All Aboard the Peace Train!
Now I’ve been happy lately, thinking about the good things to come,
And I believe it could be, something good has begun.
Reform Movement Condemns House Passage of Anti-Choice Bill
Weinstein: "The symbolism of the bill's House passage is indeed important, demonstrating the unfortunate reality that women's reproductive rights remain at risk."
Chazak, Chazak, V'nitchazeik
Here in the week of the Fourth of July, we come to the end of this year's reading of B'midbar with a double portion, Matot/Mas-ei.
Reform Movement Urges Prime Minister Netanyahu to Suspend Plan for Negev Bedouin
Rabbi Saperstein: "Adopting the Begin Plan at this point is premature. It is clear that more research is necessary to investigate the possible consequences of this plan and its implementation."
How My Texas Congregation Led the Way to Support Immigrant Families
Our congregation in McAllen, TX, is the go-to congregation for donations in support of immigrant families; the response from the Reform Jewish community has been amazing.
No Rest(s) for the Wicked
According to the Rabbis, Balaam was one of seven non-Israelite prophets. (One list also includes Balaam's father, as well as Job and the four friends who came to "comfort" him.
Why We Must be Like Abraham and Speak Truth to Power
It is no secret that social action is a central maxim of Judaism.
Judaism, Homosexuality, and the Supreme Court
Any moment now, the United States Supreme Court is going to decide on two cases that involve same-sex marriage. Advocates on both sides of this issue are anxiously awaiting either a moment of celebration or of despair. Of course, it is possible that they will get neither.
Trouble at the Borders — and Within
This post is adapted from a sermon given at Temple Sinai in Washington, DC on Friday, June 29, 2018.
Identity and Ethics: Knowing Who and Whose You Are
If someone tells you that Judaism is X or Y, you should never believe them. Judaism is such a complex civilization — it is made up of religion and culture, language and land, and a particular kind of peoplehood. ... The Israelites’ preparations both to enter the Land and to create an ideal society are central motifs of Deuteronomy, and a particular focus of the extensive Parashat R’eih.