Judaism

Judaism

Shavuotmeal

If our rabbis can't even keep compassion in their hearts across halachic lines, what chance do we rank-and-file Jews of differing denominations have of making peace amongst ourselves? Maybe more of a chance than we think.

Judaism

Progressive Judaism Versus the World

If, in fact, we are our brother's keeper, doesn't our responsibility towards others include refraining from tearing each other down as we seek to elevate ourselves?

Judaism

Oh Where, Omer, Has My Shaven Face Gone?

The Omer countdown from Pesach to Shavuot anticipates the celebration of receiving the Torah at Sinai and honors unhappier moments in Jewish history. Last year I ignored it. This year, I threw out my razor.

Judaism

String Theory

Honest Reform Jews struggle to determine whether they feel commanded to respond to individual mitzvot. Sometimes they arrive at controversial conclusions. That's how I started wearing tzitzit.

Judaism

Passover and Stay Awhile

What a difference a year makes. Last year I was Passoverwrought. This year, I saw Pesach coming--and happily counted the days.

Judaism

Lessons to Be Learned from All Streams of Judaism

I do not believe our tradition teaches us to delegitimize other Jews. If you refuse to peer beyond the edge of a denominational box, how can you build a bridge?

Judaism

Orthodox Blogger Bullies

Last week, small-minded blogger bullies used their Orthodoxy as an excuse to silence a well-known, inter-denominational blogging voice for refusing to believe that fear and loathing are at the center of Judaism.

Judaism

The Amidah Project

Finding the still, small voice in a silent Amidah? Worth its weight in gold. Finding that silent Amidah in a Reform synagogue? Priceless. Explaining how finding that still, small voice feels? Worth a new blog series.

Judaism

Right to Be Jewish on Your Own Terms

Some liberal Jews fear leading traditional Jews 'astray' by wearing a kippah during traditionally non-permitted activities. I have one question. Why should liberal Jews limit themselves to fit the comfort zone of someone else's Jewish movement?

Judaism

Back on the Pig

For thousands of years, Judaism's dietary laws kept us from sharing meals with hostile parties who wanted us to assimilate. But what's the point of avoiding bacon cheeseburgers in 2012?

Judaism

Carmen Elena Doyle, z''l, 1929-1996

As we live our days, these are the ways we remember. This Shabbat, I remember my mother.

Judaism

Eight Nights to Renew Your Inner Jewish Child

Happy Chanukah to all my readers! The festival of lights is a good time to remember our Jewish holidays are for everyone. So even if you're over 12, light that chanukiyah with pride. All eight nights.