Tradition

The little object that traveled the world: A story of trade, culture, and tradition

A journey through the remarkable history of playing cards, from ancient trade routes and coffeehouses to the digital age, revealing how a simple deck became a global cultural icon.

A centuries-long journey of cultural exchange, where traditions, ideas, and human connections traveled across borders and generations.
The tradition of “Mazel Tov” and the belief in luck and fate continue to accompany Jewish life from its ancient roots to the modern world.

Why "Mazel Tov" endures as the Jewish World's Favorite Blessing

A historical look at how chance-based games shaped culture, law, and society in the Middle East.

Games of chance and society in the Middle East

The Empire State Building, JPMorgan Chase Building, and One Vanderbilt in New York City are illuminated in the colors of the New York Knicks during Game 5 of the NBA Finals on June 13, 2026, as seen from Bayonne, New Jersey.

The Knicks won on June 13, some Jewish fans think that’s more than a coincidence


Tu Bishvat reminds us to find inspiration in unexpecting places - opinion

What we also discovered was a deep spirituality and a humility which touched us enormously.

 THE WRITER (left) and Dion Range pose in front of a rare wollemi pine

The solution to antisemitism is Jewish pride - opinion

We must use Jewish pride to combat the alarming rise in antisemitism. We must see our Jewishness as the gift that it is; learning our story and understanding how it continues to shape our identities.

 Israeli Americans and supporters of Israel gather in solidarity with Israel and protest against antisemitism, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, during a rally on the National Mall in Washington, U.S, November 14, 2023.

Tomb of Joshua bin Nun renovated after pro-Hamas vandalism

The graffiti was removed by Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council, and IDF soldiers.

 Yossi Dagan (L), head of the Samaria Regional Council, paints over 'Death to Jews' graffiti at the Tomb of Joshua bin Nun, December 13, 2023

The Hanukkah dilemma of 2023 - opinion

Embracing the House of Shammai’s custom.

 THE WRITER, together with a grandchild, lights Hanukkah candles, last year.

Dutch citizens wear pancakes on their heads in a strange tradition

Every year on November 29, many Dutch people partake in the unconventional tradition of placing pancakes on their heads. This article uncovers the fascinating history behind this peculiar celebration

 "Saint Pancake" Day