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About Rabbi Yechezkel Fox
Expertise
My main area of expertise that I can answer questions is on the Chumash, the Five Books of Moses. I am also qualified to answer questions on Jewish Law and Outlook.

Experience
I have been teaching Chumash in a Yeshiva for over 15 years. As a practicing Rabbi I have been answering questions on Jewish Law and Outlook for over 10 years.

Publications
In the "This Week In The Torah" section on WWW.e-geress.org

Education/Credentials
I am an ordained Rabbi and a teacher in a yeshiva

You are here: Experts > Homework Help > Judaism > Orthodox Judaism > Jewish Ancestry

Orthodox Judaism - Jewish Ancestry

Expert: Rabbi Yechezkel Fox - 11/3/2009

Question
My nephew had recently gone to ancestry.com and found our background. My Grandmother maiden name on my fathers side was Catt. The ancestry showed it was Cat upon entering the United States and before coming and from Germany was Katz. Would I hold any Jewish ancestry?

Best regards,

Ric W.

Answer
Hi Richard,
Katz is a very Jewish surname, usually indicating a family from the priestly line, similar to the surname Cohen. However, to be considered Jewish yourself it is critical to trace your mother's family, as Jewish ancestry follows the maternal line.
All the best,
Rabbi Yechezkel Fox

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