Jewlistic

There is an obligation to redeem the captive long established in Jewish tradition.  And while we welcome home with gladness and relief the man formerly known as Gilad Shalit (for how could he be the same person after 5 years in a dungeon?) we mourn because his freedom comes at a high price indeed.  It [...]

Last night I introduced the idea that the three paths to reconciliation with God were actually paths to a happier, more meaningful life.  This morning I want to talk about the first of these paths, that of Teshuvah. Teshuvah means literally, ‘returning’.  One who turns from sin and embraces Torah is someone making Teshuvah.  When [...]

          I’ve taken most of the summer off from blogging, but time to get back to it.  There’s much to talk about, and lots going on, but what better way to be awakened than by a cinematic meditation on the center of the world.  Follow the link to view a gorgeous [...]

I often teach about the Biblical concept of justice.  In particular I often teach about the idea of “eye for an eye”.  In fancy terms, it’s called a “Lex Talionis”.  It means the punishment must match exactly the crime or injury committed. If you break my foot, I (or a recognized authority) breaks your foot.  [...]