From: Chad in MI Dear Rabbi, A friend of mine from college recently went to a talk by an Orthodox rabbi who made a reference to the Resurrection of the Dead in the context of the class. When he told me about it, I was shocked. I always thought Resurrection was a Christian belief. Does[…]
From: Dave Criss Dear Rabbi, What is the difference between “Lamed Vavniks” (the thirty-six secret righteous Jews in each generation) and the generic “Tzadik nistar” (hidden righteous person)? Dear David, The thirty-six are referred to as “lamed vav tzadikim” according to the numerical equivalent of the letters ‘lamed’ (thirty) and ‘vav’ (six). The idea is[…]
From: Terrett in Miami Dear Rabbi, I have trouble with two apparent contradictions to wit: Judaism is less about faith and more about action. Yet we are to have faith that the instructions for our actions are immutable and divinely inspired. What gives? Also, we have free will and this is why G‑d does not[…]
From: Paula Sharfe Dear Rabbi, Friends and I heard that one should not allow a baby in its first year to look into mirrors. We have been unsuccessful in finding a source for this and would appreciate it if you could help us. Thank you. Dear Paula, I’ve heard this as well, with different versions[…]
From: Name Withheld in New York Dear Rabbi, My son is marrying, G‑d willing, in June and we have heard of a pre-marriage ceremony called “The Breaking of the Plate.” Would you be so kind as to share the significance of this ceremony as well as the actual performance (ritual).Thank you. Dear Name Withheld, First,[…]
From: Ken Cohen Dear Rabbi, Is playing live music, namely a guitar, allowed during services on Shabbat or holidays. If not, why? Thank You. Dear Ken, Musical instruments play a very important role in Torah. They were used by the prophets to put them in the correct frame of mind to receive prophecy, they are[…]
From: Jack Dear Rabbi, Hi. I have a question for the rabbi. My digital camera has a function that allows me to take 2 photos, and combine them into one. In other words, I can take 2 pictures, one of one person from the neck up, and a second photo of a second person from[…]
From: Liron in L.A. Dear Rabbi, Doesn’t the verse, “Be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth and subdue it; have dominion over…every living thing” (Genesis 1:28) seem to teach disrespect and egocentric insensitivity to the environment. What is Judaism’s attitude to environmental issues? Dear Liron, The idea you suggest was promoted by Arnold Toynbee[…]