Traveling through a desert is journeying through a lonely place, completely forsaken. There is neither food nor water, nor any other form of sustaining substance. There is only the unbearable sun and its heat. There is no grass and there are no trees. The only signs of life are deadly snakes and scorpions. In a […]
Rosh Hashana & Yom Kippur: A Eulogy for a Christian Who Helped my Religiosity
I was asked to eulogize an acquaintance from my childhood and youth in Holland—the mother of friends of mine. As I prepared the eulogy, I realized how much she and her family, and other devout Christians I knew, had influenced me. Despite the clear and definite differences between our religious outlooks, their sincerity and intent inspire me.
Entering Israel’s Army is like Immersing in a Mikve
Serving in the Israel Defense Forces is an act like no other. It is an act that serves the State of Israel and all its citizens, the Jewish People, and all of mankind.
Moreover, the soldiers serving in Israel’s army are entirely enveloped by the army – their entire bodies and beings are involved in this sacred task.
The Spiritual Uniqueness of the Israeli Army
Words on my Grandsons Enlisting in the Israeli Defense Forces – the tremendous significance of the Israel Defense Forces surpasses the mere defense of Israel’s citizens. The joy and honor of joining Israel’s army relate to 4,000 years of Jewish history, morals, and ethics, and the universal good.
Struggles – Illumination of My Personal Challenges
A private response to the many who asked for illumination concerning my personal religious struggles Coming from a totally secular background, like I did, has many challenges and drawbacks, and yet, also some great advantages. When I became interested in Judaism, at 14-15 years old, it was not an easy time—neither for my parents, my […]