Arts & Culture

The mitzvot of the Shabbat and Hanukkah candles embody the different ways we experience holiness.

What does a famous painting have to teach us about the Hebrew Bible's aversion to the pagan god Moloch?

A classic painting omits a vital detail of the biblical scene it recreates.

A painting of a Jewish cemetery captures both the sorrow that comes from death and the endurance of those who maintain the memory of the deceased.

Passages in both "Emma" and the Talmud stress that embarrassing one's fellow can have destructive consequences.

A passage from Jane Austen's "Emma" reveals the complexity of the commandment to rebuke one's fellow.

Psalm 104 is an ode to the natural world and the way in which its intricacy proclaims the glory of God.

A psalm said by those giving the thanksgiving offering illustrates one scriptural approach to gratitude.

Psalm 57, which takes place in a cave, offers a mirror image of Plato's famous allegory.

A character from The Lord of the Rings illustrates the destructive power of wicked speech, a theme mirrored by a biblical figure who used words for evil ends.

An etching by Rembrandt van Rijn captures the essence of Psalm 51.

Psalm 45 highlights the distinction between the Jewish and pagan perspectives on royalty.

David feigns madness and composes a psalm. What does this teach us?

David reveals his greatness through his imperfections.

Psalm 4 reveals the power of music in healing the soul.