The Dignity of Difference
Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks' book, "The Dignity of Difference", explores the two extremes of a purely religious and a solely political society as well as the place of Judaism and religion in general in this highly political world.
Ethics in A Song of Ice and Fire
George R.R. Martin’s "A Song of Ice and Fire", seeks to ascertain whether a life lived with honor or without is superior. What makes his insights fascinating is how he uses two starkly opposed characters and contrasts them both in life and in their respective legacies after death, in order to provide a full picture of which ethical system is superior.
Hard Times Create Strong Jews
In an examination of American Jewry's financial and intellectual situation, as well as the current political and religious divisions running through the community, one can't say that Milton Himmelfarb was correct in his prediction of a future of "fewer but better Jews".
The Importance of Extracurriculars
Extra curriculars have long been proven to not only aid students in having safe and healthy hobbies, but also in making sure children are ready to become independent adults. The importance of pursuing potential and growing into your own person is both a Jewish value and vital for the future of the Jewish people.
Israel at 75: A Nation Built Upon Sacrifice
On the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel, it's important to reflect and appreciate both the Jewish people's historical and religious connections to the land, and the work and sacrifice that made the dream a reality.
Fortifying the “Torah” in Torah u-madda: A Plea to Modern Orthodox Day Schools
In a deep look at his background and motivations, the picture of Jewish writer Allen Ginsberg becomes more clear to the observer. His difficult past and masterful mix of secular, religious, and kabbalistic, as well as various other, themes in his work came to a head in his poem "Kaddish", written to be an elegy for his mother.
America, Israel, and China
Tensions between the United States and China have been rising. Israel has been trying to remain in the middle, but now finds itself in the center of a house of cards ready to come crashing down.
My Real Internal Conflict is Not One of Clashing Interests
When do my Jewish interests and American interests conflict? After much careful internal deliberation, I have concluded that they do not.
Approaching Israel as American Jews, or Jewish Americans
The fulfillment of the Jewish dream has made the question of whether to prioritize our Jewish identity or that of our country of birth more complex.
The Jewish World of Alexander Hamilton
Andrew Porwancher’s The Jewish World of Alexander Hamilton dissects the Founding Father’s unique relationship to the Jewish community.