There was a time when little changed. People grew up in the same communities as their parents, knew the same people their whole lives, did the same work, ate the same food, and heard the same languages as their parents and grandparents. Today with all of the technologies (computers, tablets, and cellular telephones), we are constantly meeting new people, hearing new philosophies and different ideas, and meeting challenges posed by the changing world around us. Time passes by quickly, and there is no looking back at yesterday.

Judaism has been changed by the rapid pace of today’s society. New ideas and new philosophies have crashed into this ancient faith. The foods of our past are prepackaged, our traditions are a vague memory, the teachings and philosophies have been left as archaic and outdated, and the stories are forgotten.

Why are so many people touched by a traditional Jewish meal? The food has a special taste that can only be found in the Jewish kitchen prepared with tenderness. Around the table, people sit and speak of prayer, Torah, and customs, and at times the old melodies stir the yearnings for something long forgotten. The stories touch the heart and soul of everyone around the table.

If being Jewish is merely a religion, a combination of prayers, rituals, and customs, it will wither. If is a way of life, then it can flourish and lead to growth. Jewish people have a long history of different traditions, food, rituals, prayers, and stories from all over the world, but one idea endures: Judaism is a dialogue, not a human monologue addressed to an indifferent universe.

We are all bound by the mitzvahs of relationships to the Holy One, blessed be He, to other human beings, and especially to all that G-d has created. As people gather and share a meal, all of these relationships come together and a holy atmosphere is created. In each generation, the ancient and blessed conversation—the dialogue that is Judaism—continues.

The very talented maggid (spiritual storyteller) Rachmiel Tobesman posted a number of story recipes on the Story Tour Blog and on the subreddit Maggid Story Recipes. These story recipes have been enjoyed by many who have asked    if the story recipes could be collected into  a  cookbook.

We are pleased to announce that 18 (Chai – the magic number of Life) of the story recipes have been collected into Once Upon a Recipe cookbook. If you are interested in obtaining a copy of this unique cookbook let us know.