Rahel Musleah

Seders: Not Just for Pesach Anymore

Published on September 22, 2005

Every holiday has its aura. Pesach has a scrubbed cleanliness; Purim, a cookie-dough indulgence, Sukkot, a back-to-nature thankfulness. Rosh Hashanah has its aura, too. For most of us, it's one that begins a season of awe, judgment and repentance.

Chuppot by Design

Published on July 10, 2003

Before the wedding of her son, Michael, Elsa Wachs sent invitations to almost 50 family members. They weren't invitations to share the upcoming simcha -- not just yet -- but a request to contribute to the chuppah she was designing.

A Date With Passover Memories

Published on April 17, 2003

Once a year, soon after Purim, my parents lug down the hydraulic press from their attic.

From Page to Plate

Published on April 3, 2003

Passover cooking becomes more fun each year with the publication of glossy new kosher cookbooks brimming with creative suggestions for elegant and enticing Passover dishes.

Whether you are planning your seder menu, looking for a memorable Passover gift, or you just want a break from cleaning, salivate over the scrumptious recipes in these cookbooks from master chefs and food writers.

Inspiration Burns in Flames of Menorah

Published on November 28, 2002

Every Chanukah, I am struck by the beauty of my chanukiyah as the flames glow steadily against the darkness around them.

New Cookbooks Stir Up Passover Delicacies

Published on March 14, 2002

Whether you are looking for a memorable seder gift, new recipes for Passover or a break from cleaning to salivate over what you might but will probably never prepare, enjoy sifting through this refreshing and unusual batch of recently published kosher cookbooks and books that feature kosher cuisine.

A Lesson from the Maccabees

Published on December 6, 2001

The news from Israel these days takes me back to 165 BCE. We all know the story: The Maccabees, a small band of Jewish rebels, fight the mighty Syrians who rule the land and have desecrated the Temple.

Literary Jewish Girls

Published on June 21, 2001

It's time to make room for a newer generation of American Jewish writers, many of whom are young women who have not even hit 30.

Of Latkes and Light

Published on November 11, 1999

So here's my vote to simplify Hanukkah and restore its inherent values: freedom, conviction, dedication, hope, continuity, peace, rebuilding, community, family.

The Year Ahead

Published on September 2, 1999

Tahel shanah u-virkhoteha! Let the new year begin with all its blessings.

Israelites wait at the foot of Mount Sinai for Moses to return with the Torah and Ten

Published on May 28, 1998

Retired Maj. Gen. Oren Shachor, former Israel Defense Forces chiefintelligence officer, held a field briefing for his subordinateofficers and field operatives last week at Cava restaurant on westThird Street.

Unmasking Purim’s Heroes—and Ourselves

Published on March 5, 1998

Who needs Halloween or Mardi Gras? On Purim, the masquerade of characters is lively and intriguing: Spangled Vashtis, bearded Mordechais, snarling Hamans, bejeweled Esthers, silk-robed Ahasueruses.