Focusing on the transformative perspective of Yom Kippur, the author challenges the traditional view of the holiday as solely a day of mourning. Instead, he highlights its significance as a celebration, referencing the Talmud's assertion that it is the happiest day of the Jewish year. The book delves into the joyous aspects of Yom Kippur and examines how this understanding can enrich the overall religious experience for individuals and communities alike.
The Lieberman Open Orthodox Haggadah (the Orlofsky Edition) addresses some of the burning issues of our times through the lens of the rituals and texts of the Seder night. As we recognize that in every generation we are to seek liberation and freedom, this Haggadah demonstrates an activism that stems from rather than being stymied by our ancient traditions. Open Orthodoxy is a stream of Orthodoxy that combines a strict adherence to Jewish law with an openness and flexibility on certain contemporary issues. With contributions from prominent and original thinkers and an introduction to the term Open Orthodoxy from Rabbi Avi Weiss, this Haggadah discusses some of these cutting-edge concerns such as women as clergy within Orthodoxy (i.e., the Maharat phenomenon), the agunah crisis, and the interaction between Jews and Gentiles.
There is no issue too controversial for Rabbi Shmuel Herzfeld as he seamlessly connects ideas and themes of the Torah to the major issues of our times. What does the Torah say about homosexuality? What is the agunah crisis, and what can we do about it? How do we effectively combat intermarriage? Is our justice system truly just? In this collection of thoughts about the fifty-four weekly Torah portions, Rabbi Herzfeld shows us how the Torah can guide us and inspire us in our daily lives. Why is giving away your pillow the best way to get a good night s sleep? Should the Internet be used for bar mitzvah lessons? How can you be a good parent? What would you do if you had only five minutes to live? Rabbi Herzfeld is confident and proud of his Jewishness. His enthusiasm and unabashed love for the Torah is contagious, and his Jewish pride shouts out from every page. Warning: If you read this book you will be infected by Rabbi Herzfeld's love of Torah!
This book is has as its central premise human and Torah-based Jewish values