by Rabbi Zvi Alon | Jan 12, 2015
The Gemara (BT Shabbat 33b) cites the familiar story of Rashbi (R’ Shimon bar Yochai) and his son R’ Eliezer, who remained in a cave for twelve years. We are first told about the well-known debate between Rashbi, R’ Yehudah, and R’ Yosi. The three discuss the deeds of...
by Rabbi Zvi Alon | May 24, 2008
Rabbi Zvi Alon Former Rosh Kollel in Montevideo The Gemara (BT Shabbat 33b) cites the familiar story of Rashbi (R’ Shimon bar Yochai) and his son R’ Eliezer, who remained in a cave for twelve years. We are first told about the well-known debate between Rashbi,...
by Rabbi Ephrayim Back | May 27, 2005
The period of “counting the Omer”, connecting Pesach and Shavuot, symbolizes the upward movement from physical freedom (the Exodus from Egypt) towards spiritual liberation (the giving of the Torah). The Torah emphasizes the importance of the daily counting by means of...
by Rabbi Dror Brama | May 8, 2004
During the period known as Sefirat Ha-Omer (the Counting of the Omer), Jewish communities generally observe customs related to mourning. There are different opinions as to which exact days during the Omer period are to be observed as days of mourning, but all agree...
