Why didn’t the Jews take the straight path from Egypt to Israel? In this week’s Torah portion (Beshalach) God takes the Jews out of Egypt in a roundabout way. This was to avoid an immediate war which may have led the Jews to regret leaving Egypt.
Author: Ariel Mintz, MD
What does it mean that Pharoh’s heart was hardened? In this week’s Torah portion (Bo) the Egyptians experience the continued onslaught of plagues leading to pain, suffering, and death. Before each plague, Pharoh is warned and given the opportunity to avoid them. However, he refuses due to “hardness of heart”. The commentators give various explanations Read More …
What prevented the Jews from listening to Moshe? In this week’s Torah portion (Va’eira) we are told, “The Jews did not listen to Moshe because of kotzer ruach and difficult work” (6:9). Rashi, an 11th-century commentator, translates kotzer ruach as shortness of breath. However, the Ohr Hachaim, an 18th-century commentator, translates it as “shortness of spirit”. He Read More …
Have you ever wondered why some people have traumatic experiences and recover uneventfully, while others go on to develop PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)? The answer to this question is complex with several factors at play. Before we list these determinants, let’s describe PTSD.
“I’ve been thinking about jumping off a bridge. I haven’t told my parents because they’ll think I’m crazy.”
“My good fortune is not that I’ve recovered from mental illness. I have not, nor will I ever. My good fortune lies in having found my life.” Elyn Saks- Successful lawyer who has schizophrenia When people hear of a Schizophrenic, they generally have a strong, fearful reaction. Many view these individuals as dangerous, unpredictable, Read More …
“When you are happy you enjoy the music. But, when you are sad you understand the lyrics” -Frank Ocean What is Bipolar Disorder? The phrase “That person is so bipolar” is pejoratively used to describe someone who rapidly gets angry. But, what does it truly mean to be “Bipolar”?
“We can not change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand” – Randy Pausch Ok, so I understand that depressive disorders are common and that there are many factors that contribute to its development. But, what can I do about it and does it even need to be treated?
“Some people grumble that roses have thorns; I am grateful that thorns have roses.” – Alphose Karr What Causes Depression? There are many contributing factors to the development of depression. We all have various features that raise our risk, but none independently guarantee a depressive disorder. Once a person starts to feel down, they Read More …