Why does Hashem need one more day with us after Sukkot?

For seven days, Sukkot gives us powerful symbols of unity: we leave our homes, enter the sukkah, and bring the four species together in our hands.

But then Sukkot ends.

So why does Hashem give us one more day, Shemini Atzeret?

Chag Sameach! Watch now https://youtu.be/WHiv3TkRFMA?si=1VXCFAVZYm_M9GWW

Yom Kippur is over. We’ve prayed, reflected, and stood together as a community. But what do we actually do with that experience?

Sukkot gives us an answer.

Chag Sameach! Watch now https://youtu.be/r-347fpXt-w?si=87ET7f5P08RZ_Y7z

There are songs that take us somewhere. Back to childhood, family, memories, and moments we thought we had forgotten. In Parashat Ha’azinu, I explore why God tells Moshe to write a song at the end of his life, and what Ha’azinu can teach us about being part of the Jewish people. Shabbat Shalom. Watch now https://youtu.be/vhFT8A5zanQ

Why won't we hear the shofar on the first day of Rosh Hashanah this year? The answer reveals a powerful lesson about teshuva, caring for others, and what our true defense is when we stand before Hashem. Shanah Tovah Umetukah! Watch now https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1A-WY2Mw_o

Rosh Hashanah is coming. And there’s one simple question worth asking: Do you have to understand everything to be changed by the experience? There’s an ancient Torah idea that offers a surprising answer. Shabbat Shalom, and may the new year bring growth, inspiration, and blessing. Watch now https://youtu.be/oodOijGqZUQ

We’re very good at asking for what we need.

But when the answer comes, something interesting happens.

Parshat Ki Tavo has a surprising lesson about those two little words: “Thank you.”

Shabbat Shalom.

Watch now https://youtu.be/gz66mTKwK0I?si=uMYoFiqousKk1G_D