Author: Congregation Beth El

A Stimulating Brew: Coffee and Jews

January 10, 2014

By Robin Jacobson. When you linger over a cup of aromatic, freshly brewed coffee on a wintry day, you may think you are simply savoring a favorite beverage. In truth, …

The Aleppo Codex: Secret History of An Ancient Bible

December 1, 2012

By Robin Jacobson. As I write this, bloody street battles rage in the ancient city of Aleppo, as Syrian government and insurgent forces fight for dominance. Hard as it is …

Madeleine Albright’s Journey to her Jewish Past

July 1, 2012

By Robin Jacobson. In January 1997, Madeleine Korbel Albright made history by becoming the first female Secretary of State. Almost immediately, a startling Washington Post story shattered Secretary Albright’s lifelong belief …

Discovering a Lost World: The Cairo Genizah

June 1, 2011

By Robin Jacobson.  While traveling in the Middle East in 1896, two wealthy, erudite Scottish sisters bought some antique manuscripts. Little did they imagine that this souvenir purchase would lead …

Reading Leviticus With Henry VIII

March 1, 2010

By Robin Jacobson.  Soon the Torah cycle will come around again to Leviticus (Vayikra). After the dramatic stories of Genesis and Exodus, the litany of rules in Leviticus can seem …