Stories,photos

188 results total, viewing 91 - 100

Abraham’s actions are a model even today

In the book of Genesis, a book whose first words are “In the beginning,” almost every experience is new: the first human beings (Adam and Eve), the first murder (Cain murders his brother, … more

d'Var Torah | 11/9/17

Let’s rethink how we do B’nai Mitzvah

Let me be frank; the way in which our community views the concept of B’nai Mitzvah is entirely broken. But first, let’s turn to the moment when Abraham, our forefather, chose a path of … more

d'Var Torah | 10/27/17

From chaos to light: Creating a new day

God saw that the light was good, and God separated the light from the darkness. (Genesis 1:4) The first five verses of Torah (Genesis 1:1-5) tell us that before God began creating the … more

d'Var Torah | 10/16/17

To live in hope is the bravest choice

The flag of Rhode Island displays our state symbol – an anchor – with the word “Hope” emblazoned below. I have always liked that image, and it took on even more meaning a few … more

d'Var Torah | 9/25/17

A better way to celebrate your successes

It seems that when most people successfully complete a project, reach a personal milestone or accomplish something particularly difficult, their natural inclination is to be proud of all the work … more

d'Var Torah | 9/7/17

Pursue justice justly

How do you know when your zeal for righteousness has veered into the realm of self-righteousness? How do you know when you have become so enthusiastic about what you believe that you … more

d'Var Torah | 8/24/17

Facing challenges with good faith

Parsha: Ekev Sometimes, when faced with enormous challenges, we raise our hands to the sky and proclaim: “It’s impossible!” Sometimes, when faced with seemingly unbeatable odds, … more

d'Var Torah | 8/10/17

A fountain of light for all nations

If you live in Rhode Island, you’ve probably been to Allie’s Donuts, a legendary stop on the way to Narragansett. I’m sorry to report that they fry their famous donuts in animal fat … more

d'Var Torah | 6/23/17

Torah’s words challenge us from generation to generation

In just a few months, Temple Beth-El will welcome the High Holy Days with a brand new machzor (High HolyDay prayer book). This is the first machzor since “Gates of Repentance,” … more

d'Var Torah | 6/9/17

Get lost – it may be just what you need

The Torah portion just before Shavuot is named Bamidbar , which translates to “In the Wilderness.” Our rabbis have long been fascinated that the Torah was given to Israel … more

d'Var Torah | 5/25/17