Torah and Today with Rabbi Krebs

One of the Torah's lesser-known mitzvot is tevilat keilim —immersing new metal and glass utensils in a mikveh before using them. Rooted in this week's parashah, we'll explore where this mitzvah comes from, which utensils require tevillah, and how understanding the "why" behind what we do can deepen our appreciation of everyday halachah.

As Moshe prepares to step aside, he doesn't ask for someone to replace him—he asks for the leader the people need next. Why doesn't Hashem choose another Moshe? Parashat Pinchas explores one of leadership's greatest lessons: every generation requires a different kind of leader, and true leadership is knowing when to let someone lead differently.

Havdala- why the wine, candle, and spices?

Parenting is not about controlling our children; it is about giving them the values, wisdom, and confidence to make good choices for themselves. In Chukat–Balak, we encounter a similar Divine approach. Hashem guides, teaches, and warns, but ultimately allows human beings the dignity—and responsibility—of choosing their own path.

Kaddish - the mourner's prayer - what's it all about?

Why do we pray?

Korach's challenge to Moshe was not simply about power—it was about logic. If Torah is true, shouldn't it always make sense? In a world that demands explanations for everything, Parashat Korach explores what happens when Divine wisdom asks us to trust beyond our own understanding.

The debate over who has a rightful claim to the Land of Israel dominates headlines today, but it is far older than modern politics. The land ultimately belongs neither to us nor to them... it belongs to Hashem.

Why do we wear kippot? Do we have to wear them?

Why do we wait a certain length of time to eat meat, after eating milk products?

Miriam and Aaron look at Moshe and assume they understand him because they see him as just another prophet, just another sibling. Yet Hashem’s response is clear: Moshe is fundamentally different. Sometimes we judge leaders because we assume they are exactly like us. Often they are. But sometimes, we fail to appreciate the unique burdens, responsibilities, and spiritual realities that come with tru...

Do Jewish men have to wear kippot? Why?

 Sheitels and head coverings for women ...what's that all about?

Why did each נשיא bring exactly the same offering? In a world obsessed with standing out and outdoing everyone else, the princes of Israel teach a radical lesson: sometimes true greatness is not about being bigger or better, but about knowing when equality, unity, and humility matter more than competition.

 Women wearing Tefillin and Tzitzit...why not?

In Parshat Bamidbar, Moshe and Aharon’s students are called their “children,” teaching us that parenthood is not only biological. True parents are also the teachers, mentors, and guides who shape a child’s soul, values, and future.

Part 2 of our discussion on why we separate people based on gender differences in Shul and beyond...

In a world of Shemittah, where we release control of our land and trust in Hashem, and where we are commanded to support those who fall into hardship, when should I prioritise my own needs, and when does responsibility demand that I put others first?

Why do we separate people based on gender differences in Shul and beyond?

Parshat Emor reminds us that words are never just words. What is harmless frustration, what crosses a line, and why does the Torah take speech so seriously? A short and practical look at swearing, cursing, and how the way we speak shapes who we become.

Why do some Jews have beards and others don't? Why do some Chadisim grow their sidelocks so long and others don't at all? Is this from the Torah or just custom?

Parashat Kedoshim challenges us to see holiness not as something distant or mystical, but as something lived daily through our actions, relationships, and moral choices.

Sefirat HaOmer is a time where we count toward Shavuot while mourning the loss of Rabbi Akiva’s students and other tragedies. What are the customs of this period and what we do and refrain from during these days.

The Seder

Karpas