Jewish tradition

Discussion is circulating about the Book of Enoch, the ancient Jewish text that was excluded from most biblical canons. Commenters argue it was deliberately set aside not because it was irrelevant, but because its content—descriptions of fallen angels, cosmic secrets and prophecies—was considered too controversial. The topic is drawing attention among readers fascinated by marginalised religious texts and what mainstream tradition chose to omit.

Jewish tradition calls for dancing with the Torah scroll kept closed during Simchat Torah celebrations, a practice that prompts recurring curiosity. Explanations point to respect for the scroll's sanctity: since a closed text can be read by anyone, an open one only by the literate, keeping it shut ensures equal participation in the joy, with the community itself celebrated as the living embodiment of the Torah.

Benjamin Moser's new book restores the history of Jewish anti-Zionism, profiling dissenters who opposed Palestinian dispossession and paid a personal price for it. The book argues these critics, while unable to prevent the outcomes they warned against, represent a moral tradition largely erased from mainstream narratives of Jewish political thought, and its publication comes amid intense ongoing debate over Israel and Palestine.

A father writing in Arlington Magazine describes how he and his Catholic wife are raising their children with both Jewish and Catholic traditions. He reflects on the practical and emotional choices interfaith families face, from holidays and rituals to identity, offering a personal account of blending two religions under one roof.

Jewish Action examines the challenge educators face in reaching diverse learners in Torah classrooms, focusing on bright students who still struggle with traditional teaching methods. The piece highlights the need for differentiated instruction in Jewish education and raises questions about how schools can support children whose learning needs are not met by conventional approaches.