From: Ian Dear Rabbi, It seems to me that in addition to literature in the form of instructive stories, there is a fair representation of music and other artistic forms mentioned in the Torah, and applied in the service of G‑d in the Temple, and on other occasions. But it strikes me that theater doesn’t[…]
From: Phillip Dear Rabbi, The wife of one of my neighbors recently passed away and he is currently sitting shiva. I know it is a mitzva to console a mourner, aside from being a kind thing to do. But I am very uncomfortable in those types of situations and would rather not do it. Since[…]
From: Allen Dear Rabbi, It seems to me that the ancient Greeks promoted good things like Science, the Arts and Physical fitness. Why does Chanuka “celebrate” the opposition to, and victory against, ancient Greek culture? Dear Allen, The ancient Greeks are viewed as descending from Yafet, the son of Noach. The name Yafet is related[…]
From: Scott Dear Rabbi, I was wondering if from a Torah point of view Judaism considers either Christianity or Islam as an extension of itself, and which of those religions is considered closest to Judaism? Dear Scott, It is undisputable that Judaism pre-dates both Christianity and Islam (the Revelation at Sinai being app. 1300-2000 years[…]
From: Chava Dear Rabbi, It seems to me that the right side is usually given precedence in performing mitzvot. Why is the Chanuka menora lit on the left side of the doorway? Dear Chava, Many people nowadays light inside the house either on a table or in the window. But it is correct that according[…]
From: Gregg Dear Rabbi, The regular prayers are recited three-times daily. There is basically the same wording for morning, afternoon and evening prayer. I am wondering if there is nevertheless any difference between them? Thanks for your consideration. Dear Gregg, The source for the wording of the formal, standing silent prayer, which is the central[…]
From: [Name Withheld] Dear Rabbi, Can a girl ask a boy to marry with her? Is it against the “tzniut” law if a girl does this? I am a religious girl living in Iran and I am 26 years old. He is my colleague and also he is a Talmid Hakham. Dear [Name Withheld], You may[…]
From: Sarah Dear Rabbi, Thank G‑d, my husband and I are expecting our first child. I don’t mind if it’s a boy or a girl, but I have a feeling that my husband wants a boy, and so too with our families. Is there any basis in Judaism for this preference? I’ll be happy with[…]
From: Shlomo Dear Rabbi, With all of the terrible attacks taking place in Israel and Jerusalem, I am confused about what the proper Jewish approach or response should be. Should we, or is it permitted, to feel fear? Should we, or is it permitted, to take precautions? If so, what would they be and what[…]
From: Darren Dear Rabbi, My question is about praying to find one’s soulmate. What I’m wondering is if it’s the soulmate, why should we pray for it? Since it’s divinely ordained, shouldn’t it happen whether we pray or not? And if it’s something that we should pray for, wouldn’t that imply that it might not[…]