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Mother’s Day Sermon

By Zalman

Sermon on Emor. 7 years ago, on Mother's day, an epic event occurred in my family: My grandmother after experiencing a massive Stroke and spending a few days in the hospital, died. I was sad and upset, needless to say. But exasperating my stressful situation was that my grandmother, who wasn't religious, had wanted to be cremated. On the Motzaei Shabbat- this Saturday evening - before my grandmother died, I went to my synagogue rabbi, and he assured me that a proper burial would be paid for, which is what happened -- only that we're still working in... »

Why Our Synagogue Ought Not Become a Church

By Zalman

Sermon Parshat Re'eh Good Shabbos, everyone. Shabbat Shalom. You may not have seen me for two weeks, but that doesn't mean what I talked about last time isn't relevant. I spent Shabbos in a remarkable place, not too far from here in distance, but which is still very different. Lawrence, Long Island. A beautiful place, with luxurious houses, and wealthy or... »

About Demons In Judaism

By Zalman

I plan to give this as my dvar Torah ("Word of Bible") at my synagogue this Shabbat, probably at Seuda Shlisheet (the third meal, eaten Saturday at sundown): "They should no longer slaughter their sacrifices to demons after whom they stray. This should be An eternal statute for they for all their generations." [Velo yizbechu od et zivchehem lasi'irim asher heim zonim... »


Let Me Introduce Myself

By Zalman

Hi! Let me introduce myself -- I'm a 29-year-old male, living in Manhattan, where I grew up. I became Orthodox about 15 years ago, and I'm actually on the cusp of receiving rabbinical ordination! For the last several months,... »

The Jewish Mother, More Intimidating Than G-d.

By nicejewishgirl

Who can make you feel more guilty than anyone else about not following the laws of Judaism or living your life according to certain expectations? It's not the rabbi,  your boss, or even g-d. No, it's your mother. Yes, the... »

Look Who’s Coming to Shabbat Dinner

By nicejewishgirl

As a single jewish girl living in New York City, I have an endless choice of single events to attend. Trying to choose the right venue or event can be a challenge. I've tried them all, and like most of... »

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