If you’re converting or exploring Judaism, there are going to be words you hear that feel insider-y. Cultural. Maybe even funny. And when you’re new, it can be tempting to use those words about yourself – especially if you’re trying to signal humility or show that you “get it.” But some words carry history that […]
“Nobody Wants This” Normalized Something Dangerous Read Post »
Learning modern Hebrew can feel intimidating – especially if you assume it requires expensive programs, years of classes, or a full-time Ulpan schedule. For many people building a Jewish life, Hebrew becomes one more thing they feel behind on before they’ve even begun. The truth is, you don’t need to do everything at once, and
How to Learn Modern Hebrew on Your Own (Realistically) Read Post »
Choosing a siddur – a Jewish prayer book – often feels harder than it should. With so many options, translations, and traditions, many beginners and conversion candidates worry about buying the “wrong” one or committing too soon. But a siddur isn’t a test of Jewishness or knowledge. It’s a tool meant to support prayer and
What to Know Before You Buy a Siddur (a Jewish Prayerbook) Read Post »
One of the questions I hear most often is: How do you actually learn to read Hebrew? If you’ve tried before and found it frustrating, slow, or downright discouraging, you’re not imagining things. Learning the Aleph Bet can be genuinely hard – especially if you’re dyslexic, neurodivergent, or learning Hebrew as an adult without a
My Top Hebrew Reading Recommendations Read Post »
Finding a meaningful gift for someone in the middle of converting to Judaism — or celebrating becoming Jewish — can feel unexpectedly tricky. (Or for this person at Hanukkah! Or maybe you’re making a wish list for yourself?) You want to honor the moment, mark their hard work, and choose something that actually fits their
The Jewish New Year isn’t just about apples and honey—it’s about connection. And one of the simplest, most meaningful ways we connect during this season is through our greetings. But if you’ve ever stood at the synagogue door or sat down at a holiday table wondering, “Wait, what do I say??”—you’re not alone. In this
Jewish New Year Greetings Made Simple 🍎🍯 What Do You Say on the High Holidays? Read Post »
If the words “High Holidays” make your stomach drop instead of your heart lift, you’re in good company. These days are meant to be holy – but between synagogue tickets, menus, schedules, and a chorus of “am I doing this right?”, they can spiral into stress fast. That’s exactly why I made this video: the
10 Things I Wish I Knew Before My First High Holidays Read Post »
Some Jewish moments are big and obvious — holidays, life cycle events, milestones you can see coming from a mile away. Others sneak up on you: the first time you light Shabbat candles on time, the first day back to class, the first time you feel truly at home in your Jewish community. This is
Can you daven in English? YES! In fact, sometimes maybe you should daven in English. Transcript available below. Transcript: Do you have to pray in Hebrew? No. You can pray in English or whatever language is most comfortable for you. You don’t have to be davening in Hebrew in order to be a real Jew
Can a Conversion Candidate Pray in English? Read Post »
At some point in your orthodox journey, someone is going to suggest you go to ulpan. Another class and another thing to learn? Sounds great, but what’s ulpan? In short, it means modern Hebrew classes. But it’s more than that. It’s a particular style of teaching a foreign language through intense immersion and often with
Word of the Day: Ulpan Read Post »