Jewish Religion

Analyzing Rav Soloveitchik’s Views on the Holocaust

After the Shoah one would have expected Rabbi Dr. Joseph B. Soloveitchik, the Rav, to analyze and lecture on this unique tragedy and period of Jewish suffering. Although the Rav refers to the Shoah, he does not provide his students with a comprehensive explanation for this horrific period. [Rabbi Dr. Bernhard Rosenberg]

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Bernhard H. Rosenberg-Rabbi, Holocaust, Jewish Religion, Staff and Bylined Contributors

Some Advice for Parents with Children Returning to School

As a kid and even in college, I looked forward to this day, to learn new things, see friends I hadn’t seen since last term and “get back to work.” On the other hand, my kids are not happy about summer ending but I think once they start and see their friends and make new ones, it will be a fun time for them. [Cailin Acosta]

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Cailin Acosta, Jewish Religion, Lifestyles, Philanthropy & Volunteerism, San Diego County, Science, Medicine, & Education, Sports & Competitions, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Trivia, Humor & Satire

Tifereth Israel Chooses Hanan Leberman as Its Next Rabbi

Tifereth Israel Synagogue announced Thursday that Rabbi Hanan Leberman will be its new rabbi. The Lebermans will pack up their home in Israel and plan to arrive in San Diego in September, just in time to lead the High Holy Day Services. The announcement indicated that Leberman will bring innovative ideas and ruach (spirit) to the Conservative congregation while incorporating the best of the synagogue’s traditions. [Cailin Acosta]

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Cailin Acosta, Israel, Jewish Religion, San Diego County, Science, Medicine, & Education, Sports & Competitions, Staff and Bylined Contributors, USA

Parashiot Matot – Massei: Diversity and 42 Stops on the Road of Life

We stand as a testament to “unity in diversity.” Forged in the crucible of history, we have been welded into a single, indomitable nation – Am Yisrael Chai. Yet within our mighty family beats the heart of diversity: twelve distinct tribes, each a pillar of strength, each with its own rich tradition. [Michael R. Mantell, PhD]

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Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell

Samson vs. Hercules

Many consider Hercules the strongest ancient Greek and Samson the most muscular Jew. Both tales involve eating and drinking. Both were engaged in romantic affairs; Hercules had four wives, and Samson had liaisons with three women and married one of them. The two had miraculous births involving a deity: Hercules’ father was the god Zeus, and Samson gave birth after his mother received a message from heaven delivered by an angel. The two births focused on their mother, the woman Zeus cohabited with, and the woman with whom an angel communicated. In both instances, the husbands were ignored. [Rabbi Dr. Israel Drazin]

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Books, Poetry & Short Stories, Israel Drazin-Rabbi Dr., Jewish Religion, Staff and Bylined Contributors

Some Jewish American Athletes to Watch in the Olympics

Sara Levy, a San Diego native, had never played rugby until her first year of college at Northeastern University. Now she’s representing America on the women’s Olympic rugby team. [Cailin Acosta]

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Cailin Acosta, International, Jewish Religion, Obituaries & memorials, San Diego County, Sports & Competitions, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Trivia, Humor & Satire, USA

Torah Study Method: Inquiry, Intention, Exploration, Reflection

Author Adina Allen finds tension between the millennia of rabbis and scholars who create and pontificate biblical interpretations and Moses’ exhortation to the wandering Israelites that understanding Torah is not beyond anyone’s reach (Deut. 30:11-14) [Fred Reiss]

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Books, Poetry & Short Stories, Fred Reiss, EdD, Jewish Religion, Staff and Bylined Contributors

Local Events and Jewish Summer Travel Opportunities

Jewish Federation of San Diego and Entwine announce that  Thursday, August 1, is the deadline to apply for inclusion in the “Inside Jewish Italy” trip happening Monday, November 18 until Monday, November 25. This travel opportunity is intended for young adults ages 23-39!  Click here to apply. [Cailin Acosta]

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Cailin Acosta, International, Israel, Jewish Religion, Music, Dance, and Visual Arts, Obituaries & memorials, San Diego County, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Theatre, Film & Broadcast, Trivia, Humor & Satire, USA

The Difference Between the Law and Justice

Most people need to realize the profound difference between law and justice. The difference also exists between ethics and thinking and other matters in this world, such as human habits and the active forces of nature. I will describe the difference by focusing on the 2024 movie The Beekeeper. [Rabbi Dr. Israel Drazin]

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Israel Drazin-Rabbi Dr., Jewish Religion, Opinion, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Theatre, Film & Broadcast

‘Letters for Life’ Worthy of Keeping as a Trusted Companion

As I’ve seen in my own practice over the many years, I’ve turned more and more to the healing power of Torah study and this leaps off the pages of this essential read, as we see the need for emotional wellness guidance and education more than ever. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]

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Books, Poetry & Short Stories, Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined Contributors