I’m leading a group … Continue reading
I’ve been using the new Siddur Nehalel BeShabbat for a number of weeks now and really enjoying it. I’m sure you’re shocked. After all, just because I wrote a positive review about the siddur, doesn’t mean that I have to … Continue reading
Parashat Shemini 5773 The outline of this week’s parasha bothers me. Here’s the basic structure of the parasha following the breaks in the Torah text: Vayikra 9:1 – 10:7 For the first time Aharon and his sons perform the priestly … Continue reading
Birkat Ha-ilanot 5773 Today is Rosh Chodesh Nisan. Rosh Chodesh Nisan has a special place in Jewish history. We read at the end of Shemot (Judaica Press translation): Shemot 40:17 It came to pass in the first month, in the … Continue reading
Ki Tisa 5773 Spring is definitely in the air. It’s a good thing, too. Pesach is now less than a month away and Pesach must be celebrated in the spring. We read in this week’s parasha (Judaica Press translation slightly … Continue reading
To Turn In a Thief Two prominent rabbis in Israel have recently made statements about tax evasion and turning in those who cheat. Here’s the article from Arutz Sheva: Rabbi of HaShimshoni Community in Modi’in Haim Navon is of the … Continue reading
Parashat Terumah 5773 Last week’s parasha recounted the ascent of Moshe to Har Sinai. This week begins the commandments for building the Mishkan and its service. God commands those people who are willing and able to participate in building the … Continue reading
I received Siddur Nehalel beShabbat in the mail last Wednesday. A quick glance through the siddur told me that this is something special. I have to admit, I’m not a fan of the Nevarech Bencher. I’ve always found it difficult … Continue reading
Parashat Mishpatim 5773 Since this week’s parasha recounts the ascent of Moshe to Har Sinai, here’s a word search puzzle on that theme. There are seven hidden words here. Each word is the name of a person or group who … Continue reading
Rabbi Binyamin Tanny is not a polished author. He says so himself. And he doesn’t apologize for it. His writing is sharp and to the point. No one will ever doubt where he stands on the issues. His new book … Continue reading
