Religious Jews are about to celebrate Simchat Torah, one of the calendar’s most joyous holidays, typically filled with singing and dancing. It’s a virus spike waiting to happen, unless the city reconsiders its broken approach and charts a new course with the community. Here’s how.

How miniature versions of the Five Books of Moses became a fixture of children’s Simchat Torah celebrations

This humble pastry is the perfect dish for Simchat Torah. And it’ll cure your hangover, too.

How an unlikely business meeting on 9/11 grew into a brotherhood, forged by Torah and the practice of Judaism

When I found out I was pregnant, I had mixed feelings. The Jewish holidays helped me navigate the difficult emotional journey that followed.

The festive holiday now overshadows Shemini Atzeret, which has biblical roots

As a pre-teen in braces, I’d watch older boys dance in celebration. Today, I try to share the joy of the Torah with my own kids.

Samuel Pepys’ account of stumbling upon a lively synagogue service

Video: Judaica designer Alexander Gruss on Simchat Torah, the legacy of the Holocaust, and the value of handmade objects

An unlikely celebration from Moscow–40 years ago

When the holiday turned my synagogue into a chaotic nightclub, I finally felt like part of the Jewish community

Cancer, and a year of chemotherapy, gave me a new perspective on Jewish holidays—starting with Tisha B’Av

Starting the Torah cycle anew and reckoning with Moses’ unfulfilled desire to reach the promised land

An illustrated look at Torah theft and Torah protection

Finishing the Torah cycle, like finishing a scary children’s book, provides a much-needed sense of accomplishment