blogs/rabbi-huberman

“Moses, tell the entire Israelite community to ‘lift their heads.’” Bamidbar 1:2“

There were two unique phrases that made me shake my head when I first arrived in the New York area. 

They were often used when someone concluded that it was impossible to fight against the bureaucracy - an overcharge on a bill, a meter reading that didn’t seem right, a rule or a fee...Read more...

I am a rabbi, and I am out of prayers.

I am tired of moments of silence. I am tired of speaking at solidarity rallies, or being asking to provide prayers of consolation and healing.

I’m even a bit angry at myself. Because when news first broke of the mass killing at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, I did not feel a dagger of empathy in my...Read more...

In the early afternoon on the eve of the first Passover Seder, I stepped out of the Toronto airport terminal and caught the eye of a waiting taxi driver.

“I am next in line,” confirmed the turbaned driver. He was about 65, clad in a loose black top and pants. His black and grey beard glistened in the cool sunshine.

As he entered my...Read more...

A few weeks ago, a congregant asked me what I regarded as the most insightful Jewish movie of all time.

Her opinion was that it was Fiddler on the Roof. And who could argue?

Phrases like “May God keep the Czar far away from us.” “I realize it's no shame to be poor, but it's no great honor either,” and “How did this tradition get started? I'll tell you. I don't know.”...Read more...

In a few moments, I’m going to ask you whether you agree with Rabbi Joshua or Rabbi Eliezer.

Do you think the true Jewish New Year begins tonight, or will it arrive next September 25?

Most importantly, why should we care, and what does all of this have to do with events occurring overseas?

Welcome to the heart of a rabbinical debate — dating back 2,000...Read more...