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Rabbi Ovadia Yosef
Perhaps the most powerful rabbi in history, Yosef dramatically reshaped Israeli politics and religion.
The Amulet: A Jewish Charm
Belief in the power of amulets persisted widely among Jews for many centuries, and still exists in some communities today.
What Is Gematria?
Hebrew numerology, and the secrets of the Torah.
The Story of “Oy Vey”
Half Hebrew, half Aramaic, this classic lament is all Jewish.
Next Torah Portion
Summary
In this Torah portion, three guests arrive at Abraham and Sarah’s tent. They inform Abraham that God will give the elderly Sarah a child. The prophesy comes true, and they name their son Isaac. God informs Abraham that Sodom and Gomorrah will be destroyed, though Abraham attempts to convince God otherwise. God tells Abraham to sacrifice Isaac. Abraham obliges but is told that it was a test of faith and offers a ram to sacrifice instead.
Featured Commentary
Parashat Vayera: The Uniqueness of the Binding of Isaac
Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son should be seen as a unique situation never to be repeated.
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Daf Yomi
Bava Batra 141
Here comes the son (or daughter).
Bava Batra 140
Estate size.
Bava Batra 139
Marriage inheritance.
STUDY RESOURCES
recharge now
Our weekly Shabbat newsletter, Recharge, features a thoughtful, timely essay to enrich your Shabbat. Here are a few of our recent pieces:
Sacred Dark
Jewish sources portray darkness as both the embodiment of death and as the wellspring of creativity.
Freedom Beyond the Self
Freedom requires us to know what we are for, what we will do with our freedom, and how that will impact others.
Prayer for Voters
Even though most Jews live in democracies, they continue to pray for their leaders — not the people who elect them.
MORE from MY JEWISH LEARNING
Must a Jew Believe in God?
The centrality of God in Judaism may not be as straightforward as you think.
Jews and Finance
The idea that Jews are good with money is one of the oldest Jewish stereotypes. But it’s undeniable that Jews are well-represented in finance and business.
The Jews of Greece
The oldest Jewish community in Europe traces its history back more than 2,300 years.
Shehechiyanu: A Meditation on this Moment
This blessing, traditionally recited for firsts, can be said anytime — since every moment is new and unprecedented.
What is Jewish Meditation?
“Truly, you are where your mind is,” taught the Baal Shem Tov.
Tikkun Olam: Repairing the World
This phrase with kabbalistic roots has come to connote social justice.