Author: admin777
Meaning of Tu b’Shevat
From: Michael in Chicago Dear Rabbi, I saw an ad on campus about a Tu b’Shevat celebration. What is Tu b’Shevat and what is its significance? Thank you. Dear Michael, “Tu” is the word formed by the Hebrew letters ‘tet’ and ‘vav’. Since in the mystical tradition each Hebrew letter also has a numerical value,[…]
Origin of the Torah
From: Michael F. Dear Rabbi, I believe that the “Five Books of Moses” comprise the Torah. How and when do we believe we received the Torah? Was it given to us directly from G‑d? Was it dictated to Moses or someone else? Was it passed on orally for years and then committed to writing at[…]
Ohr Somayach
From: Many Readers Dear Rabbi, What is the meaning and significance of the name of your fine yeshiva, “Ohr Somayach”? Dear Many Readers, Our yeshiva was named after one of the works of Rabbi Meir Simcha HaCohen of Dvinsk (1843-1926), one of the most unique Torah giants of this century. His renowned Ohr Somayach is[…]
A Friend in Need
From: Jon in Atlanta Dear Rabbi, Sometimes when people ask me for help with something, I’d rather not do it and I try to avoid them. Sometimes I feel it’s justified if I really have no time, or if I’m not feeling well. But other times I just don’t want to help because I’m lazy,[…]
Prayer – Is G-d Listening?
From: Sharon in London Dear Rabbi, I realize that G‑d controls everything. Therefore I pray to Him that He help me in whatever I do, even for the small, insignificant things. The problem is, He doesn’t seem to hear. Why isn’t G‑d answering my prayers? Dear Sharon, It is very good that you realize the[…]
Kabbala
Kabbala From: David Z. Dear Rabbi, What is Kabbala and its history in Judaism? May we learn Kabbala today? Dear David, Kabbala literally means “received” because true understanding of it is only possible through tradition handed down from master to disciple. Also known as Sod, (meaning secret) or Sitrei Torah, (the hidden aspects of Torah),[…]
Dog Gone Pets
From: Margie in MA Dear Rabbi, Why do religious people seem to have an aversion to pets? Dear Margie, Your question is not a petty one. There are undoubtedly significant benefits to owning pets. Children can learn responsibility and sensitivity by caring for pets. Pets bring joy into the home and also can provide company[…]
Holy and Kadosh
From: Jeffrey B. Sidney Dear Rabbi, Many of the seemingly simple things leave me wondering. We use the word “kadosh” or “holy” often in our prayers, as in the kedushah or in the third blessing of the shemoneh esreh. But what does it mean? I have asked knowledgeable individuals a number of times over the[…]
Torah and a Living
From: Scott in Dallas, TX Dear Rabbi, I was told that according to Jewish Law a person must work for a living. If so, how do those people who only study Torah all day justify their lifestyles? Dear Scott, At first glance it would seem that what you were told is correct. Rambam (Talmud Torah,[…]