Orthodox Judaism and Italian Catholicism: An Ominous Parallel?

Modern day Israel faces a demographic crisis. Within its Orthodox communities the majority of young men choose to complete their education by attending yeshivot, centers for Torah study, instead of conventional universities (religious or secular) or participating in mandatory military service for their country. Within the yeshiva context, such students participate in exclusive Torah and … More Orthodox Judaism and Italian Catholicism: An Ominous Parallel?

A Visit to Ramle

I recently had the good fortune to visit the Karaite Synagogue in Ramle. Karaites have been living in Ramle for about 800 years–longer than Britain has had a parliament. Such a lengthy history is incredible, especially from an American perspective. The synagogue is a beautiful building with white tile lining the walls. The elevated platform … More A Visit to Ramle

Cultural Settings

My husband and I were reading Hosea today, and I found a little passage that got me thinking: “how long will it be ere they attain to innocency?” (Hosea 8:5–second half of the verse) In Christian culture, and by extension, Western culture, innocence is something that, once lost, cannot be regained. I believe it comes … More Cultural Settings

Ben Stein

I find myself in full agreement with Ben Stein, as I often do: The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday Morning Commentary. My confession: I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when … More Ben Stein