Shalom Wasserteil

From the Song of the Well to the Song of the Redemption

This week's parsha shows the need to praise God for miracles - from the days of the wilderness to our own times.

On Money, Power and Public Relations:

When Dathan and Abiram opened the Rebellion Ministry

Korah's sin is not the desert's alone, but a contagious disease that also affects Torah scholars seeking to get by 'without a rabbi'.

The tzitzit that restores the Jewish compass

Tzitzit is not merely a commandment - but a way of life that directs the gaze toward holiness and the land.

Why did Moses' prayer get answered only halfway?

Why at the Red Sea crossing was Moses told, 'What are you crying out to me?', and why, in this passage, was the prayer for Miriam answered only partly?

The Difference Between Pure And Impure Kindness

The Book of Ruth contains no commandments - but is a quintessential lesson for the generations in how and why an act of kindness is to be carried out.

Parashat Bamidbar:

Not just a headcount

The portion of Bamidbar presents the first census of the Jewish people as a national preparation for a holy war. From the verses, it emerges that 'military-age male' is not only a technical datum but a spiritual and national mission.

When Truth Becomes Only a Recommendation

In a world of fake news and manipulation, this week’s piece recalls the importance of cognitive freedom and the risks of misinformation to public discourse.

Perfection Does Not Depend on the Body, But On Spirit

The gap between disqualifying a blemished Kohen from temple service and our deep appreciation for IDF wounded, such as the heroic conscript Ari Spitz, reveals a fundamental principle.

Between Holocaust and Revival: A Faith-Based View

A stark message to the nations: reality has changed, and the dream of erasing Israel has faded.

Why does distance create holiness?

The Torah portions of Tazria and Metzora teach that true holiness requires balancing distance and closeness, as seen in the laws of purity that safeguard personal, family, and Temple sanctity.

The dichotomy of the eighth day

The eighth day marks a milestone in the history of Israel: the dwelling of the Divine Presence, immense joy alongside a moving tragedy that underscores the depth of holiness and responsibility.

From Egypt To Today:

A faith-based look at the steadily appearing redemption

The thanksgiving offering teaches us that not only does deliverance require gratitude, but also the possibility of continuing to live and act in the world.

When sacrifice becomes intimacy

Reflections on the unifying secret of the Jewish people, on the shrunken letter that teaches us humility, and on the heroism that is revealed precisely in the 'valley of the shadow of death.'

When saving a life takes precedence over Shabbat

Shabbat, the Tabernacle, circumcision, and temple service are foundations of holiness-but saving a life takes precedence over them.

Half-Shekel vs Haman's Shekels

Adv. Shalom Wasserteil explains how the mitzvah of the half-shekel places a world of holiness and charity against the money of Haman, who sought to destroy the Jewish people.

Only God determines which barriers are desirable

A barrier is not social segregation but a spiritual foundation that guarantees the camp's sanctity and preserves its identity.

Six Lamps Turn Toward the Central Lamp

The golden menorah teaches that all wisdom is directed toward the light of the Torah.

Shabbat: Sign of the Covenant Between the Jewish People and God

Shabbat is not merely another commandment; it is an eternal sign of the covenant between God and Israel.

Altar of the earth:

The secret connection between heaven and earth

How does the holiness of Sinai shape Jewish life across generations? The special message of an altar built without a sword or pride, and the deep bond between the Mikdash and the justice of the Sanhedrin.

Theaters and Circus Halls will turn into Shuls and Batei Medrash

It's high time to practically and not just theoretically apply the rule of "Venishmartem", namely, Beware for and guard your life.

Rethinking Meron

Mt. Meron is a national landmark and magnet for visitors from across the world, so the government must treat it as such.Op-ed