Who’s Testing Who? The Akedah

Who’s actually being tested with the Akedah? Rosh Hashanah’s Second Day Torah Portion feature the famous Binding of Isaac. With its holiday reading, Abraham is not tested for his near sacrifice of his son Isaac. His test was a few thousands of years ago on Mt. Moriah. Rather, those presently reading, listening, and discussing theContinue reading “Who’s Testing Who? The Akedah”

Well, Well, Well: A Rosh Hashanah Tale

During the holiday season, sometimes we have to be the “bigger” person. Being largesse is often necessary during the High Holiday season. Rosh Hashanah- the New Year- and Yom Kippur- the Day of Atonement- often come with close encounters of the uncomfortable kind. This especially happens on neutral grounds; synagogues and places of worship. Frankly,Continue reading “Well, Well, Well: A Rosh Hashanah Tale”

The Rosh Hashonah Torah Portion’s Ten Commandments’ Moment

Get up. Carry the boy and hold him in your hand, because I shall make him a big nation. Genesis 21: 23 The Rosh Hashonah Torah Portion tackles both matters of faith and covenant. Abraham, in the portion, is embroiled in a familial crisis. He must deal with competing maternal interests. Sarah, his wife, isContinue reading “The Rosh Hashonah Torah Portion’s Ten Commandments’ Moment”

I Really Blew It: A New Year’s Tale

The sound of the shofar grew increasingly stronger exodus 19:19 i was about 15 years old and it was my time for cup of coffee in the big leagues for shofar blowing. years of jr. congregation blowing were about to pay off. i got the call to blow shofar for the adults’ rosh hashanah service.Continue reading “I Really Blew It: A New Year’s Tale”