Jewish history

On this day, the 18th of Tevet, about 175 years ago, the renowned Rabbi Tzvi Elimelech Shapira of Dinov passed away.

Today marks the yahrtzeit of Rabbi Shlomo Eger, son of Rabbi Akiva Eger. A prominent leader in the Polish cities of Kalisz and Poznan.

Beyond the siege of Jerusalem on the 10th of Tevet, several other significant events occurred on this date. The Rebbe of Ostrowiec was tragically murdered by the Nazis in 1943 on the night of the 10th of Tevet. In contrast, the mother of the Chasam Sofer became pregnant after praying fervently on the very same date.

Why is it called Jerusalem? When did Jews first settle there? What happened after the destruction of the Second Temple? Let’s explore 10 fascinating facts

Discover how the Ten Plagues reveal not only Hashem’s power, but also deep lessons in justice, mercy, and the principle of reward and punishment

Exploring the life, teachings, and sacred stories of Rabbi Aryeh Leibush of Ternigrad.

Explore the captivating story of Elijah the Prophet and his enduring impact on biblical history.

Exploring the two powerful traditions that claim to house the resting place of the Purim heroes — from Hamedan, Iran to the forests of northern Israel

The intrigue that has sparked the curiosity of Jews throughout generations, as they seek their lost kin.

Sefer HaChinuch shaped Jewish thought and education for centuries — yet the identity of its brilliant author remains unknown

The legendary image of the Vilna Gaon in tallit and tefillin traces back to a 19th-century Polish artist’s imagination

Historians and Hasidic traditions trace the elusive village of Okop across Ukraine, Moldavia, and Galicia, seeking the true birthplace of the founder of Hasidism

Eyewitness accounts, ancient manuscripts, and generations of debate over the exact date of the Baal Shem Tov’s passing

Discover the surprising connection between Bombay's Jews and the famous Tiferet Bachurim synagogue, once home to the teachings of Rabbi Elyashiv.

A hidden tunnel beneath Jerusalem, a rabbi’s secret discovery, and an enduring mystery

Antisemitism is a collective term for the various expressions of hatred against the Jewish people and the State of Israel. It's as old as time itself.

The term 'Renaissance Man' is often overused, but for Maimonides, it fits perfectly—and then some.

A month of challenge, remembrance, and renewal — from the breaking of the Tablets to the Three Weeks of mourning that awaken hope for redemption

From the shattering of the Tablets and the burning of the Torah to lessons of repentance, resilience, and hope for the rebuilding of Jerusalem

Discover the spiritual journey of the month of Av — from the sorrow of Tisha B’Av and the destruction of the Temples to the hope, joy, and renewal of Tu B’Av, the festival of love and redemption