This week’s Torah reading contains the mitzvah (commandment) of not straying after our eyes (Bamidbar 15:39). The Biur Halachah (1:1) states that this prohibition includes the general pursuit of materialistic […]
Shabbat and Holidays
Experience the peace and purpose of Shabbat with how-to guides, spiritual insights, and beginner-friendly tips.
The entire world heard about the spectacular miracles of Yetziat Mitzrayim (the Exodus from Egypt). As the verse says, “The nations heard and trembled” (Shemot 15:14). Yet for most of […]
Ask the Rabbi with Rabbi Chaim Mintz I’m musically gifted and have always dreamed of using my talent in a meaningful way, such as becoming a professional chazzan. But between family, work, and […]
How We Keep Shabbat: This table is a short overview of the 39 melachot (activities prohibited on Shabbat). However, the laws and details of Shabbat are complex and must be […]
What Is Shamor? “שָׁמוֹר אֶת יוֹם הַשַּׁבָּת לְקַדְּשׁוֹ כַּאֲשֶׁר צִוְּךָ ד’ אֱלֹקיךָ” Observe the Sabbath day, to keep it holy, as Hashem your God commanded you. Devarim 5:11 Shamor means […]
Two Parts Of Shabbat Every Jewish soul was present at Har Sinia (Mount Sinai) when Hashem (God) gave us the Torah. So YOU were there too! Do you remember? When […]
Farewell To Shabbat Havdalah is the name of the short ceremony we do after nightfall at the conclusion of Shabbat. The word havdalah literally means to differentiate or distinguish. This […]
It’s Official! Kiddush is a blessing over wine. Its how we bring Shabbat into our home. Ever heard someone say, “Make it official!”? That’s what kiddush does for Shabbat. Although […]
Start With A Glow The mitzvah to light candles before the start of Shabbat is an important one. It fulfills the mitzvot of both kavod and oneg Shabbat.1 The added […]
Ask the Rabbi with Rabbi Chaim Mintz: During havdalah on Motzei Shabbat (Saturday night) we recite a bunch of seemingly random verses and blessings on spices and fire. Why do […]
