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 […]
The Free Will Choice of Passover — By Ben
Sitting on my desk are two pieces of electronic equipment. One is a Wacom Cintiq 21UX drawing tablet monitor. The other is a Nintendo Switch. Neither of them are particularly […]
My Marriage Report Card — By Ben
Yesterday was my 10 month wedding anniversary. You might be asking yourself, why didn’t I wait two months for the annual anniversary? I could have. However, yesterday was significant because […]
Purim: Stroke of Bad Luck and Blindness — By Ben
My mother may have had a stroke, God forbid. On Monday, my parents were taking the dog for a walk and on the way home, my mother felt tired. Upon […]
Six Degrees Of Kosher Bacon 