Eishet Ḥayil – Start at the Beginning by Roni Bernstein

Mishlei (Proverbs) 31 is a fixture of our Erev Shabbat services. Placed in the midst of the songs and prayers of the evening, Eishet Ḥayil is a beautiful interlude during which men sing to their wives, declaring her before all present as precious, industrious, respected, virtuous, righteous, and praiseworthy. To truly understand all the implications … Continue reading Eishet Ḥayil – Start at the Beginning by Roni Bernstein

The Tradition of Chanukah by Jennifer Caracelo

Last night was the first night of Chanukah and Jewish people around the world lit the first candles in their menorahs.  We cannot say exactly when the tradition of lighting a menorah at Chanukah started, but the holiday itself was instituted by the Maccabees in 138 BCE and is referenced in many ancient writings.  It … Continue reading The Tradition of Chanukah by Jennifer Caracelo

The Glory of Wholehearted Connection by Candyce Hyslip

With the beauty of the High Holidays still lingering in our souls, we awaken to the upcoming joy of Sukkot! There’s a hustle and bustle- buying lumber, gathering branches, and preparing festive foods to wow the eyes and gladden the hearts.  We engage in the richness of our culture- some with joy, some with anxiety, … Continue reading The Glory of Wholehearted Connection by Candyce Hyslip