A simple dispute over ownership leads the Talmudic sages into a debate, in this week’s ‘Daf Yomi,’ about the value of a spiritual oath versus secular claims of honesty
In an essay from ‘My Father’s Guitar and Other Imaginary Things,’ learning to understand the bargains we make with God—and ourselves
In this week’s Talmud study, debates over swearing out of pique or spite—that is, in the wrong frame of mind
Along with other questions of mind and body, this week’s ‘Daf Yomi’ is also a field guide to Talmudic-era cuisine
This week’s Talmudic debate is centered on the perceived and real benefits of study, teaching, and sacrifice
In this week’s ‘Daf Yomi’ study, why vows are hardly sacred, and why circumcision is the most glorious of rituals
This week’s ‘Daf Yomi’ Talmud study refutes the ‘dual loyalty’ charges against Jews
In this week’s ‘Daf Yomi,’ the Talmud explores why oaths are not for the virtuous, except in the rarest of cases
