Religion

Parashat Korah: The story of the almond – and of diligence

When Korach questions Moses’ authority, a simple staff becomes a powerful symbol of divine choice and enduring leadership.

Almond trees bloom near the border with Lebanon.
US Army soldiers walk in formation during the Sword 26 exercise, approaching a MEDEVAC vehicle as NATO forces demonstrate innovation in battlefield casualty evacuation using drones and medical tech in Bemowo Piskie, Poland, May 11, 2026.

Pentagon updates US military's list of recognized religions following backlash from Mormons

A fullmoon rises over the Temple of Poseidon, the ancient Greek god of the seas, in Cape Sounion, east of Athens, Greece, July 8, 2017.

The West funds its own executioners in ideological war it barely realizes it is fighting - opinion

THOUSANDS TAKE part in the annual Gay Pride Parade in Jerusalem, on June 4, 2026.

Jerusalem Pride turned a divided city into a celebration of belonging - opinion


In Madrid, Pope calls for compassion towards 'every human being'

The pope also expressed hope earlier that Madrid would "remain a welcoming and inclusive city, where social life is inspired by genuine human values."

 Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Prevost of the United States appears on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, at the Vatican, May 8, 2025.

It's time for Israel to end Temple Mount appeasement for good - opinion

From detention for silent prayer to public worship, the Temple Mount has undergone a remarkable transformation.

 The Dome of the Rock and the Temple Mount in Jerusalem's Old City as viewed from the Mount of Olives. This place should be for all who are interested in free and safe access and peaceful worship together, the writer maintains.

Could you hold a lost piece of Western Wall history? Jerusalem museum seeks rare photos

A new exhibition hopes to uncover rare Western Wall photographs tucked away in attics, basements, and family albums.

‘Tower of David,’ taken by A.O. Freedman, c. 1920.

Jew vs Jew: New York, Israel, and the crisis of Jewish solidarity - opinion

As antisemitism rises, the widening rift among Jews over Israel raises urgent questions about Jewish unity.

Chai Riders line up in this year’s Salute to Israel parade in Manhattan, May 31.

‘Thank God you’re all here’: Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast draws foreign delegations despite war

Foreign delegations reached Jerusalem despite limited flights, giving this year’s prayer gathering a sharper message of faith, politics and support for Israel.

 Participants pray during the Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast at the Knesset, May 27, 2026.

Eli and Chana Coten: From London to Ma’alot amid war and new beginnings

A family from London makes aliyah to northern Israel, navigating war, adjustment, and a new life in Ma’alot.

Family

In the kitchen with Henny: Sheet pan magic

Simple one-pan dinners and a decadent dessert help busy families get delicious meals on the table with minimal effort.

Sheet-pan gnocchi and veggies.

What the ma'apilim teach us about faith and judgment

The story of the spies shows how belief in destiny can falter in fear or slip into reckless overconfidence.

Overconfidence, underconfidence –both negative.

Joshua's spies chose faith over fear - can Israel do the same?

Joshua’s spies returned with faith and confidence, teaching a timeless lesson about courage, purpose, and the Land of Israel.

 The Grapes of Canaan by James Tissot (circa 1900). Although the 12 spies brought back a cluster of grapes so large that it took two men to carry it, only two of the 12 brought back a good report of the land.

How a Jewish police chief's mezuzah captivated a Mississippi town

A Jewish police chief's mezuzah ceremony became the talk of a Mississippi town and drew a crowd no one expected.

The writer and daughter Noa O’Sullivan on roots visit to Mississippi, 2018. Background: Highway welcome sign upon entering to state, ‘the birthplace of America’s music.’