"Now if you will hear, and truly listen, to the voice of God..." (Deut 28:1) Read more...

This week's Torah portion opens with an elaborate scene as part of Moses' discourse to the people as they are about to enter the Promised Land. When the time comes that you enter the land of Israel, says Moses, you shall create a grand ceremony of bringing your first fruits to the priests in the Temple. Each person goes to the priests in charge and declares "V'higadtati - I acknowledge that I have entered the land of Israel" and this offering is my testimony to you and my sacrifice to God. Read more...

Several years ago, while serving as a visiting rabbi for the High Holidays in a warm, wonderful community, I witnessed a scene that forever changed me as a rabbi and how I go about leading High Holiday services. It was Erev Rosh Hashanah, the room was full, and people seemed excited to see each other. Whether they had seen each other last week or last year, it was clear this was a community whose coming together on the High Holidays was a moment of anticipation and enthusiasm. Read more...

As Shabbat approaches, I have to admit to what for some will come as a surprising statement coming from a rabbi. This week, I am already looking forward to havdalah, the time at the end of Shabbat when we distinguish between the Holy day and the rest of the week, saying goodbye to the sanctity of Shabbat, and entering into a new week. And, this week, this is compounded by the initiation of the High Holiday season through the recitation of the Selichot, the prayers which help introduce the tunes, themes, and thoughts of forgiveness and repentance. Read more...

Rabbinic lore tells the story about a time, thousands of years ago, in the 2nd century, when there was a serious drought in ancient Israel. The people turned to their powerful and pious leader, Rabbi Eliezer, asking him to pray the prayers for rain. Having previously demonstrated the efficacy of his prayer, Rabbi Eliezer wanted to prove that he could make God act. So, he spent days in meditation, fasting, and preparation for praying for rain. When finally the time came, the community watched as he recited his prayers. But, no rain fell. Read more...