What Does Judaism Think

All too often we see Jewish people in the front of some of the more anti-Israel and, occasionally, anti-Semitic causes. The boycott movement against Israel is clearly anti-Semitic, as there is no similar boycott movement against any other country. This, despite the fact that so many other countries have horrific human rights records. The psychology of this may be hinted at in the troubled reconciliation of Joseph and his brothers.

Why does a Jew become anti-Israel? Why do they behave in such self-destructive ways? The answer to these questions can completely transform our lives, if we are willing to learn the lesson. Read More

When people recently reacted to the terror attacks in California, something they said aroused the ire of a prominent newspaper. "Pray for the people of San Bernardino," people were saying. The newspaper responded that prayer is not a policy and doesn't seem to do anything to prevent these kinds of tragedies.

Who is right? Where is God in all of this? Read More

Chanukah and the story of Joseph always come out at the same time of the year. The biblical portions detailing the saga of Joseph, his brothers and his father, are always read in the synagogue around the time of Chanukah. Therein lies a powerful lesson of transformation, because within both of these elements resides the secret of the eternity and power of the Jewish people.

What do they share in common, and what is this power? Can everybody access it? Read More

What is the evil eye? It has deep roots in Jewish tradition, being dealt with by the Talmud itself. The general idea is that ostentation begets jealousy. One is not to boast about one's accomplishments or possessions, lest one invite the evil eye and bring misfortune upon one's self. Is it superstition?

The evil eye may be very real, and it makes theological sense. There is a way, however, to be protected from the evil eye, and this method may be key to living a fulfilled life.
Read More