Jewish history

Centuries before persecution set in, a golden age of tolerance and scholarship flourished in Ashkenaz, led by the Kalonymus family, Babylonian sages, and a surprisingly supportive Christian emperor

Once the largest port and commercial hub in the Bosporus region, Phanagoria thrived for 1,500 years before vanishing from history. Recent archaeological efforts have begun to uncover its hidden Jewish past, revealing what might be the oldest known synagogue.

Bodo pondered: Could it be the Jews, the originators of Christianity, who are actually correct? While in the Frankish king's court, a Jewish book, now lost to history, fell into his hands and seemingly influenced him to explore Judaism.

Unveiling history: The discovery of the Cairo Geniza reveals the unseen legacy of Rashid's Jewish community, from post-Expulsion traders to scholars.

The story of Joseph's sale marks the beginning of a significant dispute, as the sons of Leah, led by Judah, sold Joseph into Egypt because their paths diverged so greatly. Yet, their intentions were both with heaven in mind.

In the 1870s, members of Jerusalem's old yishuv made significant strides in agricultural settlements under the guidance of prominent rabbis, particularly the leadership of Rabbi Yehoshua Leib Diskin.

Rabbi Aryeh Leib Fromkin established a winery and an agricultural farm, but feared the diseases in the area. He would walk three hours from his home in Yehud to the winery and farm each morning.

Baruch, a wealthy community leader, lost a court case with Rabbi Yosef ben Lev and was fined a significant sum. Brazenly, he slapped the Rabbi in public. Rabbi Yosef walked on but later tore his robes in mourning for the insult to Torah. This led to a mysterious fire and plague.

From royal advisor to protector of refugees, the humble Torah giant who shaped Jewish life in Turkey

On Shabbat, the 9th of Tevet in the year 4827 (December 30, 1066), a mob stormed the palace of Rabbi Yosef HaNagid. Despite disguising himself, painting his body black, and hiding among the servants, he was recognized and...

In 1813, following the Russians' victory over Napoleon, the Polish government commissioner tried to persuade Bernhard to return and take charge of Poland's health services. He declined, emphasizing his priority to care for the health of Poland's Jewish community, which the government overlooked.

In 1840, the English assisted the Turks significantly in controlling the land, and in return, demanded reforms toward minorities. The English meant the Christians, but this law included the Jews...

How Rabbi Moshe Sofer’s legacy continues to shape Jewish law, values, and the power of humility

On the fourth night of Sukkot, we welcome Moshe Rabbeinu into our sukkah and reflect on the timeless power of humility and Divine mission

During the Maharal's time, the ghetto experienced a golden age, with a thriving Jewish community. Printing presses in the ghetto produced significant works of Jewish scholarship.

While there was no ideological opposition to work, including agricultural work, ensuring Torah scholars could continue their learning was always prioritized. Historically, the Tribe of Levi and their affiliates focused on holy work, a tradition rooted in Jewish consciousness, recognizing the spiritual vitality of Torah study.

Located in the most undesirable part of Rome, the Jewish Ghetto was fraught with challenges, yet it became a testament to resilience amid adversity.

In 1809, the first group of the Vilna Gaon's students, led by Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Shklov, embarked on a perilous journey to Israel. They withstood a grueling year-long sea voyage before settling in Safed.

In a time of profound danger for European Jews, Western nations turned their backs. Explore the heartbreaking journey of 937 Jewish refugees aboard the MS St. Louis, sent back to a Europe under Nazi threat after being denied asylum.

In an era of tribal unrest, Bedouin leader Daher el-Omar sought to develop the land and welcomed Jewish settlers known for their deep connection to Israel.