Musings from Students of the Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem
Posted on November 7, 2010 by The Director of Digital Media
Posted on November 6, 2010 by Joel D.
One in a series of more than one to guide and goad the confused and curious in matters never before seen as relevant, and perhaps never to be seen again. Learn, laugh and kasher along with us.
Posted on November 2, 2010 by Spirit Wolf
“If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am not for others, what am I? And if not now, when?” — Sir Hillel the Great (or just Hillel, as he’s commonly known 🙂 ) ————————- “When Tomorrow Comes” When tomorrow comes, Let it be for good. No more hiding from Continue Reading »
Posted on November 2, 2010 by Spirit Wolf
When once asked by a potential convert to explain the essence of Torah in a mere heartbeat, Hillel recited these famous words: “What is hateful to you do not do unto others. That is the whole Torah. The rest is commentary. Now go and study.” We would do well to remember this today: “True Righteousness” Continue Reading »
Posted on November 2, 2010 by Eryn
1. “It is not your job to finish the work, but neither are you free to neglect it.”-Pirkey Avos 2:16 2. “Ben Zoma said, who is wise? He who learns from all people, as it is said: ‘From all those who taught me I gained understanding’ (Psalms 119:99). Who is strong? He who conquers his evil inclination, Continue Reading »
Posted on November 2, 2010 by Eryn
Reading the beginning of Parshat Lech-Lecha, I was struck by its opening words. God’s command to Avraham to leave his home, his family, his country and move to a place that God will saw him is quite incredible! But it seems that God is demanding from Avraham more than the physical and emotional separation from Continue Reading »
Posted on November 2, 2010 by Eryn
This week I rediscovered the beauty and power of Shabbat. I learned in greater detail how Shabbat is one of the most important, if not the most important,ritual expressions of Judaism. I already knew of its greatness, as it is listed fourth in the Ten Commandments. What is so important about keeping Shabbat? The essential idea Continue Reading »
Posted on November 2, 2010 by Eryn
2:24 בראשית ’על–כן, יעזב–איש, את–אביו, ואת–אמו; ודבק באשתו, והיו לבשר אחד’ “For this reason a man will leave his father and his mother and he will cling to his wife and they will be for one flesh.” How does one acquire a friend? Two boys may enjoy playing sports together. The basketball court becomes their sacred place. With each dribble they speak out Continue Reading »
Posted on November 2, 2010 by Eryn
I came to Pardes with little knowledge of the Jewish texts. After one week of class I have gained a solid foundation in Judaism and have a strong desire to learn more.