This is a true story which occurred in the death camps during the Holocaust. A woman, who was obviously in a weakened and desperate condition, came to a great rabbi from whom many of the camp inmates sought advice. On a daily basis, people would ask him if they should risk their health to keep kosher under such difficult conditions, or what to do about being forced to work on Shabbat. The woman approached the rabbi, and, hardly able to speak, asked him for a knife. “I realize this suffering is unbearable,” said the rabbi, “and it is hard to … Continue reading →

A few days ago marked the beginning of the Jewish month of Tammuz, a time when we evaluate our actions and find ways to improve. The months from Nissan (Passover time) until Sivan (Shavuos) are characterized by holidays which commemorates the Jews’ departure from Egypt and acceptance of the Torah on Mount Sinai. Tammuz ushers in serious time which marks the destruction of the Holy Temple. On the 17th of Tammuz, we fast to mark the breach in the walls of the Holy Temple, which was the beginning of its destruction. This is followed by three weeks of mourning, culminating … Continue reading →

On the holiday of Shavuos, we read the book of Ruth, a moving story about a woman who, after her husband died, chose to take care of her mother-in-law and to join the Jewish People rather than return to her home in the palace and to reclaim her role as the princess of Moab. Because of her merit, she became the grandmother of King David, from whom the Messiah will be descended. Ruth showed her sincerity in wanting to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, even when there was no apparent advantage. Naomi told her and her sister, Orpah, “I have … Continue reading →