Author Archives: rabbisteinman

We keep saying it over and over again. “I can’t wait for things to get back to normal.” We have such high hopes for normal. We will take that trip to Europe we planned, or have our grandchildren sleep over. … Continue reading →

My sermon tonight is in the form of a letter to a guiding light of the Jewish people. 1 Tishrei 5782/6 September 2021 Dear Rav Avraham Yisrael haCohen Kook,          Shanah tovah, Happy new year. Our High Holy day theme … Continue reading →

I feel very fortunate to contribute to two articles, one I wrote and one in which I was interviewed this week. The Austin American-Statesman published “Chance to meet God anywhere as Jews prepare for the new year,” on Saturday. Yesterday, … Continue reading →

It has been a difficult few days. The abhorrent violence in our nation’s Capitol on Wednesday has left many scared, angry, and sleepless. Whatever our political leanings, the desecration through violence of the halls of Congress and the hate-filled, antisemitic, … Continue reading →

As the sun sets and the first Shabbat of 2021 begins, and we read the final words of the book of Genesis. In this portion, Jacob blesses his children as he prepares for death. So, on this Shabbat I too … Continue reading →

Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda When I was growing up and would suffer a disappointment, losing a soccer game because an opposing player found the back of the net despite my efforts as goalie, not being cast in a role I wanted … Continue reading →

Tonight, the 5th day of Kislev, I will light a yartzeit candle before we kindle the Shabbat candles to mark my mom’s yartzeit. 10 years ago according to the Hebrew calendar, my mom died. (Thanks to my amazing wife for … Continue reading →

Here is a recording of my Rosh Hashanah sermon.

  Below is the text of my Rosh Hashanah morning sermon delivered to the beautiful souls of Temple Beth Shalom, Austin. Once upon a time, Rabbi Ishmael and Rabbi Akiba were strolling in the streets of Jerusalem. They noticed someone … Continue reading →

My sermon from tonight, Parshat Va’etchanan, Shabbat Nachamu Don’t Become Paralyzed by Fear, in memory of Rep. John Lewis There is a tremendous amount of disappointment in our lives today. We’ve cancelled vacations, missed eating with friends at restaurants, there … Continue reading →