From: Laura Dear Rabbi, What is the reason that we split the middle matza on Passover. Normally, we’re so careful to use whole loaves for Shabbat and Holiday meals. Thanks for clarifying. Dear Laura, Before answering why we do the matza split, the point you make about whole loaves is exactly why we use three[…]
From: Adam Dear Rabbi, Why is science so harmful and unharmonious with G‑d’s Creation? Would a Torah approach to science be better for the world? If so, shouldn’t Jews set an example by being a “Light unto the Nations” in this regard as well? Dear Adam, I don’t agree that science, per se, is harmful[…]
From: Gamliel Dear Rabbi, I was told that the coat worn by Litvish rabbis is called a “kapote”. Is there any difference between those worn by Litvaks, and those worn by Chasidim – e.g., Lubavitch, Satmar, Ger – on weekdays? While I often see lay-Chasidim wearing long coats, I’ve rarely come across any pictures of[…]
From: Wanda Dear Rabbi, Would you please clarify for me what a woman’s obligations are in prayer? Is it the same as for men, or different? Might it vary depending on whether she’s single or married, with children or without? Dear Wanda, This is a very interesting question, with varying approaches in the classical commentaries[…]
From: Tobi Dear Rabbi, My sister has given birth to a boy, and we are wondering about the custom of what we’ve been told is called “Shalom Zachor”, which seems to be some type of home-welcoming for the baby held on Shabbat. What is the reason for this custom? Where is the ceremony held and[…]
From: Ari Dear Rabbi, With all due respect, is it necessary or encouraged to consult with a rabbi for everything? Can’t a person have some independence and make decisions for himself? And even if he ends up making the wrong decisions, he’d learn from his mistakes and at least develop the ability to make the[…]
From: Name Withheld Dear Rabbi, We are a Jewish couple with a two-and-a-half year old “chewish” dog that is our only “child.” She is very clean, very lovable and pretty well-behaved. My wife wants her to sleep in our room every night with us. I don’t think it’s appropriate. I think the bedroom should be[…]
From: Henry Dear Rabbi, I know there is a special mitzva on Purim to give to the poor, but I’m not sure why. What’s the connection between the poor and Purim, and what are some of the specifics on how the mitzva is to be performed. Thanks for your time. Dear Henry, One particular aspect[…]
From: Amy Dear Rabbi, I work for an Orthodox health care professional. I was wondering if the laws of “yichud” [the prohibition of a man and woman being together in private] apply in the workplace. I am asking because all day long the front door to the office is open and patients come through; however,[…]
From: Barbara Dear Rabbi, Are the statements from the late Rav Shach which sound anti-Chasidic in fact an expression of his opposition to Chasidism, or were they separate comments having nothing to do with the earlier, historical contentions of Mitnagdim and Chasidim which I thought had been resolved and were over? Dear Barbara, It is[…]