Judaism

Torah

Why Did the People Complain Over Manna?

Newsmakers

West Philly Rabbi Gives Benediction at Prayer Breakfast

Local

Does Birthright Stifle Teen Travel?

Shavuot

Rethinking the Ruth-Naomi Relationship

By:

Deborah Rosenbloom, JTA

Writer Deborah Rosenbloom always thought of Ruth, the heroine of Shavuot, as a woman who made good choices, was strong and fulfilled. But lately she's been rethinking this and focusing on the strange dynamics of what appears to be an unhealthy, possibly abusive, relationship between Ruth and Naomi, her mother-in-law.

Torah

Mapping Out Israelites’ Journey

B’Midbar, Numbers 1:1-4:20

By:

Rabbi Sue Levi Elwell

B'Midbar is the first portion of the fourth book of the Torah. The word means "in the wilderness," and "aptly captures the challenges the book describes,” says Professor Tamara Eskenazi.

Shavuot

Staying Mindful on Shavuot

By:

Rabbi Yael Levy

Shavuot urges us to engage our imagination, to cultivate awe, and to consider the meaning of the Ten Devarim in our lives.

Shavuot

Navigating Through Torah Leads to New Lands

By:

Edmon J. Rodman, JTA

What if as adults we want to find our way back into Torah — on our own?

Shavuot

Interfaith Tale Without Interfaith Lens

By:

Rabbi Rayzel Raphael

The Book of Ruth is read at this time of year on the holiday of Shavuot, which highlights the themes of harvest and relationships, as does Ruth's story.