10-Minute Mitzvah

Explore how the Torah's original meaning of treyf reveals the deeper purpose of keeping kosher in today's world.

Discover why a Talmudic sage ate a fish tasting like pork, exploring Jewish dietary laws and cultural nuances. Sponsored by Ivan and Suzana Kaufman.

The mitzvah of geulah unveils the profound significance of Jerusalem Day, enriching our understanding of this pivotal celebration.

Explore the paradox of locusts as both a biblical plague and the only kosher insect, revealing insights into the complexities of kashrut.

Explore why online behavior differs from face-to-face interactions and learn strategies to maintain civility in digital spaces.

Majority-rule in Jewish legal cases reflects Judaism's nuanced view of justice and human nature, highlighting collective wisdom and ethical balance.

Moses's unique understanding of a violent ox in the Torah contrasts with traditional Jewish law, offering profound insights into biblical interpretation.

A mitzvah for the priesthood holds profound significance for daily life, offering timeless insights into our spiritual and ethical practices.

A Shabbat-observant cow midrash sheds light on restitution laws, with insights from Rabbi Soloveichik's essay on Rembrandt's Balam painting.

Explore how a mitzvah on damages intriguingly links to the signing of the American Declaration of Independence, revealing historical insights.

John Adams's focus on proper titles reflects the commandment against cursing public officials, highlighting respect for authority in governance.

Explore the profound responsibility of judges in Jewish courts through captivating stories, highlighting the weight of their decisions and moral duty.

A founding father invoked a mitzvah to challenge British trade restrictions, highlighting the intersection of faith and politics in revolutionary America.

A mitzvah on damages uncovers Judaism's nuanced view on fire, reflecting deep ethical considerations within the faith.

Offending another person is akin to offending the Almighty, a profound insight explored in Rabbi Soloveichik's thought-provoking series.

Explore how a Torah prohibition illuminates the tradition of placing stones on Jewish graves, enriched by Longfellow's poetic insights.

Abigail Adams's letter to her son reveals the deeper meaning behind a prohibition related to the altar of incense, offering timeless wisdom.

Judaism's high regard for labor is exemplified through a mitzvah for employers, highlighting the ethical importance of work in Jewish tradition.

Rabbi Soloveichik's story highlights human responsibility to oneself, family, and the Almighty, exploring profound spiritual and ethical duties.

Maimonides and another commentator clash over conflicting mitzvot, sparking a lively debate on interpretation and religious practice.

Explore why Jews are forbidden to eat certain animal fats, delving into the deeper meanings of kashrut with insights from Rabbi Soloveichik.

A celebrity chef's story unveils the law of leftovers, offering a unique perspective on tradition and resourcefulness in culinary arts.

Explore how a unique mitzvah highlights the essence of sacred spaces and priestly duties in Judaism, inspired by Emma Lazarus's poem.

A translation error in the Jewish toast "l'chaim" hides its profound meaning, explored through essays and discussions with Rabbi Soloveichik.

The red heifer ceremony reflects the effort needed to improve the world, echoing themes from Roosevelt's "Citizenship in a Republic."

Yehuda Halevi's The Kuzari and Winnie the Pooh reveal how Jews use food to connect with God, offering profound insights into spiritual practices.

A sushi chef's mindset highlights the spiritual focus priests need when presenting Temple offerings, as explored by Rabbi Soloveichik.

A Talmudic tale links honoring parents and the red heifer offering, revealing deep connections between these mitzvot in Jewish tradition.

Explore the Torah's command to "fear no man" and its profound implications for courage and faith in our daily lives.

Exploring how mercy toward animals cultivates compassion among humans, inspired by poems from Richard Wilbur and Edward Thomas.