The rich tapestry of Sephardic Jewish heritage is a story of resilience, culture, and tradition that has shaped communities across the globe. From the Iberian Peninsula to the shores of the Americas, Sephardic Jews have woven their unique identity into the fabric of Jewish history. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of Sephardic heritage, the challenges faced by these communities, and how organizations like Chazak are working to preserve and promote this vita

Sephardic Jewish culture, rich in history and tradition, represents a unique facet of Jewish identity that has thrived for centuries. As globalization continues to shape our world, the preservation of this culture becomes increasingly vital. This blog post explores the significance of Sephardic Jewish culture, the challenges it faces, and the steps we can take to ensure its survival for future generations. Understanding Sephardic Jewish Culture Sephardic Jews trace their ance

In a world where cultural identities are often overshadowed, the Sephardic Jewish communities stand out with their rich history and vibrant traditions. Yet, these communities face unique challenges that threaten their cultural heritage and social cohesion. Organizations like Chazak are stepping up to provide essential support, ensuring that Sephardic Jews around the globe can thrive and maintain their identity. This blog post explores the mission of Chazak, the challenges fac

I’m not one to jump on bandwagons and I don’t think I have ever posted anything personal…but I feel compelled. I am a passionate, committed, loving, fun, and oftentimes fearless orthodox woman. I am confident about the choices I have made towards a life filled with meaning, countless blessings and the most wonderful relationships on this journey. That doesn’t mean there aren’t challenges and bumps on the road. But it’s so empowering to have a focused goal which keeps me headi

by Rabbi Ari Bensoussan Director, Chazak LA It all began with a man who was known to the world as being ‘The Great’. Alexander the Great. Historically Alexander the Great was known for his world conquering endeavor and the abrupt end to his conquest with his early and sudden death in his early 30’s. The Talmud tells us of an amazing occurrence that happened when Alexander fell to his knees and prostrated himself in front of the Kohen Gadol. Upon rising from this shocking act

Rabbi Shlomo Farhi Pesach 2020 - in the midst of the Coronavirus Pandemic . There is an incredible opportunity on seder night that does not show its face on any other day or night of the year.  What is so powerful about this night? Seder It’s ironic that the seder night is called ‘seder’ which means order. It talks to us about the order of the night.Everything has to be in its proper place. Everything is done correctly. If this is the case, there seems to be something out of

by Rabbi Reuven Ibragimov  Chazak NY Athletes of any genre hit their peak somewhere before their 30th birthday. Thereafter, it’s all downhill. However, there is one exception to that rule, and this is the spiritual athlete.  Spiritual athletes compete against no one, only themselves and their own potential which peaks much later in life. The Torah informs us that Eisav was born nearly perfect in his physical appearance, whereas Yaakov, who was named by God Himself, attains pe

by Rabbi Lawrence Hajioff  Educational Director, Chazak NYC The Ramban in his introduction to Sefer Bereishit tells us that, “Everything is written in the Torah, whether explicitly or by allusion”. Since such a miracle of Chanukah occurred, and a holiday was created because of it, chazal scoured Scripture to find subtle references to this event. Let’s see some of the references that they found, sometimes hidden and sometimes revealed before our very eyes. The Midrash (Bereish

Many nations begin with wars, infighting and challenges between themselves and those people around them. But why did Hashem decree that the Jewish people should begin our role in history as slaves? Wasn’t there a better method God could have chosen to start the Am HaNivchar, the Chosen People of world history, who one day would we receiving the Torah on Mount Sinai and fulfill the Mitzvot therein? Our sages describe three reasons the Jewish people needed to begin our role on