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Conservative Judaism/Questions Answered by Expert Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner
| Subject | Date Asked |
| Suffering | 1/23/2012 |
| Q: I read your response to Jewish suffering where you quote Rabbi Kushner's book. I have read this book ... A: real issue for you and not just theoretical. First of all, I can't compete with fundamentalist ... | |
| Aliyahs | 1/9/2012 |
| Q: My son is becoming a bar mitzvah next month and we are choosing those who will have an aliyah. I ... A: My delay was to do some research. While I cannot find any explicit instruction to deny an aliyah ... | |
| Black Jews--looking for experts | 12/20/2011 |
| Q: Greetings, Rabbi... A Google search for "experts on Black Jews" brought up your name and your ... A: I have had a number of experiences, which were positive. If you are asking about the "Black Jews" ... | |
| Isaiah 7:14 | 12/16/2011 |
| Q: I was reading about the debate among Jews and Christians concerning Isaiah 7:14. How is it a sign if ... A: The most important answer is not one of polemics or apologetics but rather basic Biblical Hebrew - ... | |
| blood taboo | 12/4/2011 |
| Q: An article the news recently about whether animals should be stunned first before being slaughtered ... A: I appreciate your gracious reply. There is little I can add. Modern Jews who are not vegetarians ... | |
| blood taboo | 12/3/2011 |
| Q: An article the news recently about whether animals should be stunned first before being slaughtered ... A: I've written a brief response to this subject to which you are welcome to consider: ... | |
| star of david | 11/29/2011 |
| Q: Rabbi, thanks for making your expertise publicly available. I am a Christian. I have two unrelated ... A: Regarding the second question, I would remind you first that I am a Conservative Rabbi, a modern or ... | |
| Tithing | 11/29/2011 |
| Q: Do Jews still tithe? If so, when did it become money? If not, when and why did they stop. A: It is a challenging and technical subject, and to be very honest I don't feel adequately qualified ... | |
| Sabbath observance for non-Jews | 11/17/2011 |
| Q: I am a former Christian who is planning to convert to Judaism. I have believed for much of my life ... A: Obviously you would do best to meet with a local Rabbi to begin a discussion about the elements that ... | |
| Peter McKeand | 10/16/2011 |
| Q: It brings me great sadness to share with you that Peter McKeand who wrote to you 3 years ago ... A: While I am grateful to know about Peter's passing, it is a very sad moment. I didn't know your ... | |
| Headcovering | 9/14/2011 |
| Q: This may sound like an odd question, but here goes: if it is common knowlege that a man wears a ... A: Not a new question but always interesting. If the head is covered - and different groups have ... | |
| Terminally ill Reform convert | 9/13/2011 |
| Q: I am a 58 year old woman with inoperable Stage IV cancer, and despite having undergone chemotherapy ... A: Your letters are among the high-points of this month if not year. It reminds me of how important it ... | |
| Terminally ill Reform convert | 9/12/2011 |
| Q: I am a 58 year old woman with inoperable Stage IV cancer, and despite having undergone chemotherapy ... A: and I hurt for your situation. I'm not a kid myself and I've struggled with various terminal ... | |
| brothers | 9/9/2011 |
| Q: Both my brothers are of the Jewish faith. I am not. My sister in law said to me, Jews do not go ... A: and you've raised a fundamental question about Jewish belief and Jewish expectations of practice. ... | |
| a question about bible history | 8/25/2011 |
| Q: what was the real reason that God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, I know that gays were in the land, ... A: A tough question because there is a great deal of literature and commentary. I would urge that you ... | |
| Validity of my Jewishness | 8/21/2011 |
| Q: Shalom, Orthodox Judaism recently questioned my Jewishness and stated I need to complete ... A: and you raise a most important issue in the Jewish community. Several answers follow. 1. I can't ... | |
| vegetarianism | 7/18/2011 |
| Q: Shalom! What does judaismthinkof vegetarianism? A: Vegetarianism is a positive life discipline within Jewish current and historical practice. Notable ... | |
| Planting a tree for a birthday | 7/12/2011 |
| Q: Five of us friends went together to get a friend, she is Jewish though she does not attend services, ... A: In brief, it is a misconception that trees are planted only in memory of someone. If you share the ... | |
| New Home Customs | 7/10/2011 |
| Q: In a few days time I will be moving into a new home. My question involves customary greetings or ... A: Mazal Tov on your new change in residence. Your question raises some interesting issues. In terms ... | |
| Conversion in the military? | 6/14/2011 |
| Q: Shalom Rabbi Lerner, I am joining the US Army this year and wondering if it's possible to convert ... A: I would encourage you not to "define" your faith or to continue in your present approach tyo ... | |
| Ezra | 6/14/2011 |
| Q: Do Jewish people believe Ezra is the son of God? A: Jewish people do not believe that anyone is "son of God," or that anyone has divinity. God is unique ... | |
| "jewish name" | 6/12/2011 |
| Q: I am a teacher in middle schools and sometimes I am asked by a student "is that a Jewish name?" ... A: Neither of us will ever know what is behind the questions we are asked and the unspoken questions of ... | |
| Conversion Proccess ? | 6/9/2011 |
| Q: Shalom, Rabbi Lerner ! I am 18 years old, and have recently discovered that Judaism is the right ... A: Please forgive me delay in answering because I truly know how important this question is to you. ... | |
| Beards in Jewish culture | 5/6/2011 |
| Q: I am researching into the cultural beliefs and tradition in all religions regarding beards for my ... A: but it is policy not to answer school work. I urge you to use online resources, one of which is ... | |
| Kipah (Head Covering), The | 5/5/2011 |
| Q: I was watching a documentary at least a movie, it was about a young child who happened to have down ... A: I thought it was so. It is a documentary about a real young man. I will attach a comment I found on ... | |
| Kipah (Head Covering), The | 5/5/2011 |
| Q: I was watching a documentary at least a movie, it was about a young child who happened to have down ... A: Your question unfortunately is based on a film. If you would or could send me the name of the film I ... | |
| annointing bodies | 5/1/2011 |
| Q: At the time of Jesus was the anointing of the body done by relatives, males, females? A: I'm now in the process of researching the sources which appear to be very limited in both text and ... | |
| Tradition of putting stones on graves | 4/1/2011 |
| Q: I know there are many reasons (have read them) of putting stones on graves or on the headstones. I ... A: No, I had not heard this notion that the putting of stones-on-stones would fore-shadow the ... | |
| Conservative judaism | 3/29/2011 |
| Q: I come from a traditional/orthodox Iranian family. Over the last few years most of my friends have ... A: If you are searching for a Conservative congregation that meets your standards of what is halachah ... | |
| Atonement | 3/18/2011 |
| Q: Rabbi Dov, I was told that the Hebrew people never looked at sacrifice as an atonement for ... A: but you have asked a very sophisticated yet complicated question. In different ages - Biblical, ... | |
| Marry a Divorced Man | 3/16/2011 |
| Q: I am Marrying a divorced man. Am I going to have a problem finding a Rabbi to marry us? A: You may have some trouble if your fiance hasn't given his ex a Jewish divorce. Regarding a Jewish ... | |
| forks | 3/13/2011 |
| Q: I work in the banquet department at a Hotel and we are having our first Bnai Mitzvah in our ballroom ... A: I don't completely understand the question, and I do professional kosher supervision for caterers in ... | |
| Unclean Animals | 3/11/2011 |
| Q: I am doing a study on the Clean & Unclean animals and I am confused by Leviticus 11:27 "And ... A: There are two major sections describing kosher/permitted animals: Leviticus 11:3-8 and Deuteronomy ... | |
| A.A. and false gods | 3/4/2011 |
| Q: I am in alcoholics anonymous and many of the people rely on false gods to get them sober and yet the ... A: Please bear with me as the explanation and background is as important as just a simple answer. 2000 ... | |
| A.A. and false gods | 3/2/2011 |
| Q: I am in alcoholics anonymous and many of the people rely on false gods to get them sober and yet the ... A: Yours is not an easy question, and it requires a bit of my understanding your own faith affiliation ... | |
| Jewish Terms | 2/22/2011 |
| Q: It has been a long time. Happy your still there. Jewish Hebraisms, Jewish Idioms is there a ... A: Regarding your first question, I truly don't understand what you mean. I would need examples of each ... | |
| headstone inscription for Mother | 2/20/2011 |
| Q: Am having difficulty figuring out what to have inscribed on Mother's headstone. She lived a very ... A: Sorry for any delay, and I hope you will understand. The consensus of all my questions in terms of ... | |
| conversion | 2/17/2011 |
| Q: If my mother was Jewish but she converted to a Christian, what would be my religion? Similarly, if ... A: I wish I could give you a simple, clear answer. I am appending an op-ed by a colleague from a recent ... | |
| head covering for women | 2/14/2011 |
| Q: My daughter is married and has 2 very young children. She enjoys going to her Conservative synagogue ... A: and this sounds as though it could be rather easily resolved. First of all, we are all grateful ... | |
| Resurrection | 2/10/2011 |
| Q: Hope you're doing well! I just have a question, it concerns Jewish conceptions of the resurrection. ... A: Shavuah Tov. Sorry for the delay but I had to do research on your question - very interesting. I've ... | |
| Hi | 2/1/2011 |
| Q: First of all thank you for taking time to read my question! We just lost a close member of the ... A: My first response is to urge you to contact either the family Rabbi or the Rabbi officiated at the ... | |
| distance learning smicha program | 1/28/2011 |
| Q: could you recommend me any distance learning smicha programs which are serious and comitted ? ... A: and I would urge you to contact Rabbi Chaim Wiener in London - "Rabbi Chaim Weiner" ... | |
| Talmud | 1/21/2011 |
| Q: I am a fifty-four year old married man who has cause to believe that he may be of Jewish descent. ... A: Certainly you may share an exact copy of what I wrote, or he can look it up on this site. It was not ... | |
| Talmud | 1/19/2011 |
| Q: I am a fifty-four year old married man who has cause to believe that he may be of Jewish descent. ... A: Once again, I can't accept any responsibility for Jewish "leaders" who espouse racist, ... | |
| Specific customs / daily practices / rituals and patient care | 1/16/2011 |
| Q: currently working on a research paper about Judaism and I can't seem to find anything on how jewish ... A: I'm frankly surprised that a book doesn't exist for hospital professionals that enables them to be ... | |
| Not circumcising | 1/9/2011 |
| Q: We are expecting our first born very soon. After deep examination of the history of Bris Milah, ... A: First of all, thank you for writing. Secondly, mazal tov and as we say in Hebrew, "b'sha-ah tovah," ... | |
| PROPHETS | 1/4/2011 |
| Q: My question is about the nature,or, person of the prophets. I have recently finished reading the ... A: This analysis of a human psyche from the texts transmitted to us in multiple languages in various ... | |
| Talmud | 1/2/2011 |
| Q: I am a fifty-four year old married man who has cause to believe that he may be of Jewish descent. ... A: First, we need to establish a context for the kinds of statements you mention. Rabbinic literature, ... | |
| A Jewish Family | 12/24/2010 |
| Q: Somewhere I read about Jewish culture and traditions, that, just upon being married, the couple are ... A: The general belief in Jewish culture today is that upon marriage, the couple have formed a ... | |
| Hebrew Custom | 12/21/2010 |
| Q: Why was age of such a concern among the Hebrew nation? If U could help me to understand I really ... A: I'd be delighted to share some thoughts with you, but I want to be sure of your question. Are you ... | |
| Moving | 12/1/2010 |
| Q: Is there one day of the week that's luckier to move? My cousin and I remember a superstition from ... A: Yes, there is such a superstition, based upon the use of the words "and God saw that it was good” ... | |
| Christmas Celebration | 11/30/2010 |
| Q: My son is engaged to a woman that practices conservative judaism. We have requested her presence at ... A: and this is a very complicated but becoming a more frequent situation. I would offer several ... | |
| Jewish Funeral etiquette | 11/30/2010 |
| Q: i was at a Jewish funeral yesterday, and out of respect, i put on a Yamaka. (I am not Jewish). I was ... A: Your concern just like your decision is admirable and appreciated by me and I am sure by everyone at ... | |
| prayer before eating | 11/27/2010 |
| Q: Is it customary in Conservative Judaism to say a prayer before dinner, and if so, precisely what ... A: In most every synagogue prayerbook you will find the various blessings that customarily recited ... | |
| Blood sacrifices in the Temple | 11/23/2010 |
| Q: Did blood sacrifices in the Temple on Yom Kippur, operate on the principle of substitution: an ... A: I obviously have still a great deal to learn - and I will read about Philadelphians in the future ... | |
| Blood sacrifices in the Temple | 11/20/2010 |
| Q: Did blood sacrifices in the Temple on Yom Kippur, operate on the principle of substitution: an ... A: I would be delighted to respond, but I'm not quite certain I understand your question. Animal ... | |
| dual faith burials | 11/14/2010 |
| Q: Rabbi, I am a member of my synagogue task force exploring then possibility of defining a portion of ... A: but I believe it would be inappropriate for me to provide opinions or even legal "advice" to a ... | |
| unveiling | 11/14/2010 |
| Q: I understand the structure of the service as you presented it in response to a previous inquirer. I ... A: It's always a challenge to answer questions about death, burial and human loss. Regarding the ... | |
| the prophets | 11/3/2010 |
| Q: I would like to know if when the prophets spoke, in particular when they expressed sadness over ... A: Above all, there is more than one possible response but no "answer" on which all will agree. We will ... | |
| stained glass windows | 10/31/2010 |
| Q: Our beautiful conservative synagogue has 12 panels of magnificent stained glass which we must ... A: Some of the classic stained glass is truly magnificent. The best advice is to contact the METNY ... | |
| burnt offering | 10/28/2010 |
| Q: In this week's Torah portion Abraham says to his son "Don't worry about the lamb for the burnt ... A: This will have to be my final post - I am sorry - but time does not permit me to continue this ... | |
| which Image | 10/27/2010 |
| Q: Shalom Rabbi, Please can you tell me the answer to my question. Who was G-d talking to, when G-d ... A: but in order to answer I have to ask a few questions first. 1. Would you identify yourself as an ... | |
| burnt offering | 10/24/2010 |
| Q: In this week's Torah portion Abraham says to his son "Don't worry about the lamb for the burnt ... A: First of all, please remember that I am responding as a Conservative Rabbi, and not as a Bible ... | |
| burnt offering | 10/24/2010 |
| Q: In this week's Torah portion Abraham says to his son "Don't worry about the lamb for the burnt ... A: The text of Genesis 22:1ff is rather clear. Abraham is told to take his son and offer him as a olah ... | |
| Inspiration | 10/20/2010 |
| Q: I am writing an article which is to be published in a magasine aimed at Jewish families. I would ... A: I'd like to help but I would need to know more about your project and details about you, your ... | |
| grave marker | 9/25/2010 |
| Q: My father died a number of years ago and my mother had a grave stone made for him which included the ... A: after Sukkot and Shabbat, 3 days in a row of synagogue, sukkah meals! The phrase you sent me is ... | |
| Symbol | 9/22/2010 |
| Q: 52 yrs old, Roman Catholic, just asking outta curiosity in order to be able to see both sides of an ... A: In general, there are many Jews who would be offended, especially if there is no explanation for the ... | |
| Symbol | 9/21/2010 |
| Q: 52 yrs old, Roman Catholic, just asking outta curiosity in order to be able to see both sides of an ... A: With some additional information I might be able to be helpful, or at least offer an opinion. Where ... | |
| Continuing... | 9/20/2010 |
| Q: The form said I've asked too many questions. I thank you for your time. You asked where I live. I'm ... A: Several things in summing up this thread. 1. I understand that the form has told you "enough" but ... | |
| Shabbat times | 9/20/2010 |
| Q: Did Hillel II change the timing of Shabbat? Was it once based on the New Moon? Are we honoring the ... A: They are not assumed but are very welcome. Regarding your friend, be careful. People often present ... | |
| Shabbat times | 9/19/2010 |
| Q: Did Hillel II change the timing of Shabbat? Was it once based on the New Moon? Are we honoring the ... A: I'm taking the unusual approach to followup your very kind evaluation of my response for two ... | |
| Shabbat times | 9/18/2010 |
| Q: Did Hillel II change the timing of Shabbat? Was it once based on the New Moon? Are we honoring the ... A: Shavuah Tov and let it be a shanah tovah What do you mean by "change the timing of Shabbat" - the ... | |
| sabbath | 8/19/2010 |
| Q: Shalom! Can a rabbi work on the day of sabbath? I mean, if they don't work then the synagouge must ... A: and I admit that in translation of "work" into English it would appear confusing or even ... | |
| Burial protocol | 8/13/2010 |
| Q: Rabbi, I am a Funeral Director who has a burial at Mt. Lebanon Cemetery in Glendale, NY on Monday. ... A: I understand that often non-Jewish funeral directors are asked to serve in a Jewish funeral and/or ... | |
| Tombstone inscription | 7/23/2010 |
| Q: My father recently passed away and we are starting to think about the cemetery marker. On my ... A: HOW KIND OF YOU TO REMEMBER ME AND BARBARA. GERSON ZT"L WAS A DEAR FRIEND AND TEACHER AND IMHO A ... | |
| Jewish attendance at funeral | 7/13/2010 |
| Q: I have a conservative Christian acquaintance who says he had a bad experience with Jews years ago ... A: Unfortunately, there is no simple and direct way to resolve the "anger" of another person which is ... | |
| Jesus | 6/29/2010 |
| Q: why dont you take Jesus as God? what is Judaism's view on jesus deity, what is the proof that he is ... A: but the questions require a book to answer. It would appear that you are asking as a Christian who ... | |
| A Number in Scripture | 6/20/2010 |
| Q: Gen 14:14 states: "When Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he called out the 318 ... A: however I'd like to have a bit of background before answering; I want the answer to fit your needs. ... | |
| Sale of shul | 6/15/2010 |
| Q: If a congregation must disband because there are few members left and the shul must be sold, by ... A: The most responsible answer I can provide is to contact the movement/denomination with which you ... | |
| The dedication headstone ceremony | 6/11/2010 |
| Q: What is the meaning of this ceremony and the importance for relatives like a sister of a son of a ... A: Generally, speaking for American Jewry although there is some overlap with other Western European ... | |
| Court of Women | 6/8/2010 |
| Q: I am asking for some clarification on a previous Q&A. It was asked: "Was the Court of the Women ... A: As I wrote earlier, while we do have some architectural dimensions we know very little about the ... | |
| video: Against All Odds | 5/22/2010 |
| Q: Have you seen this amazing series looking at miracles that helped Israel gain independence? What a ... A: but you really are asking for quite a lot. Before I can completely answer, would you please write me ... | |
| kidnapping.. | 5/20/2010 |
| Q: me again! if i remember correctly, kidnapping is a sin punishable by death. but does the torah mean ... A: While I am flattered by your many questions, this will be my last answer. Your questions can be ... | |
| death and heaven | 5/19/2010 |
| Q: I would like to know where Jews go after death and what is the meaning of seven heavens. A: We had a death in the family. There is no definitive answer to your question, while there has been ... | |
| false testimony.. | 5/10/2010 |
| Q: it is a sin to give false testimony against your neighbor. but does this include opinions on the ... A: While I am delighted to answer a specific question, your note is "very involved." With this ... | |
| Ring | 5/10/2010 |
| Q: Rabbi, My wedding ring has a phrase written in Hebrew ("This is he who my soul loves"). I had never ... A: I must admit that I am unusually grateful for your question as I never thought about the "direction" ... | |
| talesim and women | 5/7/2010 |
| Q: While I am conservadox.....my own variation that makes me comfortable in a mixed seating, women ... A: Glad I could help. No, with tallit and tefillen I would not allow someone to lead services. The ... | |
| talesim and women | 5/6/2010 |
| Q: While I am conservadox.....my own variation that makes me comfortable in a mixed seating, women ... A: My own opinions would be but my opinions. The Rabbi of your congregation is your final authority. I ... | |
| marriage | 5/6/2010 |
| Q: i was wondering if arranged marriage is the norm in judaism? i saw a movie called "keeping the ... A: Arranged marriages are not the norm for the vast majority of modern Judaism. There are some selected ... | |
| judaism | 5/4/2010 |
| Q: I am doing certificate 3 in aged care so i am doing Judaism as my assignment so would be very ... A: but. . . We do not answer questions which are intended to be a student's assignment. Therefore, ... | |
| resource for Jewish customs | 4/29/2010 |
| Q: I want to understand the Pentateuch in light of it's historical context. Can you recommend a ... A: However, answering your question is a challenge on several counts: 1. I would need to know more ... | |
| ??? | 4/21/2010 |
| Q: I was wondering if you could be a Jew be born in Israel and all, but celebrate Christmas and believe ... A: Anyone born in Israel to an Israeli citizen is an Israeli. A child born to an Israeli Christian is ... | |
| ??? | 4/20/2010 |
| Q: I was wondering if you could be a Jew be born in Israel and all, but celebrate Christmas and believe ... A: The rules are essentially the same for anyone born to a Jewish mother in Israel or any other ... | |
| Jewish Preferences | 4/16/2010 |
| Q: Rabbi, forgive my ignorance, but a question arose recently that seemed innocent enough but on ... A: You are to be congratulated for thinking and asking questions which is characteristic of Jewish ... | |
| Headstone cloth prior to an unveiling | 4/16/2010 |
| Q: Good day Rabbi I stand in awe of the Jewish religion and see it as thee most sincere & revered ... A: Customs vary as to the "exact cloth" used n covering the headstone, such that during a dedication ... | |
| Haifa in the Tanakh | 4/15/2010 |
| Q: Is Haifa mentioned in the Tanakh? If yes, where and in what context. Also if mentioned what has it ... A: I'm a bit curious as "Haifa" in Google has the answer many-times over. Is there any reason for your ... | |
| Burial Napkin?? | 4/12/2010 |
| Q: What is the purpose for the burial napkin (?) in the first place? Is there a cloth that covers the ... A: Please help me to help you by sharing with me why you are asking the question. If the word "napkin" ... | |
| Eve and Adam's Rib | 4/7/2010 |
| Q: Rabbi Lerner, I was wondering about Eve being created from the rib of Adam. Is there any ... A: Please understand that I am responding as a Conservative Rabbi, meaning that I stand with one foot ... | |
| is conversion a necessity? | 3/31/2010 |
| Q: My son, who is a baptized, confirmed Presbyterian, wants to marry a Conservative Jewish woman. Must ... A: and this is a most personal situation for your families. Conversion from a Jewish point of view can ... | |
| Birkhat Hamazon | 3/22/2010 |
| Q: When was Psalm 26 added to the Grace After Meals? I'm continuing my research into the evolution of ... A: when was the text added into an accepted practice. According to Jacob Friedman, Psalm 126 is ... | |
| Moses? | 3/16/2010 |
| Q: Rabbi, I was watching the story of Moses on the history channel today. They said that when Moses ... A: What you have experienced on television was a script that was Biblically based but amplified with ... | |
| Women in the Rabbinate | 3/15/2010 |
| Q: What you estimate the percentage of female rabbis in Conservative Judaism to be? Do you have any ... A: It's an interesting question with several possibilities in answering: In each movement, what is the ... | |
| information | 3/10/2010 |
| Q: please brief me about the tokens as well as bodily looks coincidentally to the last prophet. A: although my time is limited and I share with many others. I hope you understand. By the time the ... | |
| valid conversion? | 3/9/2010 |
| Q: I made a Conservative conversion in 1999. I lived as a Jew until recently. I met a Rabbi in Chabad ... A: but I am frankly outraged. The first principle is that no one is to even question a Jew by Choice, ... | |
| Talmud's history | 3/6/2010 |
| Q: 1.When was the talmud written and by whom. A: The topic of authorship of the Talmud is somewhat complicated. There were two Talmuds, one Jerusalem ... | |
| sacrifice | 3/5/2010 |
| Q: Under the Law, when presenting a sin offering, did women actually have to kill the animal ... A: When animal sacrifices were used in ancient times, more than 2000 years ago the priests officiated ... | |
| Genesis 17 covenant | 2/5/2010 |
| Q: When God established His covenant with Abraham and his descendants in Genesis 17, He required every ... A: As you state, males are circumcised on the 8th day unless medically not permitted. By the way, Yom ... | |
| Questions | 2/5/2010 |
| Q: I am 26 years old and am a college student who would like to learn more about your religion to write ... A: but policy is that we don't help students with answers - too often it is a test rather than a paper ... | |
| Christians wearing Kipah's... | 2/2/2010 |
| Q: Rabbi, I was just wondering if it would be appropriate for a Christian to wear a kipah for ... A: I've dealt with this general question before, but let me be here very specific. I begin with the ... | |
| Exhumation | 1/26/2010 |
| Q: Rabbi Lerner: I am President of a local Cemetery Association and some time back, and individual ... A: and I appreciate your plight. Allow me make an suggestion and share some observations. First of ... | |
| Bridegroom at a Shiva | 1/18/2010 |
| Q: Is it OK for recently married couple to attend a shiva house of a friend or close relative? If it's ... A: This question should be first addressed to the Rabbi of the married couple, as some more ... | |
| Passover Haggadah | 1/14/2010 |
| Q: I'm giving a talk in 10 days on medieval Passover practices. I've been doing a lot of research ... A: I can't find my copy of Idelsohn on Jewish Music, which often has an explanation for various ... | |
| women on the bet din | 1/11/2010 |
| Q: As an involved and committed Conservative Jew, I was surprised to hear recently that the ... A: I thought it had been decided long ago. Properly you should speak with your Rabbi as the mara d'atra ... | |
| Defending Against Deicide | 1/5/2010 |
| Q: I'm an 18 year old Jewish college student. My level of observance is somewhere between Orthodox and ... A: I'd like to suggest two answers to your letter. 1. To begin with, if your Christian acquaintance is ... | |
| The book of Ezekiel 14; 14 | 1/2/2010 |
| Q: Shalom Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner, I do hope you will be able to answer my question. What do the ... A: and I am somewhat tardy in writing as I don't log in on Shabbat for questions to answer. I checked ... | |
| Temple | 12/17/2009 |
| Q: Rabbi, G_d bless you and your family! As a Christian, I was wondering if you (as an Orthodox Jewish ... A: G. Thank you for writing. But, I am not an Orthodox Rabbi; I am a Conservative Rabbi. I don't ... | |
| Abraham's Sons | 12/15/2009 |
| Q: 1 chronicles 1:32 says that Abraham had 6 sons with a slave woman. Now, we know that Abrahams ... A: I'm writing again because I don't think that my answer was sent before the goblins of the ... | |
| Conversion to Judaism and Jesus | 12/14/2009 |
| Q: I am a christian who is attending a messianic synagogue where jews and christians believe i b Jesus ... A: The resources you continue to quote are Christian and comes of out of what is called "messianic ... | |
| Conversion to Judaism | 12/14/2009 |
| Q: I am 14, and I have been searching for religion. I feel that I may have a Jewish soul. My maternal ... A: The best way for you to have answers to your questions is to speak with a Rabbi locally, IF your ... | |
| Hebrew Tradition on the Folded Napkin | 11/24/2009 |
| Q: I currently read an e-mail about Jesus and the folded napkin: It stated that Jesus' action of ... A: I've consulted a number of solid, academic references and can find nothing to indicate that there ... | |
| participation af parents from a ger in the chupa | 11/8/2009 |
| Q: i have been preparing for a giur for almost a year. since i am in a relationship with a jew and we ... A: I look forward to welcoming you into the Jewish People. In terms of these questions, you should use ... | |
| belief | 11/2/2009 |
| Q: Shalom Rabbi, can you tell me, do Jews believe in heaven and if so, who goes? Do Jews belief ih ... A: The anwer(s) is(are) yes and no. Judaism has a wide spectrum of beliefs or speculations about what ... | |
| Jews in churches | 10/30/2009 |
| Q: Is there a traditional prohibition against Jews setting foot into churches, not to pray, just to ... A: Yes, there are some Rabbis and movements who might say that there is a prohibition against entering ... | |
| Conversion help from the south | 10/28/2009 |
| Q: Sir, I am trying to convert to conservative Judaism, and live the rural south. I had read in a ... A: I suspect that perhaps no Rabbi is there, but not too far away is Bethe David in 804 Winview ... | |
| Halacha for cemetery ground | 10/25/2009 |
| Q: What are the procedures for sanctifying the ground for a new Jewish cemetery. In other words, what ... A: but this is an issue for a community and its Rabbi(s). I would not interfere with their authority. ... | |
| education in Biblical times | 10/22/2009 |
| Q: Could the people read in the time of Moses. Were they taught to read and when did that start. Thank ... A: A quick answer: Perhaps Moses and other privileged upper classes were tuaght to read and perhaps ... | |
| Living a Turmoil Peace | 10/18/2009 |
| Q: I was raised a Catholic, got married in the United Church (similar to Reform) converted to ... A: You've made it much easier to be of assistance. Because you and your husband are "on the same ... | |
| Mesoreic text | 10/16/2009 |
| Q: Shalom SIr, I as you probably can tell by my e-mail came to faith as an adult. I have Christian ... A: The Masoretic text is the which current, probably 11th century, which was edited by scribal groups ... | |
| weaning | 10/14/2009 |
| Q: When should a mother wean her child according to Jewish custom. A: It's a very interesting question, and I suspect that in my research that the age of weaning is less ... | |
| The meaning of this verse | 10/7/2009 |
| Q: Song of Solomon Chapter 2 Verse 3 Can you tell me what this verse means A: The text appears to be straightforward. Cohen's comments in the Soncino break up the verse: The ... | |
| Generalized beliefs on being healthy among Jewish People | 10/4/2009 |
| Q: I am currently enrolled in an Baccalaureate nursing class, and one of the assignments is to complete ... A: and I've decided to answer rather than "click" the automatic answer that we don't assist in homework ... | |
| Latin American women rabbis | 10/4/2009 |
| Q: When was approved for women to study to get ordained as rabbis in the conservative movement in Latin ... A: If I understand your question, you are asking why it took 11 years after the first ordination of a ... | |
| Christian etiquette for Jewish Funeral | 9/28/2009 |
| Q: I am a Christian and my Jewish neighbor has just passed away. I want to be as respectful as ... A: and I want to thank you for your sensitivity and friendship. Your friend indeed is blessed with your ... | |
| survival | 9/25/2009 |
| Q: I am a college student with a fascination with ancient history. Recently I have been studying ... A: I must have hit delete rather than send. Please forgive me. Secondly, there is no single ... | |
| Christians wearing yarmulka | 9/22/2009 |
| Q: I teach at a Christian school for young men. While the school is officially Christian, we have many ... A: both your students and peers. There is nothing inherently "wrong" in a non-Jew wearing a kipah ... | |
| Tree Planting Tekes | 9/21/2009 |
| Q: Rabbi: We are planting a willow tree to honor the memory of a departed member of our community. Is ... A: I am unaware of any ritual per se with planting a tree as a memorial. On the other hand, one could ... | |
| Desire the take a part in your classes via e-mail | 9/20/2009 |
| Q: "I have been trying to provide some understanding of Paul's letters, by providing the context of ... A: but I do not currently conduct classes by email. I have thought of it and might in the future. ... | |
| Burials | 9/17/2009 |
| Q: Can a widow who remarries be buried next to their deceased spouse if they choose? Also, after a ... A: This is indeed very often the question that arises for the children of the deceased. In part they ... | |
| Burials | 9/16/2009 |
| Q: Can a widow who remarries be buried next to their deceased spouse if they choose? Also, after a ... A: This is a complicated question, because it apparently deals more with local customs and personal ... | |
| Conservative View on Entering Church | 9/15/2009 |
| Q: I am a conservative Jew, with very little wiggle room. IE entering a church with nice art certainly ... A: There are those who would absolutely refuse to enter and/or authorize anyone else to enter a church, ... | |
| jewish feasts | 9/7/2009 |
| Q: i am a student of M.Th final year and these information i need for my thesis; which i need to ... A: but the quantity of information for which you are searching is extremely large and lengthy. There ... | |
| Ezekiel | 9/6/2009 |
| Q: Rabbi; In Ezekiel 4:9 the Lord gives Ezekiel a recipe for bread, then in verse 12 He says to ... A: The Soncino Biblical commentary on Ezekiel quotes A.B. Davidson who says that the use of dung was ... | |
| Judaism and Peace | 6/24/2009 |
| Q: G'day. Though Judaism has the writing of Tikkum Olam, besides this how else does Judaism promote ... A: Yes, Judaism has many different terms for the ways in which Judaism promotes peace in the world. ... | |
| Conversion | 6/5/2009 |
| Q: I am reading a book called Turbulent Souls by Stephen J. Dubner. It describes his family's history. ... A: On the one hand, traditional Jewish law has held that even if a Jew converts out of Judaism, that ... | |
| Help choosing Hebrew name? | 6/4/2009 |
| Q: Shalom Rabbi! I am looking for help. I am converting into Conservative Judaism, and have only one ... A: It would be inappropriate for me to interfere with our Rabbi and I would urge you to follow the lead ... | |
| David | 6/4/2009 |
| Q: G_d bless you Rabbi, I have been exploring King David recently. Can you give me any information ... A: Unfortunately we know very little about many of the Biblical characters except for what is in the ... | |
| To convert or not to convert | 6/4/2009 |
| Q: Shalom Rabbi Lerner, As the subject implies I am nor sure whether or not a conversion is in order. ... A: As a Conservative Rabbi and following Jewish traditional law, one is Jewish when they are born to a ... | |
| reckoning days | 5/30/2009 |
| Q: I'm curious about the spices used according to Jewish burial customs in biblical times. John 19:39 ... A: The term "day" refers traditionally from sunset to the following sunset, based upon the Biblical ... | |
| Noahide | 5/22/2009 |
| Q: I am currently taking Judaism classes online with a Rabbi. I love Judaism, every aspect of it and I ... A: If you are taking instruction on-line, I am required by Rabbinic protocol not to interfere or ... | |
| Sabbath: Isaiah 58:14 | 5/21/2009 |
| Q: What is meant by, and/or can you direct me to resources for further study on, the Fourth Commandment ... A: I'm not sure why you are beginning with Isaiah. The best resource would be the older edition of the ... | |
| burial spices | 5/20/2009 |
| Q: I'm curious about the spices used according to Jewish burial customs in biblical times. John 19:39 ... A: I've done some research but the following from the Encyclopedia Judaica may help: Unfortunately, I ... | |
| jewish culture | 5/16/2009 |
| Q: Please does the jewish tradition have anything to do with the igbo tradtion of Nigeria? A: When in doubt, I've learned to do a quick Google search, because I had no recollection of any ... | |
| custom and tradition | 5/11/2009 |
| Q: it is being widely acclaimed that in times past it was the custom of a master to fold his napkin ... A: I must admit that this is an interesting question but that I am unfamiliar with this custom. To the ... | |
| Old Testament | 5/6/2009 |
| Q: Hey im a primary school teacher completing a certificate in catholic teaching studies, and im really ... A: however our policy is that we do not assist in school projects, assignments or examinations. ... | |
| Genesis 3:15 | 5/1/2009 |
| Q: In the book of Genesis Gen 3:15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy ... A: I'm not offended. However, the questions you are asking are those which are best answered in a study ... | |
| Genesis 3:15 | 4/30/2009 |
| Q: In the book of Genesis Gen 3:15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy ... A: We have to call a halt to this. Judaism does not interpret any part of canon Scripture to relate in ... | |
| Wine at Passover | 4/25/2009 |
| Q: I'm a Christian, and there is a controversy in some parts of the Church about the concept of “new ... A: To the best of my research, it can be made with the addition of yeast rather than rely on ... | |
| Solomon's Temple 2 | 4/25/2009 |
| Q: I have read Christian articles stating that Israel was preparing to rebuild the temple. They also ... A: In no way is the Israeli government nor the majority of Israel's Jewish population interested in or ... | |
| Jesus as the Messiah 2 | 4/25/2009 |
| Q: You mentioned in the original question "Jesus as the Messiah'; "The Hebrew Bible according to Jewish ... A: The time frame for Isaiah is 8th-9th century, BCE, 800 years before the time of Jesus. There was ... | |
| Wine at Passover | 4/24/2009 |
| Q: I'm a Christian, and there is a controversy in some parts of the Church about the concept of “new ... A: 1. The wine which is "kosher for Passover" indeed does contain alcohol, but it is from the grapes ... | |
| Hell | 4/21/2009 |
| Q: I didn't think that the Jewish people believed in hell? I ran across a commentary saying the ... A: The real answer is "yes," "no," "maybe," "sometimes," "figuratively," and "what do you mean by ... | |
| Coke / Pepsi | 4/8/2009 |
| Q: Is Coke & Pepsi Kosher? since it contain Carmine - Carmine may be prepared from cochineal, by ... A: The following is taken from the cRc - Chicago Rabbinical Council, orthodox - regarding coke ... | |
| two questions re: passover | 4/7/2009 |
| Q: I am Jewish, always attended a conservative synagogue. I do not keep a kosher home, but my wife and ... A: songbook, readings, etc.: http://www.jewishfreeware.org/downloads/folder.2006-01-07.0640323187/ ... | |
| Noahide commandments | 4/3/2009 |
| Q: I found the following on this website. ahavat-israel.com The Noahide commandments are those that G-d ... A: We had some personal family health issues. The sources of commandments - in general - are either ... | |
| Jews cannot enter a church?? | 3/30/2009 |
| Q: Shalom Rabbi, My question is related to what the halacha says or does not say about a Jew going into ... A: Somewhere in your education should have been included the "rule" that your Rabbi is your final ... | |
| rock on grave | 3/27/2009 |
| Q: Sir, in the movie Schindler List, at the end of the movie all the people were putting stones on his ... A: I'm sorry for the delay but there were family health issues. The tradition of placing a stone on ... | |
| jewish quotations | 3/26/2009 |
| Q: What is the correct hebrew translation for the pirkei avot quote: "It is not your responsibility to ... A: The translations you sent are essentially how most would translate the texts. Are you asking whether ... | |
| Judaism & health care beliefs | 3/25/2009 |
| Q: How or can the beliefs of Judaism affect their stay in the hospital? Does it affect any tests or ... A: but to be honest I am not sure of your questions. Are you asking if Judaism believes - which means ... | |
| Faith | 3/23/2009 |
| Q: I am writing a book about how faith affects a person's life. Has there ever been a time when your ... A: but I hope you understand that as a Rabbi "faith" has been part of my life. It would be ... | |
| Any significance to the numbers 6 or 7? | 3/23/2009 |
| Q: I know that in Judaism, some numbers are thought of as special. Is there any special significance ... A: While there is nothing specific per se in the numbers 6 or 7, they are very symbolic with regard to ... | |
| Jesus at 30 years of age | 3/22/2009 |
| Q: Pope Benedict XVI writes in his book "Jesus of Nazareth", that at the age of thirty Jesus had ... A: While I can't presume to know what the Pope had in mind - that is for you and the Church to define ... | |
| Wearing of Yamaka | 3/19/2009 |
| Q: Can you tell me when the Jewish men first began the wearing of the Yamaka. In studying the Old ... A: The cut-to-the-chase answer is that it is a custom, and it developed after the custom of Babylonian ... | |
| Animal Sacrifice | 3/9/2009 |
| Q: What happen to the carcass of the animals used for sacrifice occassions other than passover? A: In essence, the different kinds of sacrifices from the time of the Desert Sanctuary=Mishkan, and the ... | |
| Statistics | 3/3/2009 |
| Q: I have heard for many years that more Christians convert to Judaism in the USA than the other way ... A: Unfortunately I don't know of any hard, reliable statistical data that either records the respective ... | |
| CONVERSION OF A MINOR | 3/2/2009 |
| Q: We are Jewish parents who recently a adopted a non-Jewish baby boy, and live in Canada. We would ... A: I hope that you will read my entire response and understand that I am responding to the particulars ... | |
| The Jewish view of survival after death | 2/28/2009 |
| Q: I was raised Catholic, but have always had Jewish friends, so I am a little bit familiar with Jewish ... A: Yes, this is a complex question if only because we don't always use the same terms to mean the same ... | |
| Amidah | 2/20/2009 |
| Q: My question is brief. I am just genuinely curious about something during the Amidah. At my BBYO ... A: and I am responding as a former chapter, divisional, regional leader in AZA - many years ago. Keep ... | |
| Punishment For Sins Upon Descendants | 2/18/2009 |
| Q: I have heard or read recently that our children, grandchildren, and maybe posterity even longer down ... A: I wish that I could frame our current economic situation as you put it, but I do have a different ... | |
| Birthdays | 2/15/2009 |
| Q: Did Jews celebrate birthdays in the first century, and if not then why do they celebrate them today? A: The Hebrew Scriptures deals with ages of people for various roles, whether Levites and the census or ... | |
| A question on Solomon... | 2/10/2009 |
| Q: I am a "student" who privately studies Torah and am waiting to summon the guts to go to a synagogue ... A: You may be unhappy with my answer, because in part I have to urge you not to delay getting to a ... | |
| Priests | 2/5/2009 |
| Q: I am 48 years old and a Baptist. I was reading in 2 Chronicles about King Uzziah burning incense in ... A: Great question and thanks for asking. I'm researching and will get back to you. Perhaps you can ... | |
| Education | 2/4/2009 |
| Q: I am looking for a Jewish story that I can tell with children about the importance of education. Can ... A: Unfortunately I am not as current with childrens' literature - Jewish or otherwise - as others, ... | |
| Faith and Blasphemy | 2/2/2009 |
| Q: My question and situation is similar to the one addressed by Kim but I would like to clarify this a ... A: although I believe that you should be speaking with your priest and faith community teachers rather ... | |
| egalitarin | 1/26/2009 |
| Q: What does egalitarian mean in relation to conservaive synagouges? I am a 15 year old reform jew. A: "Egalitarian" means that women have equal roles parallel to men in ritual, whether in synagogue or ... | |
| Belief system | 1/19/2009 |
| Q: I have just started studying Jewish history. I have been a Christian since I was 8 I am 48. I have ... A: You describe an uncomfortable position to be sure. You are concerned not about this world but "going ... | |
| the mercy seat | 1/13/2009 |
| Q: On the Day of Atonement, when the high Priest would go into the Holy of Holies, he would sprinkle ... A: I was trying to research this question, but all info I have supports my earliest thinking: 1. ... | |
| in Israel... | 1/9/2009 |
| Q: in Jerusalem, can you see the entire constellation of stars at night? Can you even see the degree ... A: 1. Would you like for me to try and find a Jerusalem contact to more scientifically answer you? My ... | |
| Jephthah's daughter | 1/6/2009 |
| Q: I have read commentaries that promote the idea that Judges 11 really shows Jephthah's daughter ... A: In terms of a life "dedicated to divine service" it would be hard to imagine such a life-style or ... | |
| Conservative Judaism | 1/5/2009 |
| Q: I have just read your answer to the question about the Babel and languages, where you directed the ... A: I feel that I have outlined the parameters of the answers - note plural - from a descriptive point ... | |
| Police and Soldiers working on Sabbath | 1/4/2009 |
| Q: Is it ok for police and soldiers to work on Sabbath? If so, is it alright to keep the money that you ... A: There are three factors in answering this(1) the principle of "pekuah nefesh" - saving a life; (2) ... | |
| jewish buriel practices | 1/4/2009 |
| Q: at the time Jesus was crufified, was it jewish buriel practices to embolm the body with the spices? A: I am not a real specialist in this subject. I know that there are New Testament references to ... | |
| Jephthah's daughter | 1/4/2009 |
| Q: I have read commentaries that promote the idea that Judges 11 really shows Jephthah's daughter ... A: I believe that we will never know how literally Jephthah acted. Given the time in which he lived, ... | |
| Crockpots kosher for cooking on Shabbat? | 1/3/2009 |
| Q: Are crockpots and other slow-cookers kosher for preparing cholent/stews for Shabbat? Thanks, L A: In my opinion yes. I have read responsa of major Orthodox Rabbis as well who have ruled similarly. ... | |
| Fat | 1/2/2009 |
| Q: The Law says one is not allowed to eat the fat of an animal, but what of cheese and milk? when it ... A: The fat which is proscribed Biblically and then in Rabbinic law is helev, different from the other ... | |
| Conservative Judaism | 1/2/2009 |
| Q: I have just read your answer to the question about the Babel and languages, where you directed the ... A: Orthodoxy is not itself monolithic as you describe it. Consider how many "varieties" of Orthodoxy ... | |
| israel | 1/1/2009 |
| Q: I am a member of a progressive congregation that is part of the Australian movement and have been ... A: I'm not certain of several terms you use, and I may not be the person you wish to question. I ... | |
| clothes | 1/1/2009 |
| Q: What are the laws regarding dress in conservative judaism? I am a 15 year old reform jew. A: Interesting question. I hope that this is not for any class assignment, as we are not allowed to ... | |
| leviathan? | 12/25/2008 |
| Q: what is your interpretation of the leviathan mentioned several times in the bible? I have been doing ... A: In the Bible Leviathan is a multi-headed (Ps. 74:14) sea serpent, appearing in Isaiah 27:1; Psalms ... | |
| mezuzah scroll | 12/24/2008 |
| Q: Do you know of an internet site that I can buy a scroll to put into a mezuzuah cover I have? A: I would encourage you to go to a local synagogue and check with their gift shop, provided that their ... | |
| ONE LANGUAGE ONE SPEECH | 12/21/2008 |
| Q: It seems, from Scripture that when the Creator confounded the languages of the builders of Bavel, ... A: As a Conservative Rabbi and being willing to use modern scholarship in the study of the Hebrew ... | |
| Converting the religion | 12/21/2008 |
| Q: My current religion is Islam and i want to convert it , please cover my question about the step. 1- ... A: If conversion is not legal or possible in your country, then obviously it would be legally wrong and ... | |
| Jewish Heritage | 12/17/2008 |
| Q: I know the heritage is passed through the Mother but can you tell me why the Mother and not the ... A: The best historical study in my opinion is by Professor Shaye Cohen, Littauer Professor of Hebrew ... | |
| curses | 12/17/2008 |
| Q: Does the soul survive? ANSWER: Dear Ruth, Thanks for writing. The question is excellent; the ... A: The 2007 edition "Encyclopedia Judaica" states: The rendering of tithes of property for sacral ... | |
| I'm Catholic, Husband Jewish | 12/14/2008 |
| Q: My husband has been raised Jewish and I was raised Roman Catholic. I have the biggest respect to the ... A: My best advice is that you speak with a Rabbi and/or a Priest about this proposed plan. I am fairly ... | |
| Conservative Conversion | 12/14/2008 |
| Q: I have been attending a Reform temple for a few years (throughout college- I will be entering ... A: Allow me to answer your questions, but remember that I am answering as a Conservative Rabbi. ... | |
| Modern Day Shiva Trends | 12/9/2008 |
| Q: I would like information about what current trends you are seeing in regards to Shiva. Do todays ... A: You confirmed what I thought - that this is an assignment which we are not permitted to assist as a ... | |
| Day of Atonement | 12/7/2008 |
| Q: I am 56 years old. I belong to a Christian denomination by name of Seventh Day Adventist. Our ... A: I've done some additional research. I can't find a specific citation for the popular notion that a ... | |
| Day of Atonement | 12/6/2008 |
| Q: I am 56 years old. I belong to a Christian denomination by name of Seventh Day Adventist. Our ... A: I'm not sure of your question. Are you asking what is the ritual of the Ancient Temple for Yom ... | |
| jewish women's premarital sexual behaviour | 12/4/2008 |
| Q: Do you think that jewish women are more conservative that gentiles in their premarital or divorced ... A: especially the sexual activity and mores of Jewish women. In all honesty, I don't believe there is ... | |
| vayechi haftorah | 12/1/2008 |
| Q: My daughter will be bat mitzvah on Jan 10 2009 we are looking for a simple explanation and lesson ... A: Unfortunately it is against policy to do an assignment for anyone, but I am delighted to provide ... | |
| God's work in Israel 6-day war | 11/28/2008 |
| Q: I'm a 22 year old strong believer in Jesus Christ as the one and only Messiah, the son of God. I ... A: You are entitled to your faith as a Christian, as I am permitted to hold a different faith and set ... | |
| aliyah | 11/26/2008 |
| Q: I converted to Judaism under the conservative movement. I've heard conflicted reports that if I make ... A: I would hope that you speak with your sponsoring Rabbi regarding your status as an immigrant to ... | |
| The Hereafter | 11/26/2008 |
| Q: Does the soul survive? A: The question is excellent; the answer is problematic: yes, no, perhaps, somehow. Sorry for the wide ... | |
| Health | 11/25/2008 |
| Q: I am training to be a General Practitioner and am doing a presentation to our group regarding The ... A: I would urge you to contact the Committee on Jewish Law and Standards of the Rabbinical Assembly, ... | |
| Clothing... | 11/23/2008 |
| Q: in my version of the Old testament, the law says you cannot wear clothing made of wool and linen ... A: Hebrew Scriptures - Jews don't use the term "Old Testament" implying that there is a supercession of ... | |
| Jew by Birth? | 11/20/2008 |
| Q: Rabbi Dov, I have a question that I'm not too sure is very easy to answer. Nonetheless, I hope ... A: A person is "Jewish by birth" according to traditional Jewish law if their mother is Jewish by ... | |
| ossuaries | 11/15/2008 |
| Q: So we have the Caiaphas Ossuary, why does it look different than all other ossuaries? I have a ... A: I really am not a trained archaeologist. I turned to various resources and I am going to attached ... | |
| 1st century burial laws and customs | 11/11/2008 |
| Q: according to oral Torah in the first century, could a non-related single woman accompany a dead ... A: I wish you luck in your search. "Proper Halakha" from a Jewish point of view has long left the ... | |
| Raising jewish children as a catholic mother | 11/10/2008 |
| Q: Ok I know this seems far fetched here. I have recently had an in depth conversation with my ... A: Let's take the easier items first. A Jew is someone who is born to a Jewish mother [ by birth or ... | |
| 1st century burial laws and customs | 11/9/2008 |
| Q: according to oral Torah in the first century, could a non-related single woman accompany a dead ... A: I don't know the answer at this moment and have begun a search. Be patient please. I'll get back ... | |
| women in the temple | 11/5/2008 |
| Q: I read the answer to the question about women being allowed in the temple, wondering if it was part ... A: If one is a literalist in terms of the Torah, there is some correspondence between the "layout" of ... | |
| sin | 11/5/2008 |
| Q: Is it a sin for a wife to provoke her husband? ANSWER: Dear Rocky, Thanks for writing. I need ... A: If you mean a sin in terms of violating God's "Word," you are speaking in a fundamentalist sense ... | |
| stones on graves | 11/4/2008 |
| Q: why do you put a stone on the grave stone when you visit the sight? A: There are a variety of references and reasons for placing a stone on a headstone when visiting a ... | |
| Second Temple education | 11/3/2008 |
| Q: What was the role of the disciple in the first century? Can you clarify this method of education ... A: We don't have as much information about the education system of the first century BCE and CE as we ... | |
| Literal interpretation | 10/30/2008 |
| Q: I am Jewish but have often struggled with reconciling Jewish teachings that fly in the face of ... A: Your thoughts and feelings are not unusual, but they are very important. Let's deal with first ... | |
| Jewish backround | 10/30/2008 |
| Q: I found out that I had a Jewish grandfather on my mother's side. He and my grandmother was divorced ... A: In terms of Jewish law, as you describe your family history, you would not be considered a Jew by ... | |
| a few questions... | 10/30/2008 |
| Q: is smoking considered a sin in judaism? what of masturbation? and the occasional glass of wine? ... A: It would appear that you are a relatively ecclectic person in terms of religious rules and ... | |
| gelatin | 10/30/2008 |
| Q: i am interested in finding out the conservative view on gelatin and what is acceptable. Also, if ... A: The responsum by Rabbi Isaac Klein zt"l held in 1969 that gelatin is kosher, although gelatin from ... | |
| I wanna be a jewish | 10/27/2008 |
| Q: Im a grandson of a jew from morroco(Siboni)but my mother is cristian,Im 15 years old, Im from ... A: First of all, I would urge you to discuss this with your family and with your priest/minister. ... | |
| Re: Gentile wanting to follow Judaism | 10/24/2008 |
| Q: I'm not really with any religious affiliation, but I guess the closest thing would be identifying ... A: Yes, there is a category of "B'nai Noah" which encouraged those living in proximity to Jews to ... | |
| Holocaust victim tattoos | 10/14/2008 |
| Q: and aware of the historical anti-semitism within our church. Although tattooing is not allowed in ... A: No, there has not been such an organized effort to memorialize those martyrs of the Holocaust. I ... | |
| couples who are not jewish wanting to join a conservative synagogue | 10/14/2008 |
| Q: We have 2 couples who come every Friday night and they have asked us to become members. We have been ... A: This is ultimately a decision for your Rabbi to determine. Assuming you are writing to me for a ... | |
| Hannakah | 10/12/2008 |
| Q: In our home we have a tapestry for Hannakah that has a menorah in the form of a tree and with the ... A: :-) I'm researching it now and will be back with you soon - certainly before Hanukkah. By the way ... | |
| Counting of the Omer | 10/9/2008 |
| Q: With all the other tragedies that have befallen Jews, why is the period of mourning for 24,000 ... A: My own sense is that because the period historically was the time that we brought the Omer according ... | |
| stories | 10/9/2008 |
| Q: I am preparing a presentation for school childen on writing fiction. I want to explain to them that ... A: I would imagine that you are looking for the Hebrew term "midrash" which technically is exegesis or ... | |
| Services | 10/8/2008 |
| Q: I'm a 19 year old college sophomore, and a lifelong Christian. As part of my Intro to Religion ... A: The simplest approach is that people will be dressed in at least slacks, tie and sports jacket. Most ... | |
| plagues in the book of Exodus | 10/4/2008 |
| Q: I am 34 year old Christian. I'm in a Bible study at my church, we are studing the Book of Exodus. ... A: I am unaware of any textual or scholarly treatment of the chronology of the series of plagues. It ... | |
| art in the talmud | 9/29/2008 |
| Q: how can I research art in the Talmud? A: although this is a more technical subject. Sorry for the delay but as you know Rosh HaShanah took ... | |
| The Amidah | 9/20/2008 |
| Q: Recently I've been finding myself looking for ways to get more in touch with my ... A: You haven't asked a new question and I've answered it many times with the same answer: the Amidah is ... | |
| Suffering | 9/20/2008 |
| Q: I am 54 years old, was raised Orthodox but since have left it to become agnostic but still searching ... A: Your final paragraph says a great deal to me, and I would encourage you to indeed retain an ... | |
| Death & funeral practice | 9/15/2008 |
| Q: I'm a convert to Conservative Judaism and am observant. I didn't convert for marriage, so there's ... A: This should bring it to an end, but I thought I would explain. I garden a great deal, raising 50+ ... | |
| Death & funeral practice | 9/15/2008 |
| Q: I'm a convert to Conservative Judaism and am observant. I didn't convert for marriage, so there's ... A: I started to write - got half-way through and the system crashed. I didn't find a draft and so I'll ... | |
| Death & funeral practice | 9/15/2008 |
| Q: I'm a convert to Conservative Judaism and am observant. I didn't convert for marriage, so there's ... A: Did you receive my follow-up answer? Rabbi Dov Here is my retrieved answer that should have been ... | |
| naming traditions for girls | 9/14/2008 |
| Q: I have one Jewish friend who says that the name of the firstborn is chosen by the mother and that ... A: In my opinion, there is no such law, and I've never heard of such a "rule." The basis for such a ... | |
| Religious Object Burial (Genizah) Practices | 9/11/2008 |
| Q: Rabbi: Could you tell me what the tradional ceremonial practise would be for the burial of ... A: My first suggestion and recommendation is that you speak with your Rabbi who is your congregational ... | |
| Conception in the Torah? | 9/4/2008 |
| Q: Mashlom'cha In the Torah, does it state that conception is between a man, woman and God? Because ... A: To begin with, there are metaphors in the Bible and then later Rabbinic writing that describe a ... | |
| Next Life | 9/4/2008 |
| Q: It has been a long time since I asked a question but one has been bothering me. Two part question. ... A: Judaism believes that there is a world to come, but we can only speculate about the nature of that ... | |
| REFORM CEMETERIES | 9/3/2008 |
| Q: Looking for where I can find all the rules for running a reform jewish cemetery. I was asked to be ... A: but I am a Conservative Rabbi. Consult your own Reform Rabbi, or if you temporarily without a ... | |
| jews | 8/31/2008 |
| Q: why did the Jews kill Jesus? A: The Jewish People couldn't execute Jesus as they lacked the self-government authority for capital ... | |
| Adam and the Garden | 8/30/2008 |
| Q: Good afternoon Sir .I was wondering what your understanding was of the garden .I am a Southern ... A: and I'll provide several alternative answers. My first response is based upon my own theological ... | |
| Judaism-afterlife | 8/26/2008 |
| Q: What do Jews believe will happen after death? A: Unfortunately, the subject of an after-life is especially complicated and the literature is large. ... | |
| What was the purpose of animal sacrifices? | 8/10/2008 |
| Q: I was raised a Christian and am presently attending an Orthodox church. I get a Christian ... A: I refer your two questions - about sacrifices and the derivation of Christianity from Judaism and ... | |
| 1st century Jewish greeting rituals | 7/31/2008 |
| Q: How involved were greeting rituals? I have read they could last for some days. I am intrested in 1st ... A: I've been trying to research this and have found nothing that would approach the kind of rituals you ... | |
| black jews | 7/28/2008 |
| Q: I am a 52 year old Christian black man. I consider myself well educated and socially conscious. My ... A: To begin with Judaism is a faith, and it has absolutely no racial, ethnic, national origin, ... | |
| unveiling | 7/12/2008 |
| Q: What type of invitation do we need to send out for my father's unveiling? What is the appropriate ... A: and I hope that the years ahead will bring you joys and health for you and your family. I ... | |
| Rabbinic Judaism | 7/2/2008 |
| Q: Are Conservative and Orthodox Judaism related to the ancient Pharisees and the rabbinic judaism of ... A: This is a very "big" question and you will find varying answers depending upon whom you ask. As a ... | |
| Organ donation for Jews? | 7/2/2008 |
| Q: I want to be an organ donor, but if I am, can I still have a Jewish funeral and burial? My ... A: I am responding with a general background as a traditional, Conservative Rabbi. You should, however, ... | |
| What Jesus really looked like. | 6/27/2008 |
| Q: Years ago I was inspired by a Jesuit priest's serenity to do a portrait of Jesus. This of course ... A: , Thanks for writing with an interesting question - to which probably only an anthropologist will ... | |
| law? | 6/26/2008 |
| Q: When my uncle stays with my mother, she tries to accommodate his newly orthodox ways. She is ... A: Unfortunately, I don't know of any research possibility except fo contacting the Reference Desk of ... | |
| law? | 6/24/2008 |
| Q: When my uncle stays with my mother, she tries to accommodate his newly orthodox ways. She is ... A: I must confess that I've never encountered such a "rule" in any Jewish law. Yes, hospitality and ... | |
| jewish or not in the eyes of the God | 6/24/2008 |
| Q: Q: If your farther is Jewish and your mother was catholic and you are born a boy and then baptised ... A: According to traditional Jewish law one is born a Jew to a Jewish mother or is converted formally to ... | |
| Query | 6/16/2008 |
| Q: I have Jehovahs witness neighbours who say that you should call God, Jehovah, but i think i read ... A: I apologize for the delay - I'm recovering from major surgery and thought I would be back to ... | |
| confused on my roots | 5/14/2008 |
| Q: I was raised catholic, reverted to Christianity, and now am bitter towards the hypocrites that are ... A: First of all, if you ask about being a Jew by birth, then yes if you have a maternal line that is ... | |
| Cemetery Issue | 5/12/2008 |
| Q: I am the president of a synagogue in southern Rhode Island. About Twenty years ago a deal was struck ... A: I am unable to answer your question and interfere in a synagogue, Rabbinic, community and movement ... | |
| Sabbath | 5/10/2008 |
| Q: Many Christians worship on Sunday but Christianity came from Judaism, which worships on the Sabbath. ... A: Judaism observes the Sabbath on the 7th day of the week and it cannot be changed to any other day. ... | |
| ? | 5/8/2008 |
| Q: During the lifetime of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, (which was a time before they had the law, and the ... A: Before the development of Jewish law, there were societal codes and laws - often similar or even ... | |
| Books of the Jewish Bible | 5/6/2008 |
| Q: Rabbi, I am a Christian and have never seen the Jewish Bible and was wondering how it differs from ... A: 1. Same book with a different translation - Hebrew is literally song of songs 2. I'll have to check ... | |
| Books of the Jewish Bible | 5/6/2008 |
| Q: Rabbi, I am a Christian and have never seen the Jewish Bible and was wondering how it differs from ... A: There are various canon texts and they vary between religious traditions. Check the ... | |
| Women and God | 5/5/2008 |
| Q: I was raised Catholic, but I have found too many contradictions in their teachings to feel ... A: I would urge you to speak with a Catholic faith leader regarding this question within the Catholic ... | |
| images | 5/5/2008 |
| Q: The Law of Moses says to not make for yourself an image of any living thing....but does this mean ... A: Yes, I believe that you have understood the intention of the laws. There was a great concern that ... | |
| Jewish Temple | 5/5/2008 |
| Q: I know in Solomon's day the Ark of the Covenant was hidden behind the veil in the Temple and only ... A: I don't know the answer but I shall go now and try to find one for you. In the meantime, try the ... | |
| conversion/Jewishness | 5/2/2008 |
| Q: I understand that one is considered to be Jewish either because A) one's mother was Jewish or B) one ... A: I wish I could provide you with an answer that would be more satisfying. A Jew is a Jew, in terms ... | |
| Anti -Semitism | 4/28/2008 |
| Q: Why have The Jewish people suffered centuries of persecution from Christian faiths when according ... A: Anti-semitism stems from many sources and for many reasons. No one has yet determined the defintive ... | |
| Heaven | 4/17/2008 |
| Q: As a person raised a Catholic, I always wondered in what context the Jewish man, Jesus, used the ... A: I must leave the final interpretation of the phrase to your faith instructor. As a Jew and Rabbi I ... | |
| Moses | 4/15/2008 |
| Q: Is there any proof acceptable to historians that Moses existed? How about the exodus? Any ... A: This is a long-standing academic discussion for Bible scholars, modern and traditional. Those who ... | |
| religious identity | 4/14/2008 |
| Q: Recently someone asked me what my last name is. I told him "Goldberg." He said, "Oh, you're Jewish ... A: I meant that someone who converts formally out of Judaism may be considered still a Jew by many ... | |
| On Deuteronomy 4 | 4/12/2008 |
| Q: Will you please quote DEUTERONOMY 4:13 to me from the Original Hebrew into English. Thank You A: The Jewish Publication Society TaNaKH which translated directly from the Hebrew reads: He declared ... | |
| religious identity | 4/12/2008 |
| Q: Recently someone asked me what my last name is. I told him "Goldberg." He said, "Oh, you're Jewish ... A: To begin with, your faith identity is your own statement and practice. In traditional Jewish law, ... | |
| Lev. | 4/9/2008 |
| Q: In Leviticus 20: 1-5 (King James Bible) it mentions several times about "giving his seed to Molech." ... A: Molech was a middle easter pagan god, characterized by some as an idol with a furnace in the belly. ... | |
| Commandments | 4/8/2008 |
| Q: The Commandments given to Moses I find in Exodux,20 and 34 and Deuteronomy 5. Exodus 20 and ... A: You are not the first to see the similarity and the differences. There are a variety of ... | |
| Martin Buber | 4/7/2008 |
| Q: "All journeys have secret destinations, of which the traveler is unaware." ~ Martin Buber I use ... A: Thus far I have struck out using search engines and CD-ROMs I have of Jewish literature. While I ... | |
| Hasidic Tales or other Jewish Stories Honoring Women | 3/27/2008 |
| Q: I am searching for a Hasidic tale or other Jewish story that honors women. Can you help me? ... A: There are a few books in English on gematria and also CD-ROMs. There are generally pages of such ... | |
| Hasidic Tales or other Jewish Stories Honoring Women | 3/25/2008 |
| Q: I am searching for a Hasidic tale or other Jewish story that honors women. Can you help me? ... A: I have several suggestions: 1. In the Bible, you have a wealth of stories in which women play ... | |
| officiating rabbi | 3/23/2008 |
| Q: who usually performs the wedding ceremony-the bride or groom's rabbi? we are extremely fortunate to ... A: There is no such term as "primary Rabbi" and each can officiate in equal parts of ritual, speaking, ... | |
| officiating rabbi | 3/22/2008 |
| Q: who usually performs the wedding ceremony-the bride or groom's rabbi? we are extremely fortunate to ... A: Firstly, thank you for writing, and mazal tov to your family and that of your future daughter in ... | |
| suffering | 3/15/2008 |
| Q: why do jews believe we suffer? thanks very much A: First of all, I hope that you are well and that the question is more theoretical than practical for ... | |
| Palestine | 3/13/2008 |
| Q: I cannot believe the simplified version of history you perpetrate, but I guess the only way to ... A: You really haven't written a question, and given the tone you've taken of attacking me - not even ... | |
| ancient cremation | 3/10/2008 |
| Q: Was cremation/funeral pyres an acceptable part of ancient Judea customs? A: I did a quick search in the new Encyclopedia Judaica, and I am appending the relevant information ... | |
| Hello | 2/27/2008 |
| Q: thought your name sounded familiar, so I checked the Ketuba and there it was. We've been married ... A: I'll check out the pictures on Sunday but speaking as a grandfather - I'll bet they are beautiful! ... | |
| women at Moses' tabernacle | 2/24/2008 |
| Q: Could you please tell me where the women were allowed in regards to the tabernacle. I understand ... A: Works now, thank goodness. :-) We don't know a great deal for certain about the desert sanctuary. ... | |
| Judaism | 2/22/2008 |
| Q: Why, considering the global impact of the Jesus story in general, do the Jews not claim Jesus as God ... A: In answer to your question, please understand that there are two responses: 1. As Jews, we don't ... | |
| Judaism | 2/22/2008 |
| Q: Why, considering the global impact of the Jesus story in general, do the Jews not claim Jesus as God ... A: but Jews do not and will not accept Jesus as their messiah or savior. The reasons are legion and ... | |
| prayer and fasting | 2/21/2008 |
| Q: I believe that prayer and fasting are important in my walk with God but I am struggling with people ... A: Fasting - giving up all food, drink or a partial amount - has origins in the Hebrew Scriptures and ... | |
| Jewish beliefs about dying | 2/14/2008 |
| Q: I'm learning about Jewish culture for school and one other things we are suppose to research is ... A: However, I can "point" you to some sources. The easiest is the www.jewishencyclopedia.com, looking ... | |
| Very sorry if you've heard this one before... | 2/13/2008 |
| Q: In the bible i have read that God takes people who has a speciific attitude towards people who have ... A: I truly feel for your losses and disappointments. Life is often not fair and filled only with joy ... | |
| Very sorry if you've heard this one before... | 2/12/2008 |
| Q: In the bible i have read that God takes people who has a speciific attitude towards people who have ... A: Before I answer, would you mind please telling me more about yourself - your age, religious ... | |
| Follow up to "born again" | 2/10/2008 |
| Q: Rabbi - In a class, the teacher mentioned that there were eight Jewish "born again" experiences -- ... A: I appreciate your frustration in not receiving an answer in your frame of reference. Perhaps that is ... | |
| "Born again" -- again | 2/10/2008 |
| Q: Rabbi - In a class, the teacher mentioned that there were eight Jewish "born again" experiences -- ... A: In what sort of class did your teacher mention "there were eight Jewish "born again" experiences -- ... | |
| marriage without ceremony | 2/7/2008 |
| Q: I am 78,a liberal Baptist, and trying to grow spiritually.Before man created ceremonies to legalize ... A: The Torah, Five Books of Moses, don't describe the actual marriage ceremony or the consummation of ... | |
| Homosexualtiy | 2/2/2008 |
| Q: My name is Bradley, i am 14 and a Christian. I, however, am interested in conversion to Judaism, i ... A: However, I don't personally believe in counselling a minor regarding conversion. I would encourage ... | |
| questions about a proverb | 1/30/2008 |
| Q: there is a proverb that says the quiet will always be thought of as wise. When it says "quiet" does ... A: It would be helpful if you would tell me which chapter and verse in the Book of Proverbs you are ... | |
| interfaith dating | 1/24/2008 |
| Q: My son is dating a Conservative Jewish girl. He is Christian and has gone to church all his life. ... A: and I want to respond to you not only as a Rabbi but as a father and releatively recent grandfather. ... | |
| lost tribes | 1/24/2008 |
| Q: Can you give me a brief explaination of what is meant by the "lost tribes of Israel" ... A: The most popular explanation for the "lost Tribes of Israel" refers to the destruction of the ... | |
| a question... | 1/19/2008 |
| Q: the scripture says "blessed is the man who does not stand in the way of a sinner" but it also says ... A: "Standing the way of the sinner" in Ps. 1:1 is a parallel stich to the opening stich, and it means ... | |
| killing. | 1/17/2008 |
| Q: if the law says killing is wrong, then how come the law also says it is okay to kill people who ... A: The laws of the Torah and Judaism forbid murder, but under different circumstances the taking of a ... | |
| in the torah... | 1/16/2008 |
| Q: in the jewish faith, is it conidered a good thing or a bad thing to want to be like God? A: In my understanding of the Jewish faith, imitation of God is a positive value but it is also ... | |
| Abraham Heschel | 1/16/2008 |
| Q: I'm working on a translation from Abraham Heschel's "The Insecurity of Freedom" in the chapter ... A: While I was a student of Dr. Heschel z"l I would not claim that I can fully understand his writing ... | |
| Tradition of visiting a new home. | 1/13/2008 |
| Q: I have a friend who is Jewish and came to my new home with a loaf of bread and a small parcel of ... A: There are several historical reasons for this custom of bringing various items to a new home. 1. ... | |
| Jewish home decor customs | 1/13/2008 |
| Q: Are there any specific home decor customs for Jews? A: There are traditionally two elements in the "decor" of a Jewish home: (1) a mezuzah = on each ... | |
| Leviticus Chptr 12 | 1/11/2008 |
| Q: Why was is necessary for a woman to continue in her blood purification for 40 days when a male child ... A: Sorry for the use of the Hebrew which may not have been clear. The term "milah" means ... | |
| Kneeling before g-d | 1/10/2008 |
| Q: Did the Jews ever have the custom to kneel before G-d before Christianity (BCE)? If so, was it ... A: Jews have had the custom of kneeling, and it continues today on the High Holy Days. At that time it ... | |
| sheitel | 1/9/2008 |
| Q: Iis it true that some orthodox women have their sheital made of their own hair? would this be ... A: I am not an Orthodox Rabbi and I refer your question to an Orthodox Rabbi for an Orthodox ritual. ... | |
| Leviticus Chptr 12 | 1/9/2008 |
| Q: Why was is necessary for a woman to continue in her blood purification for 40 days when a male child ... A: There are a variety of explanations and interpretations. Rabbi SRHirsch writes that the woman ... | |
| .... | 1/7/2008 |
| Q: what's the difference between mocking someone and rebuking someone.... A: To mock someone is to make them the object of ridicule, privately at the least and quite possible in ... | |
| Malachi | 1/7/2008 |
| Q: Why was Malachi the last prophet. Did we do something that prevented us from being worthy of a ... A: When the Rabbis canonized the Bible, it was they who declared Malachi the last prophet - please note ... | |
| inquiry | 11/30/2007 |
| Q: Shalom alechim, my question is about people who claim to be atheists yet live very ethical and moral ... A: There are really two parts to your question. Certainly those who live an ethical and moral life as ... | |
| MiShebayrach | 11/30/2007 |
| Q: I am a 51 year old male in New York City. Can a personal MiShebayrach blessing be given by a ... A: This is a complicated question. To begin with it is congregational policy which is entirely int he ... | |
| jesus | 11/28/2007 |
| Q: do jews believe that jesus is the son of god and that he died on the cross for our sins.after all ... A: While I thank you for writing, I've answer this many times. Jesus has no religious or divine ... | |
| Naming Traditions | 11/26/2007 |
| Q: My wife and I are expecting our second child in January. My wife started the process of converting ... A: Ashkenazi tradition normally does not name a child for a living relative - as do the Sefardim. ... | |
| Weekly service | 11/25/2007 |
| Q: Greetings Rabbi: I wanted to ask if there are any guidelines or restrictions regarding a non-Jew ... A: I would urge you to speak with the Rabbi of the congregation where there is a service to work out ... | |
| jewish get and civil divorce | 11/25/2007 |
| Q: I would like to obtain a get and thereby effect a Jewish divorce as quickly as possible. I am not ... A: Speaking for myself I speak with the attorney and they write into the civil decree the requirement ... | |
| Conservative judaism | 11/20/2007 |
| Q: I Have a project about religions and I got assigned conservative judaism but im not really sure what ... A: but we don't do assignments for obvious reasons. Some suggested resources are a local Conservative ... | |
| women attending funerals | 11/19/2007 |
| Q: Greetings, What are the limitations on women attending funerals? When do they date back to, please? ... A: Your question reflects some very Orthodox customs and procedures, especially in Israel. In the ... | |
| Conversion | 11/14/2007 |
| Q: Rabbi Dov, I am contemplating conversion to Judaism, my wife is not interested in converting but has ... A: The process for conversion is possible, and the best suggestion is to speak with a local Rabbi. ... | |
| Conversion to Judaism | 11/12/2007 |
| Q: I am wondering about the process involved in converting to Judaism. My husband and I (35 and 28, ... A: Thnks for writing and I hope I can help. There are a series of steps in conversion: 1. Education ... | |
| adoption of non-jewish child | 11/12/2007 |
| Q: If Jewish parents adopt a non-Jewish infant what is the status of that child. Does the child need a ... A: BTW I speak from being a proud Rabbi of adopted children in our larger family. Yes, an adopted ... | |
| Burial in a jewish cemetery | 11/11/2007 |
| Q: I have been undergoing an Orthodox conversion but stopped because my fiance could not commit to all ... A: The essential principle in Jewish tradition is that when one converts according to the tradition of ... | |
| Jesus | 11/8/2007 |
| Q: I fancy Jewish nation , their great achievements , magnificent history and awesome survival . but ... A: I appreciate your kind thoughts about the State of Israel, the nation with a Jewish culture, ... | |
| Turning lights on shabbath | 11/8/2007 |
| Q: My cousin (who is currently converting to Judaism) is convinced that a conservative Jew on Saturday ... A: First of all, I have to say honestly I've never heard of such a rule about being in a room under ... | |
| Jewish as race or religion | 10/31/2007 |
| Q: I am in a sort of identity crisis. My father is Jewish as well as all members of his family. My ... A: and your situation is not unusual - for several reasons. First of all, the most traditional answer ... | |
| Question on Eschatology | 10/29/2007 |
| Q: I want to ask what is the Conservative Jewish position on the Messianic Age and the World to come? ... A: The reality is that Conservative Jews don't have to explain or deal with the Orthodox opinions - ... | |
| PRAYER | 10/29/2007 |
| Q: I am a mystery novelist. My character abandoned his Jewish faith when the rabbi would not marry him ... A: What you just discovered is that there is no "average" Jew but rather every possibility is just that ... | |
| genealogy possibilities for Messiah | 10/27/2007 |
| Q: Are the Jewish people aware of the current possible family lines through which the Messiah may ... A: However, there is no reliable genealogical data-base from which any bloodline can be traced reliably ... | |
| PRAYER | 10/26/2007 |
| Q: I am a mystery novelist. My character abandoned his Jewish faith when the rabbi would not marry him ... A: Correct conclusion. Your characters like so many Jews think of marriage as a sacrement, a ... | |
| PRAYER | 10/24/2007 |
| Q: I am a mystery novelist. My character abandoned his Jewish faith when the rabbi would not marry him ... A: First question of this sort!! The premise is very realistic in terms of disappointment, although it ... | |
| question about mary | 10/17/2007 |
| Q: was mary breaking jewish law by sitting at the feet of Jesus and anoiting his feet. someone tryed to ... A: I am unaware of any law that would have prohibited someone from washing the feet of another, either ... | |
| Visiting the gravesite of my parents | 10/9/2007 |
| Q: My name is Teri, I am 57 years old. I used to attend a reform temple, but have switched to ... A: To begin with, please understand that I am not a follower of the Kabbalah or those customs. I agree ... | |
| sects | 10/9/2007 |
| Q: Are there different sects or cults in Judaism? thank you behzad A: We don't speak of sects or cults. There are some groups within Judaism that are more extreme - ... | |
| Teffillin | 10/8/2007 |
| Q: Is it acceptable to bring a bag with both tallis and teffillin to a Yom Kippur service, or should ... A: If one considers Yom Kippur to be the "Sabbath of Sabbath" we don't don or handle tefillin on the ... | |
| Re: A few questions | 10/8/2007 |
| Q: Shalom! I have a few questions if I may ask. Ok, so recently I have been doing some religious ... A: Concerning the Documentary Hypothesis, it has also been revamped and revised over time. Be careful ... | |
| head covering | 10/7/2007 |
| Q: Our new Rabbi insists that women wear a head covering when on the Bimah. This has never been a ... A: I appreciate your response. Let me explain. First of all, I never contradict a colleague - of any ... | |
| head covering | 10/4/2007 |
| Q: Our new Rabbi insists that women wear a head covering when on the Bimah. This has never been a ... A: I will encourage you to meet with your Rabbi. Change is always difficult, and your new Rabbi will be ... | |
| why | 10/4/2007 |
| Q: Why do Judaism followers do not believe in Jesus as Messiah? There are many messianic prophecies ... A: but this is an old question with old answers. Jesus did not fulfill the Biblical prophecies in the ... | |
| ayuda | 9/5/2007 |
| Q: My father was Jew and my mother catholic. My father took me several times to the synagogal and I ... A: Please forgive the delay in answering; I was needed to help with a death in the family out of town. ... | |
| Rebuild | 9/5/2007 |
| Q: From a question previously asked,but not answered...Do you have the answer? Q- What year was the ... A: Please forgive the delay in answering; I was needed to help with a death in the family out of town. ... | |
| A buzzword? | 9/5/2007 |
| Q: I'm writing from Europe and I'm a Catholic. I watch a lot of American movies which sometimes ... A: Please forgive the delay in answering; I was needed to help with a death in the family out of town. ... | |
| Melchizedek | 9/2/2007 |
| Q: Sir, What is your take on: "Melchizedek"? Who/what is he...for what purpose? A: Please forgive the delay in answering; I was needed to help with a death in the family out of town. ... | |
| unveiling | 9/1/2007 |
| Q: Due to issues that are very complicated it is not possible for my brother and I to be present at my ... A: Please forgive the delay in answering; I was needed to help with a death in the family out of town. ... | |
| Wine | 8/30/2007 |
| Q: Q- Hosea 4:12 says...( Can you explain) ? "Harlotry, wine, and new wine enslave the heart. ... A: What is it specifically that you are seeking to clarify. Harlotry means sexual immorality. ... | |
| Grave metal boxes | 8/29/2007 |
| Q: We were at the cemetery where I saw metal boxes on several graves that appear like mail boxes. These ... A: I've consulted with colleagues, most of whom have not reported seeing such metl boxes. No one could ... | |
| Wine | 8/27/2007 |
| Q: Q- Hosea 4:12 says...( Can you explain) ? "Harlotry, wine, and new wine enslave the heart. ... A: The citation is properly Hosea 4:11. Dr. A. Cohen sees a relationship between harlotry and drink, ... | |
| Hebrews | 8/25/2007 |
| Q: Rabbi When the Hebrews were in the wildderness for 40 years, did they have animals, that were used ... A: During the time that the Israelites or Hebrews were in the desert, the basic domestic animals were ... | |
| Judaism | 8/24/2007 |
| Q: What are some changes Judaism underwent from its founding and why? Difference in practice/belief ... A: I can't speak for the history of the other movements, but consider the following on the Conservative ... | |
| Judaism | 8/23/2007 |
| Q: What are some changes Judaism underwent from its founding and why? Difference in practice/belief ... A: however the questions you raise are beyond the scope of this column. There have been untold changes ... | |
| body/spirit death | 8/22/2007 |
| Q: I recently read your answer regarding the placing of rocks on headstones. It is something I have ... A: What I had intended to convey were the "layers" or evolution of understanding about death and the ... | |
| "girtel" | 8/20/2007 |
| Q: What is the sometime custom of men wearing a tie or sash around their waist? What does it signify ... A: In some ultra-orthodox and/or Hasidic communities, there is a belief that one needs to separate the ... | |
| I Kings 11:19-20, Tahpenes | 8/16/2007 |
| Q: All my questions are related to Queen Tahpense, I Kings 11:19-20. (1) What is the meaning of her ... A: Unfortunately I am not a specialist in Egyptian language and applications. Tahpenes is an Egyptian ... | |
| DH, and one other question | 8/16/2007 |
| Q: Today I was approached by a muslim missionary (yup.. they exist now.) And they were trying to show ... A: I don't wish to be rude or evasive, for I appreciate your interest in the topic. However what I ... | |
| DH, and one other question | 8/12/2007 |
| Q: Today I was approached by a muslim missionary (yup.. they exist now.) And they were trying to show ... A: I took some additional time to check out some resources for you. Documentary Hypothesis is a term ... | |
| BORN AGAIN | 8/6/2007 |
| Q: I am a Christian, 61 years old. The Christian Bible uses the expression 'you must be born again'. ... A: I needed to do some research on the various interpretations of "to be born again" in Christianity, ... | |
| Who? | 7/31/2007 |
| Q: Q- Re Ezra 7:7 Who are the “Nethimim”? A: Thye are earlier mentioned in 2:42ff, and the Hebrew means "given" to God or the Levites. They were ... | |
| prophecies | 7/18/2007 |
| Q: there are places in the bible where God tells people that their families will be tormented and die ... A: Regarding various personalities in the books of Hebrew Scriptures who disappointed God or ... | |
| sheep | 7/15/2007 |
| Q: I heard a preacher say that it was a custom at one time to keep a unblemished shhep in the house for ... A: This is a notion I never heard of. It is an interesting idea,to suggest that one "sacrifices" ... | |
| Slayings | 7/9/2007 |
| Q: Q- Does the Talmud record anything about the slaying of the male children that Herod was supposed to ... A: , Thanks for writing. If I am not wrong, this isn't the first time you have written, trying to find ... | |
| The Big T | 7/2/2007 |
| Q: Lerner...I hope you can help me understand this.. Okay, I don't understand how the name "Tammuz" ... A: Although you're correct that the references are to pagan deities in various traditions, including ... | |
| Egypt as Serpent | 6/30/2007 |
| Q: to a community fleeing Egypt) as a symbol for Egypt, or Pharaoh? I know at one later point at least ... A: Is it possible? Perhaps. Let's not forget that the crown, as seen for Cleopatra, had the serpent ... | |
| GOOD NEWS | 6/30/2007 |
| Q: MESSIANIC PROPHECIES FOR JEWS 1. Isaiah 52:13-53:12 2. Isaiah 49:1-7 3. Isaiah 42:1-9 4. Isaiah ... A: Bannai, You may think that this is a positive act, but from my point of view it is rude - it is ... | |
| Please reply, i am still waiting, am I a jew? | 6/30/2007 |
| Q: I have written to you before, you askesd me for my email adress. I wonder if I am a Jew, I am so ... A: Allow me to be brief and clear. According to Jewish tradition and law, if your mother had only a ... | |
| Broken Shabbat Candle Stick Holder | 6/24/2007 |
| Q: I have kind of an odd question. Would you have any advice on how to fix a Shabbat candle stock ... A: Contact either a jeweler or a metal shop which does welding. The only rel decision that has to be ... | |
| The Messiah | 6/18/2007 |
| Q: Hey there, thank you for reading my question. I need not just your point of view on this question, ... A: The Hebrew is speaking of a time during that of the prophet, NOT of a future time as Christianity ... | |
| Stem Cell Research | 6/16/2007 |
| Q: I am a Christian and in highschool. I would like to know the Conservative Judaism beliefs in ... A: As a Conservative Rabbi, our movement is entirely in support of all forms of stem cell research that ... | |
| head coverings | 6/11/2007 |
| Q: I found your answer to a question dating back to 2004 on the tradition of the yarmulka. I have ... A: I went researching and found the following that provides some background. A Babylonia custom was ... | |
| Torah scroll | 6/5/2007 |
| Q: I'm a 14 Year old student studying Judaism at school. Please can you tell me what the wording means ... A: There are many different inscriptions on a Torah Schroll mantle. Unless I can see it, I cannot ... | |
| Animal Sacrifice | 6/3/2007 |
| Q: I know now that animal sacrifices stoped in 79 CE when the Temple was destroyed. My questions are; ... A: Animal and all sacrifices ceased in 70 CE when the Romans destroyed the Second Temple in Jerusalem. ... | |
| purgatory | 5/31/2007 |
| Q: From what I have been reading, I am led to believe that the Jewish religion believes in some form of ... A: Judaism is a faith that is "this-world" oriented with greater interest in how we conduct our lives ... | |
| Moses | 5/30/2007 |
| Q: This question is about Moses. Moses was raised by Pharohs's daughter and was treated as an Egyptian ... A: and the subject is very complicated. The Biblical text is very cryptic. For that reason the Rabbis ... | |
| jew? | 5/30/2007 |
| Q: I am a 44 years old man married with a catholic lady and with 2 sons. My father was jew from melilla ... A: A Jew is either born to a Jewish mother or converts to Judaism according to traditional rituals and ... | |
| Christian attire to Jewish Funeral | 5/28/2007 |
| Q: What do Christian Men and Woman wear to a Jewish Funeral? Do we wear something on our head? A: Appropriate attire is modest, whether liberal or very traditional Jewish funeral. If the funeral is ... | |
| why? | 5/28/2007 |
| Q: How do bald men put on yamaca's? A: Good question - for those of us who are balding and have very short hair! We either use kipot ... | |
| 6 Day War | 5/24/2007 |
| Q: Within the last year I saw an amazing documentary on television in which soldiers who fought in this ... A: There are a variety of films aboutthe 6 Day War in 1967, including some documentaries. I have seen a ... | |
| INterfaith Love | 5/20/2007 |
| Q: This is a follow up to http://en.allexperts.com/q/Judaism-951/INterfaith-Love.htm How do i deal ... A: It may be that they don't know how else to express themselves and their love for you as well as ... | |
| INterfaith Love | 5/18/2007 |
| Q: I am writing you after reading many articles on interfaith relationships. My boyfriend (38) and I ... A: but your situation is far from unusual or unique. My first response is that you should immediately ... | |
| Jews | 5/18/2007 |
| Q: I would like you to answer my questions regarding today's Jews. Are they really Semitic? or they are ... A: Today's Jews are a faith community, not a nationality. They are descended from men and women from ... | |
| Tefilla | 5/16/2007 |
| Q: Q-Re Vayikra 16:3-5…can you tell me what prayer in the Siddur corresponds to this? To do the ... A: What is it you are seeking to understand? Chapter 16 of Leviticus becomes the basis for the Service ... | |
| cemetery | 5/13/2007 |
| Q: I recently visited a Jewish cemetery, and I noticed that many of the tombstones had small rocks on ... A: Rocks are placed on tombstones today for various reasons, if only to indicate that people visited ... | |
| Offering | 5/7/2007 |
| Q: Q- Is this done today? If so, in what way? Leviticus 6,18 “Speak unto Aaron and to his sons, ... A: Check out http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=496&letter=P&search=prayer The prayer ... | |
| Conversion | 5/4/2007 |
| Q: my name is Rafael, I am a jew and my wife is Christian, we have 3 kids a child from her previous ... A: The simplest answer is for you to contact the Rabbi of the congregation in which you would want your ... | |
| A place to worship | 5/4/2007 |
| Q: I have been a devout Christian (Protestant) all my life, but I now no longer believe that Jesus is ... A: I believe that you are correct in that not everyone needs to be a Jew, even if they are not ... | |
| Offering | 5/4/2007 |
| Q: Q- Is this done today? If so, in what way? Leviticus 6,18 “Speak unto Aaron and to his sons, ... A: but there are no sacrifices for the past 1900 years since the destruction of the Second Temple in ... | |
| Sanhedrin rulings | 5/4/2007 |
| Q: I don't know if the last one made it. So, I will try repeat. How did the Sanhedrin vote or did ... A: The pattern for the Sanhedrin is an extensive literature. However we wouldn't and don't use that ... | |
| Israelism | 5/1/2007 |
| Q: Could you explain the difference between Judaism and Israelism? A: Judaism is a faith with which one is affiliated, to which one is committed and whose heritage is one ... | |
| No music | 4/30/2007 |
| Q: I listen to a Jewish radio program in my car called JM in the AM, and I noticed that for the past ... A: There is a custom of not using or listening to music during the period of Sefirah, counting 49 days ... | |
| Jewish education in the first century | 4/24/2007 |
| Q: I was wondering did schools exist in Israel in the first century, or were most people taught by ... A: There is a general consensus that young people were educated with teachers as a priority. We don't ... | |
| Importance of attending shiva for relative | 4/23/2007 |
| Q: We live in Atlanta, GA and my husband has a first cousin who lives in Toronto, Canada. Her ... A: I can't offer you any advice. Clearly when and if it is "convenient" - distance and time - ... | |
| Jewish law | 4/21/2007 |
| Q: What is the book of the covenant referred to in Exodus? Who wrote it and when? Thank you. A: There are two uses of the words "book of the covenant." For some it means the entire Torah=Five ... | |
| uh-oh | 4/19/2007 |
| Q: Shalom, My name is Shlomo and i 12 years old and am in need of serious help. I recently discovered I ... A: I give you credit for addressing the issue and obviously doing a lot of research. It is against my ... | |
| Bris | 4/18/2007 |
| Q: My son is married to a non Jew. They are expecting a baby soon. It will be a boy. They are still ... A: This should have been worked out by the couple before the marriage, and hopefully has been. A brit ... | |
| Am I a Jew? | 4/16/2007 |
| Q: "Hi, I am very confused over the distinction between being an ethnic Jew as opposed to an active ... A: First of all, if you have a particular congregation in mind, make a call to the Rabbi and set up an ... | |
| Passover/Haroseth | 4/6/2007 |
| Q: Are you Berel Dov Lerner of Israel or a different person? What is the origin of Haroseth? It was ... A: No, I am not that person as I live in the States. I have been confused with "Barry Dov Lerner" who ... | |
| Jewish Heritage | 4/3/2007 |
| Q: Hi, I'm 20 years old. I researched through your past answers, and I understand that Judaism is not a ... A: By Jewish law for the last several thousand years, so long as one is descended matrilineally - ... | |
| Zechariah 11 and Jesus | 4/2/2007 |
| Q: could you please help me with this question that is troubling me. The Christians say that Zachariah ... A: I apologize for any delay due to pneumonia. There is, from a Jewish point of view, no relationship ... | |
| symbolism of the yamulka | 3/9/2007 |
| Q: I had asked you about your communion participation. and what other symbols that i could take on. ... A: Now I understand. Perhaps in searching for an example I used the wrong on in "taking communion in ... | |
| Roles | 3/8/2007 |
| Q: What is the difference in services before the L-RD of the Kohanim and the Levites? What role does ... A: In the Temple, the Kohanim=priests conducted the sacrifices, while the Levites were assisting them, ... | |
| symbolism of the yamulka | 3/8/2007 |
| Q: Rabbi Barry I am curious as to why you chose not to respond to my other follow up questions? ... A: I thought I had answered all your questions. If you or other Christians wish to wear a yarmulka, go ... | |
| symbolism of the yamulka | 3/8/2007 |
| Q: Why can one group of people practice one thing and no one else can? For example lots of people ... A: but I would suggest that you may be over-reacting. You asked for an opinion. There is no law or ... | |
| symbolism of the yamulka | 3/6/2007 |
| Q: I recently have thought about wearing a yamulka, but i am very confused as to do so or not. My ... A: Yes, it is a Jewish article of clothing, even for Jewish women these days in the liberal movements. ... | |
| Kosher meats | 3/1/2007 |
| Q: Sir, I am neither Jewish nor kosher,but, I have recently become concerned about the treatment of the ... A: I've taken this time to be certain of my facts in responding to your most sensitive note. Jews from ... | |
| Hebrew Name | 2/18/2007 |
| Q: There is no one living in my family that can remember if I was given a Hebrew name. My son is going ... A: First of all, your "English" or secular name is frequently used in Yiddish as a Jewish name. It is ... | |
| giving gifts | 2/6/2007 |
| Q: The poem that I was referring to goes like this: Wine- so that you will always have joy, Bread- so ... A: I shall keep it in my library and I am very grateful for your response. I knew of bread and salt, ... | |
| Forgiveness | 2/3/2007 |
| Q: However, my question concerned locating instances in the Bible of MAN forgiving MAN, God ... A: I wish that I were able to have the time and opportunity to do the research for you. If you use a ... | |
| giving gifts | 1/31/2007 |
| Q: My friends are very strong in their jewish faith. They are preparing to move into a new home and I ... A: If they are truly observant, then the foods need to be "kosher" and must come from a kosher source. ... | |
| Serpent | 1/30/2007 |
| Q: Shalom R. Lerner Can you tell me when the Tanach speaks of the hebrew word "Tannim"...in these ... A: In short, there is in my opinion no support for "tanin" to refer to either any Christian ... | |
| Forgiveness | 1/29/2007 |
| Q: I'm investigating the subject of forgiveness in the Old Testament. Clearly, there are numerous ... A: and indeed it is a great question. Generally we do not respond to research or assignmensts. But this ... | |
| Baptism | 1/26/2007 |
| Q: I am a Penecostal man 49 years old trying to deepen my walk with God.I believe in "Here O Israel, ... A: Yes, "immersion" was a required ritual of the Temple in Jerusalem, and they have found many "ritual ... | |
| Moses | 1/25/2007 |
| Q: Rabbi- I'm a Christian youth minister volunteer and I had a visitor in my Bible study tonight. ... A: You visitor was really telling your group a legend. It does not exist in the Hebrew Scriptures at ... | |
| gods | 1/23/2007 |
| Q: Where does Judaism teach about the Muslim and Christian gods? Are they the same as the Jewish god, ... A: Judaism teaches that God is one and unique. For Jews, God is not divisible in any fashion, and it is ... | |
| Judaism | 1/21/2007 |
| Q: At what point in biblical history did the fundamental pattern of Jewish experience emerge, and what ... A: but this sounds like a question right out of an examination or take-home. We don't participate in ... | |
| Judaism | 1/16/2007 |
| Q: How does Judaism assist its adherents to achieve inner peace? A: Jews find a great deal of inner peace, as you might expect in prayer three times a day - morning, ... | |
| inviting the departed to a happy event | 1/16/2007 |
| Q: Is there a custom that one goes to the cemetery to invite a departed loved one to a happy event? A: Yes, there is a custom - not a law - that one may go to a grave of a loved one and invite them to be ... | |
| Insanity | 1/13/2007 |
| Q: How is the concept of insanity viewed in Judaism? What Biblical references can be quoted? Thank ... A: This is a continuing thread and I can't add too much more. Frankly, I wonder why you are so ... | |
| philo | 1/12/2007 |
| Q: I have been reading the ancient writings of Philo and am trying to understand the Jewish concept of ... A: The brief but important principle is that for at least 2000 years Jews and Judaism teaches that each ... | |
| ethics | 1/7/2007 |
| Q: What is the connection between law and art A: In advance I must say that this is most complicated with various nuances in Jewish law and Jewish ... | |
| Judaism and Insanity | 1/5/2007 |
| Q: I'm truly humbled. Therefore, I ask my question in a different way: Please, can you tell me, in a ... A: Sorry but a "juicy summary" shouldn't suffice for anything, even a review question for a class. ... | |
| Judaism and Insanity | 1/5/2007 |
| Q: Can you tell me, in as much detail as possible, how Conservative and Orthodox Judaism views ... A: However, when you ask "for as much detail as possible" you indicate already that it is a very large ... | |
| Judiasm | 1/3/2007 |
| Q: What influences did Judaism have on the development of early Christianity? A: however you are asking for a major treatise! There is far more influence than can be summarized in ... | |
| Sacrifices | 12/21/2006 |
| Q: Rabbi Dov, I saw an answer you gave concerning the rebuilding of the temple and was wondering if ... A: Deatr Mark Thanks for writing. The Rabbis included those who felt that the Temple would not ever ... | |
| the laws | 12/21/2006 |
| Q: Rabbi; when reading the laws in Leviticus they tell us to do some very harsh things; to stone ... A: First of all, we are citizens of countries and we are bound by the laws of the land; we may not ... | |
| Question | 12/19/2006 |
| Q: I am a Philosophy student and a Christian, but I am very interested in Judaism as well as ... A: First of all, Jewish use of the term Satan is far from the Christian use. At most, A solid summary ... | |
| love | 12/15/2006 |
| Q: I've been asking about love, what is the love that the Torah speaks about, we're supposed to love ... A: This love of which you speak is a real theological challenge. The love for one's neighbor is really ... | |
| Converting to Judaism | 12/8/2006 |
| Q: I am interested in converting to Judaism. I want to be a Conservative Jew. Where do I go in ... A: I'm contacting colleagues in Chicago to determine who teaches in the Hillel School. Please contact ... | |
| God | 11/19/2006 |
| Q: I wonder if the bible is really an inspired work , any more than other great poetry or philosophy. ... A: On re-reading my answer and your question, I see that I neglected the first part. For myself, the ... | |
| Judaism | 11/16/2006 |
| Q: how many people follow Judaism A: I googled the topic myself and found the following information as of 2005. Best wishes Rabbi Dov ... | |
| Sacrafice of animals | 11/15/2006 |
| Q: When did the Jewish religion stop sacrificing animals and why A: ALREADY ANSWERED Dear John, Thanks for writing. When the Second Temple was destroyed by Rome for ... | |
| regarding hand shakes of rabbi | 11/13/2006 |
| Q: Why cant you give a rabbi a hand shake or can you. A: There is a traditional modesty that many Jews still observe, one aspect of which is not touching = ... | |
| Conversion with tatoo | 11/11/2006 |
| Q: Good Morning my friend, Upon my journey in discovering the Jewish people and my hopes of ... A: Conservative conversion would not be denied to you because of tatoos, nor would any other status as ... | |
| Evil | 11/10/2006 |
| Q: I am a member of a Conservative Congregation, 90 years of age and taking courses at a Community ... A: I translate the term to mean the "inclination to do evil" defined for me as opposed to God's will ... | |
| Catholic Student Assignment Question | 11/9/2006 |
| Q: I am 13 and go to a Catholic Jr High in Missouri. During our religion class we are encouraged to ... A: but we don't answer questions from exams. The messiah in Jewish terms was to occur just after the ... | |
| Various | 11/7/2006 |
| Q: Shalom R. Lerner, I was hoping you could help me with these questions I have? Q1 -Is it possible ... A: , Thanks for writing. I thought I had written earlier. What is the basis for these questions. We ... | |
| housewarming traditions - bread and salt | 10/30/2006 |
| Q: I read your answer to the question about a housewarming gift of salt and bread (oh, I'm sorry, they ... A: The meanings seem to be shared in a variety of cultures. Rabbi Dov We've heard two versions, and ... | |
| Jewish beliefs | 9/22/2006 |
| Q: Rabbi Lerner, First allow me to thank you for providing this service! I was in discussion w/ a ... A: Indeed most modern or liberal Jews do emphasize "this world" rather than the "world to come." More ... | |
| driving on Shabbos | 9/20/2006 |
| Q: How about flipping on lights or adjusting the AC? Are these also permitted by some? How about use of ... A: Electricity in mnay opinions of the Committee on Jewish Law and Standards is permitted. As I ... | |
| Halal equal to Kosher? | 9/17/2006 |
| Q: I have heard that from the Muslim viewpoint, Kosher meat is acceptable for Muslims to eat, as meat ... A: No, Hallal does not meet the standards of kosher slaughter, butchering or preparing meat. Yes, you ... | |
| driving on Shabbos | 9/17/2006 |
| Q: I recently received a magazine in the mail from the Conservative. I was surprised to find that they ... A: All of my student peers were Shomer Shabbat, including not driving on Shabbat. I don't recall that ... | |
| Evil eye | 9/12/2006 |
| Q: Do the jewish people,as a whole believe in the "evil eye?" And if so what is the Evil Eye?? A: I wish I knew the answer. No educated Jew believes in magic, in superstition, etc. The "evil eye" ... | |
| moving into a new home | 9/5/2006 |
| Q: Rabbi: What is the Jewish tradition for someone who is moving into a new home? I think the custom ... A: David, Thanks for writing. The Jewish custom is to take to the home bread and salt. The broom is ... | |
| Does Israel Accept Reform / Conserv Convert? | 9/3/2006 |
| Q: I realize my mom is Jewish, and out of fear all of the records were lost and destroyed after her dad ... A: What makes you concerned that your Mother or Grandmother might not be consdered Jewish in anyone's ... | |
| business custome | 8/29/2006 |
| Q: I am meeting with an orthodox business man to negotiate a commercial real estate deal. I would like ... A: You re obviously a thoughtful and sensitive person. No, I would not suggest bringing anything to ... | |
| yamulka or kippa | 8/23/2006 |
| Q: i am jew ,I grow up as a conservative actually my family and i assist to a reform sinagoga,in the ... A: In my experience, in Jewish tradition single men don't wear a tallit and single women don't cover ... | |
| Daily Reading | 8/20/2006 |
| Q: I just got my 2007 Conservative calendar and noted a daily reading of some sort. Some from Torah and ... A: I'm delighted that you are receiving the calendar, as my wife and I were the creators and editors ... | |
| Conservatism | 8/15/2006 |
| Q: Rabbi Dov, I guess I was not aware of the extent of the animosity between Conservatism and Orthodoxy ... A: Please don't impute general animosity, although - for example - there are a number of Orthodox ... | |
| 10-603 | 8/14/2006 |
| Q: As always, thank you for your time! What do you believe is the relationship between the Decalogue ... A: I appreciate the fact that you are writing. However, please remember that this is a Conservative ... | |
| Feast of Tabernacle | 8/13/2006 |
| Q: Age: 35 years Religious affiliation: Non-denominatinal, Charsmatic I have heard that during ... A: In short, the answer is yes. The Babylonian Talmud, Sukkah, 5:1-4 For the Simchat Beit HaShoaevah, ... | |
| miracles during the 67 war | 7/5/2006 |
| Q: ..i am a Deacon in the Roman Catholic faith who has always believed strongly that the JEWISH PEOPLE ... A: There are many legends and personal accounts of the 6 Day War in 1967 if only because it was still ... | |
| Judiasm Religion | 7/3/2006 |
| Q: What are the top two current issues facing the Judiasm religion today? A: Every teacher, Rabbi and involved Jew would have different answers. In my own opinion, among the ... | |
| Deut. 15:35 | 7/3/2006 |
| Q: Rabbi, Thank you for your follow-up answer. As a closing thought, I find it interesting that, as ... A: I appreciate your kind - albeit slightly patronizing :-) - comments, although I had sensed you are ... | |
| Deut. 15:35 | 7/2/2006 |
| Q: Rabbi, Right you are, should have been Numbers, not Deuteronomy. What was his crime? Do you find it ... A: The Talmud in Shabbat, see 73b and 96b, discusses exactly your question. They suggest that the ... | |
| animal sacrifice | 6/27/2006 |
| Q: I am a 39 year old practicing christian. My father and I were discussing the laws of judaism the ... A: There are really two separate issues here. The first is that animal sacrifice could only take place ... | |
| Conversion Help | 6/27/2006 |
| Q: Do I have a pickle for you. My husband and I are living in Okinawa, Japan. My husband is the lay ... A: To be honest, I am trying to set up distance education course for conversion. The challenge to such ... | |
| Deut. 15:35 | 6/26/2006 |
| Q: Rabbi, What was the man's crime in Deut. 15:35? The 'traditional' explainations don't seem to make ... A: The text to which you are referring I imagine is really inNumbers and not Deutronomy. In any event, ... | |
| Prayer | 6/20/2006 |
| Q: You seem very sensible and I would like to follow up with one last question. Could you please ... A: As a Jew I believe that we have free will, without limits. We have the capacity even to ... | |
| Prayer | 6/20/2006 |
| Q: I recently read Rabbi Kushner's book When Bad Things Happen to Good People. I understand his logic ... A: While you have identified that in both situations one is praying "for" nonetheless there is a ... | |
| do the jews believe in jesus as the messiah | 6/19/2006 |
| Q: alright, i already know the answer to this which i believe is no. as far as i know the jews ... A: Sometimes it takes the opinion of a third person to convince a friend. Jews do not believe that ... | |
| ------- | 6/17/2006 |
| Q: Some people from the Bible/Torah, such as Solomon, Abraham, and Jacob had multiple wives, ... A: Strange as it sounds, yes. There were laws and rules in the culture in early Israelite history, and ... | |
| tabernacle | 6/15/2006 |
| Q: Rabbi Lerner My question concerns the tabernacle. Exodus says that the tabernacle was 150 feet by ... A: You've raised a wonderful and fascinating issue. Most of the dimensions described in the ancient ... | |
| Consrvative Judaism | 6/12/2006 |
| Q: What are the main features of conservative Judaism?? A: Unfortunately, it is a very complicated question with many nuances. In brief we are (1) an ... | |
| Pentacost | 6/9/2006 |
| Q: Rabbi, First, thank you for taking the time to consider this question. I am a Non-Denominational ... A: If you wish to read up on Pentecost (Shavuot or the Festival of Weeks) in the Jewish tradition, try ... | |
| Jurisdiction of Beth Din | 5/30/2006 |
| Q: I have a dispute with a Ukrainian government official, a Jew, and would opt for a rabbinical court. ... A: I must advise you to contact someone who is familiar with both local, secular law and also its ... | |
| American Judaism | 5/22/2006 |
| Q: Rav Lerner, There are hundreds of hispanic radio stations, thousand christian radio stations, black ... A: While I appreciate your observation, may I respond as follows: 1. Although you speak out of a ... | |
| Purpose | 5/16/2006 |
| Q: I am a student of religion and was wondering if you could help me. Could you explain, in a couple ... A: I can only answer personally as this is too broad and deep a question in terms of philosophy. ... | |
| Shalom | 5/8/2006 |
| Q: Your profile was interesting. Can you tell me the difference, between orthodox, ultra orthodox, ... A: Orthodox and ultra-orthodx Jews are fundamentalists in terms of written law of the Five Books of ... | |
| origin of "Jewish mother" rule for Jewish identity | 5/8/2006 |
| Q: In an internet forum, a reader of a recent Ha'aretz piece, Shmuel Rosner's "The mystery of the fifth ... A: The first issue is the determination of Jewish identity based upon birth to a Jewish mother. It is ... | |
| please reply... | 5/8/2006 |
| Q: I am sorry to bother you, I have an important question that had busy my thought for a long time. As ... A: However, I could never advise anyone to do which is illegal and against the law of one's heritage. ... | |
| Please Help Im so confused :-( | 4/21/2006 |
| Q: I am 26 yr old male from the U.K AM I jewish? I have not been bought up as jewish but maybe want ... A: First of all, I would urge you to speak with a local Rabbi who should be able to assist you more ... | |
| Alcohol during Passover (?) | 4/10/2006 |
| Q: I belong to a "Gourmet Club" in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Our mandate is to understand the world ... A: Interesting question. Thanks. Plum brandy is available and is marked on the label - Kosher for ... | |
| why are we here? Ya know,... | 4/5/2006 |
| Q: why are we here? Ya know, why do we exsist? is there a meaning of life? A: You are asking a profound question, frankly beyond my ability to answer for you. I can only answer ... | |
| Would an All Powerful God Permit Our Evil World?? | 3/29/2006 |
| Q: I hope you will consider a further inquiry. You state that "there is a universal force for good, ... A: Passover is almost here and I must admit that I am pressed, but I wanted to respond albeit briefly. ... | |
| Would an All Powerful God Permit Our Evil World?? | 3/24/2006 |
| Q: I am a 35 year old male, born to two Conservative to Reformed Jewish parents. I'm a lawyer and ... A: It would appear that you have a full plate from which to ask about the "justice" or "goodness" of ... | |
| Abraham | 3/22/2006 |
| Q: Please can you tell me what you know about Abraham. I know about the story when he wants a child, ... A: whether we are talking about what the Hebrew Scriptures actually state or the stories that have been ... | |
| religion | 3/21/2006 |
| Q: What is your religion ? in your opinion what is religion ? in your opinion what is Faith ? Has ... A: but it sounds as though this is a class assignment. I remind everyone that we don't participate in ... | |
| lineage | 3/13/2006 |
| Q: How is the heritage passed down, through a person's mother or father? A: If you are acking whether the Jewish community consideres someone to be Jewish, they can choose to ... | |
| Term Paper | 3/9/2006 |
| Q: I am doing a term paper on Judaism and need to ask a few questions to finish my paper. Would you be ... A: but our policy is not to work with students on their research papers. That needs to be an ... | |
| Jews and Jesus | 3/6/2006 |
| Q: I wondered who Jews believe Jesus was? Do they believe he was a prophet, never existed, or an evil ... A: It is impossible for me to represent all Jews and Judaism. For an academic response which is ... | |
| cultural beliefs that affect health | 2/24/2006 |
| Q: my name is brenda, i am a nursing student in pampa tx. i am doing some reasearch about judaism and ... A: In terms of assisting Jewish patients, the specturm of observance is very wide. The only way one can ... | |
| Hebrew names on grave monuments | 2/19/2006 |
| Q: My aunt passed away last april and I am now looking for a monument for her grave. What I need is the ... A: From the perspective of teaching, there is not always an exact correlation between the English and ... | |
| Milk and meat | 2/13/2006 |
| Q: There was an interesting article in the NY Times, February 6th, 2006( "The Word of G-d, as Shaped by ... A: I don't know of Mr. Hillel or his academic credentials. I consulted Biblia Hebraica to see if there ... | |
| halacha | 2/12/2006 |
| Q: I am a Jewish chaplain (CPE) and often I am confronted with issues that I would like a true ... A: but it would appear that you are seeking definitive opinions of the Conservative Movement and the ... | |
| The 10 plagues | 2/11/2006 |
| Q: How long did the last plague last? A: The Book of Exodus describes the 10th plague beginning at midnight when God passed through Egypt, ... | |
| Counting of the omer | 1/30/2006 |
| Q: I am a relatively observant conservative Jew and have a question about the official conservative ... A: My experience has been that often when members of a congregation don't agree with their Rabbi's ... | |
| Sumerian kings and Biblical history | 1/30/2006 |
| Q: Religious affliation: I have basic knowldege abt. the Biblical events, primarily the antediluvian ... A: As a modern, Conservative Rabbi I don't read the first 10 chapters of the Bible as literal history ... | |
| Messianics | 1/26/2006 |
| Q: I feel priveleged to communicate so easily with you today. I am female,58 yrs of age and was raised ... A: Yes, if you still believe that Jesus is the Messiah, then you may find your fulfillment in the ... | |
| Judaism vs Christianity | 1/25/2006 |
| Q: Simply put, can you please tell the difference between Judaism and Christianity? Thank you. A: Simply put, Jews don't believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ, the son of God or anyone more ... | |
| soul, spirit etc | 1/24/2006 |
| Q: I find the the Old Testament to be a little confusing as it is hard to understand the differences in ... A: I am answering from the perspective of a modern, Conservative Rabbi. If you want or need a ... | |
| Ezekiel's Temple | 1/23/2006 |
| Q: I was wondering about the prince in the book of Ezekiel. Is he a king, prince, or Messiah that is to ... A: I commend to you the Soncino Bible series and the volume on Ezekiel. The prince in these chapters in ... | |
| Ezekiel's Temple | 1/20/2006 |
| Q: I was wondering about the prince in the book of Ezekiel. Is he a king, prince, or Messiah that is to ... A: I'm be delighted to respond. To what chapter(s) are you referring. In terms of Christian thinking ... | |
| Counting of the omer | 1/17/2006 |
| Q: I am a relatively observant conservative Jew and have a question about the official conservative ... A: However, as an observant Conservative Jew is there a reason for asking me on-line rather than asking ... | |
| Multiple Versions? | 1/8/2006 |
| Q: One more thing though. When you said "We know that it was edited in Babylonia and the final versions ... A: There are multiple versions in the Septuagint, the Greek translation, that exist in multiple ... | |
| Punishment For Apostacy In Judaism 2 | 1/6/2006 |
| Q: You said that "Jews historically has not, does not and will not execute apostates to any other ... A: I appreciate your reading of the text, but it is - even if revealed in antiquity - has been passed ... | |
| I thought jews were a race? How is it possible to convert? | 12/30/2005 |
| Q: I am a 36 year old protestant soldier serving in Iraq. I am married to a Jewish girl of 30. Hilary's ... A: , First of all and above all, thank you for serving your country in such an exposed and dangerous ... | |
| christ | 12/21/2005 |
| Q: Why did the jews not accept that jesus was the promised one Many thanks Bill Battram A: Judaism does not interpret the Hebrew Scriptures as did Christianity across the ages. We apply to ... | |
| jews perspective on aids/hiv | 12/6/2005 |
| Q: I just wanted to know whats jews perspective on aids. What does or has judaism religion taught their ... A: The Jewish religion believes that AIDS and HIV are diseases which came into existence probably as ... | |
| conversion to judaism | 11/26/2005 |
| Q: I am a 58 year old divorced female. I have no children. I am disabled because of PTSD. I was a ... A: but thus far I have no good advice for you except to try and make a trip to my colleague in San ... | |
| Judaic teaching | 11/24/2005 |
| Q: Are you able to tell me what the current Judaic teaching is regarding stem cell research? Even if ... A: The key concept is "saving of a life" - whether in actuality or potentially - through such research. ... | |
| blood | 11/23/2005 |
| Q: -------- Once again thankyou Rabbi. My follow up question is this...since during the sin or ... A: I appreciate your interest, and I know that other faiths are very much involved in ... | |
| blood | 11/23/2005 |
| Q: I have a question about the eating of blood. I know that in that God tells Noah not to eat blood ... A: "Blood an Object of Awe. Biblical Data: The importance of blood for the continuance of life must ... | |
| Ezekiel's temple | 11/16/2005 |
| Q: I hope I am not a bother. I have been reading the book of Ezekiel and was surprised at the great ... A: I hope I can help, but it is really a brief response. As in many questions, I would hope that you ... | |
| Wedding | 11/16/2005 |
| Q: Please advise me on what I can speak about in my wedding speach from the Torah about marriage. I am ... A: First of all thanks for writing and mazal tov on your forthcoming marriage. While I would normally ... | |
| Temple Pottery | 11/7/2005 |
| Q: I wrote to you a few days ago regarding temple pottery and the idea that the pots, after being made, ... A: This is a system that returns the mail; I don't have your email address. I asked several potters ... | |
| date | 10/31/2005 |
| Q: Please be kind and answer on what date started deluge ? A: but you would have to ask a fundamentalist if you really want a calendar date. I truly believe that ... | |
| peace offering | 10/30/2005 |
| Q: I have written you a few times before and have always appreciated your answers. I would like to ... A: This is intended to be a"brief" note reply service. You are asking for a major analysis of the ... | |
| Mikveh | 10/24/2005 |
| Q: i want to keep the mikveh laws you know avoid having relations, bedikoth, and going to the mikve the ... A: You are to lauded for wanting to observe Jewish tradition, and perhaps in a meeting with you and ... | |
| candles | 10/23/2005 |
| Q: In the four synagogues I have been in each had candles up front, either individual candles or a ... A: Generally, a candle or light often refers to "or Torah," the Torah as a light to one and all. The ... | |
| Rosh HaShanah | 10/22/2005 |
| Q: I am an Anglican theology student. I am doing study on Jewish theology, and have a question, ... A: Regarding the question of the days, you are right. It is a technical issue involving the mathematics ... | |
| Lost tribes | 10/19/2005 |
| Q: I would like to know about the 10 northern tribes that were exiled by the Babylonians and ... A: You are asking a question from a religous and almost agenda-driven perspective. It is possible ... | |
| feast of passover | 10/17/2005 |
| Q: I have a question that relates in a way to christianity. My question is this: in the Christian ... A: I'm sorry for any delay but Jewish holidays continue to occur mid-week with the Sabbath weekend and ... | |
| Jewish tradition of usury | 10/6/2005 |
| Q: Please could you tell me the biblical or historical factors that led to the Jewish tradition of ... A: Please forgive my tardiness. My father passed away and I only returned home from mourning just now. ... | |
| Tradition | 10/4/2005 |
| Q: I am 59years old and a Catholic seeking confirmation on traditional teachings. Is cremation allowed ... A: Cremation is not allowed - at the outset - in Jewish law regarding caring for the body of a loved ... | |
| Replacement Theology | 8/1/2005 |
| Q: Below I have drawn some conclusions on replacement theology. I have always considered them to be ... A: Debate is not the purpose of this list, nor even a debate phrased as a question. Those who accept ... | |
| How does Judaism explain suffering? | 7/31/2005 |
| Q: I have been interested in understanding how different world religions explain the pain and suffering ... A: There are a variety of religious explanations for the suffering in the world and I've yet to find a ... | |
| Chosen People | 7/19/2005 |
| Q: I just found this site,while browsing. I am so excited at the possibilities here, It's hard to ... A: There are many volumes about Judaism - beliefs and practices. The best one volume encyclopedia ... | |
| God and Angels | 7/16/2005 |
| Q: If God is all-powerful and all-knowing, why would he need angels? A: The term "angel" is taken from the Greek "angelos" which means "messengers", not semi-divine beings, ... | |
| Skull Cap | 7/10/2005 |
| Q: I live in Pennsylvania. At the present time we do not have a Rabbi. How do we get a Rabbi? Are you ... A: Several questions if I am to help you - whether me personally or the organization of Conservative ... | |
| Skull Cap | 7/9/2005 |
| Q: My conservative temple does not require a skull cap. What do you think? A: The decisions of a congregation are made under the supervision of the Rabbi. If you have a question ... | |
| jewish beliefs | 6/27/2005 |
| Q: I am a Christian. I would like to know if as a Jew,you believe in Heaven and hell A: Most Jews have "a belief" in an afterlife. Whether or not it is "Heaven" or "Hell" as it is ... | |
| 10 comandments | 6/22/2005 |
| Q: Can u help me remember the 10 comandments I have problems remembering them all. Is there a poem or ... A: However, there is no mnumonic for remembering the Aseret HaDibrot, the Ten Statements as they are ... | |
| talmud | 6/15/2005 |
| Q: I have read that the Talmud talks about how to treat a women who has a chronic vaginal hemmorrhage. ... A: I suspect that you are referring - or someone brought it to your attention - the case indicated in ... | |
| blood | 6/10/2005 |
| Q: I have read the torah and the laws regarding the touching of blood. I am wondering about times of ... A: I really don't have more than the following. You may wish to contact the Reference Desk of the ... | |
| Decisor | 5/19/2005 |
| Q: This is question from an confused Anglican. What is a Rabbinic Decisor? Is he like a mediator ? or a ... A: A "Decisor" is the English translation for a Hebrew word "Posek" derived from the word for a verse, ... | |
| oral traditon | 5/18/2005 |
| Q: ------------------------- where do you find it the books your talking about please send me a link ... A: Both are certainly in any decent Jewish library. "Legends" is a seven volume set, 3 volumes of ... | |
| prophecies | 5/17/2005 |
| Q: I was wondering why I read so many prophecies in the Torah about the Prophets telling about the ... A: but this one is relatively straightforward. Prophecy ceased with Malachai roughly in the 4th ... | |
| what to bring to the family after a death | 5/16/2005 |
| Q: I have been a private duty nurse for a jewish woman that has just passed. I would like to know what ... A: and the best response to your friend will clearly be a good friend caring about and for her as you ... | |
| oral traditon | 5/15/2005 |
| Q: im interested in where to find the oral tradition . like i read abraham was 78 years old when he ... A: There is the text of our tradition known as the "written Torah." There is also a body of literature ... | |
| Conservative Judaism | 5/12/2005 |
| Q: I am doing a research project for Geneva College, where I am a student. My research is on the ... A: I am not certain that your thesis is correct. Orthodox Jews generally don't affiliate as much as ... | |
| Clean and Unclean Eating | 5/12/2005 |
| Q: They were very helpful and very much appreciated. Keith HawkinsDear Rabbi Dov, Thank you so much ... A: Rabbinic law and logic is not consistent at all times with what you might consider logical or ... | |
| Clean and Unclean Eating | 5/9/2005 |
| Q: I heard that according to Jewish Law that it is an abomination to eat duck. I would like to knowif ... A: I can't figure out why anyone woudl tell you that except that it is expensive and sometimes hard to ... | |
| Rabbi, I feel guilty | 4/29/2005 |
| Q: I guess I am considered conservative. I keep kosher inside the home but not outside. During pasover, ... A: First of all, when others misinform you and cause you to break a rule of ritual, then it is on their ... | |
| Passover | 4/24/2005 |
| Q: Why does Passover last for eight days? A: Passover is described in the Torah = Five Books of Moses as a 7 day holiday. However, the system ... | |
| Ancient History | 4/24/2005 |
| Q: I have a question that I don't know exactly how to ask. It is meant with full respect and courtesy, ... A: Secondly, you've been most polite and phrased the issue in a most respectful. The challenge is to ... | |
| Gentile Conversion - Tattoos | 4/21/2005 |
| Q: I am a 25 year old gentile who has started self-study for conversion to the Conservative Movement. ... A: Regarding tattoos, while after the fact there is no consequence, before the fact they are extremely ... | |
| Tatoo and organ donation | 4/19/2005 |
| Q: My son has joined the military and wants to get a tatoo. He asked if there are Jewish laws, or are ... A: I'm having a great deal of trouble with the AllExpert ISP and my own Comcast ISP. I don't know when ... | |
| passover | 4/18/2005 |
| Q: but can't remember from one year to the next. i don't think so, because of Kitneyot (sp?) but i want ... A: There is a 1986 responsum to the Conservative Law Committee permitting peanuts and derivatives. ... | |
| Birth of baby girl | 4/13/2005 |
| Q: There seems to be almost no information available on a ceremony for the birth of a jewish baby ... A: I'm sorry that Comcast has been down and only "up" occasionally in my neighborhood. I don't know ... | |
| Bar Mitzvah | 4/13/2005 |
| Q: Would you explain for mw the significance of the Bar Mitzvah ceremony for Jews? I teach 14 year old ... A: I'm sorry that Comcast has been down and only "up" occasionally in my neighborhood. I don't know ... | |
| Dear Rabbi, My question... | 4/12/2005 |
| Q: My question today is how many hills is the city of Jerusalem built upon? Thank you for your time. A: I'm sorry that Comcast has been down and only "up" occasionally in my neighborhood. I don't know ... | |
| Some questions | 4/7/2005 |
| Q: My name is Ken, and I have some questions I was hoping you can help me answer. I have emailed you in ... A: The Hebrew Scriptures are intended as the only Bible for the Jews, and if other religious traditions ... | |
| Meaning of a word. | 4/6/2005 |
| Q: My Baptist pastor asked us to look up the word Hacaliah for next Sunday. We are studying the book of ... A: but we will have trouble making sense of English rather than the Hebrew in which is was written. ... | |
| Angels | 4/4/2005 |
| Q: Some years ago I saw a program on the history channel about Angels and it said that Jewish families ... A: It took a little bit of research if only because when I put my children to bed - many years ago - we ... | |
| American Jews | 4/4/2005 |
| Q: The question I have might not be exactly in your area, but you seem very knowledgeable about ... A: As Jews have lived in different countries over the centuries there have been both conversions of the ... | |
| Jewish Tradition | 4/4/2005 |
| Q: I was wondering what a a day at the synagogue would be like for someone of non-Jewish faith. I was ... A: however it is virtually impossible to answer your question. Are you speaking of a weekday, for an ... | |
| The creation of "the devil." | 4/2/2005 |
| Q: I am 27 and in the very early stages of converting to Judaism. (So I'm not too knowledgeble about ... A: hwoever the answer to your questions really ought to be answer by your teacher in conversion to ... | |
| 1st century CE Jewish burial | 4/1/2005 |
| Q: My question is: what were Jewish burial practices in the first century CE? I am curious to know ... A: and I wish I could help you. However, virtually everyone with knowledge of that period and patterns ... | |
| Ezekiel | 3/30/2005 |
| Q: I am studying the book of Ezekiel and am scared out of my wits at God's evaluation of Judah. God's ... A: but relax. From a Jewish point of view, Ezekiel was a prophet speaking / writing to his own ... | |
| New home | 3/28/2005 |
| Q: What are the 3 traditional items you are supposed to bring into a new jewish home. I believe that ... A: These are only customs. The traditions was bread and salt, and others have included wine with which ... | |
| Passover | 3/27/2005 |
| Q: Why is Passover so late this year? It usually comes around the same time as Easter. A: Passover is on time this year! Don't fret. We just have an extra month. We follow a Jewish calendar ... | |
| King Solomon | 3/21/2005 |
| Q: If King Solomon was given the gift of unparalleled wisdom, then why did he directly go against God's ... A: For myself, King Solomon's wisdom was a hyperbole, a way of stating that he was blessed by God with ... | |
| Cakes | 3/20/2005 |
| Q: This week's Parshah tells of the dough-type offerings as well as some of the others. My question, ... A: Interesting question. My quick recollection is that either meal is brought as an offering or baked ... | |
| philosophical | 3/11/2005 |
| Q: I would be greatly obliged if you could give me a relatively concise philosphical disquisition about ... A: but you've asked a very complicated question, in particular the comparison and contrast. Let me ... | |
| ancient burial customs | 3/11/2005 |
| Q: My name is Janet Wamble. I am a 42 yr old Southern Baptist who is interested in the customs for ... A: First of all, myown familiarity with burial from that period was that the body was placed in a tomb, ... | |
| signing of the ketubah | 3/10/2005 |
| Q: Can you please tell me who can and can not sign the ketubah at a wedding. My youngest brother is ... A: The only Rabbi who can make a decision is the officiating Rabbi. While there are questions about ... | |
| My lineage | 3/2/2005 |
| Q: My father is Jewish and mother is Italian My father's father's name is Katcher or Kaczor My ... A: In terms of traditional law, when the mother is not Jewish, then the child is not Jewish and ... | |
| jewish religion | 2/27/2005 |
| Q: What is the role of religion for the jewish people? A: Religion is for the Jew not only a set of beliefs and a faith commitment but it is also a cultural ... | |
| Bowls | 2/26/2005 |
| Q: I am trying to find out the name of the bowls you use for maybe Passover They are keep in a box one ... A: I suspect that from your description you have seen a ritual known as "n'tilate yadaim" which is ... | |
| Bris | 2/24/2005 |
| Q: How much do people usually give a mohel for preforming a bris? I'm 28, Conservative and my husband ... A: Mazal Tov. As we say in Hebrew "b'sha-ah tovah," may everything happen in its proper time and ... | |
| traditional jewish family cultures | 2/23/2005 |
| Q: I am a 31 year old married mother who has gone back to school. For an assignment I am doing a ... A: Unfortunately, I can't think of any place where you can find the information pulled together in a ... | |
| bar mitvah | 2/22/2005 |
| Q: 59, non affiliated, taking melton course currently ?, understand if a boy's father dies he is ... A: I am unaware of any legal status of a Bar Mitzvah changing because of the death of a father or of a ... | |
| Trinity | 2/21/2005 |
| Q: A christian recently pointed out to me some Bible passages which he said points to the trinity. 1) ... A: Regarding the trinity or even a duality - there is only one God and God is a unique oneness of a ... | |
| Compare/Contrast Christianity to Judaism | 2/20/2005 |
| Q: What, in your opinion, is the most valuable lesson Christianity takes from Judaism?? This was a ... A: but we don't deal with classwork. My own personal opinion is that Christianity appropriated from ... | |
| Ezekiel 48:8 | 2/20/2005 |
| Q: Curtis Cherry curtisiv@earthlink.net Ezekiel 48 My name is Curtis Cherry, I am 38 years old my ... A: You've raised a wonderful question - namely that the Second Temple as it was built and the "ideal ... | |
| Mezzuzahs | 2/19/2005 |
| Q: Is it ok to hang a mezzuzah on a gentile's home? Would it be an insult to my jewish friends? I think ... A: It is a religious commandments for Jews to do so, and there are a variety of rules, regulations and ... | |
| Jewish religion and tradition | 2/16/2005 |
| Q: I am writing a paper for my sociology class. The paper is on Jews and their contribution to ... A: On-line Jewishencyclopedia.com Library a much more updated "Encyclopedia Judaica" Reference ... | |
| Questions about Jesus and Christianity | 2/13/2005 |
| Q: - ------------------------ Hi Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner, Thanks for answering my questions. ... A: If you do want to pursue some answers, you can always check out a somewhat outdated fundamentalist ... | |
| Questions about Jesus and Christianity | 2/12/2005 |
| Q: My name is Nick and I am currently a religious studies major. I have some questions about Jewish ... A: I'm not an "expert" and if you are searching for real scholarship you will have to do some extensive ... | |
| The star of David. | 2/11/2005 |
| Q: I wish you would give your knowledge about the star of David. I recently read the book called "The ... A: The comment about the origin of the Star of David as described is nonsense. No one knows where it is ... | |
| judaism | 2/8/2005 |
| Q: what jesus christ message what was he trying say are tell what was his reason for judaism????? A: However I don't understand what you are asking. Would you please state the question again and if it ... | |
| jewish time and calender; festivals | 2/7/2005 |
| Q: i am 36 years old, and have been a christian for 6 years. i did not go to a church, but to the ... A: You have assumed - and I don't want to contradict you - that Judaism follows the Bible literally. ... | |
| jews and gentiles getting married | 2/7/2005 |
| Q: where in the holy books does it say that jews can't marry gentiles. A: Is this a question about your own possible marriage, a question for a class or exam - or for what ... | |
| yarmelukes | 2/6/2005 |
| Q: are non-jews supposed to wear yarmelukes in a conservative temple? A: In answer to your question, when a Christian guest objected, I suggested that he ask the Bishop. The ... | |
| jewish time and calender; festivals | 2/6/2005 |
| Q: i am 36 years old, and have been a christian for 6 years. i did not go to a church, but to the ... A: Before I answer, you speak of being a Christian for 6 years. Would you please tell me more of your ... | |
| mount of olives | 2/5/2005 |
| Q: Where is mount of olives? I mean that mountain which Old testament talks about (Zech. 14:14.). How ... A: Har HaZeitim, the Mount of Olives is east of the Temple Mount. One goes out the Lion's Gate, down ... | |
| Jewish Baptism | 2/3/2005 |
| Q: I am a 43 year old Baptist. I understand that baptism is not a Christian invention. I have read ... A: Yes, full immersion in a natural pool of water that was not "piped" in but was rainwater or a ... | |
| History | 1/27/2005 |
| Q: I am a non-jew but a follower of the teachings of Rabbi Yeshua who is said to be a student of Rabbi ... A: If you mean Jesus when you say Rabbi Yeshua, I should let you know that there is no record of Jesus ... | |
| Trees | 1/21/2005 |
| Q: Psalm 1:3 says that a praiseworthy man is "like a tree deeply rooted alongside brooks of water, that ... A: I also have been trying to trace out Israeli flora and fauna. It's been more difficult than I ... | |
| sacrificial rites | 1/21/2005 |
| Q: I understood that this sacrificial system applied to all communities and was not exclusively ... A: In pre-Temple days and perhaps at its beginning, there may have been sacrifices around Israel - ... | |
| The nature of Sin | 1/20/2005 |
| Q: I am currently working on a personal project about the nature of Sin. I am the artist and co-author ... A: I wish I could be of help but the topic of sin" is so mammoth and varied it is beyond my meager ... | |
| sacrificial rites | 1/20/2005 |
| Q: I am agnostic and very interested in religion and have just read throught the Old testament of the ... A: Animal and even vegetable/grain/fruit Sacrifices ceased with the destruction of the Second Temple by ... | |
| Jewish Faith | 1/19/2005 |
| Q: I am 50 years old and have been basically protestant all of my life. I was always taught that the ... A: Your encounter with someone who claimed to be Jewish did confuse you a bit I am sure. It sounds as ... | |
| Spirit of the Law | 1/19/2005 |
| Q: Since the only materials they had to make clothing out of when the Law was given were cotton (linen) ... A: I feel that a selection from the Encyclopedia Judaica describes accurately some of my conjecture ... | |
| place | 1/13/2005 |
| Q: i was wondering a. where is Judaism mainly concentated? b. who is the God you worship? thank you for ... A: and normally we don't participate in school projects. May I suggest that you consult ... | |
| lost tribes | 1/11/2005 |
| Q: I would like to know if something is true. I was told that when them Messiah comes He will be the ... A: Some in the Jewish tradition writing about the messianic age or the Messiah believe in the ... | |
| Sabbath | 11/10/2004 |
| Q: What exactly is the Foundation for Family Education? How did it come into being? A: I don't know who you are or your concerns. I suggest that you confine yourself to the goals of the ... | |
| Judaism: Jesus, Messiah, Islam | 11/9/2004 |
| Q: -Thanks for writing, but if you are thinking of converting to Islam then you should be studying the ... A: I apreciate your responses and questioning. There is no mention of heaven or hell in the Hebrew ... | |
| Judaism: Jesus, Messiah, Islam | 11/8/2004 |
| Q: I'm 22 and don't practice any religion. Was brought up Catholic and am thinking about converting to ... A: but if you are thinking of converting to Islam then you should be studying the differences between ... | |
| Sabbath | 11/7/2004 |
| Q: A friend of mine told me that the only real Judiasm is Orthodox and that Conservatism and Reform is ... A: Your friend is entitled to his opinion, and he probably considers himself to be an Orthodox Jew - ... | |
| Sabbath | 11/7/2004 |
| Q: Does a person have to go to a synagogoue on the Sabbath to pray? A: No, one can pray at home. But, there are certain prayers that cannot be recited - important prayers ... | |
| Judaism | 11/6/2004 |
| Q: hi my name is richard i need help what are the unique aspects of judaism A: While I might have checked an "automatic button" that sends a form letter saying that this is beyond ... | |
| Rabbinate | 11/4/2004 |
| Q: I am not trying to provoke anything. Maybe I have you confused with someone else. Do I have you ... A: I still don't understand why you are pursuing this subject. You've told me nothing about how this ... | |
| Ethical Fiber | 11/2/2004 |
| Q: How long does a Rabbi usually stay at a synagogue? Do they changes pulpits every few years? How many ... A: I tried to help but you seem to have an agenda which I can't really address. Contact United ... | |
| Ethical Fiber | 10/31/2004 |
| Q: Did you ever send a congregant to a therapist and then the results of the therapist turned out bad? ... A: All clergy are trained to recognize when the need is more than a simple pastoral visit - the ... | |
| Diaspora | 10/31/2004 |
| Q: What is the Diaspora? my background info: 26 college student, taking Jewish Tradition A: "Disapora" is a term used for the times and geography for those who are not living in Israel, from ... | |
| Ethical Fiber | 10/31/2004 |
| Q: I was once in a synagogue in New Jersey. I overheard a Rabbi talking to a congregant. Then he said ... A: The challenge to us is that we don't know the context of the conversation, what the ... | |
| Ethical Fiber | 10/29/2004 |
| Q: In your opinion is it acceptable for a Rabbi to ever lie? Furthermore, if a Rabbi said, "if you ... A: It sounds as though this is more than a hypothetical situation. I could imagine circumstances ... | |
| why? | 10/29/2004 |
| Q: When did the jewish religion start? Was Jesus Christ a con man? If scientific evedince proves ... A: But I now understand the depth of your soul search and I can appreciate the pain of your life. Most ... | |
| RE : Religious Conversion | 10/27/2004 |
| Q: Rabbi, I have been raised via strict (not orthodox) bene israeli jewish traditions. But I have been ... A: From your name I never would have guessed that your family came from Israel. It is not unusual, ... | |
| What is that object outside... | 10/26/2004 |
| Q: What is that object outside the front door that jewish people touch before entering the house? Why ... A: The object is called in Hebrew "mezuzah" (plural mezuzot), consisting of a case of various materials ... | |
| BIMAH Cover | 10/26/2004 |
| Q: Good Morning, I Received A BIMAH Cover From An Inheritance. This Cover Was Taken From A Jewish ... A: If I guess correctly you are in the Los Angeles area. You can determine the value and also consult ... | |
| Becoming A Rabbi | 10/26/2004 |
| Q: Can you tell me what it takes to become a Rabbi? Also can you list the functions of a Rabbi? How ... A: The brief part is that after four years of college and the GRE exams, if one is found to be ... | |
| RE : Religious Conversion | 10/25/2004 |
| Q: Rabbi, I have been raised via strict (not orthodox) bene israeli jewish traditions. But I have been ... A: but in order to be helpful I would need some additional information. For example, what is "strict ... | |
| God | 10/18/2004 |
| Q: do you have the same perception of God as with the christians? if there is any difference would you ... A: Your question is very comlicated, if only because there is more than one perception of God in ... | |
| Death of Christ | 10/17/2004 |
| Q: I am a Junior at Pacific Lutheran University and am doing some research for a Lutheran Literature ... A: and this is a most "loaded" question. I'm going to speak as a Rabbi, a Conservative Rabbi and Jew. ... | |
| Dates of the Books of the Tanakh | 10/14/2004 |
| Q: Could you provide me with the approximate dates that the books of the Tanakh were written and the ... A: but this is a "toughie." First of all, the different movements have different "agendas" for their ... | |
| Abraham | 10/14/2004 |
| Q: By telling Abraham to sacrifice his son, was God telling him to do something against God's own ... A: From my own point of view, my doctoral studies in bible and commentaries, I am prepared to say that ... | |
| religon | 10/14/2004 |
| Q: what or who is king david because my dad does not tell me much.and becuse my brother(people ... A: King David lived 3000 years ago, was the second king of Israel and you can find out about him the ... | |
| Growth and arrival of judaism | 10/14/2004 |
| Q: Thr arrival and growth of judaism into australia between 1788 and 1900. The reasons for migration ... A: mid-term or a paper. The easiest and best resource is the Encyclopedia Judaica, looking up ... | |
| weddings | 10/5/2004 |
| Q: Is it permissible to marry on May 29,2005? Thank you for your help. A: Most Conservative Rabbis would permit weddings after Lag B'Omer, which occurs on May 27 - but not ... | |
| isiah 53 | 9/30/2004 |
| Q: Who is the man of sorrows that is mentioned in Isaiah 53 .THANK YOU...... A: This is a common question from those who rely upon Hebrew Bible verses to support their Christian ... | |
| Does God exists? | 9/27/2004 |
| Q: How do you prove existance of God to an atheist? A: I never attempt to do so. One can't argue about such a subject where "proof" doesn't exist - just ... | |
| Kabbalah | 9/26/2004 |
| Q: I asked from others what is Kabbalah and is it real. I found out it is Jewish Mysticsm. Now, what I ... A: Jewish mysticism is intended for Jews and is built upon a Jewish interpretation of the Hebrew Bible, ... | |
| Weddings | 9/19/2004 |
| Q: What do Jewish brides traditionally wear? A white dress and veil? Why do the couple step on glasses? ... A: You'll find a great deal of background on-line at "wedding" and "marriage" at ... | |
| Be Like God | 9/16/2004 |
| Q: What happens to human beings who strive to be like GOd on their own terms? A: We believe that we are encouraged to fulfill God's expectations for us, on His/Her terms. We are not ... | |
| Re: Meaning of the word Robah | 9/15/2004 |
| Q: Can you tell me the meaning of the Jewish word Robah and how it is related to Genesis? I saw the ... A: As you wrote it, I can't identify the word. It probably was a transliteration from Hebrew. The ... | |
| daniel9:25 | 9/10/2004 |
| Q: 25 and you said that you do not rely upon biblical text to say when any messianic age will be.What ... A: I hope that you will understand that many others build castles on Daniel and the future; I don't. ... | |
| converting to judaism | 9/7/2004 |
| Q: I have been involved with and exposed to judaism for the last 8 years. I am very interested in ... A: To begin this process is easier than you would think. There may be one or more Rabbis in your ... | |
| Hello, I was wondering... | 9/5/2004 |
| Q: I was wondering if you had information or could direct me to some that deals with what the sages had ... A: The best modern resource in summarizing the subject would be from a Jewish point of view the ... | |
| Hello, How are you doing.... | 9/5/2004 |
| Q: How are you doing. I was wondering has the prophecy in Ezekiel 11:16-17 been fulfilled or is it a ... A: From a Jewish perspective, the prophecies were not eschatological or apocalyptic. They referred to ... | |
| Yevemot | 9/5/2004 |
| Q: I'm studying Yevemot from the ArtScroll Mishnah Series. It is indeed a complicated yet fascinating ... A: While I haven't studied these laws in detail, I leave it to you and your Rabbi. However, I have ... | |
| Baptisim | 9/4/2004 |
| Q: I am 51 years old. I was raised in a Southern Baptist home. My husband was raised in a Seventh Day ... A: Y. Thanks for writing. Baptism as such is not a historical part of Judaism. Immersian in a ... | |
| Marriage customs | 9/4/2004 |
| Q: I am a 21 year old Christian (no denomination) and I am asking this question to try to help me to ... A: The simplest explanation is that between betrothal and then chuppah=living together as husband and ... | |
| Lilith | 9/1/2004 |
| Q: Age: 24 Religious Affiliation: Southern Baptist I work with a guy who was raised mormon. Lately he ... A: Your friend studying kabbalah is as silly as Madonna studying kabbalah. It is part of a ... | |
| Jewish Community | 8/30/2004 |
| Q: London is a very metropolitan city with many different people from all works of life. I find this ... A: Did you even attend any programs at the Jewish Community Center? Did you ever attend a public ... | |
| yahrtzeit | 8/25/2004 |
| Q: do young widows observe yahrtzeit for their late husbands.do they light a yahrtzeit light for them A: and I would remind you as I do everyone that in such issues as ritual people should consult their ... | |
| Israel in prayers | 8/23/2004 |
| Q: I teach at a Jewish Day School which belongs to the Reform movement. I am Israeli and teach now the ... A: Beruha Haba'a uv'hatzlaha. Thanks for writing but this is an issue of curriculum in which the ... | |
| jewish customs | 8/23/2004 |
| Q: age 40 christian Recently, while on vacation, our Jewish neighbors asked us to remove their ... A: There are some Orthodox Jews who won't open their refrigerator if it is not running - because that ... | |
| palastine | 8/22/2004 |
| Q: can you explain in simple terms what the jews and palstine conflict is about A: In reality there is no way to simplify a very complicated, long piece of history. I write after ... | |
| Isaiah 53 | 8/21/2004 |
| Q: What is the correct interpretation for Isaiah 53? Thank you Nazam 23 year old Islam A: and I apologize for the delay - some family health issues that are now resolved, thank God. It is a ... | |
| The Purpose of the Yamaca | 8/19/2004 |
| Q: Please educate on the history and purpose of the Yamaca. If possible please explain the design of ... A: Solhi, Thank you for asking, and I apologize for the delay - some family health issues that are now ... | |
| persecution | 8/15/2004 |
| Q: whos grandparents were put in camps here in canada. The other night I was watching the ... A: Yoshy, Thanks for writing. I can appreciate the question you are asking and regret personally ... | |
| jewish wedding | 8/11/2004 |
| Q: i would like to know why does the groom smash a glass with his foot A: Sorry to be tardy in replying but my wife had a hip replaced and I am now nurse, housemom and cook! ... | |
| What is the connection between... | 8/3/2004 |
| Q: What is the connection between Judaism and circumcision? A: A quick check with the Encyclopedia Judaica provides the details in answering your question. ... | |
| Moses | 7/30/2004 |
| Q: I recently read about a theory that Moses was an Egyptian and gave the Israelites the monotheism of ... A: From a traditional point of view, the perspective of Moses was clearly different from that of the ... | |
| Moses | 7/30/2004 |
| Q: I recently read about a theory that Moses was an Egyptian and gave the Israelites the monotheism of ... A: This is not a new theory, and one of those who wrote about it - if not created it - was Sigmund ... | |
| Historical Jewish customs | 7/22/2004 |
| Q: I have heard it said that in Biblical times it was the custom, at least in the more affluent ... A: It sounds like the right thing to do and would have been consistent - at the least - with the ethics ... | |
| Jesus | 7/21/2004 |
| Q: .I am a 75 yr old man and consider myself an agnostic with an open mind..The reason I am an Agnostic ... A: I can't convince you of any belief, andbeing one who doubts and thinks is also a healthy position ... | |
| Jewish beliefs on death, suffering and love | 7/21/2004 |
| Q: I am a teacher in a Catholic School in Sydney, Australia, teaching 17 & 18 year old students ... A: The range of views, ideas from the Hebrew Bible through current Jewish philosophy and theology is so ... | |
| Tattoo's and my religious upbringing | 7/17/2004 |
| Q: Hello. I have a question. I was born and raised Jewish. My mother is full and my father converted to ... A: Firstly, as long as your mother is Jewish by birth, then you are "completely Jewish." However, if ... | |
| the exodus from Egypt | 6/30/2004 |
| Q: I have been involved in an online dabate about creationism vs. evolution, and many of the people ... A: This is an on-going debate between the archaeologists and Biblical scholars even today. You, your ... | |
| idenifying a Jewish folk tale | 6/30/2004 |
| Q: When I tried to send the following note to your home address, I got this response (reproduced here ... A: I've tried to update my page, and this time it disappeared! Look in Ginzberg's Legends of the Jews, ... | |
| idenifying a Jewish folk tale | 6/27/2004 |
| Q: As a child, more than 60 years ago, I came across a story that ran, very approximately, like this: ... A: Here is the follow-up and research. My mistake was accepting your premise. It was Adam, not ... | |
| rocks on headstones | 6/25/2004 |
| Q: What is the real reason we put rocks on top of headstones? I was told by my mom b/c it represents ... A: There are various explanations. The most probable origin is in ancient times when people were ... | |
| Blood/Son of God | 6/18/2004 |
| Q: Rabbi Lerner, I am a 24 year old Lutheran, and I have some questions that have been plauging me. ... A: However, I would urge you to speak with your Pastor about the second issue. My opinion as a Jew is ... | |
| Messiah | 6/17/2004 |
| Q: I am a Christian and know you don't believe Jesus is the Messiah. In all due respect I was just ... A: The easiest answer - although a little bit of a challenge - is for you to read a brief book "Judaism ... | |
| TANAKH | 6/16/2004 |
| Q: You mentioned that there are tens of thousands of volumes of Jewish religious writings incl. TaNaKH, ... A: The number of volumes dealing with the philosophy, origins, core texts, scripture, commentaries, ... | |
| TANAKH | 6/16/2004 |
| Q: I would like to ask few questions regarding the Hebrew Scriptures (TANAKH): 1) Are the Hebrew ... A: The TaNaKh is the Hebrew Bible, and there are various Christian versons of the "Old Testament" that ... | |
| auf ruf | 6/15/2004 |
| Q: My friends are planning their own auf ruf for this coming Shabbos morning. They belong to a chavura ... A: I also worship most often in a Havurah here in Philly. :-) The only formal part of the auf ruf is ... | |
| afterlife | 6/15/2004 |
| Q: being quite facinated with judaism, i found it very confusing to her a reporter say that jews dont ... A: Judaism at the time of the Second Temple, 2000 years ago was already divided over the issues of an ... | |
| sects | 6/15/2004 |
| Q: I would like to know what are the major branches/sects/denominations of Judaism, how they were ... A: but the subject is so vast it is impossible to summarize for you in this area. I would urge you to ... | |
| Conservative Jewish Burial | 6/15/2004 |
| Q: Is it more proper for a Jew's body to be buried or cremated after death? Will the choice, in any ... A: This is ultimately a question for the Rabbi of the family of the deceased, the deceased or for the ... | |
| Biblical Jewish Childrens games | 6/14/2004 |
| Q: I am a member of small Christian Church. We are running a Vacation Bible School where we try to ... A: The best location I could suggest would be the Jewish Educational Services of North America - they ... | |
| Bar Mitzvah | 6/14/2004 |
| Q: I understand that the age at which Jewish males have a Bar Mitzvah is generally related to the age ... A: Thirteen was the age as which puberty generally began at the time of the Talmud, roughly the second ... | |
| Prophecy in Malachi about Elijah | 6/11/2004 |
| Q: I am a seminary student doing a research paper on the coming of Elijah, as prophesied in the last ... A: I wish I could explain Rabbi Telushkin's comment. I don't agree and hence his premise is wrong. ... | |
| I am looking for the full... | 6/6/2004 |
| Q: I am looking for the full version of the Talmud. Where can I find this. I don't think they sell ... A: Any responsible Jewish bookstore will carry a variety of Talmud editions, from the Vilna Hebrew only ... | |
| pre wedding urf urf | 6/6/2004 |
| Q: rabbi, our son is being married June 27, 2004, we are conservative jews. Is a urf urf(pardon me ... A: An "auf ruf" is a strong custom "bordering" on an institution. Today it is perhaps an improtant ... | |
| Afterlife and laws | 6/6/2004 |
| Q: First, thanks in advance for answering my question. I was raised Christian and have always been ... A: For most of us, the afterlife is truly an after-thought. If it isn't there, we won't know; if it ... | |
| Judaism | 6/4/2004 |
| Q: I have three questions that I want to ask you. 1.What do the jews expect Messiah to be like? 2.Are ... A: 1. The Biblical view was really addressing a descendent from David who would immediately/imminently ... | |
| wedding laws | 5/24/2004 |
| Q: My question is ,can a non jewish stepfather who has raised his jewish stepdaughter be able to walk ... A: but this question falls within the jusdiction of the Rabbi of the Temple where the wedding is going ... | |
| jewish confirmation | 5/23/2004 |
| Q: My best friend invited me to her confirmation. What should I wear and what kind of a gift is ... A: and you are a truly wonderful and thoughtful friend. That's the best gift you are giving her! Books ... | |
| Shabbot 24b and 39 Melakhot | 5/21/2004 |
| Q: My name is Stephen. I am a 38 year old Anglican who is back in school studying for priesthood. I am ... A: Although it is policy not to help with school assignments, I am delighted to help a future ... | |
| Cremation | 5/20/2004 |
| Q: I'm a Hunter College student and am 22 yrs old. I went to a High school Yeshivah and know quite a ... A: and I hope that my answer doesn't contradict anything your Rabbi teaches. I studied with a ... | |
| smooth stone custom | 5/18/2004 |
| Q: My father and I are curious to know what smooth stones mean in your religon. I have heard they were ... A: however I am unfamiliar with the expression or description "smooth stones" in any context, let alone ... | |
| Jewish Laws | 5/16/2004 |
| Q: I've been a Jew all my life, and have wondered greatly about a question, and hopefully you can ... A: First of all, some of the movements have actively engaged in "outreach" or efforts to draw the ... | |
| Tithing | 5/15/2004 |
| Q: Are we required to tithe today? Is it done in Israel? If we are required to tithe where do we send ... A: This is most complicated. I'm going to append a portion from the Encyclopedia Judaica after a few ... | |
| weddings | 5/15/2004 |
| Q: why do we break a glass at a jewish wedding? A: There are various explanations. Some say that it keeps evil spirits from harming the couple and the ... | |
| ethnicity | 5/14/2004 |
| Q: I am a 32 year old male that was raised in the Methodist Church though I do not now practice or ... A: It's relatively simple. Judaism is the faith or religion that Jews observe. Its ethnic character is ... | |
| reading from Old Testament | 5/14/2004 |
| Q: I have been asked, to do a reading, from the Old Testament, at the marriage, of my son. Although I ... A: butthis is an unusually complicated question. I don't know you, the circumstances and the reasons ... | |
| Unveiling | 5/13/2004 |
| Q: I will be a leader of a family group at an unveiling (a ceremony to show the gravestone about one ... A: I have several suggestions for you to facilitate your unveiling. Remmber that the "unveiling" itself ... | |
| Women and Habima | 5/13/2004 |
| Q: I am 34 years old. I live in Mexico City. I'm in a Conservative Community in my country. MyCan women ... A: If you are a member of a Conservative congregation, your Rabbi is the final authority on the ... | |
| Iconography/Art/Imagery | 5/13/2004 |
| Q: I am very interested in the Iconography and Art of Judaism and the symbology that is attached to it. ... A: They can further guide you, I am sure including websites if any. In addition, my daughter in law ... | |
| Christians | 5/12/2004 |
| Q: What are the Jewish perspectives on the Christians? Are they all going to Hell? What about the ... A: Virtually all modern Jews are of the opinion that good people who live and respect the rights of ... | |
| who is a jew? | 5/12/2004 |
| Q: I recently heard that the conservative movement now recognizes children of either jewish parent - ... A: The Conservative movement recognizes as Jewish only those born to a Jewish mother or converted ... | |
| Introduction to your faith | 5/10/2004 |
| Q: Let me get more specific then. What are the key differences between the Reform, Orthodox, and ... A: Let's understand that the movements per se are only in the past 150 years, at most, and thus are ... | |
| Introduction to your faith | 5/10/2004 |
| Q: I am teaching a class on world religions in our church and (while I have read Huston smith's ... A: I wish that I could provide even an outline, but you are speaking of a tradition that has been ... | |
| Karaites | 5/10/2004 |
| Q: Do Conservative Jews generally regard Karaites as being Jewish? A: The Karaites became a separate group when they broke from Judaism in Babylonia for primarily ... | |
| The Messiah | 5/9/2004 |
| Q: B"H! Dear Rabbi Dov! Shalom Aleichem! You wrote in your post that confronted the "Jesus as Messiah" ... A: While the idea of a messianic figure began as I described it, following the destruction of the ... | |
| The name Jehovah | 5/7/2004 |
| Q: What is the Jewish prospective on the name Jehovah? Do you ever use this name? My husband's family ... A: Jehovah is an attempt to pronounce the four letter divine name in the Hebrew Bible - and tragically ... | |
| Exodus 12:21-27 vs Deuteronomy 16:5, 16 | 5/7/2004 |
| Q: I am 51 years old ands attend a small church which was affilliated with the Worldwide Church Of God ... A: and I am uncertain I can offer you a definitive explanation. There are a variety of traditional and ... | |
| The jewish Faith | 5/2/2004 |
| Q: How did the Jewish Faith Begin? A: Unfortunately, your question is both long and brief. The Jewish faith began with Abraham and his ... | |
| conversion | 4/28/2004 |
| Q: I want to convert to Judaism, and have for a while. However, I wasn't really planning on going ... A: The best way to approach conversion is to meet with Rabbis in your community or nearby who can ... | |
| Sheol | 4/27/2004 |
| Q: I am currently doing a study on the Old Testament understanding of "Sheol". From a theological ... A: Sorry for the delay, but I have been ill. The following from the EJ should be of help. Check also ... | |
| conversion to Judaism. | 4/21/2004 |
| Q: Shalom, I have been considering coversion to Judaism for three years now ( a long story) and today I ... A: because I can be of some help. According to Jewish tradition and custom, you have chosen a Rabbi ... | |
| passion | 4/18/2004 |
| Q: I was originally wondering about the Jesus' teachings, that why Jews don't accept them. But, I guess ... A: I think that you have the general point: we don't really know what for certain Jesus taught. And, ... | |
| passion | 4/18/2004 |
| Q: Shalom, Rabbi, I would like to know why the Jews don't accept Christ's teachings. Don't misuderstand ... A: Let's understand the situation this way: Jesus was born and died a Jew, one of many who had various ... | |
| torah portion emor | 4/14/2004 |
| Q: I am writing my Bas Mitzvah speech. My Torah portion is Emor, about the rules and laws for the ... A: However, if I assist you, then you haven't done the work as outlined for you by your Synagogue. All ... | |
| Alms | 4/14/2004 |
| Q: I want to know something about "Financial Command In Jewish Laws".(something as alms or tithes) Do ... A: Yes, Judaism has an ingrained system of philanthropy and also a system of tithes. May I suggest ... | |
| 10 Commandments | 4/12/2004 |
| Q: I was told (asked) today that commandments were given in the indicative mood. As I read them, I'd ... A: Sorry about the delay but between holidays and my bout with an infestion - aren't grandchildren ... | |
| marriage | 4/8/2004 |
| Q: My Mormon friend said that ancient Jews believed that marriage was eternal and existed in heaven. ... A: I can't and won't debate early Hebrew Bible teaching when the period of history involving Enoch ... | |
| Passover | 4/7/2004 |
| Q: Do you know anything about the passover? Like when it is and how long it lasts? I'm doing a report ... A: Dar Nick, hanks for writing and asking. While we don't directly assistschool assignments or ... | |
| Conservative Judaism | 4/6/2004 |
| Q: What exactly is "Conservative" Judaism? A: Orthodox Judaism contends that they are practicing the heritage according to revealed sources in the ... | |
| An atheist believes there must be a God | 4/6/2004 |
| Q: An atheist believes there must be a God and is trying to pick the best religion. Why is Judaism the ... A: but it is a question that is truly beyond my own personal opinion - and that is not sufficient basis ... | |
| grave site | 4/6/2004 |
| Q: What is the meaning of putting a rock or stone on the grave site ? A: While we don't directly assistschool assignments or papers, let me point you in some good ... | |
| The Torah | 4/4/2004 |
| Q: Who wrote the Torah and when? Thank you! A: The answer is difficult. Orthodox teachers will hold that the Torah was given to Moses exactly in ... | |
| attacks on religions | 4/2/2004 |
| Q: I'm doing a research on different religions, in regards to the means used by each of them when ... A: While we don't participate in academic or school assignments or research, let me suggest that you ... | |
| death/traditions | 4/2/2004 |
| Q: What does it mean for a man to "sleep at his mothers grave?" A: but I have never heard the expression. If you mean that it is occurring literally, that someone is ... | |
| Miriam's Cup | 4/2/2004 |
| Q: What is the symbolism of Miriam's Cup at the Seder and where did this tradition begin? I am 49 ... A: I'm going to send you to my web-site for the 2003 Seder Supplement and all kinds of 2004 information ... | |
| GOD'S LAWS | 3/30/2004 |
| Q: I WILL TRY TO EXPLAIN THIS AS QUICKLY AS I CAN, BUT PLEASE BARE WITH, FOR THERE IS A REAL "LIFE" ... A: and thank you for the honesty with which you have described your situation. Judaism - if indeed ... | |
| Jewish law | 3/29/2004 |
| Q: Is there a specific religious prohibition of first cousins marrying? I am trying to find out if ... A: and I wish you luck with your book. It would seem to be more cultural and not consdiered in good ... | |
| Morning Prayer | 3/29/2004 |
| Q: I an a Catholic who loves my Catholic faith and I love the Jewish faith also. I heard a Jewish ... A: While I can't identify the prayer precisely from your description - it coudl be several - you ... | |
| Passover | 3/28/2004 |
| Q: Can you explain to me general similarities and differences between the Passover customs of ... A: The first suggestion I would make is to send you to my website to download materials that may be ... | |
| history of the Yarmulka | 3/28/2004 |
| Q: My name is Shaun MacMullin and i am 25 adn was raised a Baptist Christian, but stopped attending ... A: but no one knows. This from the Encyclopedia Judaica may help Also: Bareheadedness,; Wig HEAD, ... | |
| Yetzer Ha-Tov, Yetzer Ha-Ra ,origins of? | 3/27/2004 |
| Q: To Rabbi Lerner,I am trying to verify the origins of the concepts of the duel yetzers. I have read ... A: I would suggest that you check out the relevant entries in the Encyclopedia Judaica that is in ... | |
| Am I a Jew? Constraints on Remarriage | 3/24/2004 |
| Q: Shalom Alechem May HaShem grant shalom and kindnesses upon you and yours. I am trying to make ... A: First of all, you write in such flowery language - were you at any time a follower of Islam. It's ... | |
| Davidic Kingdom | 3/24/2004 |
| Q: What is the recent understanding of the Messiah who will bring back the kingdom of David A: Speaking as a Conservative Rabbi and not for all Judaism, we don't expect a personal Messiah or the ... | |
| About Judaism | 3/22/2004 |
| Q: What would you consider to be a major change in conservative or over all Judaism, in the past fifty ... A: Don't you think that the egalitarian movement has been the most significant change in Judaism in the ... | |
| clairvoyants | 3/21/2004 |
| Q: What is your belief on clairvoyants. I have had friends that have gone to a clairvoyant and with out ... A: To be blunt, Judaism is opposed to witchcraft, wizards, etc. I don't believe that such things are ... | |
| 3rd Temple | 3/17/2004 |
| Q: Will the 3rd Temple be built in this century? I have read accounts that there are groups in Israel ... A: But, I have to disappoint you. The 3rd Temple will not be rebuilt except in the imagination. Period. ... | |
| medical preferences | 3/16/2004 |
| Q: My name is Jessie Strom. I am a 23 year old nursing student at Jackson State Community College in ... A: Check out the various subjects on Amazon.com and you'll find lots of books, although esoteric. ... | |
| Judaism | 3/14/2004 |
| Q: I am not here to convert you or judge I just wanted to ask some questions on your religion out of ... A: First of all, read Trude Weis Rosemarin's book "Judaims and Christianity" and you'll have the basis ... | |
| Why Orthodox Jewish women wear wigs | 3/14/2004 |
| Q: I was told as a child that an Orthodox Jewish woman shaves her head and wears a wig when she gets ... A: The question really is one of strictness in interpreting the degree to which a woman's hair is "her ... | |
| Cain and Abel | 3/13/2004 |
| Q: I was reading this story recently and felt puzzled on a few items. It may just be the translation ... A: Shavuah Tov. First of all, as aConservative Rabbi I read these narratives as Jewish mythology, not ... | |
| Tifillin prayers | 3/13/2004 |
| Q: I am 12 years old and I am preparing for my bat mitzvah. My porashot is Bamidbar. In school we are ... A: Shavuah Tov. Unfortunately, we don't answer questions or write materials for school assignments. ... | |
| Death, suffering and evil | 3/12/2004 |
| Q: I am a 16 year old catholic highschool student in Australia and i am learning about Judaism in ... A: but we don't answer questions or write materials for student assignments on principle. This is a ... | |
| tithing | 3/11/2004 |
| Q: I am 49 yrs old and would like to know if tithing is still practiced among Jews and what method of ... A: In general, the Biblical form of tithing is no longer practiced. However, studies and surveys ... | |
| kabballah | 3/10/2004 |
| Q: what is the reform, conservative and orthodox feel on the kabballah movement? thank you, Jon A: but I can only speak for some of the Conservative Rabbis. Mysticism is a complicated subject, and ... | |
| Ancient jewish funeral rites. | 3/10/2004 |
| Q: My niece (13, Catholic) is doing a school project on death and in particular ancient jewish funeral ... A: I would refer you niece to do her own research in the Encyclopedia Judaica and read up on Jewish ... | |
| passover alcohol | 3/9/2004 |
| Q: I am 26 and grew up in a conservative family. My question is simply I would like to be able to go ... A: A blessing on your head for caring (although I'm not personally keen on the bar scene) :-) You ... | |
| Philosophy | 3/2/2004 |
| Q: I am doing a project on Judaism and Christianity, since they both came from the same area. My ... A: but we don't participate in class projects or assignments. I would refer you to the Encyclopedia ... | |
| genealogy of jesus | 2/27/2004 |
| Q: in my edition [uncensored vilna shas] massechet sanhedrin 43a jesus was allowed 40 days for a ... A: I'll continue to look if only because I am interested. However, Joseph is allegedly descended from ... | |
| assisted reproduction | 2/26/2004 |
| Q: Is Judaism practices for or against all means of assisted reproduction excluding cloning methods? ... A: Please note that what I am going to say represents moreso the Conservative movement - which contrary ... | |
| genealogy of jesus | 2/26/2004 |
| Q: in my edition [uncensored vilna shas] massechet sanhedrin 43a jesus was allowed 40 days for a ... A: but . . . 1. I don't have an uncensored vilna shas - which should be remedied as I think about it. ... | |
| religious doubts | 2/25/2004 |
| Q: I am 67 years of age, Jewish, retired and teaching critical thinking and public policy at a local ... A: Let me address both the general and the specific separately. In general, doubt is a healthy part of ... | |
| homelessness | 2/25/2004 |
| Q: 20yrs old Christian Student I'm doing a project on how society at large relates to the homeless. ... A: Good of you to write. Unfortunately we don't participate in school assignments, papers or projects. ... | |
| what is the purpose of man? | 2/24/2004 |
| Q: what is the purpose and nature of man according to judaism? A: However, this appears to be a question from an exam or a paper, because it is far too complicated to ... | |
| judaism | 2/17/2004 |
| Q: My name is Jennifer Richards and i'm a high school student at El Camino High School in Oceanside, ... A: I wish I could be of direct help, but we don't participate in school assignments. Furthermore, ... | |
| Wedding | 2/8/2004 |
| Q: I am a conservative jew and will be marrying the same. What time can I have a wedding on a Saturday ... A: Generally speaking the wedding can take place no earlier than 40 minutes after sunset, although most ... | |
| angels | 2/2/2004 |
| Q: What does Conservative Judaism have to say about the contention that there are exactly 301,655,722 ... A: Unfortunately, I am in the school that sees "angels" as the creation of ancient priests to explain ... | |
| burial place of Joshua | 1/24/2004 |
| Q: I've been told that Joshua is buried in what is present-day Iraq. Is that information accurate? If ... A: I must disagree with the suggestion that Joshua was buried in Iraq. If one accepts the Biblical ... | |
| marriage | 1/12/2004 |
| Q: I was wondering, can I reform and a conservative Jew get married in a conservative shul? If not ... A: In general, yes. But the Rabbi of the congregation may have some reason for not allowing the ... | |
| Temple: Court of the Women | 1/8/2004 |
| Q: I am 67 years old. I am a Protestant Christian. Was the Court of the Women part of Solomon's ... A: The plan for the structure of the Temple of Solomon followed roughly the desert Tbernacle of ... | |
| Yad Vashem | 12/30/2003 |
| Q: Is Yad Vashem exclusively for honoring those righteous gentiles who risked all to preserve the lives ... A: To the best of my knowledge, Yad VaShem is specifically a memorial and educational institution ... | |
| Betting?? | 12/18/2003 |
| Q: SHALOM! Dear Rabbi Barry I would be much obliged if you could Plz let me know whether "SOCCER ... A: I hope that you're not kidding me. Betting just for fun and now for any serious amounts of money or ... | |
| Medical beliefs | 12/11/2003 |
| Q: I am a 29 year old nursing student. I am writing a paper on health care beliefs for Jewish people. ... A: While we don't assist in class assignments, I hope that I can help point you in some useful ... | |
| respect | 12/9/2003 |
| Q: Rabbi, I am not of the Hebrew Faith, Baptist if it matters. My question is this, my son has ... A: In these forthcoming years inter-faith or dual-faith families are going to become more frequent - ... | |
| History | 11/9/2003 |
| Q: I am told that my people, the Pushtoons (presently inhabiting Southern Afghanistan and Pakistan) ... A: Khan, Thank you for writing, but I may have to disappoint you. The history of the so-called "lost ... | |
| ancient v. modern judaism | 11/6/2003 |
| Q: Lerner: I wonder whether you could recommend to me any books (or websites!) that could explain the ... A: The Biblical record is history of a different sort than with which we are familiar. They kept ... | |
| 10 "commandments" | 10/31/2003 |
| Q: I am a Catholic priest in Barcelona, Spain. Four years ago, in theology school, I deed some research ... A: It is my conclusion after study through post-ordination doctoral studies, majoring in iblical ... | |
| Funeral Practices | 10/23/2003 |
| Q: Religious Affiliation: Unaffiliated congregation, tending toward Conservative: If a grave is ... A: The opinion of the Conservative Committee of Jewish Law and Standards is that to exhume and then ... | |
| judaism culture | 10/21/2003 |
| Q: i am just starting my n.v.q level 2 i have been asked to do a paper on judaism culture i was ... A: and I hope that I can provide you with leads for the kind of information you are seeking. Let's ... | |
| 6 day war and visions | 10/8/2003 |
| Q: Becoming more interested in our lord Jesus' land,i'm just learning so forgive me if I appear ... A: and I hope you will forgive me if I don't share your religious perception of placing everying into ... | |
| Feast of Tabernacle | 9/29/2003 |
| Q: What is the Feast of Tabernacle and its meaning? A: The Feast of Tabernacles or Sukkot commemorates when Jews harvested their fields in ancient Israel ... | |
| Hi mr Barry Dov Lerner. I... | 9/25/2003 |
| Q: I am a muslim(shia),and don'n have any correct information about holy judaism religious. I am very ... A: We don't have a program for conversion or even information about Judaism in Muslim lands in ... | |
| modern jewish movments | 9/18/2003 |
| Q: I wanted to know if you could explain to me briefly about the three central modern jewish movments. ... A: Orthodox, Reform, Conservative and Reconstructionist. In addition you have Hasidism and their ... | |
| solomon's temple | 9/18/2003 |
| Q: As a Christian, I read in the old testament about the importance of Solomon's temple and of ... A: Solomon's Temple, the First Temple, was destroyed by Babylonia to the ground, except for the Western ... | |
| Non Jews | 9/4/2003 |
| Q: My Jewish friend and I are in disagreement: He says that Jews believe that if a person observes the ... A: but I don't believe that you'll like my answer. :-) Your Jewish friend is quite correct. Judaism, ... | |
| Why no faces on the Shekel? | 8/21/2003 |
| Q: I am a 43 YO male, christian with liberal beliefs. I am in a conversation with someone who is a ... A: I wish I could help you. However, there is no relationship between our secular bill and Jewish law ... | |
| jewish or not? | 8/20/2003 |
| Q: I go to a jewish community high school accepting of all sects. of the religion, although we only ... A: Traditional Jews who accept only Jews born to a Jews mother - matrilineal - or Jews who convert ... | |
| Jewish Heritage | 8/18/2003 |
| Q: Two years ago I met my biological mother for the first time in Ripley, West Virginia in the USA and ... A: It's an interesting question that does occasionally arise, most often when there is to be a ... | |
| conversion verification | 8/5/2003 |
| Q: When I was married, I went through a conversion to conservative Judaism. The Rabbi at the synagogue ... A: POSTSCRIPT TO YOUR EARLIER QIESTION: There is NO Conservative Rabbi= memberof Conservative ... | |
| Unvieling | 8/3/2003 |
| Q: My family and I plan on visiting my mother's grave and conducting our own unvieling ceremony. Can ... A: I hope that the memory of moments shared in health and love on occasions of joy bring all your ... | |
| conversion of adopted child | 8/1/2003 |
| Q: we live in san diego and want to know what is involved according to the conservative movement to ... A: Mazal Tov and thanks for asking. You're very wise to have the conversion out of the way as early ... | |
| Child Naming | 7/31/2003 |
| Q: My wife and I are expecting a child in September. My wife is not jewish but has relatives that are. ... A: Congratulations on your forthcoming joy and I hope that it will be a healthy arrival for mother and ... | |
| The Old Testament | 7/26/2003 |
| Q: I am 22 yrs old and have been raised a Catholic, but I never had a chance to learn about other ... A: but the questions you have posed apear to be a final for a course. They are far too complicated ... | |
| olive tree/plant | 7/2/2003 |
| Q: Honourable Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner, I am 53 years of age and fellowship and serve as an Elder at ... A: You'll find an entry on the "olive tree" and related products in the jewishencyclopedia.com on-line ... | |
| canons | 6/29/2003 |
| Q: what do they mean when they refer to canons in Ecclesiates and how it relates to the Tanakh? Thanks A: "Canon" means the official version, generally referring to the Bible and its various included books. ... | |
| We are a Year 6 class at Whitgift... | 6/26/2003 |
| Q: We are a Year 6 class at Whitgift School finishing a year's study of Judaism. We have some ... A: In terms of "do some Jews" then it is always an answer "yes." Do some people believe that the moon ... | |
| circumcison | 6/18/2003 |
| Q: are people of the jewish faith circumcised and if so is this done by a Rabbi or general surgeon? A: Jewish men are still circumcised, as infants on the eighth day by a "mohel" who is especially ... | |
| Milchic/Fleischic separation | 5/20/2003 |
| Q: I understand why beef and dairy products must be separated (to prevent from cooking a kid in its ... A: They had no trouble deciding which animals were to be considered meat after having determined which ... | |
| Repentance. | 5/19/2003 |
| Q: What's the point of repenting your sins when you know that you will commit them over and over again ... A: True repentance is a state of mind of intending NOT to repeat the same offense again. If any of us ... | |
| Beliefs | 5/14/2003 |
| Q: I am doing a school project and i am needing to know what jews beleive and what traditions you have ... A: and since you were so polite, I didn't want to just send out a standard message.Above all, those of ... | |
| gift from a gentile on a Bat mitzvah | 3/21/2003 |
| Q: As a non jew making my first visit to the USA my friend's daughter who lives in Las Vegas will be ... A: I was in Israel, logged out and somehow the software didn't put me on vacation. In any event, enjoy ... | |
| Why is Shabbat on a Friday | 3/19/2003 |
| Q: Why is the Jewish Sabbatt celebrated on Friday? (as opposed ot a Tuesday or Monday). I've referenced ... A: but right now I'm in Israel, unpacking gas masks for my two grandchildren ages 2 and 3 months ... | |
| two questions~ | 3/10/2003 |
| Q: i am a student at Thomas Edison State College in NJ and i have an assignment for Multicultural ... A: :-) Normally we don't answer school assignments, but I will this time and I beg to have you send ... | |
| Jesus as the Messiah | 3/5/2003 |
| Q: I am curious, I hear that some Jews accept Jesus as the Messiah and some do not. Why is Jesus, as ... A: Let me respond in brief and urge you to read "Judaism and Christinity:The Difference" by Dr. Trude ... | |
| general help please | 2/28/2003 |
| Q: how are you? I am new to this country and i have a few questions really short ones please. I am ... A: I should begin by encouraging you to use the Encyclopedia Judaica in the local library that is very ... | |
| Major Questions | 2/20/2003 |
| Q: Forgive me, for I know that my questions are going to probably sound naive and stupid to you, and ... A: You've asked a lot of questions and we need tofocus a bit. Jesus was not King of the Jews and Jesus ... | |
| My name is Lisa. I'm 34 years... | 2/19/2003 |
| Q: My name is Lisa. I'm 34 years old and Roman Catholic. One of my all time favorite movies has ... A: It's an interesting question and also I am delighted to let you in on a topic most don't know! :-) ... | |
| prayers | 2/16/2003 |
| Q: i'm mostafa, and interested to know about prayers in judaism. i read something about the similarity ... A: and yes there are a number of similarities. The difficulty in answering your questions is that ... | |
| burial customs | 2/7/2003 |
| Q: At end of the movie "Schindlers list", the people placed pebbles on the head stone of Schindler. ... A: It is currently a Jewish custom to put a pebble on the headstone when one visits a grave to mark ... | |
Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
Write to me with questions about Jewish customs and law, history, philosophy and tradition for answers from a Conservative perspective or conversion. I am a graduate of The Jewish Theological Seminary and a member of the Conservative Rabbinical Assembly. Having served in congregational pulpits since 1970, I now am President of the Foundation For Family Education, Inc. a non-profit educational endeavor. I established it to create new formats of hands-on programs and provide free educational downloads at www.jewishfreeware.org. In addition to general informational questions I welcome your questions about programs for social action, outreach to dual-faith families, inter-faith clergy projects, healing services, education for conversion, adult education for the congregation and the community. If you have questions about Informal and Formal Education I am ready to share my extensive experience with Youth Activities, Camping and Religious School/Hebrew High School on a congregational, community and national/international level.
Experience
I have served on the National Youth Commission for more than 25 years and serve on the Boards of the Conservative Zionist movement MERCAZ and the World Council of Synagogues. I have always dual-families and taught candidates for conversion with a great sense of fulfillment. I am very proud of 25 years on the Jewish camping staff of Camps Ramah. My greatest source of pride is my family! Ask me about them, please!:-)
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