Tag Archives: Young Israel

The Rav Forbade Congregational Singing

In his part two lecture on Rabbi Esriel Hildesheimer for Torah in Motion, Dr. Marc B. Shapiro says: “Congregational singing wasn’t even done in Germany. It was choir singing. It’s an American thing. It might be a development of the … Continue reading

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Whatever Happened To The Kosher Status Of Brooklyn Water Bagel?

The short answer I thought was that the kosher supervisor for Brooklyn Water Bagel is EarthKosher, which is not recognized as a valid kosher supervisor by observant Jews. I was wrong. Keep reading. There’s an Italian pizza place on Pico … Continue reading

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Are There Higher Ethical Standards In Modern Orthodoxy?

In my experience, Modern Orthodox Jews have more concern about ethics than other types of Orthodox Jews. They are more concerned about appearances. They are more concerned about the goyim. I’m not arguing that Modern Orthodox Jews are better Jews … Continue reading

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Luke The Jackal – The Frightening Kinship I Feel With Carlos The Terrorist

I just watched a miniseries on the terrorist Carlos the Jackal and felt a strange connection with the man. I remember when I was booted from Young Israel of Century City in June 2001, some members of the shul called … Continue reading

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Rita Pauker Whoops With Delight Over OU Decision To Disinvite Steve Friedman

I call Rita Monday afternoon. Luke: “What’s your reaction to the OU decision?” Rita yells “Yahoo! I was hysterically happy. Ohmigod, justice has been served. I was thrilled.” Luke: “Were you surprised?” Rita: “Semi-surprised.” Luke: “Where did the four Torah … Continue reading

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