for Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Communities ›

Here’s what renewal looks like in the Conservative movement

Contributing Author in eJewishPhilanthropy

Amidst discussions regarding the challenges facing the Conservative movement, Beth Tzedec Congregation in Toronto showcases a model of thriving renewal.

0 Communities Antisemitism

Do Jews Self-Seclude

Jewdicious

Leecy Davis explores the complexities of Jewish identity and the perception of Jews as a self-secluded group in a society hyper-focused on inclusivity.

0 Communities Leadership

Getting It Done, and Doing It Right, in Houston: Yakov Polatsek

S. Schreiber in Jewish Action

Yakov Polatsek has played a pivotal role in revitalizing Orthodox Jewish life in Houston.

0 Communities Leadership

Warmth Beyond Sunshine in Phoenix: Shaun and Gary Tuch

Sandy Eller in Jewish Action

Shaun and Gary Tuch, motivated by high living costs and the bustling pace of Los Angeles, moved to Phoenix with their families to build and grow within a Jewish community that offers opportunities for personal and communal contributions.

0 Communities Culture

Living Together in Linden: Andy and Samantha Van Houter

Sandy Eller in Jewish Action

The article highlights the vibrant and uniquely harmonious Jewish community in Linden, New Jersey, where both Modern Orthodox and Chassidic groups have formed a close-knit and cooperative environment.

0 Communities Leadership

Putting Springfield, New Jersey, on the Map: Ben Hoffer

Judy Gruen in Jewish Action

Ben Hoffer and Rabbi Chaim Marcus have been instrumental in revitalizing the Jewish community of Springfield, New Jersey, transforming it from an aging congregation into a bustling community with vibrant youth activities and an increasing number of families moving in.

0 Communities Leadership

How a Shul Rewrote Its Story: Yosef Kirschner

Judy Gruen in Jewish Action

The revival of Golf Manor Synagogue in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a story of effective leadership and community transformation.

0 Communities Leadership

The Accidental Activist: Avi Apfel

Merri Ukraincik in Jewish Action

Avi Apfel, originally from West Hempstead, New York, has emerged as an influential community leader in Rhawnhurst, a small, close-knit Orthodox Jewish neighborhood in Northeast Philadelphia.

0 Communities Leadership

Modeling Leadership in Memphis: Noam and Dr. Deena Davidovics

Rachel Schwartzberg in Jewish Action

Noam and Dr. Deena Davidovics are key figures in strengthening the Orthodox community in Memphis, Tennessee, where they have resided since 2012.

0 Communities Culture

Where Is Tennessee?

Rachel Schwartzberg in Jewish Action

Rachel Schwartzberg reflects on her life in Memphis, Tennessee, after moving from New York City with her husband.

0 Communities Israel

Lessons in Community Building—From Israel: How a Religious Community Took Root in Ariel

Carol Ungar in Jewish Action

Ariel, originally a secular town in the West Bank, is experiencing a shift towards a more religious Jewish community.

0 Communities Jewish Law

Snooker and Second Chances

JA Staff in Jewish Action

OU Israel's Teen Centers, including the one in Ariel, provide a crucial refuge for Israeli youth facing socio-economic and personal challenges.

0 Communities Education

Inside Ariel’s Jewish Campus Scene

JA Staff in Jewish Action

The article highlights the vibrant Jewish campus scene at Ariel University, facilitated by OU-JLIC (Orthodox Union's Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus) under the leadership of Asaf and Shlomit Olshitzki.

0 Communities Leadership

Building a Community: Pointers from the Pros

JA Staff in Jewish Action

To build a thriving Jewish community, essential elements include establishing a K-8 day school and a high school to retain families, as well as infrastructure like a shul, mikveh, and eruv.

0 Communities Culture

The Shabbat Table That Found Me: Filling the Silence with Women’s Voices

Shirley Parker in Jewish Action

After the loss of her husband and a move from Brooklyn to Monsey, Shirley Parker struggles to find solace and community in her new surroundings.

0 Communities Ethics

All the Lonely People

Esther Kook in Jewish Action

The article by Esther Kook delves into the profound and often stigmatized experience of loneliness, particularly within the Jewish Modern Orthodox community, drawing from personal experiences and broader observations.

0 Communities Education

Letters – Fall 2025

JA Staff in Jewish Action

The correspondence in the Fall 2025 issue of a Jewish publication brings together perspectives on a range of topics.

0 Communities Philosophy

The Miracles of the Rabbis

Mel Waldman in Lehrhaus

Mel Waldman presents a poignant narrative about his wife Michelle's battle with severe health challenges and the profound impact of local rabbis on their lives.

Education ›

0 Education Ethics

The Torah of SRE: Modeling our values through Jewish wisdom

eJewishPhilanthropy

As we approach the High Holy Days, the SRE Network introduces "The Torah of SRE," a new resource connecting Jewish values of safety, respect, and equity with traditional and contemporary Jewish texts.

0 Education Holidays

Apologetically Fun: Helping Kids Learn to Say They’re Sorry

Sari Kopitnikoff in Jewish Action

Sari Kopitnikoff, a Jewish educator, presents creative ways to teach children the importance of apologizing during the Yamim Noraim season.

0 Education Jewish Law

Official Rules for the Hadassah Magazine and jGirls+ Magazine 2025 Teen Essay Contest

Editor in Hadassah

To inspire and amplify the voices of young Jewish women and nonbinary teens, Hadassah Magazine and jGirls+ Magazine are co-sponsoring a 2025 teen essay contest.

0 Education Culture

New this school year in NYC: A curriculum to teach public school students about Jewish Americans

Jackie Hajdenberg in JTA

New York City public schools have introduced 'Hidden Voices: Jewish Americans in United States History,' a curriculum supplement designed to educate students from kindergarten to 12th grade about the diverse contributions of Jewish Americans throughout U.S. history.

0 Education Leadership

The Spirituality of Imperfection: Lessons for the Yamim Noraim

Rabbi Dr. Josh Joseph in Jewish Action

Rabbi Dr. Josh Joseph explores the concept of embracing imperfection as a path to spiritual and personal growth during the High Holy Days.

0 Education Antisemitism

Why we must invest in the campus ecosystem

eJewishPhilanthropy

The article emphasizes the importance of investing in the college campus ecosystem to ensure it is a safe and supportive environment for Jewish students and those studying Israel.

0 Education Antisemitism

The Abraham Accords offer a model and a means for countering antisemitism on campus

eJewishPhilanthropy

Marking the fifth anniversary of the Abraham Accords, this article explores their potential as a model to counter antisemitism on college campuses through fostering interfaith dialogue.

Politics ›

0 Politics Holidays

Is this hotel Elul-washing? A rabbi blows the whistle on Qatari High Holiday hosts

Louis Keene in Forward

Rabbi Pini Dunner from Young Israel of North Beverly Hills is protesting the holding of High Holiday services at the Maybourne, a luxury hotel owned by Qatari royals, citing Qatar’s support for Hamas as the reason.

0 Politics Israel

Rep. Zach Nunn pushes to expand U.S.-Israel cooperation, technology partnerships

Marc Rod in Jewish Insider

Rep. Zach Nunn is advocating for enhanced U.S.-Israel collaboration, specifically focusing on expanding technology partnerships between the two nations.

0 Politics Israel

Cuomo joins growing Democratic chorus urging end to Gaza war

Jacob Kornbluh in Forward

Andrew Cuomo, former governor of New York and current mayoral candidate, joined a chorus of Democratic voices, including Jewish governors, calling for the immediate end of the Gaza conflict.

0 Politics Communities

As Micah Lasher launches bid to succeed mentor Jerry Nadler in Congress, here’s a rundown of the field

Joseph Strauss in JTA

Micah Lasher has launched his campaign to succeed Jerry Nadler as the representative for New York's 12th Congressional District, a notably Jewish area.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Was Charlie Kirk a martyr? Here’s why Christians are divided and Jews should care

Benyamin Cohen in Forward

The controversial death of Charlie Kirk has prompted a profound debate among Christians, revealing deep theological divides over his portrayal as a martyr.

0 Politics Ethics

Jumping from the Frying Pan into the fire - A Good Idea?

Emes Ve-Emunah

Rabbi Moshe Taragin's commentary addresses the fraught moral landscape surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict, highlighting a deep-seated tension between maintaining ethical standards and ensuring national security.

0 Politics Culture

‘Free Palestine,’ Jewish actor Hannah Einbinder says in Emmys speech as Hollywood debates growing Israeli film industry boycott

Andrew Lapin in JTA

At the Emmys, Jewish actress Hannah Einbinder championed pro-Palestinian sentiments by urging for a cultural shift during her acceptance speech.

0 Politics Ethics

Je Ne Suis Pas Charlie

Peter Beinart in The Beinart Notebook

Peter Beinart critiques Bari Weiss's recent statements following the murder of Charlie Kirk.

0 Politics Education

California lawmakers approve narrowed bill targeting antisemitism in schools

Asaf Elia-Shalev in JTA

California has approved a bill aimed at combating antisemitism in public schools, potentially becoming the first state to establish a statewide antisemitism prevention coordinator.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Israel’s War Against Hypocrisy

Joshua Hoffman in Future of Jewish

Joshua Hoffman critiques the global hypocrisy Israel faces post-October 7th, following its attacks on Hamas leaders in Qatar.

0 Politics Antisemitism

Will NY Gov. Kathy Hochul’s endorsement of Zohran Mamdani cost her Jewish support?

Jacob Kornbluh in Forward

New York Governor Kathy Hochul's endorsement of Zohran Mamdani, a progressive Democratic nominee for NYC mayor, poses a potential risk to her Jewish voter support.

0 Politics Ethics

Sodom, Akeidat Yitzchak and the New York Times: A Yamim Noraim Reflection

Rabbi Moshe Hauer in Jewish Action

Rabbi Moshe Hauer reflects on the distorted narratives portrayed by some media regarding Israel, juxtaposing these perceptions with biblical narratives related to judgment and justice during the Yamim Noraim.

0 Politics Israel

Philadelphia House race puts spotlight on virulently anti-Israel Democratic candidate

Marc Rod in Jewish Insider

The Philadelphia House race for Pennsylvania's 3rd Congressional District has stirred controversy, especially due to the candidacy of State Rep. Chris Rabb, known for his strong anti-Israel stance.

Antisemitism ›

0 Antisemitism Communities

Jewish social workers warn of growing antisemitism in the field: ‘Counter to everything that we learn in social work school’

Gabby Deutch in Jewish Insider

Jewish social workers are increasingly experiencing antisemitism within their field, a situation elaborated in a report by Jennifer Kogan and Andrea Yudell.

0 Antisemitism Politics

‘Progressives’ sound more like Nazis with every passing day.

Benjamin Kerstein in Future of Jewish

Benjamin Kerstein, in a guest essay, argues that a new antisemitic movement akin to Nazism is emerging from the radical left, dubbed the 'Red-Green Alliance' with radical Muslims.

Culture ›

0 Culture Torah

A new play asks: What if the biblical matriarchs lived today?

Olivia Haynie in Forward

The play *The Matriarchs*, written by Liba Vaynberg, presents a modern reimagining of the biblical matriarchs—Miriam, Sara, Rebecca, Rachel, Leah, and Tzipporah—as contemporary Jewish women confronting age-old issues of sacrifice and purpose.

0 Culture Politics

Hollywood's boycott of Israeli filmmakers is an act of spectacular self-sabotage

Rob Eshman in Forward

The article examines the complexities of a recent Hollywood boycott against Israeli filmmakers, initiated by celebrities such as Emma Stone and Javier Bardem, who aim to protest Israeli government actions against Palestinians.

0 Culture Music

Met Opera adapts Michael Chabon’s Jewish novel ‘Kavalier & Clay’ for the stage

Elizabeth Karpen in JTA

The Metropolitan Opera is set to adapt Michael Chabon's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, "The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay," into an opera for its 2025-26 season.

0 Culture Philosophy

How often does Tim Blake Nelson think about ancient Greece?

PJ Grisar in Forward

Tim Blake Nelson, a multifaceted creative force in the entertainment world, delves into themes of ancient Greek philosophy, authoritarianism, and morality in his works.

0 Culture Politics

Israeli conductor calls for end to Gaza war in London concert: ‘What’s happening now is atrocious’

Grace Gilson in JTA

Israeli conductor Ilan Volkov made an impassioned plea for peace during a concert at London's Royal Albert Hall, calling for the end of Israel's war in Gaza.

0 Culture Politics

Comic Gianmarco Soresi mines his mixed Jewish background for laughs

Steve North in JTA

Stand-up comedian Gianmarco Soresi draws humor from his mixed Jewish and Italian background, underscoring his identity as a cultural Jew.

0 Culture History

The Artistry of Shabbat Lights

David Olivestone in Jewish Action

The ritual of lighting Shabbat candles is a spiritually significant tradition in Jewish homes, predominantly performed by women.

0 Culture Jewish Law

The Sacred Pause: Finding Shabbat in a World That Never Stops

Charlene Trino in Jewish Action

Charlene Trino reflects on how the ancient practice of observing Shabbat has become a sacred pause in her fast-paced life as a marketing professional in Manhattan.

0 Culture Jewish Law

Shabbat in a Changed Israel: How Israelis Have Embraced Shabbat Since October 7

Carol Ungar in Jewish Action

In a poignant reflection on a difficult period in Israel's history, Carol Ungar explores the renewed embrace of Shabbat observance among many Israelis following the tragic events of October 7.

0 Culture History

The High Holidays of My Youth

Adina Sapir in Jewish Action

Adina Sapir reflects nostalgically on her childhood experience of the High Holidays in a small shtiebel in Boro Park during the 1970s and 80s.

Jewish Law ›

0 Jewish Law Holidays

Return to Wholeness: A Mental Health Guide for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur

Ariel Rose Goldstein in Jewish Action

As the High Holidays approach, integrating mental health into the spiritual process of teshuvah becomes a profound focus for reflection.

0 Jewish Law Holidays

Shabbat Candles: Halachot & Customs

Rabbi Dr. Ari Z. Zivotofsky in Jewish Action

Shabbat candle lighting is an ancient rabbinic mitzvah deeply cherished within Jewish tradition, especially by women who use this time for prayers.

0 Jewish Law Education

From Kashering Boards to Cookie Factories: Inside a Groundbreaking Kashrus Program for Women

Naomi Ross in Jewish Action

The article explores the transformative role of women in the kashrus industry, examining a groundbreaking program called the ASK OU Summer 2025 Women’s Kashruth Experience.

0 Jewish Law Food

Coming Soon from OU Press – Fall 2025

JA Staff in Jewish Action

OU Press announces the forthcoming release of "HaHashgachah KeHilchatah" by Rabbi Peretz Moncharsh, a groundbreaking book detailing the halachic decision-making process behind OU Kosher, the world's largest kosher certification agency.

0 Jewish Law Culture

Articles of Faith: Traditional Jewish Belief in the Internet Era

Reviewed by Rabbi Steven Gotlib in Jewish Action

Rabbi Gil Student's "Articles of Faith: Traditional Jewish Belief in the Internet Era" explores the impact of the internet on Jewish discourse, advocating for critical openness in analyzing controversial topics like feminism, Zionism, and artificial intelligence.

Holocaust ›

0 Holocaust Culture

‘Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire’ Lets the Holocaust Survivor Tell His Story in His Own Voice

Lior Zaltzman in Kveller

The documentary "Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire" offers an intimate portrayal of the famed Holocaust survivor and Nobel laureate, Elie Wiesel.

0 Holocaust Art

Ohio auction house halts sale of paintings looted during the Holocaust and billed as ‘unclaimed property’

Grace Gilson in JTA

Two 17th-century paintings by Dutch artist Ambrosius Bosschaert, looted from German Jew Adolphe Schloss's collection during World War II, were removed from an Ohio auction after intervention by the Monuments Men and Women Foundation.

0 Holocaust Music

To play in the orchestra in Auschwitz was a gruesome affair, but it was better than the alternative

Julia M. Klein in Forward

Anne Sebba's book "The Women's Orchestra of Auschwitz" delves into the complex narrative of Jewish women musicians who survived Auschwitz by playing in an orchestra under Nazi supervision.

Television/Film ›

0 Television/Film Culture

Noah Wyle Just Won an Emmy for His Role in ‘The Pitt.’ This Is What He Had To Say About Making His Character Jewish.

Lior Zaltzman in Kveller

Noah Wyle won an Emmy for his role as Dr. Michael Robby Robinavitch in "The Pitt," marking his first win after five previous nominations for his role in "ER."

Music ›

0 Music Art

Bob Dylan, my mother, and the unknown painter behind 'Blood on the Tracks'

Sam Sussman in Forward

In an exploration of Bob Dylan's creative journey during the production of his iconic album 'Blood on the Tracks,' Sam Sussman interweaves personal narrative and historical context.

0 Music Prayer

Between Nusach and Niggun: The Chazzan’s Evolving Role

Yosef Lindell in Jewish Action

The role of the chazzan in Jewish prayer has evolved significantly over time.

History ›

0 History Communities

It was the wildest scheme in American Jewish history. 200 years later, should it be remembered as a failure?

Elliot Cosgrove in Forward

In 1825, Mordecai Manuel Noah embarked on creating a self-governing Jewish colony named Ararat on Grand Island, New York, aiming to provide a refuge for oppressed Jews.

0 History Antisemitism

The Palestinians' Not-So-Secret Nazi Roots

Future of Jewish

Lucy Tabrizi's essay explores the historical connections between early Palestinian leadership and Nazi Germany, emphasizing the collaboration between the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, Haj Amin al-Husseini, and Adolf Hitler.

Ethics ›

0 Ethics Jewish Law

The Power of Preparation: Elevating Mitzvos Through Hachanah

Moishe Bane in Jewish Action

Exploring the concept of hachanah, or preparation, Moishe Bane discusses its profound impact on mitzvah observance and spiritual life.

Holidays ›

0 Holidays Torah

Tips for Preparing for the High Holidays

Rabbi Gil Student in Jewish Action

Rabbi Gil Student offers practical guidance for spiritual and emotional preparation during the High Holidays season.

Food ›

0 Food Holidays

An Apple a Day . . . Recipes for the High Holidays

Naomi Ross in Jewish Action

Naomi Ross shares a collection of apple-centric recipes designed for the High Holidays, illustrating how to integrate this symbolic fruit into seasonal dishes.

Literature ›

0 Literature Education

Reviews in Brief – Fall 2025

Rabbi Gil Student in Jewish Action

"Reviews in Brief Fall 2025" features evaluations of three notable Jewish scholarly works.

Leadership ›

0 Leadership Jewish Law

In the Lead

Dovid Bashevkin in Tablet

Dovid Bashevkin explores Jewish leadership through the lens of Herman Wouk's novel 'The Caine Mutiny' and the teachings of Rashi and the Talmudic tractate Horayot.

JL;DR

for Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Communities ›

Education ›

Politics ›

Antisemitism ›

Culture ›

Jewish Law ›

Holocaust ›

Television/Film ›

Music ›

History ›

Ethics ›

Holidays ›

Food ›

Literature ›

Leadership ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

September 16's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

navigate_before navigate_next for Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Communities ›

Education ›

Politics ›

Antisemitism ›

Culture ›

Jewish Law ›

Holocaust ›

Television/Film ›

Music ›

History ›

Ethics ›

Holidays ›

Food ›

Literature ›

Leadership ›

Editors' Note

Top Topics in Jewish Media

September 16's Short Reads

Recent podcast episodes

for Tuesday, September 16, 2025