The Pele Yoetz is a classical moral treatise and compilation of essential Jewish concepts that Rabbi Eliezer Papo (1785-1828) organized according to topics in the order of the Hebrew alphabet. The first entry in the book is “Ahavah” (love of G-d) and it discusses sanctifying the name of the Holy One Blessed Be He. The closing entry is “Teshuvah” (salvation) and it implores us to seek salvation not just as a nation, but also as individuals, who place their trust in an omniscient Creator. In b ...

Shidduchim. Whether we are “in the parashah” ourselves, or it is our children, grandchildren, friends, or neighbors — we all know people searching for their zivug, awaiting the “Kriyas Yam Suf” that will bring them to their bashert. In these unique lessons , we look at the topic of shidduchim through the wise and far-seeing eyes of some of our greatest sages. What are the most important traits to look for in a shidduch? What is the proper balance between hishtadlus and emunah? How important ...

Gateways to Hashem from the author of the acclaimed sefarim Bilvavi Mishkan Evneh (Building A Sanctuary In The Heart) and Da Es Atzmecha (Getting To Know Your Self) is a thought-provoking compilation of derashos about the unique avodas Hashem of the Jewish woman. HaGaon Rabbi Itamar Schwartz explains the special powers that Hashem has given to the Jewish woman’s soul, such as the ability to use the spiritual “heart,” the nature of the “extra understanding” given to women, the deeper implicat ...

14 Facts About the Book of Psalms 1. Tehillim Is Also Known as Psalms Tehillim, a book slim in size but towering in importance, has a special place in the Jewish library. Its Hebrew name, Tehillim (תהילים), means “praises,” and it contains many praises and supplications to G‑d. In English it is known as “Psalms,” from the Greek ψαλμοί, which means “instrumental music.” 2. It Was Compiled By King David Much of the book was composed by King David, referred to as the “sweet singer of Israel.”1 ...