From: Tomer Dear Rabbi, I am intrigued by the role of the lion in Judaism. On the one hand, it’s not kosher. But on the other, it seems to represent holy concepts. One, for example, is the Tribe of Judah. Can you please explain? Dear Tomer, It is correct that the lion is not kosher,[…]
From: Mathew Dear Rabbi, Is there some kind of promise that all Jews will be in the World to Come? Some kind of “spiritual green card”? This doesn’t make complete sense to me. Isn’t the World to Come something that one has to earn? Dear Matthew, Your intuition is right. There’s no favoritism regarding entry[…]
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: 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: Dennis Dear Rabbi, I often hear people use the phrase “bli neder” which I understand means something like “without an oath”. I’m confused as to why people say this, when it applies and when not, and under what circumstances it’s supposed to be said. Not understanding this and trying to use the phrase myself[…]
From: Eric Dear Rabbi, We are taught that the value of Torah exceeds everything. In general, I feel that I do value Torah. But it’s hard for me to gauge what that means practically and how I might actually express that. Does it mean that I should be willing to live in poverty, or suffer[…]
From: Aharon Dear Rabbi, Why wasn’t the Torah given in the Land of Israel? Since the Land was given by G‑d to the Jews to be a holy nation in their own Holy Land, wouldn’t it seem to make more sense for them to receive the holy Torah in such a holy place as Israel[…]
From: Gabe Dear Rabbi, Since the prayers were instituted by the rabbis of the Talmud did Jews not pray before that time? Or if they did, how? Dear Gabe, Before the Sages instituted the formal prayers we know today, Jews prayed according to the Torah. What does this mean? For one, when discussing the basis[…]
From: Alan Dear Rabbi, I am very intrigued by the breast plate of the High Priest and was wondering whether it could be fashioned nowadays or whether it was only something of the past, or otherwise relevant only if there is a Temple or priestly service? Dear Alan, I agree that the High Priest’s breast[…]