Friday May 20, 2022 | 18 Iyyar 5782
The Internet and media are glowing with anger. It’s the kind of anger that can precede a career-dismantling “cancellation” in our current culture. Regardless of whether the current target, comedian Dave Chappelle, deserves that, I do, as a Jew, find it disturbing that there’s a digital mob roaming around and meting out justice. We […]
It hit me like a strong punch to the gut. During a keynote address, the speaker asked us if we knew the names of our grandparents. Most in attendance raised their hands. He then asked us if we knew the names and something about all eight of our great-grandparents. Less than half responded. I […]
Almost one hundred years ago, Clarence Darrow challenged Tennessee law which prohibited the teaching of evolution. This became known as the “Scopes Monkey Trial”; the defendant was a high school science teacher. Ninety years ago, with the explicit support of Hitler’s regime, the Nazi German Student Union rounded up any books written by Jewish, […]
Antisemitism is real and is having a significant impact. We’ve got to be aware. I sometimes blow off some steam by visiting Reddit, a social media platform. It’s where people discuss the issues of the day and post things like, “How do I get a job like cookie inspector?” That was posted on July […]
I know you’re exhausted. The new year has arrived, and the pandemic is still on. It’s like a slog through the mud, all this endless mask wearing, wondering how much mask wearing is appropriate, and thinking about vaccines and loved ones. It didn’t help that the rug was pulled out from under us. It […]
The Yamim Noraim (Days of Awe) are quickly upon us. In years past, we may have felt as individuals that we are unprepared for the introspection this season demands. This year especially, the demands of our world have made the endeavor of preparing for this season even more pressing and important. Like last year, […]
Recently the state legislature passed a law requiring Holocaust education in Wisconsin public schools. This was extremely important not just for the Jewish community but for everyone. It will highlight how vigilant we, as a society, must be to make sure that these horrific acts in World War II are never repeated. As a […]
During my 30 years as a pulpit rabbi, a major focus of my week was the Shabbat worship service. While it is true that we all do much during the rest of the week, Shabbat and holiday services are seen by congregants and clergy as the center of our congregational lives. Education and social […]
Hello, young Jews of the world! Honestly, I am somewhat concerned for your welfare. You’re under pressure. Supporting Israel is turning uncool in some quarters, and you’re being challenged, sometimes even without you having brought it up. People are pressing you on Israel, or I fear they will, just because you’re Jewish. I’m sorry […]
My first tallit was based on the second verse of Genesis. Inscribed on the atarah/neckband was: V’ru’ach Elohim mirachefet al p’nai hamayim – “And the spirit of God hovered over the face of the water.” All that existed was God and water amid the void. My teacher, Rabbi David Wolfe-Blank z”l, taught that this […]
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