Rosh Hashanah – Write Yourself into the Book of Life — By Ben
The critical theme of the high holidays is the hope that we will be written and sealed by God in the Book of Life. But the truth is, most of […]
Rick & Morty & Religion: Demonstration in Satire — By Ben
Rick and Morty, the pop culture juggernaut, rivals animation giants The Simpsons, Family Guy, and South Park. It takes mind-bending sci-fi concepts to the next level, and its irreverent satire appeals to teens and […]
Reading Shoftim at Jury Duty — By Ben
I find it interesting that during the week of the Torah portion of Shoftim, literally judges, I happen to be at the LA county courthouse for jury duty. Clearly Hashem […]
Shema – Two Ways to Learn — By Ben
In the past I’ve discussed the differences between the first paragraph of Shema and the second. The first paragraph is generally referred to as the V’ahavta, while the second paragraph […]
Iyov – Blaming Those Who Suffer — By Ben
As I continue on into Sefer Iyov, we see how the title character struggles with suffering on the most personal of levels. After passing his first test, the Satan inflicts […]
Iyov – The Suffering and Silence of Job — By Ben
This Sunday we’ll observe the fast of Tammuz, kicking off the mourning period known as the 3 Weeks. The ritual culminates with Tisha B’Av which remembers the destruction of the […]
The Bathroom Prayer — By Ben
Judaism has a blessing for virtually everything. Hearing thunder, seeing an interesting looking person, at least seven blessings for food and drink… and guess what else! Going to the bathroom. […]
Tefillin – The Original Mystery Box — By Ben
I don’t know if I had ever even heard of tefillin before I started my journey of exploring Judaism. So if you are at all like me from ten years […]
Shavuos, Ruth, and Being Chosen — By Ben
I don’t recall the exact circumstance, but somewhere in the deep recesses of my memory I remember talking to a devout person of a different religion. They had found out […]
Stumbling Blocks, the Blind, and Political Correctness — By Ben
This week’s Torah portion has concepts that are real winners. Some of its verses are so popular other religions and even the secular world can be found quoting them. Among […]
Six Degrees Of Kosher Bacon 