Jewish Thought

The notion that the planets influence human affairs cuts against the core Jewish belief in free will, but many ancient rabbis believed it anyway.

When Dad is Jewish and Mom is not, are the kids Jewish? Depends on who you ask.

The editor of the Mishnah is one of the most significant figures in rabbinic Judaism.

The first sage to receive the title of rabbi, Yohanan ben Zakkai is credited with saving rabbinic Judaism from complete annihilation.

The preeminent sage of first century Palestine whose name is on Jewish campus organizations worldwide.

The creation of a Jewish existentialism--and a Jewish state.

The grave of this second century rabbi is the site of a large annual pilgrimage.

Maimonides' extensive writings on Jewish law, or halachah, remain an unsurpassed accomplishment.

A woman who gained accomplished rabbis as her students, Leibowitz is considered among the great Torah scholars of the 20th century.

The Torah calls for Jews to work the land six years and let it rest in the seventh.

Coping with destruction and building for the future.

Why is Judaism traditionally passed down through the mother?