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History of the Jews of Ukraine
Once Europe’s largest Jewish community, Ukraine has had a major influence on the development of Ashkenazi Jewish culture.
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.
The History of Ethiopian Jewry
Piecing together legends and stories.
The Story of “Oy Vey”
Half Hebrew, half Aramaic, this classic lament is all Jewish.
Next Torah Portion
Summary
In this Torah portion, Sara dies at the age of 127. Abraham searches for a place to bury her and settles on Machpelah. Abraham searches for a wife for his son, Isaac. Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for Isaac. The servant meets Rebecca at a well, where she provides water for him and his camels. Abraham marries Keturah and has six more sons. He then dies at the age of 175.
Featured Commentary
Chayei Sarah: The Reverberations of Familial Violence
The lingering trauma of Isaac’s near-sacrifice is felt in his relationship with his wife Rebecca and in the generations that follow.
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Daf Yomi
Bava Batra 146
Returned engagement gifts.
Bava Batra 145
Groomsmen’s Gifts
Bava Batra 144
Rav Safra’s business venture.
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.