From: Brian Dear Rabbi, I am not quite convinced that it really matters to G‑d whether we eat kosher or not and whether eating kosher really has an effect on us that would be different than eating non-kosher food. Any thoughts you might have to share with me would be much appreciated. Dear Brian, When[…]
From: Sandra Dear Rabbi, My grandfather, may he rest in peace, would always put salt on the bread in the prayer of Hamotzi. Why do we do this? Is it on all types of bread or just challah? Dear Sandra, There are several reasons for dipping bread in salt after saying the blessing on the[…]
From: Melissa Dear Rabbi, I am financially independent and reasonably well-off. I feel that my financial situation is a function of my hard work, and therefore have trouble with the idea that G‑d is the source of my wealth, or that I must pray to, or thank G‑d, for my livelihood. I can buy anything[…]
From: Debra Dear Rabbi, I have always wondered how from Adam and Eve came all the different races and colors of the peoples of the world? Was it like that from the start? If not, how did the variations occur? Dear Debra, Great question! The Talmud itself deals with this. In reality, the modern concept[…]
From: Jason Dear Rabbi, What is the reason for reciting Song of Songs on Passover. What’s the connection? Dear Jason, It is customary to read Song of Songs on the first night of Passover at the end of the Seder. In the Diaspora where the Seder is repeated on the second night, the reading of[…]
From: Rachel Dear Rabbi, Wine is used throughout the Jewish year for different occasions and for different purposes. It’s my understanding that any type and color of wine can be used for these different occasions. Is this so regarding the four cups at the Seder, or must they be red? Dear Rachel, The mitzva of[…]
From: Marcell Dear Rabbi, Must the search for chametz before Passover be done only with a candle? If so, why? If not, what else can be used? Thanks. Dear Marcell, The search for chametz is performed by the light of a single candle. A torch which has many wicks, or a large flame, may not[…]
From: Samuel Dear Rabbi, Am I allowed to walk past a shul without going inside? Would doing so be disrespectful? Should I go another way if possible? Dear Samuel, The Talmud (Berachot 8b) discusses this question by saying that one may not walk past a shul at the time the community is praying without going[…]