Paradoxically, the most depressing Biblical book is read during Sukkot – the most joyful Biblical feast.

“May a year with its curses end, a year with its blessings begin – peace in Israel and unity is our chief concern.”

This is a period that invites us to introspection.

A Hebrew word study at the start of the traditional Jewish New Year – Rosh HaShanah.

On Simchat Torah we were attacked, on Hanukkah we destroyed our enemies, on Purim it was the Persians’ turn.

Soldiering on the frontlines is difficult and risky, but yesterday I understood yet another aspect of how we can help them win.

Sometimes in life when we look back, things that happened to us in the past, suddenly take on a new and different meaning.

The story of light in the darkness, of the triumph of the few and of miracles against overwhelming odds.

How Hanukkah prepared the way for Israel’s Messiah.