Torah

Explore how the biblical story of Hagar and Ishmael resonates through the history of Israel, shaping its path and identity.

Why did Abraham, at the age of one hundred, need to wander through the land? Wasn't he tired of roaming? This question divides into two parts: a natural reason and a spiritual reason.

The age of the universe, or the time since creation, seems to be a source of tension between science and Jewish tradition. Yet, an exploration of current scientific findings and Talmudic wisdom suggests potential harmony and enrichment between science and the teachings of the Torah.

Discover Rabbi Elyashiv's profound insights and personal trials, as we commemorate the 12th anniversary of his passing.

Unity of creation reveals unity of the Creator

The Chabad dance at the end of a gathering or during Simchat Torah is known as the "Star Dance": Two chassidim place a hand on each other's shoulders, while the rest position their hands on the "bridge" formed—on either side. The "star" spins to the beat and the rhythm of foot stomps.

One morning, Rabbi Kalonymus found a manuscript on his desk, known back then as a "Kuntres." Flipping through it, he discovered an incredible idea—a commentary on the Talmud! Although unaware of the author, Rabbi Kalonymus began using the Kuntres that very day to teach the Talmud.

Another intriguing expression still used today originates from the Mishnah: 'He placed his money on the deer's antlers.' This means he's risking his funds. But what does this have to do with a deer's antlers?

The Israelites were counted through the half-shekel contributions they offered. These half-shekels from 603,550 individuals amounted to a hundred talents of silver, and from these talents, the Tabernacle's sockets were crafted. The challenge begins when one attempts to calculate the size of these sockets.

Rabbi Pesach was puzzled and reflected on his actions. The old community of Jerusalem lived in poverty, in small apartments, sustained by minor trading or charity, with little more than a bed, table, and some vegetables in their homes...

On Shavuot, we received the Torah. Our sages said Mount Sinai was named for the hatred it brought from the nations of the world. They hate us and try to seize the Torah through distortion and by opposing the Oral Torah.

Imagine approaching the president's tent and addressing him as "Honorable President Elizaphan son of Reuel," only to be corrected by his servant: "Son of who? The president's father is Deuel, not Reuel!" Awkward, right?

The Midrash mentions that the tekhelet was hidden away, leading to a lost knowledge of how to produce tekhelet from the remarkable snail mentioned in the Talmud. Despite various descriptions and clues in the Talmud, the means to locate it have been elusive for generations.

In Parashat Bamidbar, the lineages of all the tribes of Israel are listed. For each tribe, it says 'the sons of Reuben'… 'the sons of Simeon'… but for Naphtali, it simply says 'the sons of Naphtali.' Why is that? What makes this tribe stand out?

Decades ago, as secular ideas spread, some German scholars launched a campaign claiming Jewish traditions borrowed from Canaanite idol worship, specifically involving Baal, the rain deity. However, Jewish sages also spoke of 'Baal fields,' referring to lands blessed with rain!

When one recognizes Hashem and understands His greatness, realizing that nothing exists in the world except by His will, true humility naturally follows.

In just a few hours, I learned the entire history of humanity from a different perspective! It's amazing how everything fits together into one grand plan.

To fulfill the mitzvah, we cultivate etrogim. But why doesn't the etrog appear in the Torah or prophets?

Many strive to find a perfect world but feel frustrated. Others fight so hard that they end up being more unjust than others... We, on the other hand, must do our part.

They say a person can't see their own hump. But what if there's a mirror involved? The surprising answer depends on what a 'hump' actually is...