Many mistakenly view mitzvot as the equivalent of good deeds. Though mitzvot are indeed good deeds, they are much more than just that. The word mitzvah, which literally means “commandment,” ...

And yet, it may demand more of us than any other day in the Jewish calendar. While we do have some Shavuot customs – staying ...

To be ‘shomer mitzvot’ does not mean to keep mitzvot! That is the surprising view of the Or HaChaim Hakadosh. If that’s the case, what does being ‘shomer mitzvot’ mean? The Or HaChaim explains that it ...

Recounting for the first time the story of an entire people who, after long years of harsh and grueling bondage, emerge into freedom. Parashat Beshalach is a historic Torah portion, recounting for the ...

Rabbi Yeshayahu Pinto’s teachings are renowned across the Jewish world. His lessons combine Hasidic thought and philosophy with practical advice for a better life. Here, we have gathered some insights ...

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Two recently published books, “The Mitzvah Project Book: Making Mitzvah Part of Your Bar/Bat Mitzvah … and your Life” and “It’s a … It’s a … It’s a ...

Jews believe that God gave them the mitzvot. Therefore, by obeying these laws, they will deepen their connection with God. For Reform Jews, observing the mitzvot is a matter of personal choice. They ...

Jews believe that Moses received the mitzvot from God. Therefore, following the mitzvot will help them to live a good life as God would want. Jews also believe they were given free will by God in ...

Do mitzvot have reasons or are they purely a Divine decree? Should we live lives insulated from other cultures or integrated with them? Is religious life an ascetic one or should we take advantage of ...