From the Rabbi

Rabbi Krishef has dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of Judaism and offering guidance to those in need. Through his years of study and experience, he has gained a wealth of knowledge and wisdom on a variety of topics related to the Jewish faith and culture.

On this page, you will find a collection of writings by the Rabbi on a range of subjects, including but not limited to:

  • The importance of prayer and meditation in the Jewish tradition
  • Understanding the Torah and its teachings
  • Insights into the Jewish holiday celebrations and customs
  • Reflections on the role of the Jewish community in today’s world

Each writing is carefully crafted to offer meaningful and insightful perspectives on the topic at hand. Whether you’re looking to deepen your own understanding of the Jewish faith or simply interested in learning more, these writings are sure to enlighten and inspire.

Divre Harav, Words from the Rabbi – Rabbi Krishef’s bulletin articles and blog (external site)

  • Divre Harav – February, 2025
    by Rabbi David Krishef
    The changing religious shape of Jerusalem and Israel I had dinner with some friends in Israel who made aliyah last year. They are a typical religious family living in South Jerusalem in the neighborhood of Arnona-Talpiyot, not too far from … Continue reading →
  • Divre Harav – January, 2025
    by Rabbi David Krishef
    Question: How many day of Hanukkah will there be in 2025? Answer: Ten! This is a companion riddle to the question, How many days of Hanukkah were there in 2024?Answer: Six! Of course, neither the length of Hanukkah nor the size … Continue reading →
  • Divre Harav – December, 2024
    by Rabbi David Krishef
    The Rabbinical Assembly, the international professional organization of Masorti/Conservative rabbis, is holding its annual convention in Jerusalem this month, and I will be there. Rather than looking for the least expensive plane ticket, I choose to buy a ticket on … Continue reading →
  • Divre Harav – November, 2024
    by Rabbi David Krishef
    Cultivating gratitude begins with the reflex ‘thank-you’ that parents teach children. We teach children to say thank you when someone gives them a gift or does something nice for them. We tell them to say thank you. We might even … Continue reading →
  • Divre Harav – October, 2024
    by Rabbi David Krishef
    So many emotions. If we don’t celebrate our holidays or if we allow our enemies to define how we celebrate, we are giving them a victory. Do we want to allow them to live inside our heads and sit at … Continue reading →
  • Divre Harav – September, 2024
    by Rabbi David Krishef
    We’re about one month away from the fall holidays. During the month of Elul, beginning on Wednesday, September 4, one month before Rosh Hashanah, our tradition encourages us to engage in introspection.What kind of person do I want to be? … Continue reading →

A collection of short responses to questions on various topics