How does traditional Judaism define mental illness? What remedies does it prescribe to treat it? Is adhering to the halachah and espousing the ways of G-d itself a treatment, in the halachah’s eyes?
‘The Most Influential Rabbi in America’ on Judaism, college, and dating
Photo courtesy of Rabbi Wolpe ______________ Entering Rabbi David Wolpe’s office in Sinai Temple was a surreal experience for me. The last time I came to his office, I was 13 years old and with my parents; we all discussed…
The Pope’s Good Intentions
Pope Francis’s first couple of years as pontiff have been remarkably successful. His commitment to ending child abuse in the church, his dedication to ‘radical equality‘ between men and women, and his rejection of the overwrought vestments of the papacy…
Jews in space: a look into the Jewish world of Star Wars
A young man, alone in the “hive of scum and villainy” he comes from, becomes inspired by an omnipotent force to carry out a message of clarity and goodness. Basically, your average boy finds religion. Luke Skywalker sought something greater…
Universality of the hamsa
In today’s world, we are engulfed by symbols that hold significant meaning, and some that are connected to beliefs and traditions that date back to thousands of years. The Hamsa, better known as “the hand,” serves as a universal symbol…
Is it time to move to Israel already? And other questions about the future of Diaspora Judaism
The Impetus: What happened? As most of the world is abundantly aware, on Jan. 7, two radical Muslim terrorists charged the offices of the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, killing 12 journalists whom they held responsible for depicting the prophet…
Thanksgiving Every Day
We’ve all heard an awesome joke or idea we couldn’t wait to tell over, but how often are we jumping at the opportunity to give credit where it is due? Often times, it’s much more tempting to sidestep the reference…
The changing dynamics of Jewish education
The perpetuation of Judaism throughout the millennia has largely relied on one of its most important tenets: education. The Talmudic tractate Kiddushin (“Consecrations”; 29a) dictates that a father is obligated to teach his child three things: how to earn a…
Memories, friends and the future at CJS’s 20th anniversary
If you couldn’t find Room 314 in Royce Hall, all you had to do was follow your nose. The aroma of meat and vegetable pastries, cooked vegetable dishes, and decadent desserts began somewhere around the offices of the Italian Department…
A move toward accommodating different religious beliefs
College can be stressful enough without having to deal with religious concerns. When Shabbat or Jewish holidays come around, they should not be cause for anxiety, embarrassment, or any other strains due to class and exam conflicts. Enter the Jewish…