From: Ellen Dear Rabbi, Does Judaism present any rational proof for its belief in the existence of the soul? Dear Ellen, The term “rational proof” is a bit problematic. If you mean conclusive proof, the answer is no. But this should not be surprising; there are many disciplines in which assumptions are operative even though[…]
From: Jerry Dear Rabbi, Does the concept of a halo or aura around a person appear in Judaism? Dear Jerry, The answer is yes. In Jewish mystical sources the Hebrew terms are “hila” (emanation of light) and “ohr hamakif” (surrounding/enveloping light). It’s very interesting, in fact, that the English terms for these concepts are nearly[…]
From: Gary Rushworth Dear Rabbi, My brother-in-law is studying Hebrew at his local college and he and a colleague have concluded that the tetragrammaton (the name comprised of four Hebrew letters) is misinterpreted. They say “Yahweh” is the correct spelling of the Name of G‑d, and “Jehovah” is a “trash” word, not worthy of discussion.[…]
From: Steve in Boston Dear Rabbi, Is there an idea that the body is somehow connected to the mitzvot on a metaphysical plane? Of course we do the mitzvot with our bodies, and I imagine the Jewish belief is that the performance of the mitzva affects the body in general, but is there any basis[…]
From: Jason in PA Dear Rabbi, Is there some connection between G‑d’s name and the mitzvot? I ask because I have seen a prayer often said before doing a mitzva which talks about unifying G‑d’s name through performing the mitzva. Dear Jason, The prayer you have seen is referring to the idea of “unifying” G‑d’s[…]
From: Ben Powers Dear Rabbi, I’ve recently embarked on a campaign to produce and enjoy lucid dreams. These are dreams in which you are aware that you are dreaming (you are lucid) and therefore you can, if you choose, control the dream. I would like to know if a person is held responsible for actions[…]
From: Masha Dear Rabbi, I don’t understand the notion of prophecy. How exactly does a person come to speak in the name of G‑d? Dear Masha, G‑d gave mankind the ability to apply intellect to gain information, understanding and knowledge of things not immediately apparent. In the ordinary plane, this involves the faculties referred to[…]
From: Amy in WI Dear Rabbi, I was wondering, according to the Jewish belief of Resurrection, whether a resurrected couple would remain married. I know this may sound morbid on the one hand, but if they have a good marriage in this life, it might be nice to know if the honeymoon will continue. Dear[…]
From: Scott in Portland, OR Dear Rabbi, I was told that Jews in biblical times were steeped in idol worship and that this was one of the reasons that the Temple was destroyed. I don’t understand how Jews who had the guidance of the Torah and rabbis were involved in such nonsense. Would you please[…]
From: Karen in WI Dear Rabbi, I am Jewish, but I don’t find Judaism to be particularly spiritual. It seems to be so much about laws of do’s and don’ts. On the other-hand, Eastern religions are so uplifting and really make me feel spiritual. What do you think I should do? Dear Karen, You are[…]