Steven GreenbergPublisher: University of Wisconsin PressFor millennia, two biblical verses have been understood to condemn sex between men as an act so abhorrent that it is punishable by death. Traditionally Orthodox Jews, believing the scripture to be the word of God, have rejected homosexuality in accordance with this interpretation. In 1999, Rabbi Steven Greenberg challenged this tradition when he became …
The Book of Books: Mysteries of the Torah Scroll
Azriel EisenbergPublisher: Soncino PressIn this fascinating book, distinguished scholar Azriel Eisenberg takes the reader through the mysteries of the Torah scroll-from the specific way scribes copy the Torah onto the parchment scroll to the illuminating history of the Bible text and the important role that Torah scrolls have played in the life and history of the Jews.This engrossing book is …
Being Jewish: The Spiritual and Cultural Practice of Judaism Today
Ari L. GoldmanPublisher: Simon & SchusterIncreasing numbers of Jews are returning to their religious roots in a search for meaning, eager to explore a heritage that is deeply embedded in history and at the same time rapidly changing. But what is Judaism today? And what does it mean — culturally, spiritually, and ritually — to be Jewish in the twenty-first …
How to Observe Shavuot
Shavuot is a Jewish holiday celebrated on the sixth day of the month of Sivan (late May or early June). Shavuot is being celebrated in remembrance of the day God gave the Torah to the Israelites at Mount Sinai.It is customary for women to light candles on the first and second nights of Shavuot.The first day of Shavuot should be …
The Jewish Women: Inside the Synagogue
The Talmud states that women are generally exempted from doing Jewish religious activities. Orthodox Judaism stresses its importance especially that women have family obligations. There are a number of rules for Jewish women in the synagogues – some observed strictly by the Orthodox sect while other Jewish sects are more lenient about it (Conservative and Reform).In Orthodox setting, men and …
Jewish Scholarships for Women: Supporting Jewish Women’s Education in the 21st Century
Women were historically exempted from obtaining a form of education beyond the practical aspects of Torah and rules in running a Jewish household. This has changed in the past 100 years, when education for Jewish women has advanced remarkably. There are a few educational scholarships available for Jewish women1. The Jewish Foundation for Education of Women (JFEW)JFEW is a program …
Managing a Jewish Household
Running a traditional Jewish household is not easy. A number of Jewish traditions have to be observed all throughout the year. Here are some tips on how you can manage a Jewish household. Decorate your home with Jewish symbols like the mezuzah which is placed at your front door, Kiddush cups, menorah, Shabbat candles and other Jewish artwork. Your family …