From: Susan in CO Dear Rabbi, Lately it seems that I am being sent “signs” that I should look more into my Jewish roots, but I am reluctant to because of Judaism’s repressive attitude toward spirituality for women. I would appreciate any insights you can offer me on this topic. Thanks. Dear Susan, That fact[…]
From: Mark in TX Dear Rabbi, I remember something about the occurrence of the number seven in connection with the Succot Holiday. Would you please refresh my childhood memory? Dear Mark, Succot occurs in the month of Tishrei, which is the seventh month of the year. Like other sevens in Judaism, this indicates the elevated[…]
From: I. Frankel Dear Rabbi, Our shul faces east, whereas Jerusalem is southeast from our city. Almost everyone faces east except for one or two people who face southeast. Is it more important to face a bit more in the right direction, or not to be different from (and maybe disrespectful to) the vast majority[…]
From: Andrea in St. Louis Dear Rabbi, I know there are certain times and holidays when it is appropriate to recall the memory of the departed. I was wondering if Yom Kippur is one of those times since we ask of G‑d’s forgiveness, or if Yom Kippur applies only to the living. If appropriate, I[…]
From: Naftali in Denver Dear Rabbi, Is Rosh Hashana important only because of its being the Day of Judgment, or is there some other significance to the day as well, such as we find regarding other holidays where several important things happened or are associated with that day? Dear Naftali, Rosh Hashana is on the[…]
From: Mike in Madison, WI Dear Rabbi, Jews are prohibited from worshiping idols. They also have to destroy them. Does this mean that we should be breaking archeological artifacts of great value, or destroy idols we encounter in restaurants or during travel? I don’t think that would go over so well with those who value[…]
From: Anonymous Dear Rabbi, To be honest, I am not a very giving person. I know I am more of a taker than a giver. Most people consider this a bad thing, but really I think it makes more sense. Still, I was wondering if you had any insights for me. Dear Anonymous, There was[…]
From: Alex in Chicago Dear Rabbi, I always thought that Jerusalem is the one and only holy city in Judaism. Is it true that other cities in Israel are also holy? Dear Alex, The entire Land of Israel is considered holy, and therefore all cities in Israel are considered holy by virtue of their being[…]
From: Terry in London Dear Rabbi, There is a lot about Judaism that makes sense to me. However, there is one thing that I just don’t understand. Why don’t religious people serve in the Israeli Army? Isn’t it a mitzva to protect the Jewish people and maintain control over the Land of Israel? Dear Terry,[…]
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[…]