During the Second Temple, the Greek empire reigned (over Israel),1 and they (the Greeks) passed decrees against the Jews and (tried) to erase their religion, and did not allow them to carry out Torah (study) or the commandments. They put their hands on their property and their daughters. They entered the Temple, destroyed and made the pure unclean. The Jews were in great distress because of them and were much oppressed, until the G-d of their fathers had mercy on them, delivering them from their hands and saving them. Then overcame, the sons of the Hasmonean High Priest, (the Greeks) and killed them and saved the Jews from their hands. They appointed a king from the Priests, and the kingdom of Israel was restored for more than 200 years until the destruction of (the) second (Temple). When the Jews overcame their enemies and destroyed them, it was the 25th of Kislev2 when they entered the Sanctuary (inner room) and did not find pure (olive) oil in the Temple, except one jar sealed with seal of the High Priest, and it did not contain enough to light except for one day only. But they lit from it the lamps of the Menorah3 for eight days, until they could crush olives and produce a (new quantity) of pure oil. For these reasons, decreed the Sages of that generation that these eight days that begin on the 25th Kislev, will be days of joy and praise. One lights on them lamps at evening at the entrance to the houses, every evening of the eight nights to show off and demonstrate the miracle. These days are called ''Hanukah'' that is to say ''they rested'' (chanu) on the ''25'' ('th of the month) because on the 25th they rested from their enemies. and also because of those days they (re)-dedicated the house (Temple) which their foes had defiled. Also some say that it is a commandment to increase slightly the festive meals on Hanukah. Another reason is because the work of (building) the Sanctuary (in the desert) was completed in these days. One should tell one's children the story of the miracles that were done for our fore-fathers in those days, (see Josephus) However, these meals are not considered as part of the commandment unless one says at the meal songs of praise. One should increase charity in these Hanukah days, for this can help mend any defects in our souls. This charity, should be given particularly to poor Torah scholars. (KSA 139:1)
1) 352 BCE until 70 CE
2) 139 BCE
3) The Menorah was made of gold and had seven branches.
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Baltimore, MD - Oct. 6, 2024 - The Baltimore Esrog Center is proud to partner with Shearith Israel Congregation, the renowned Glen Avenue Shul in Baltimore. As a historic Orthodox synagogue with deep roots in Northwest Baltimore, Shearith Israel has long served as a beacon of tradition, guided over the years by esteemed leaders such as Rabbi Shimon Schwab and now Rabbi Yaakov Hopfer. This revered congregation, integral to the fabric of Baltimore's Jewish community, has played a key role in the establishment of the Baltimore Esrog Center.
In collaboration with Shearith Israel, the Baltimore Esrog Center is dedicated to offering the finest Arbah Minim, upholding the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our boutique is a celebration of heritage and excellence, and we are hon...
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As Yom Kippur approaches, the Frid family humbly stands before the community with a heartfelt plea for help.
Rochel Frid has been fighting a battle that no one should face alone. Her husband, a kind and loving father, is battling life with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a cruel disease that has robbed him of his ability to move, speak, and live independently. Despite the tremendous physical and emotional challenges, Rochel remains steadfast in her love and care.
ALS is not only devastating because of its impact on health, but it also brings overwhelming financial burden. The cost of specialized equipment, full-time care and at-home medical treatments is immense, leaving Rochel struggling to keep her husband at home where he feels safe and loved, while at the same ti...
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Shomrei Emunah's Annual Sukkos Sale!
Extraordinary Arba Minim!Lulav Holders!Support Shomrei’s Youth Department!
Sale Hours:
Thursday, October 10: 8:00PM – 10:30PM
Friday, October 11: 9:00AM – 12:00PM
Motzei Shabbos/Yom Kippur, October 12: 9:00PM – 11:00PM
Sunday, October 13: 10:00AM – 10:00PM
Monday & Tuesday, October 14-15: 9:00AM – 12:00PM & 7:00PM – 10:00PM
Wednesday, Erev Sukkos, October 16: 9:00AM – 12:00PM
Location:Shomrei Emunah6221 Greenspring Ave, 21209
For more information:Email: office@shomreiemunah.org
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As the new year arrives, we often reflect on our blessings and challenges. For many Israeli families, the struggle to make ends meet and overcome financial difficulties is a daily reality. The question remains: Can we truly call it a "Happy New Year" if our neighbors and fellow citizens are struggling?
At Paamonim, we believe in "The Responsible Way." We help Israeli families take control of their financial situations and regain stability. But we can't do it alone.
This New Year, help us help others. Your donation can make a real difference in helping as many Israeli families as possible overcome their financial hardships.
By donating to Paamonim, you're giving families the tools to succeed and create a better, brighter future.
We need your donation. Together, we can make thi...
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Baltimore, MD - Sept. 22, 2024 - As always, Shabsi's Judaica looks forward to assisting you with all your Yom Tov needs.
Click on the graphic below for a larger, printable version of Shabsi's Judaica Yom Tov season schedule!
BaltimoreJewishLife.com (BJL) is proud to partner with STAR-K CERTIFICATION that realizes that there is no substitute for a person’s own Rav. In an effort to offer a possible solution, it has launched its Institute of Halachah as a public service. Over the years, the agency’s Kashrus Hotline has answered generic halachic questions from kosher consumers the world over, including inquiries regarding the kosher status of foods and certified Sabbath mode appliances. The formation of a separate official division within STAR-K testifies to the need for addressing these issues.
The Institute of Halachah is directed by HaRav Mordechai Frankel, under the guidance of HaRav Moshe Heinemann, STAR-K’s Rabbinic Administrator. It is an invaluable resource for a diverse array of rabbis to discuss general halachic matters, as well as gain access to source materials for shiurim and answers to congregants’ questions.
Shailos for regular or Kashrus shailos may emailed or discussed using this widget.
The ongoing Israel Defense Forces campaign against Iranian-backed terrorist organizations on the Jewish state’s southern and northern borders is the country’s most highly-covered war since 1948, the Government Press Office said on Tuesday.
Since the Hamas-led Oct. 7, 2023 cross-border massacre, Jerusalem has issued 5,530 press passes to reporters, photographers and other media personnel, the government agency declared in a statement.
The GPO pass, much like those in other countries, facilitates journalists’ entry to closed press conferences, courts and other official institutions.
“The leading countries in sending journalists to cover the war are the United States, the United Kingdom, France and Germany, which together constitute almost 60% of the ...
Baltimore, MD – Oct. 10, 2024 - It is with regret that Baltimore Jewish Life (BJL) informs the community of the petira of Mrs Noa Miller, mother of Dovid (Goldie) Silberberg. The graveside levaya will take place this afternon at 3:00PM at New Montefiore Cemetery in West Babylon, NY.
Shiva will be observed at 3317 Taney Road , Baltimore, MD, 21215Friday:Selichos/Shacharis: 7:00AMMincha: 3:00PM
Bila HaMaves LaNetzach…
Baltimore, MD – Oct. 10, 2024 – 3:41PM – A broken down bus at the intersection of Reisterstown Road and Walker Ave.is causing significant delays in northbound traffic.
Baltimore, MD - Oct. 10, 2024 - Maryland's highest court reversed an Anne Arundel County Circuit Court ruling that deemed Baltimore's ballot Question F unconstitutional.
| COURT DOCUMENT: Read the Supreme Court decision (PDF)
The ballot question addresses the future of Harborplace and whether the development can include residential properties.
The Maryland Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday (video above) and issued its ruling Thursday afternoon, ruling that the ballot question does not violate the state constitution and is not improper charter material.
In its ruling, the Maryland Supreme Court ruled the results of Question F can be certified as presented on the November 2024 general election ballot.
Jerusalem, Israel - Oct. 10, 2024 - The rescheduled Israel Police Commemoration memorial event was held on Wednesday, October 9th, at the Friends of Zion Museum in Jerusalem, Israel.
The evening honored the fallen police heroes of October 7, 2023. Candles were lit in their memory and the program started with all guests standing for Kel Maleh Rachamim.
Israel Police International Spokesperson Dean Elsdunne acted as Master of Ceremonies. He also translated for the bereaved mother of fallen officer Dan Ganot z"l who told of her work to speak to schoolchildren about her son and the importance of police work.
Fascinating were the police experts explaining the crucial and difficult work of identification carried out in the subsequent days, weeks, and...
Baltimore, MD - Oct. 10, 2024 - As the sun began to set one year after the October 7 attacks, people from all around Baltimore filed into Beth El Congregation in Pikesville for a community-wide commemoration of that horrific day. Outside, posters of the many hostages taken by Hamas served as a stark reminder of the lasting effects of the attacks. Near the entrance, people placed rocks with messages of love and unity into a memory garden dedicated to the lives lost.
As approximately 1,400 attendees made their way to the sanctuary, they were adorned with small yellow ribbons and stickers depicting Anemone flowers—symbols of peace and support for Israel. Shortly after 7 p.m., the program began with opening remarks that highlighted the value of community and emphasized the importa...
A war is raging in our holy land on seven fronts. Whichever direction we turn our enemy is seeking to destroy us. The enemy refuses to give up no matter how many times we pound them. This enemy is not merely seeking to gain dominion over us, they want us erased from the face of the earth.
The Chovos HaLevavos teaches that the most significant enemy we will ever face is the one King Solomon referred to as our שונא — foe, היצר הרע — the Evil Inclination who outdoes even our most vile of enemies.
It is said of a pious man who met some men returning from a war against enemies, and they brought spoils after a raging battle. He said to them: "you returned from the small war with spoils, now prepare for the big war!" They asked: "which big war?" He answered: "the war of t...
CBS News reportedly ordered its staff not to say Israel's capital city of Jerusalem is in Israel.
The Free Press reported Wednesday that Mark Memmott, CBS News' senior director of standards and practices, had emailed all employees in late August telling them to "be careful with some terms when we talk or write about the news" regarding the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.
Included on his list of controversial terms was "Jerusalem."
"Do not refer to it as being in Israel," Memmott wrote, according to The Free Press.
"Yes, the U.S. embassy is there and the Trump administration recognized it as being Israel’s capital. But its status is disputed," Memmott continued. "The status of Jerusalem goes to the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflic...
Jerusalem, Israel - Oct. 10, 2024 - Before Yom Kippur, it has become a tradition for the Israeli President to open the Beit Hanasi Synagogue located in the back garden of the President's Residence in Yerushalayim for a musical program in honor of Selichos.
This year the white folding chairs on the lawn were empty of the usual IDF uniformed soldiers in attendance. Groups of young student guests took their place, some enthusiastically singing along with Yagel Haroush and his talented musical ensemble. Behind the first row reserved for dignitaries, were chairs saved for bereaved families, not all planned for took those reserved seats, but the size of the crowd was similar to past years.
President Isaac Herzog spoke first with a powerful Hebrew ...
Baltimore, MD - Oct. 10, 2024 - Mayor Brandon Scott is switching caps, from Baltimore City's top executive to juror.
On Thursday the Mayor's Office confirmed Scott was selected as an alternate juror for a Circuit Court trial.
Scott's jury duty could impact his public schedule as Mayor over the coming days.
“Jury service is one of our most important civic duties, which ensures our judicial system functions properly,” said Scott. “While being selected was somewhat a surprise, I will fulfill my responsibilities as an alternate juror proudly and fairly.”
Hurricane Milton made landfall Wednesday along Florida’s Gulf Coast as a Category 3 storm, bringing powerful winds, deadly storm surge and potential flooding to much of the state.
Milton drew fuel from exceedingly warm Gulf of Mexico waters, twice reaching Category 5 status.
The cyclone had maximum sustained winds of 120 mph (205 kph) when it roared ashore in Siesta Key, Florida, at 8:30 p.m., the Miami-based National Hurricane Center said. The hurricane was bringing deadly storm surge to much of Florida’s Gulf Coast, including densely populated areas such as Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota and Fort Myers.
The hurricane was downgraded to a Category 1 storm as it moved through Florida early Thursday.
Here’s the latest:
Hurricane Milton weakens to Category 1, but ...