Blog
The Light of the World
At MJTI, we consider ourselves blessed to celebrate the birth of our Messiah, Yeshua with both Jews and gentiles! Rabbi Elliot Klayman writes about the similarities between Hanukkah and Christmas and its reflection on the relationship between Jews and Christians in this most festive season.
Christmas Without Hanukkah?
Hanukkah and Christmas are often viewed as dueling opponents for the limited attention given to winter holidays. But Christmas wouldn't exist without Hanukkah! What does that say about God's plan for Israel and for history?
Hanukkah Stories
The multi-day nature of Hanukkah makes for great teaching opportunities for children. Rabbi Dr. Vered Hillel has compiled a few of her favorite children's Hanukkah stories to read each night—with accompanying videos!
Hanukkah: Celebrating the Light of Messiah
Hanukkah celebrates the miracle of the oil, where a day's worth of oil lasted eight days. But how historically plausible is this narrative? Rabbi Elliot Klayman discusses the possible historical causes for celebration during the original Hanukkah.
Hanukkah in Israel
This year, our holiday celebrations will be muted by the COVID19 pandemic. Rabbi Dr. Vered Hillel reminisces on past Hanukkah celebrations in Israel and all their associated traditions.
Hanukkah 5781
Hanukkah has its own set of customs, traditions, and blessings. For the first night of Hanukkah, Rabbi Michael Hillel discusses the significance of the brachot (blessings) we say during Hanukkah, and what that can tell us about the holiday.
2020 Board of Directors Update
This year, MJTI's annual Board of Directors meeting was held online for the first time in our organization's history. This news release shares the fruits of that meeting.
Gilgamesh, the Flood, and the Garden
Ancient Near-Eastern myths often have striking similarities with each other. Rabbi Elliot Klayman takes a look at the Epic of Gilgamesh and finds a parallel that is often overlooked: Gilgamesh's plant of immortality and the Garden of Eden.
Life’s Path
Rabbi Rich Nichol shares a few more nuggets of wisdom while surrounded by the beauty of the Northeastern autumn.
Stay Focused on the Goal
Pressing on through life when you feel emotionally or spiritually exhausted can feel impossible. Rabbi Michael Hillel shares an inspiring perspective on this week's parasha, giving all us struggling runners the motivation we need to press on as we approach Shabbat.
