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Orthodox Judaism/Questions Answered by Expert David Rosenblum
| Subject | Date Asked |
| Sodom | 1/5/2012 |
| Q: G_d bless you rabbi, I have been very troubled about Gen. 18-19 about Sodom and Lot. What was ... A: Full disclosure: I am not a Rabbi. What was going on in Sodom that was so evilly different from the ... | |
| rabbinical Judaism | 12/26/2011 |
| Q: shalom David, I am a Noahide and bless HaShem every day for seeing the truth of the One G-d of ... A: When G-d gave Moses the Torah, He gave both the Written and Oral Torah. There are several proofs ... | |
| vengeance and forgiveness | 12/23/2011 |
| Q: G-d had made the provision of "cities of refuge" (in the book of numbers ) to give a fair trial to ... A: Very impressive, keep reading and asking. As to your questions: assuming the witnesses had a chance ... | |
| vengeance and forgiveness | 12/22/2011 |
| Q: G-d had made the provision of "cities of refuge" (in the book of numbers ) to give a fair trial to ... A: There is no need to be concerned about asking questions. Most defintively intentional murder is not ... | |
| vengeance and forgiveness | 12/22/2011 |
| Q: G-d had made the provision of "cities of refuge" (in the book of numbers ) to give a fair trial to ... A: The normal procedure is to have the court execute the convict, not the relatives. The case of the ... | |
| Scholarly Discussion | 11/25/2011 |
| Q: I have been reading about the Talmud and and it got me thinking about today's philosophical and ... A: The Talmud is studied intensely every day by thousands of scholars and laymen. We do not add any ... | |
| converts to judaism | 11/20/2011 |
| Q: Can a person converted into Judaism become a rabbi? if so, how long would it take? A: As long as he is a male, yes. There is no prescribed period for becoming a Rabbi. I know young men ... | |
| spilling seed ! | 11/10/2011 |
| Q: I have a ? about pulling out so as to not have any more children ? ius that wrong ? My wife and I ... A: Both pulling out and using a condom are equally wrong. G-d wants his world to be populated, "be ... | |
| adultery.... | 9/29/2011 |
| Q: Asking this may put me in a negative light, but nevermind. Does it count as adultery if you lie with ... A: The following is theoretical only. The Torah does not prohibit polygamy for men. Provided the ... | |
| the name | 9/14/2011 |
| Q: I have read many comments as to the origins of the name "Israel". Some comment that it is a ... A: Not at all. It is a pleasure. I suggest you read Genesis. To summarize: Jacob's brother Esau ... | |
| the name "Israel" | 9/14/2011 |
| Q: I have read many comments as to the origins of the name "Israel". Some comment that it is a ... A: G-d forbid there be any association between Jacob's name and idols. The answer is in Genesis 32:29. ... | |
| menstrual uncleanliness | 8/29/2011 |
| Q: in regards to the laws on menstrual uncleanliness, i was wondering what precautions/actions you ... A: There are two aspects to the law of menstruation; one is the uncleanliness which does not apply ... | |
| Jewish Messianic Tradition | 8/22/2011 |
| Q: I am a Gentile Christian, and would like to know what the Jewish Messianic Tradition was before the ... A: I apologize for sounding impatient, that was not my intention. Our ancestors Abraham, Isaac and/or ... | |
| help? | 8/10/2011 |
| Q: With so many versions of Judaism around and everyone with a different and beautiful message, how can ... A: a) the thing itself was right, --> sometimes you can be faced with a dilemma but usually halacha ... | |
| help? | 8/10/2011 |
| Q: With so many versions of Judaism around and everyone with a different and beautiful message, how can ... A: I am not a Rabbi and I am certainly no expert in helping people gain spirituality. The best advice ... | |
| male and pierced ear | 6/30/2011 |
| Q: is a Jewish male allowed to pierce his ear? A: Shalom, I don't know the halacha, ask your local Rabbi. That being said here is my thought: I ... | |
| Creation 2 | 6/25/2011 |
| Q: I have heard that there were two creations and we are living in the second. It is said that ... A: I can try to explain the quotes from Isaiah and Jeremiah if you give me the chapter and verse. The ... | |
| Creation | 6/24/2011 |
| Q: I have heard that there were two creations and we are living in the second. It is said that ... A: I have also "heard" something similar to what you wrote in an attempt to reconcile Evolution theory ... | |
| men's hair | 6/21/2011 |
| Q: Can you help me out trying to understand how G_d looks at hair. I always thought that Israelite men ... A: Sorry for the late reply, I don't know if long is acceptable, most devout Jews do not grow their ... | |
| Shavuos | 4/1/2011 |
| Q: How can Shavuos fall on a Wednesday this year when Leviticus 23:15 is clear (in the Hebrew) that it ... A: In verse 16 the meaning of Sabbath is week, so it reads "the day after the seventh week". Your ... | |
| Shavuos | 3/30/2011 |
| Q: How can Shavuos fall on a Wednesday this year when Leviticus 23:15 is clear (in the Hebrew) that it ... A: Good question. Here is what the Rabbis say: the Sabbath referred to here is the holiday of Passover ... | |
| Sacred Texts | 3/23/2011 |
| Q: I am a student conducting an assignement on sacred texts and the daily application. I have some ... A: 1. G-d created and guides the universe and He expects of man to follow His rules and fulfill His ... | |
| Esther | 3/22/2011 |
| Q: G_d bless you, I am getting ready for Purim and in reading the book of Esther heard that the ... A: 1. Esther is spelled in Hebrew with alef and samach whereas Ashtaros is spelled with ayin and shin ... | |
| 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: I don't think G-d "honors their request". G-d has His plan with the world and we just don't know ... | |
| Talmud | 11/27/2010 |
| Q: The following passages are directly from the Soncino Babylonian Talmud by Rabbi Dr. I. Epstein on ... A: You make it sound like prostitution when you say "... male have sex with...". I would rephrase this ... | |
| homosexuality | 9/15/2010 |
| Q: Firstly, even though I am bisexual I have rejected the homosexual lifestyle because I feel that it ... A: Sorry to hear this. Absolutely not. Male homosexuality is a standalone prohibition. Just because ... | |
| contamination | 8/17/2010 |
| Q: i've touched a dead ladybug. according to the old written law, have i become contaminated?? (i ... A: The intent is though to be clean when appearing in the Presence of G-d in His house. Like Lev 16:16 ... | |
| oaths and vows... | 8/13/2010 |
| Q: according to the torah's definitions of the terms, is there a difference between an oath and a vow? ... A: You are not the same Peter that asked me about king Solomon recently? That one did not sound like ... | |
| solomon | 7/16/2010 |
| Q: the torah says that if there comes a prophet who says "come let us follow other gods" you have to ... A: Do you really think you can come with simplistic logic and challenge the Torah which was given to ... | |
| talking to the dead... | 6/16/2010 |
| Q: the torah prohibits talking to spirits or going into the presence of people who do- but i'm not sure ... A: The prohibition is to use the services of necromancers. I never heard that you have to walk away to ... | |
| ants | 6/8/2010 |
| Q: is it kosher to eat ants? apparently there's ants in my medicine. A: Ants are not kosher but when processed to the point when it is no longer a food, its consumption, ... | |
| exodus 22 | 6/3/2010 |
| Q: I have got a question about Exodus 22, and I thought that you might be able to help me. I know that ... A: The number eight signifies something that is above nature. By natural law, Abraham was not supposed ... | |
| hell | 6/1/2010 |
| Q: It is comforting to discover that Jews do not believe in aplace of eternal punishment. It has always ... A: I cannot speak for other religions. There is such a thing as eternal hell which is reserved for ... | |
| salt | 5/9/2010 |
| Q: how do we keep salt holy b/c of the brit that hashem made with it? & were can I find this to see it ... A: Leviticus 2:13. All sacrifices required salt to be put upon them. The salt is not kept holy. ... | |
| marriage | 5/6/2010 |
| Q: i was wondering if arranged marriage is the norm in judaism? i saw a movie called "keeping the ... A: It is very commendable that you want to prevent offending G-d by avoiding improper sexual relations. ... | |
| Jewish prayer | 5/1/2010 |
| Q: Shalom - I understand that there is a physiological reason why Jewish people bob when they pray. I ... A: We Jews started to sway at Mt. Sinai when G-d revealed Himself to us there. Perhaps that event ... | |
| coveting | 4/20/2010 |
| Q: what is the general jewish consensus on what it means to covet? ANSWER: Hello Peter, I am not sure ... A: So sorry, I only saw the outstanding question now. The prohibition of coveting applies only if it ... | |
| Burial in jerusalem | 4/17/2010 |
| Q: WHY IS IT APPROPRIATE AND A GOOD THING FOR A JEW TO BE BURIED IN JERUSALEM ? I'm sure there are ... A: One of the reasons Jacob did not want to be buried in Egypt is because by the resurrection all ... | |
| QUESTION: Chapter 9:6 For unto us a child is born | 4/10/2010 |
| Q: Rosenblim, As an additional question to your answer in respect of Isaiah 9:5 (9:6 in the original ... A: The translation you are referring to is incorrect in its interpretation that Hezekiah is called by ... | |
| Internal sin & disease | 4/9/2010 |
| Q: I am doing a paper that touches on the paralytic who was lowered through the roof. I am trying to ... A: 1) No problem. 2 & 3) They are for different types of sin, not for known and unknown sins. ... | |
| Internal sin & disease | 4/8/2010 |
| Q: I am doing a paper that touches on the paralytic who was lowered through the roof. I am trying to ... A: 1) Which paralytic was lowered through the roof? Do you have a Torah reference for this? 2) If you ... | |
| onah | 3/11/2010 |
| Q: i hope its ok to present a few questions at once (otherwise plese answer gradually). a.although all ... A: I am not learned enough to give you a psak since I am not a rabbi. I can only tell you what I think ... | |
| Shabbat | 3/6/2010 |
| Q: What are some acceptable activities to do on Shabbat after attending services besides visiting, ... A: The Shabbat is a great gift that G-d gave the Jewish people. All of creation depends on the energy ... | |
| health care beliefs | 3/1/2010 |
| Q: Who is the decision maker regarding health care? A: In marriage? Whatever works. Husband and wife come to a decision. They need to work out what is ... | |
| Torah's Outlook VS American Cultural Outlook | 2/6/2010 |
| Q: I'm a yeshiva guy and am part of a "yeshivish" community. I also consider myself a progressive ... A: You are asking very interesting questions; we live in challenging times and it is refreshing to see ... | |
| AM I Jewish? | 1/16/2010 |
| Q: David, I noticed on the internet that there is a Soroka Medical Center in Beersheeba Israel. It is ... A: This is by far not my forte. But I do want to help you. There must be people who get involved with ... | |
| work definition | 12/23/2009 |
| Q: how do you define the "Work" in the sabbath commandment and how does its implication affect our ... A: First off, are you Jewish? If you are not, then you are not permitted to keep the Sabbath. You can ... | |
| work definition | 12/18/2009 |
| Q: how do you define the "Work" in the sabbath commandment and how does its implication affect our ... A: There are 39 kinds of work regarding Sabbath, mostly related to agriculture but applicable to daily ... | |
| uglifying | 12/16/2009 |
| Q: there are a few gemaros about a women not becoming ugly in her husband's eyes. is the prohibition ... A: i am not a rabbi and i dont do much research, please read my profile. I would say that it is a ... | |
| "grammen" at weddings | 12/15/2009 |
| Q: I saw that the Taz in Orach Chaim 560:5 seems to forbid a Chasunah comedian including jewish quotes ... A: I am on the road travelling and wont have a Shulch O. in a while from, your words it sounds like the ... | |
| Bar/Bat Mitzvah | 12/12/2009 |
| Q: I do not practice Judaism but both my parents come from a long line of Spanish Jews. This ... A: I don't know Spanish customs but it should be universal in Judaism that anyone can partake in ... | |
| Bar/Bat Mitzvah | 12/10/2009 |
| Q: I do not practice Judaism but both my parents come from a long line of Spanish Jews. This ... A: First let me say it is great that you appreciate the Torah and are trying to connect with it. There ... | |
| divination... | 12/1/2009 |
| Q: i've read two different versions of the Torah, and in one version it said "do not go into the ... A: In Deut. 18:11 the words are, do not "ask" of the Ov and Yedoni. These two divinations refer to the ... | |
| Milk and Meat | 11/28/2009 |
| Q: My wife and I are not Jewish but we do try to abide with the Laws of God. I have always been ... A: It is very noble of you to try to keep G-d's Law. By Torah Law however, as a non-Jew, you are not ... | |
| adoption | 11/20/2009 |
| Q: A friend has joint custody of her niece with the biological father. The mother, a Catholic, passed ... A: There is nothing in the Jewish tradition that prevents a Catholic from attending Sabbath and holiday ... | |
| Funeral services | 10/25/2009 |
| Q: My husband died and the funeral was held. A few days later I found out that right after the ... A: First let me express my heartfelt condolences for your loss. I need some clarification. 1) At the ... | |
| sacrifice.... | 8/2/2009 |
| Q: I was wondering why it is that the jewish people do not carry out the sacrificial laws in the old ... A: We can only bring sacrifices on the Altar in the Temple in Jerusalem. We must be in a tahor state ... | |
| testament of issachar and test. of dan | 7/28/2009 |
| Q: I am trying to locate a couple of verses from the Testament of Issachar, namely: 5:2 and 7:6; and ... A: I have never heard of these writings until now. I read a few verses after finding it with a quick ... | |
| Attendance at Pilgrimage Festivals | 6/19/2009 |
| Q: I have a question about the pilgrimages made during the first and/or second Temple periods. It is my ... A: It is a pleasure to talk about Torah and your questions have been very relevant and interesting. ... | |
| Attendance at Pilgrimage Festivals | 6/18/2009 |
| Q: I have a question about the pilgrimages made during the first and/or second Temple periods. It is my ... A: Anyone who was able to make the trip was required to go, even children as long as they could walk up ... | |
| How to Explain David's Killings in War | 6/15/2009 |
| Q: I am teaching a class in Tehillim. Today we were discussing Psalm 120 and when we got to v.7 where ... A: When the Jewish people became a nation and waged war against idol worshippers, it wasn't like the ... | |
| shalom to Israel | 6/8/2009 |
| Q: I'm interested in knowing when man first started to keep time,in years.Did the calender begin b.c. ... A: I don't know there is a set number of years that makes up a generation; it appears that in our times ... | |
| date calender began | 6/7/2009 |
| Q: I'm interested in knowing when man first started to keep time,in years.Did the calender begin b.c. ... A: Adam was created 5769 years ago. He lived for 930 years. The Torah lists the leaders in each ... | |
| Exodus 9:6 | 5/10/2009 |
| Q: Does the "all" in this verse mean "everything" in the Hebrew? As you know, Egyptian cattle continue ... A: The word in Hebrew is indeed "all" and your question is a valid one. One commentary explains that ... | |
| Living rules | 4/16/2009 |
| Q: My friend (reformed Jew) has lost his lease and would like to rent a room from an orthodox female ... A: Every Jew must abide by Torah law, just because he chooses to be reform does not absolve him from ... | |
| meaning of honor | 3/24/2009 |
| Q: Please give me the root meaning of the OT use of honor, as in Deut. 15:16. I would also appreciate ... A: I don't see the word honor in Deut 15:16, could it be that my verses differ in arrangement from ... | |
| conversion | 3/16/2009 |
| Q: shalom.iam sharon from india.i was circumcised recently by an unauthorised person.and i came to know ... A: First of all, I am not a Rabbi. Secondly, this cannot be done via the internet, you must get in ... | |
| Sin Offering | 3/5/2009 |
| Q: What was the significance of the Female goat as opposed to the male goat? Why not all males? A: Nachmanides says that the sin-offering is to seek reconciliation with G-d by giving Him a gift. The ... | |
| halal or yalal | 3/4/2009 |
| Q: On 1/16/2006 a woman asked you why the Hebrew word הֵילֵל or ... A: You are right, there are no reference in Tanach for hll as "shine" or 'light' other than the three ... | |
| a question on the law..... | 2/5/2009 |
| Q: what is considered the jewish difference between an omen, and a sign from G-d? thanks! pete A: Do you mean to ask when does an omen not originate from G-d? Or do you mean to ask what is the ... | |
| leviticus... | 1/13/2009 |
| Q: in leviticus it is pointed out that one must not seek out spiritists, but what if one is diagnosed ... A: It's obvious that the 'seeking out' refers to the performing of the calling the spirits. If such a ... | |
| In Isaiah... | 1/13/2009 |
| Q: I am reading a passage which talks of how "a ruler will rise from Bethlehem." Am i right in ... A: The Hebrew word 'moshel' does not mean oppressor but ruler. It refers to the Messiah who will ... | |
| Halacha on converts | 1/2/2009 |
| Q: Is there a halacha that says a person who converted to authentic orthodox Judaism cannot marry a ... A: I assume you mean the person the convert met is Jewish? I never heard of a halacha that a ... | |
| Messiah | 12/26/2008 |
| Q: sir, I am a Christian who is curious to find out about Orthodox Jewish theology concerning the ... A: No. It is unthinkable to ascribe any physicality to G-d. For Isaiah 9:5-6, please see my response ... | |
| cohen convert marriage | 12/4/2008 |
| Q: I'm emailing to get your advise on a matter which I need some guidance on a situation I'm facing in ... A: 1st. I am not a Rabbi. 1) The marriage takes effect even if it is prohibited; the woman would ... | |
| G'd | 11/3/2008 |
| Q: Where did G'd come from? A: We know it is impossible for a human to know what G-d is. The very concept "coming from" does not ... | |
| Suicide and Judaism. | 10/17/2008 |
| Q: I was wondering if perhaps you had some knowledge on the amounts of suicides carried out by ... A: I know of only two people I heard of in my personal life that committed suicide and I am 43 years ... | |
| Other religions | 9/30/2008 |
| Q: I live in the UK where there is a currently a large and growing muslim population. Their culture is ... A: I am not a Rabbi. Here is Answers.com's definition of racism: 1. The belief that race accounts for ... | |
| Deuteronomy 34:10 | 9/4/2008 |
| Q: Deuteronomy 34:10 "Since then, no prophet has risen in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to ... A: I can't take the books out this very moment but from memory I can say the translation sounds right. ... | |
| a question on the Torah | 9/4/2008 |
| Q: "Since then, no prophet has risen in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face, who did all ... A: I don't look at him as an impostor, certainly not a false god. Simply because I never heard that he ... | |
| deuteronomy 32:8 | 8/26/2008 |
| Q: "When the Most High gave the nations their inheritance, when he divided all mankind, he set up ... A: It refers to the days of the tower of Babel when mankind sinned and deserved to be destroyed but G-d ... | |
| Isaiah prophecies | 8/18/2008 |
| Q: Chapter 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon ... A: http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/15940/showrashi/true/jewish/Chapter-9.htm If you can ... | |
| Hebrew custom | 8/18/2008 |
| Q: Can you tell me the significance of placing the hand under the thigh while making an oath? A: The meaning is the male organ. (The following are thoughts of my own or perhaps from studies I did ... | |
| Isaiah prophecies | 8/10/2008 |
| Q: Chapter 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon ... A: Your translation of Isaiah 9:5-6 is incorrect: "For a child has been born to us, a son has been ... | |
| Musical instruments | 8/1/2008 |
| Q: The musical instruments used in the temple, was this started by David? A: The Leviites played instruments by command of G-d to Moses. The Temple was not built until after ... | |
| dont worry, me email is a joke. | 7/15/2008 |
| Q: i am currently a 20 year old male of Japanese descent living in the UK and have been trying my ... A: I will assume the joke is limited to the first part and that your question at the end is a real one. ... | |
| honour your mother and father | 7/2/2008 |
| Q: How do orthodox Jewish children honour their mother and father? A: The direct meaning of this command is to serve one's parents, not provide for them. If they ask for ... | |
| Torah | 7/1/2008 |
| Q: Shalom, I am studying Isaiah 53 and need help with interpretation. Who is Isaiah referencing here? ... A: The gender is in the masculine because it refers to "my servant", ie. Israel. Rashi (a commentary, ... | |
| The Talmud | 5/14/2008 |
| Q: I read Israel Shahak's book "Jewish History, Jewish Religion, the Weight of Three Thousand Years"... ... A: I think you once submitted a question to me regarding this Shahak fellow which I felt uncomfortable ... | |
| solomon, | 5/2/2008 |
| Q: a christian man has told me that Solomon had 700 wives and 500 concubines, allowing them to worship ... A: There are flaws in your logic. Why would G-d delude one nation any more than two? G-d did not ... | |
| "J" Name | 5/1/2008 |
| Q: Thanks a lot for asking me not to spell out the "J" name in my communication. I wish I could ... A: G-d has many Names which describe the manner in which G-d reveals Himself to man. In addition, the ... | |
| I AM THAT I AM | 4/30/2008 |
| Q: I would appreciate very much if you please inform me whether the rendering of the name "IAM THAT I ... A: It is inappropriate for me to comment on non-Torah writings as they distort the Torah. When our ... | |
| I AM THAT I AM | 4/29/2008 |
| Q: I would appreciate very much if you please inform me whether the rendering of the name "IAM THAT I ... A: There are several interpretations. First of all the exact translation is "I will be that I will ... | |
| solomon, | 4/28/2008 |
| Q: a christian man has told me that Solomon had 700 wives and 500 concubines, allowing them to worship ... A: I am not a Rabbi. It is correct that King Solomon had many wives and I don't know the exact number. ... | |
| Seder | 4/21/2008 |
| Q: A question came up at the Seder yesterday: Why do we lean to the left as opposed to the right at the ... A: There are two reasons, 1) leaning on the right side is an impediment to the use of the right arm ... | |
| Hebrew Canon | 3/13/2008 |
| Q: Good day! I am a Christian interested in the subject of the canon of scripture. How is it that the ... A: As it is written in the Torah, Moses wrote the Torah in hebrew and gave it to his tribe and ... | |
| When is the true Adar | 2/29/2008 |
| Q: I have been asking just about everybody for about a month why we primarily celebrate Purim in Adar ... A: I don't have a definite answer yet. I suspect it may be a difference in opinion. There are two ... | |
| convertion from reform to orthodox | 1/5/2008 |
| Q: I am an orthodox jew with Israeli nationality. I was married by a military rabbi whilst I was in ... A: I am not a Rabbi and I know nothing about United Synagogue. From a pure technical point of view ... | |
| God's Hobson choice | 1/1/2008 |
| Q: God commands Moses to order Pharoh to free the slaves. After 6 plagues the Torah states that God ... A: This would imply that Jews only shokle on Shabbos, which we all know not to be the case. But all ... | |
| God's Hobson"s choice | 12/30/2007 |
| Q: God commands Moses to order Pharoh to free the slaves. After 6 plagues the Torah states that God ... A: Our Rabbis ask this question and they answer, because Pharao opposed G-d and acted wickedly, he ... | |
| marriage | 12/11/2007 |
| Q: According to the Torah, how do we know when we are living according to what God wants us to? Ex., a ... A: For as long as she is still married to her husband she cannot be with any other man. It is very ... | |
| What is the meaning of Shiloh and this prophecy? | 12/9/2007 |
| Q: my name is Joe. I just want to thank you for answering all of our questions. I was just wanting to ... A: Shiloh refers to the Messiah who is a descendant of Yehuda and who is a king of the Jews. The "rod" ... | |
| inter-faith dialogue | 11/25/2007 |
| Q: 1. How do you define inter-faith dialogue? 2. Have you or your congregation taken part in any ... A: 1. not sure what you mean, it is probably defined in a dictionary 2. I am not a Rabbi as per my bio ... | |
| Daniel 9:25 | 11/9/2007 |
| Q: Shalom Mr. Rosenblum, Among Jewish theologians it is commonly suggested that the 70 weeks of Daniel ... A: The Written Torah has no vowelization but cannot be read without vowels. It is obvious that the ... | |
| Jesus | 11/8/2007 |
| Q: briefly speaking , I fancy and respect the Jewish nation , their great achievements , magnificent ... A: The Romans killed him, not the Jews. He was sentenced to death in a Jewish court for severe sins. ... | |
| Satan | 11/3/2007 |
| Q: I (a Christian) understand that Judesm regards Satan as an angel of God. Judging by Job, Satan's job ... A: That is correct. That is Satan's job and he is an angel. It is not entrapment. Rather it serves ... | |
| Talmud | 10/24/2007 |
| Q: "Hi, I read the book Jewish History, Jewish Religion, the Weight of Three Thousand Years, by ... A: The reason I took so long to answer is because it is really outside my realm of expertise to do such ... | |
| Head bobbing | 10/10/2007 |
| Q: Why do men bob their heads during prayer? What is the signficance of this custom, please? Thank you ... A: Jews sway (their bodies) during prayer. What you're seeing is not bobbing the head but the body ... | |
| Conversion | 9/24/2007 |
| Q: Please help I'm a lost soul. I have been doing my conversion through Temple Shalom for the last year ... A: First of all I am not a Rabbi and not qualified to address your issue. I have no knowledge of what ... | |
| Yirmeyahu | 9/17/2007 |
| Q: I've been reading the book of Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) and I have seen so many things that you could ... A: The words in Jer 24:5 are out of order and must be understood as follows: "...like these good figs ... | |
| Yirmeyahu | 9/16/2007 |
| Q: I've been reading the book of Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) and I have seen so many things that you could ... A: It is always good to ask a qualified Rabbi. But that is not what I meant. You did not ask ... | |
| Wailing Wall | 9/15/2007 |
| Q: What is the significance of Jewish men bobbing their heads at the Wailing Wall ? A: Jews sway (their bodies) during prayer. What you're seeing is not bobbing the head but the body ... | |
| Yirmeyahu | 9/12/2007 |
| Q: I've been reading the book of Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) and I have seen so many things that you could ... A: It is impossible to interpret the exact intent of the Tanach by the words themselves. We must rely ... | |
| Blood atonement | 9/11/2007 |
| Q: I have been raised in a christian household and have always been taught that HaShem set up the ... A: The act of bringing sacrifices, specifically the blood, cannot be removed from the process, see Lev. ... | |
| Altar | 9/5/2007 |
| Q: Q- Were all the altars built for Hashem the same and what was the reason for “no tool” to touch it? ... A: Shemot 20:22 says that a sword will defile the altar. The Altar of the Tabernacle was made of wood, ... | |
| Raisin Cakes? | 9/5/2007 |
| Q: Q- Hosea 3:1 says... "The L-RD said to me, "Go again, love a woman loved by another, and an ... A: It is not "loved by another" but rather "who was loved by another". The meaning is: In the past ... | |
| A decree about how to treat one's children? | 9/2/2007 |
| Q: I hope that this is not a case where "one fool can ask a question that a thousand sages cannot ... A: 1. Treating children appropriately falls into the category of treating others appropriately. Love ... | |
| Veil | 8/22/2007 |
| Q: Q- Re: Bereshith 24:65 For she [had] said unto the servant, What man [is] this that walketh in the ... A: The veil was an act of modesty. She was about to meet a strange man. When Isaac brought her into ... | |
| sex and premarital sex | 8/21/2007 |
| Q: i am 49 and my boyfriend is 44. we are both currently christians. he is studing the torah and would ... A: No problem at all. Becoming a Jew is a very big adjustment and a huge responsibility. It requires ... | |
| sex and premarital sex | 8/18/2007 |
| Q: i am 49 and my boyfriend is 44. we are both currently christians. he is studing the torah and would ... A: I am not a Rabbi. From what I know, if both partners are not Jewish and committed to each other, ... | |
| His blood? | 7/31/2007 |
| Q: Q- Who is this talking about????? Re: Zech 9:7-10 And I will take away his blood out of his mouth, ... A: It's talking about the Philistines mentioned in the verse before. The meaning is that the P. will ... | |
| Sarai | 7/25/2007 |
| Q: I was reading about the visit of the angels to Abraham under the Oaks of Mammre and about Sarai's ... A: Don, It is inconceivable to think of Sarah as anything but faithful. Our ancestors lived ... | |
| Paid for it | 7/24/2007 |
| Q: Q-Regarding 2 Chronicles 36:14-17 1-Can you tell me “why” ALL the people had to pay because the ... A: 1.The people sinned and the leaders had the power to correct them but failed to do so; the offense ... | |
| sacrifice | 7/20/2007 |
| Q: The sacrifices and offerings were law passed down to Moses, since the temple is gone, how are the ... A: Since we don't have an Altar now, we are exempt from bringing sacrifices just like you guessed. The ... | |
| Vision | 7/9/2007 |
| Q: Q-In reference to the Daniel 9 vision, do you know what the date of “King Agrippa’s Reign” (the ... A: I don't see a reference to the descrution of the 1st Temple, only the destruction of the 2nd Temple. ... | |
| A Whoring 3 | 7/6/2007 |
| Q: What does Vayikra 17:7 mean? “And they shall no more offer their sacrifices unto devils, after ... A: I don't know views from other beliefs. Our Rabbis say that demons have been encountered. I learned ... | |
| Conflict? | 7/2/2007 |
| Q: Re: Numbers 14:18 -Can you tell me how this passage… “He LORD [is] longsuffering, and of great ... A: The rule is: if the children continue in the wicked ways of their parents, then they can get ... | |
| Legitimate Scripture | 6/18/2007 |
| Q: Q-Can you tell me...what DEFINES what is legitimate scripture? People normally refer to the entire ... A: Everything in the Tanach was written by prophets and is a record of their prophecies or Divinely ... | |
| role of women in orthodox synogogue | 6/4/2007 |
| Q: Why are women totally uninvolved in participating, eg. on the bima, etc.. in the service on ... A: It is inappropriate for women to perform public religious functions amongst men. But more than ... | |
| Purification 2 | 5/21/2007 |
| Q: RE: The purification process of the metzora: “Where a person was afflicted with lesions because he ... A: To translate metzora as a lesion is a close translation. The distinction needs to be made between a ... | |
| Purification | 5/17/2007 |
| Q: RE: The purification process of the metzora: “Where a person was afflicted with lesions because he ... A: I know of one gentile who was a metzora because of sin, namely Naaman, see Kings 2 chapter 5. He ... | |
| Obedience? | 5/16/2007 |
| Q: Q- Re this passage: Why does it say in the latter,... "it is in your mouth and in your heart"? ... A: I will translate the last verse for you: 'Rather, the matter is very near you, [it is] in your mouth ... | |
| Circumcision | 5/11/2007 |
| Q: Q-Re Yechezkel 44;9 in part says: “if they have not been circumcised and do not love Hashem…. -Is ... A: I can try and break down the verse for you: "Any estranged person of uncircumcised heart or ... | |
| Impurity? | 5/8/2007 |
| Q: Q- According to the Chazon Ish, he says: Torah observant Jews do not go on Temple mount today. ... A: No, it is us who are impure and are forbidden from entering the holy place in that state. That ... | |
| Circumcision | 5/3/2007 |
| Q: Q-Re Yechezkel 44;9 in part says: “if they have not been circumcised and do not love Hashem…. -Is ... A: The verse there needs to be translated a little differently: "Any estranged person of uncircumcised ... | |
| Blood atonement | 4/16/2007 |
| Q: What is your opinion of the symbolism that blood plays in the sacrifices, i.e., burnt, grain, peace, ... A: Our Temples were destroyed due to sin. The first Temple was destroyed because of idol worship, ... | |
| Blood atonement | 4/15/2007 |
| Q: What is your opinion of the symbolism that blood plays in the sacrifices, i.e., burnt, grain, peace, ... A: A symbol is by definition a representation but not the actual thing itself. Because it is only a ... | |
| Blood atonement | 4/14/2007 |
| Q: What is your opinion of the symbolism that blood plays in the sacrifices, i.e., burnt, grain, peace, ... A: The blood is the soul of the creature. We offer the soul of the animal onto the Altar. You must ... | |
| Iniquity | 4/5/2007 |
| Q: Q-Can you help me understand these Torah passages in connection to each other...are the children ... A: The verses which indicate that children are punished for the sins of their fathers refer to when the ... | |
| About pasover | 3/30/2007 |
| Q: What was the role the children play during pasover, and now what do they do during this celebration. ... A: The Jewish people are obligated to tell the story of the great miracles that occurred during the ... | |
| Prophet | 3/30/2007 |
| Q: Q-Why isn't there anymore said about the great man that lived Enoch in Jewish History? From reading ... A: 1) I don't have that information. My guess is that he had students whose spiritual development ... | |
| Prophet | 3/28/2007 |
| Q: Q-Why isn't there anymore said about the great man that lived Enoch in Jewish History? From reading ... A: Sorry, sorry. I was talking about Enosh son of Seth father of Kenan. I don't use English names and ... | |
| Beard | 3/28/2007 |
| Q: Why do Orthodox Jews have huge beard? A: I have a small beard, some have no beard. There is a commandment in the Torah not to shave the ... | |
| Prophet | 3/26/2007 |
| Q: Q-Why isn't there anymore said about the great man that lived Enoch in Jewish History? From reading ... A: The meaning of the verse "then they began calling in the Name of Hashem" is understood as they ... | |
| Date | 3/20/2007 |
| Q: What year did Moshe lead the children of Israel out of Egypt ANSWER: 1312 BCE The year was 2448 ... A: I mean 2448 years after creation, not days. The Exodus was 3319 years ago. Take today's year 2007, ... | |
| Servant Songs | 3/15/2007 |
| Q: Could the 4 Servant Songs of Isaiah be referring also to the “prophets”? ANSWER: What chapter in ... A: I see a small song in 42:10-13, I saw no song in 53, and I quickly skimmed through the 13 chapters ... | |
| Who's speaking 3 | 3/14/2007 |
| Q: .I understand. Can you tell me where I can learn more of your statement regarding angels: "Most ... A: The Midrash says regarding the three angels that visited Abraham that each could only fulfill one ... | |
| Who's speaking 2 | 3/13/2007 |
| Q: What I mean is…If both are referring to the G-D of Israel..then why the term.. ”G-D directly speaks ... A: There are many instances in the Torah where G-d does not speak directly but through an angel. G-d ... | |
| Offerings | 3/7/2007 |
| Q: When I read Mitzvah such as something like this: Leviticus 27:26 "No one shall sanctify it" I ... A: This verse is about a first born which is dedicated to Hashem as an offering without human decision. ... | |
| Hebrew Dragon | 1/29/2007 |
| Q: Shalom R.Rosenblum- Can you tell me when the Tanach speaks of the hebrew word "tanniyn"...in these ... A: According to Rashi this word can mean either snake or Leviathan. It is my feeling that Tanin the ... | |
| Torah law | 12/21/2006 |
| Q: I was confused about criminal law under the Torah and asked, when Leviticus tells us to stone people ... A: No, not picking and choosing. Judging requires authority, it requires the power to dominate other ... | |
| the laws | 12/21/2006 |
| Q: I hope you can answer this. When one reads the laws of Leviticus, it tells us to punish people who ... A: We are only obligated to execute people under Torah Law when Torah Law is the authority. Since ... | |
| love | 12/17/2006 |
| Q: It sounds like love of G-d refers to complete devotion to one's actions. You also mentioned ... A: I mean evil inclination. If someone has agressive feelings, let him become a slaughterer or a Mohel ... | |
| love | 12/15/2006 |
| Q: what is the concept we have in the Torah about love, we are told to love God, but how can one love ... A: Maimonides says we cannot be commanded to have an emotion. Instead the Torah commands us to do acts ... | |
| Abraham | 12/15/2006 |
| Q: Can you help me respond to this criticism a non-religious friend possed to me: "The patriarchs ... A: You need to ask an expert archeologist and historian, not an ex-yeshiva student like me. This so ... | |
| circumcision on the 8th day | 11/25/2006 |
| Q: Is there a certain reason in the Torah and other holy scriptures why G-d told Abraham to circumcise ... A: Our Rabbis teach that G-d had pity on the newborn and wanted him to get stronger. Another opinion ... | |
| Jewish People | 11/22/2006 |
| Q: I have been associated with Jewish people at many levels over many years, and my experiences have ... A: Very difficult for me to answer to your satisfaction. On a technical level the Jewish people suffer ... | |
| Torah Scroll fragment | 11/18/2006 |
| Q: I have recently been given a Torah Scroll fragment. It is alleged to be five hundred years old, and ... A: I am afraid you're not going to be happy with what I tell you. If this is indeed a column from a ... | |
| Various | 11/7/2006 |
| Q: Shalom R. Rosenblum Q1- I’ve heard that when a person needs to have a “confirmation” from G-D from ... A: I am not a Rabbi. I don't have vast knowledge in Torah issues. I just like to work with problems ... | |
| Various | 10/25/2006 |
| Q: they helped me much! How about these.. Q1) Is there a difference between "atonement" for the ... A: Q1) Atonement is always for sin, a pure person without any sin does not need atonement. As you ... | |
| Various | 10/23/2006 |
| Q: Q1- Can you tell me about Be’reshit 12: 3 where it says…. “And in you all the families of the earth ... A: Q1- Rashi says it means, when one person will bless another (I believe like a father his children), ... | |
| Idolatry | 10/20/2006 |
| Q: So, making an animal image is okay so long as there is no attribution of deity to it right? And ... A: Right. Right, if some part of the face is left unfinished even a human bust is ok (missing ear, ... | |
| Tanach Reference | 10/19/2006 |
| Q: I have three questions....Trying to do a Word study of the phrase "Son of G-d, I find that it only ... A: Q1 - it refers to an angel that came to protect the 3 people Q2 and 3: I cannot answer any questions ... | |
| efrain | 9/27/2006 |
| Q: im understood that ordoxs jews dont like jews that come from the lost tribe that comes back home or ... A: Just the opposite is true. The Torah commands us to love even a gentile who converts to Judaism. ... | |
| GOD IS THAT GOD IS | 9/24/2006 |
| Q: 1*1=2*0.5=4*0.25=8*0.125=...=infinity*zero ONE is GOD product and geometric middle of ALL and ... A: I understand your first mathematical equation(s) and I think I have a basic feel of what you're ... | |
| Genesis 6:2 | 9/23/2006 |
| Q: The phrase "bene ha-elohim" occurs in genesis 6:2 and is usually rendered in English translations as ... A: The Torah repeatedly says that the so called 'gods' have no powers whatsoever. They cannot see, ... | |
| Salt Covenant | 9/18/2006 |
| Q: Please give some understanding on the "covenant of salt" Shalom Shalom A: Salt is a food that never spoils and G-d made a covenant with salt at creation that it would not ... | |
| calender | 9/17/2006 |
| Q: i know this is not all to do with torah,but i seen another question about the calender,the jewish ... A: The Jewish calendar is very much a Torah subject. It is the first commandment given to the Jews in ... | |
| Paranoha | 9/10/2006 |
| Q: This might be just stupid and childish but me and my best friend started a bible study class. In ... A: The soul belongs to G-d. He gives it to humans and they return to Him alone. The only thing that ... | |
| second day | 9/7/2006 |
| Q: Rabbi, What do the sages tell us as to why the second day of creation is not called "good"? Thanks. A: I am not a Rabbi as mentioned in my bio. The work of the second day (the waters) was not completed ... | |
| michitza minyan in conservative shul | 9/7/2006 |
| Q: I know that there are many othodox minyanim in conservative shuls. Where is the halachic support for ... A: I am not familiar with this phenomenon. I will say this, if the people are not Torah observant, the ... | |
| Selichot | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: My book has 7 amd then Erev Rosh Hashannah (8). However, there are only 6 days before Rosh ... A: We don't say on Shabbat. This year on Thursday we say day 5 and on Friday Erev Rosh Hashana. Days ... | |
| fornication today | 9/3/2006 |
| Q: According to your knowledge and beliefs what is your stance about fornication today? Do you still ... A: I had to look up the meaning of fornication, on answers dot com: Sexual intercourse between ... | |
| keyl | 8/24/2006 |
| Q: Is the El Shad..., or another Name? It's abbreviated simply "El" in the Selechot. Thanks! A: You mean Hashem Hashem E-l...? That is a verse in Exodus 34:6. E-l means G-d and is not an ... | |
| Attribuits | 8/23/2006 |
| Q: What are the Three Attribuits of mercy represented by Hashem, Hashem, Elo-im, in the 13 Attribuits? ... A: According to Rabbeinu Tam in Rosh Hashono 17b [the mercy is effected by not destroying the sinner]: ... | |
| May a Jew Enter A Church? | 8/22/2006 |
| Q: Where does it say that a Jew may NOT enter a church? Does the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch say this, and ... A: Good thing I am not a Rabbi (as stated in my bio)! See Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah 139 - 149, ... | |
| 10-603 | 8/14/2006 |
| Q: David, As always, thank you for your time! What do you believe is the relationship between the ... A: Rashi (Shemos 24:12) derives from the verse what you suggest that the other 603 commandments are ... | |
| Zionism | 8/11/2006 |
| Q: The question I wanted to ask you on was on the Torah and Zionism. Some rabbi's say that G-d in the ... A: There is no prohibition against living in Israel ever. On the contrary it is a positive commandment ... | |
| Inclusive Reckoning | 8/8/2006 |
| Q: David Rosenblum,I am researching the term "Inclusive reckoning". Is the term "forty days and forty ... A: I don't think the term per se is used in Torah text so I cannot speak for it. Nevertheless the ... | |
| Fig Tree (2) | 8/8/2006 |
| Q: David, As I was watering my apple tree last evening, I noticed it had a new stem growing from ... A: Please revert to my original answer, Tosefta Orla 1:4 and Maimonides in Maaser Sheni 10:19. A new ... | |
| Fig Tree (2) | 7/30/2006 |
| Q: David, I think the answer is as simple as the fact that the tree trunk is dead and the new branches ... A: I wouldn't care if you were Rabbi shopping (beside the fact that I am not a Rabbi and therefore do ... | |
| Fig Tree (2) | 7/30/2006 |
| Q: David, I asked you a question previously about my fig tree. Thought I'd share the other answers I ... A: It just occurred to me. The Jerusalem OHR (what is OHR?) Rabbi does not agree with me for the same ... | |
| no subject | 7/30/2006 |
| Q: In Genesis Adam and Eve are told to "be fruitful" and multiply. They are also told not to eat of ... A: The hebrew root letters for fruit are 'FRJ' which happens to be very closely resembling the word ... | |
| Judges | 7/29/2006 |
| Q: David Judges, chapter 11 tells of Jephthah, who went off to fight the Ammonites, he promised the ... A: 1. The vow was for the first 'thing' he would meet, not necessarily a person. He never intended to ... | |
| understanding the Messiah | 7/17/2006 |
| Q: Can you please tell me the current Jewish understanding of the Messiah and how we will be able to ... A: I cannot answer your question entirely because I find it difficult to research sources. If the ... | |
| Rape in Judaism | 7/14/2006 |
| Q: Is a rape victim required to forgive a rapist in Judaism? How much of a crime is rape seen in ... A: By Torah Law the rapist is obligated to pay the girl/woman and marry her. It is almost ... | |
| trees | 7/14/2006 |
| Q: I have a question. I purchased a fig tree and planted it last year. Remarkably, it bore figs. This ... A: A Rabbi must be consulted. The principle is, if your trees are considered a new plant then their ... | |
| Daniel | 7/9/2006 |
| Q: I have a good understanding of the first sixty nine weeks of Daniel nine. If you could however give ... A: I have looked up Rashi's explanation of verses 26 and 27 and compiled it for you. Please note, the ... | |
| Redemption | 7/4/2006 |
| Q: I wonder why we just don't redeem them? So only the Kohanim eat the first borns today? They do not ... A: I believe redemption on a kosher first-born animal does not work, only humans and non-kosher animals ... | |
| Redemption | 7/3/2006 |
| Q: ...explains the comparison and contrast of the uses of the term quite well. For the first part of ... A: If I understand you correctly, by 'legal fiction' you mean that the animal is in reality a sacrifice ... | |
| Redemption | 7/2/2006 |
| Q: I have a question about the redemption of the first-born. Is this still practiced today with kosher ... A: First-borns from kosher animals must be brought as a sacrifice unless they develop an imperfection. ... | |
| religious rites of Judaism | 6/25/2006 |
| Q: explain the significance of religious rites in general within Judaism (600words or under) i cant ... A: Sometimes rites are interpreted as being ceremonies without purpose. In Judaism everything we do is ... | |
| Job | 6/18/2006 |
| Q: I have just finished a study of the book of Job. It is a terrifying book for me. Even though Job ... A: I don't know the book of Job well enough to answer you regarding the behind the scenes warfares. ... | |
| prayer | 6/12/2006 |
| Q: I am not a Jew, but I am doing some work on Judaism and I am very intrigued as to the spiritual ... A: Describing spirituality is not my forte, especially my own spirituality. So please forgive me for ... | |
| Jurisdiction of Beth Din | 5/31/2006 |
| Q: Local Jewish court is subservient, and doesn't want to take a case because of the official involved. ... A: The discussion about the crooked tax-collector in the Talmud appears in B. Kama 113a. There is no ... | |
| Jurisdiction of Beth Din | 5/31/2006 |
| Q: Shalom, I have a dispute with a Ukrainian government official, a Jew, and would opt for a ... A: This is a confusing story. Why can't you present your case to a Jewish court and let them decide ... | |
| Dear Rabbi, Is this an accurate... | 5/31/2006 |
| Q: Is this an accurate quote and if so what is the context? Does it refer to Jesus of Nazareth? The ... A: I am not a Rabbi. Zechariah chapter 12 is talking about future events. According to the Talmud's ... | |
| Passover | 4/24/2006 |
| Q: I am a little confused about the timing of Passover. Exodus says that the sacrifice and meal was to ... A: The end of 14th Nissan. Ex. ch. 12 for example. verse 6 tells about keeping the lamb until the ... | |
| Calendar | 2/14/2006 |
| Q: Feast of Tabernacle is also known as Feast of Booths or possibly harvest. I am sorry for the ... A: The mistranslation does not lie with you but with the non-Jewish translators. Either way, no ... | |
| 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: 1. I don't understand why people who rely on milk and meat are forced to cook one in the other. ... | |
| Calendar | 2/8/2006 |
| Q: I read your response concerning the months of the calendar and would like to further question the ... A: Sukkot - 15 Tishrei (Feast of Tabernacle sounds to me like an incorrect translation) Purim - 14 Adar ... | |
| Hell | 2/2/2006 |
| Q: Rosenblum, My questions are sincere so please take no offense. 1. Is it true that Jewish people ... A: 1. A person is believed to be in gehinnom (something like hell I guess) for up to a year, possibly ... | |
| doors | 1/25/2006 |
| Q: I am curious about the fact that certain jewish people have a small strip on the side of all the ... A: It is called a Mezuzzah and it contains a small scroll of a chapter in the Torah. The Torah ... | |
| Ezekiel's Temple | 1/22/2006 |
| Q: I was wondering about the prince in the book of Ezekiel. Is he a king, prince, or Messiah that is to ... A: About the prince in 44:3 (and referred to later as well) there are 3 opinions of which you correctly ... | |
| What is the Jewish calender? | 1/19/2006 |
| Q: I have been taught to observe the Gregorian calender. However, I donot not know much about the ... A: The Jewish calendar is based on both the lunar ans solar cycles. The Jewish months correspond to ... | |
| Translation question | 1/16/2006 |
| Q: Followup To Question - An article was brought to my attention, which states that the correct ... A: I need to make one small correction. The word "hyll" in Isaiah 14:12 is more likely a noun meaning ... | |
| Translation question | 1/16/2006 |
| Q: An article was brought to my attention, which states that the correct translation of Isaiah 14:12a ... A: In view of the fact that it was translated by Jonathan ben Uzziel and accepted by all Torah scholars ... | |
| Translation question | 1/14/2006 |
| Q: An article was brought to my attention, which states that the correct translation of Isaiah 14:12a ... A: This was an interesting read. The letters "yll" (to me the 'y' is closer to the hebrew 'yud' than ... | |
| Jewish law and Noahide law | 1/7/2006 |
| Q: ive asked a few people and no one could give me a straightforward answer. My follow up question ... A: See Rambam, Issurei Bi'ah 12:4-6. It seems that if she comes from a family who has abandoned idol ... | |
| Jewish law and Noahide law | 1/3/2006 |
| Q: I was learning recently about the Seven Noahide laws, one of which is the prohibition against ... A: The marriage of a non-Jew has no effect on Jews and therefore the Jewish man in your scenario would ... | |
| Peahs | 12/31/2005 |
| Q: I am writing a story about a young man who cuts off his peahs in anger. I then realized I don't know ... A: with a name like yours, Katz, I must assume you're Jewish. It saddends me to notice therefore, that ... | |
| jerusalem | 12/5/2005 |
| Q: How are you. My question to you is do you know anthing about what some call a "heavenly Jerusalem" ... A: I found "heavenly Jerusalem" mentioned in the Zohar and the Shelah. I did not see anything about it ... | |
| Torah | 12/4/2005 |
| Q: How old was Rivka when she died and when did she die, and where is it mentioned in the Torah? A: She died around the same time as Devorah her nurse, Gen 35:8 when Yacov returned from Lovon in Padan ... | |
| 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: Very interesting question. Perhaps the translation you're reading is incorrect. Noah was allowed ... | |
| marriage status | 11/19/2005 |
| Q: Being non Jew I do not know if this would arise in Torah studies! Please can you give me some idea ... A: From the times of Moses until today the laws have not changed. The rapist of an unmarried girl has ... | |
| 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: The Temple described in Ezekiel will be built when the Messiah comes. I never studied Ezekiel but I ... | |
| leviticus 7 | 10/30/2005 |
| Q: David, I want to thank you in advance for taking my question. I have several questions about the ... A: The typical Torah study does not delve into the 'why' as much as the 'how'. Basically we cannot ask ... | |
| lost tribes | 10/19/2005 |
| Q: David I would like to know about the 10 northern tribes that were exiled by the ... A: The ten tribes are not completely lost. They will be reunited with the rest of Israel when the ... | |
| story in the Talmud Yerushalmi | 10/10/2005 |
| Q: I have come across a reference to a story in the Talmud Yerushalmi Sanhedrin 6:23c. The story is ... A: The only thing I found in Talmud Yerushalmi Sanhedrin that remotely resembles what you mention is in ... | |
| Tashlich | 9/28/2005 |
| Q: Can you give me some thoughts on the tashlich ceremony. I know that with the Rosh Hashanah coming, ... A: Tashlich is not a command but rather a 'custom' or tradition if you like. It consists primarily of ... | |
| Hello David, I heard of... | 9/22/2005 |
| Q: I heard of a concept called "the here and now, but not yet". Now what it is suppose to be is ... A: Can you provide me with a specific prophecy as an example? My strength is not in global knowledge ... | |
| Giving of Torah | 9/16/2005 |
| Q: ------------------------- I would really appreciate you looking into exactly what happened. If it ... A: Nachmanides cites proof from Deut 31:9 that Moses was commanded to write the entire scroll from the ... | |
| Resurrection | 8/23/2005 |
| Q: Does this mean that all Jews today believe in the physical resurrection, unlike the time of the ... A: I cannot tell you what every Jew believes. I can tell you that any Torah source quoted to ... | |
| Women and headcoverings | 8/1/2005 |
| Q: I was wondering what were the laws pertaining to women and headcoverings. Was it law for them in ... A: The law was given on Mt. Sinai to Moses and is alluded to in the book of Numbers. The rule applies ... | |
| judaism | 7/27/2005 |
| Q: hI i was wondering if you knew about the bible codes ? I heard somethin on the hostory chanel like ... A: There is a book called "Bible Codes". I haven't read it and don't know much about it. I think one ... | |
| Slavery & the "Ten Commandments" | 7/26/2005 |
| Q: Slavery was acceptable at the time of the delivery of the Torah, correct? I believe there are laws ... A: Since the Torah allows slavery, the orthodox have no issue with it in principle what so ever. ... | |
| 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: In tractate Gittin 68b through 70a the Talmud discusses many ailments and their treatments. Most ... | |
| importance | 5/24/2005 |
| Q: rosenblum, i would like to ask you questions on the day of sabbath for orthodox jews. first of all ... A: I don't look at it as being 'stricter'. There is the Torah Law and every individual can choose to ... | |
| The Messiah | 4/25/2005 |
| Q: I am a Christian with Jewish friends, and I am attempting to understand their faith better. ... A: The Messiah is the Jewish king who will redeem us Jews from our exile. He will return us to the ... | |
| Unleavened Bread | 4/21/2005 |
| Q: Can you give me as much information as you have regarding the significance and symbolism of ... A: I apoligize for my lack of knowledge to give you a complete answer. As per my bio, I am more a text ... | |
| Some questions I have | 4/17/2005 |
| Q: Nice to hear back from you. Yes I am currently still reading the Tanakh, and have tried to educate ... A: Sin of Adam and Eve: There no such concept in any Rabbinic writings nor does the Tanakh mention ... | |
| Some questions I have | 4/14/2005 |
| Q: - Hi David, Thanks for responding to my questions. No I am not Jewish. I am ... A: Nash, You're obviously a thinking person and I appreciate that. I feel I lack general world ... | |
| Some questions I have | 4/14/2005 |
| Q: My name is Nash, and I have some questions I was hoping you can help me answer. I am currently ... A: Are you Jewish? Please let me know. 1) The Laws of the Torah (5 books of Moses) are meant for Jews ... | |
| Hello again David, 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: Copied from some internet site: ------------- start of copy -------- In the Pirke de-Rabbi ... | |
| 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 probably refers to Genesis 48:16. We individually recite that verse at bedtime, we normally ... | |
| Abraham in Judaism | 4/4/2005 |
| Q: I am currently writing a paper comparing Abraham in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. I was ... A: Abraham was a revolutionary. He taught everyone that there is only one G-d. G-d tested Abraham's ... | |
| 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: I have not studied Ezekiel but it is clear we're in a period of anger. I would daresay it is worse ... | |
| Torah--resistance | 3/24/2005 |
| Q: I am a university student writing a history paper regarding the holocaust. I am writing a section on ... A: The main goal in such a case is to preserve life. The Torah does not provide specific modes of ... | |
| torah | 3/15/2005 |
| Q: I have always been taught that the Torah was written by Moses around 1445 BC. I heard my history ... A: The Torah was written around 1272 BC when Moses died by Moses himself with the knowledge and ... | |
| Contraception in Thorah aspect | 3/15/2005 |
| Q: please, what do you think of why Onan was killed by G-d, in Genesis 38? Is it due of breaking off ... A: Onan was killed because he avoided having children by using coitus interruptus. The issue is: ... | |
| Philosophical | 3/11/2005 |
| Q: I hope this complies: I would be greatly obliged if you could give me a relatively concise ... A: Not really. It means 'soul'. My take on it always was that it refers to consciousness although I ... | |
| Hello dear sir how are you?... | 3/7/2005 |
| Q: 11. The christians try to say that this verse is speaking about the Holy spirit mainly speaking in ... A: The prophet bemoans the fact in chapter 28 that the people have grown decadent and corrupt to the ... | |
| Tenth part giving | 3/2/2005 |
| Q: Regarding the following passage in Deuteronomy 14:28-29 "At the end of every three years, bring all ... A: This refers to the 7 year agricultural cycle in Israel. 6 years the ground is worked and tithes ... | |
| The year for canceling debts | 2/25/2005 |
| Q: "According to Deuteronomy 15:1 I must cancel my debts every 7 years. This commandment is only for ... A: It is only for Jews and it still applies today. If someone lent money and recorded it on a legal ... | |
| Rosh Hashanah | 2/23/2005 |
| Q: .. my name is Alexandra and I am a grade 11 student at St.Peters secondary school..I am currently ... A: If you read my bio you would have noticed I am not the best person to answer such questions. I will ... | |
| Hi how are you. i am begginging... | 2/21/2005 |
| Q: i am begginging to wish to practice judaism I.e. follow the commandments and laws. I have read the 5 ... A: To wear a kippa is not a Torah Law. It is not even a Rabinical Law but just a custom that everyone ... | |
| Ezekiel 48 | 2/20/2005 |
| Q: Curtis Cherry curtisiv@earthlink.net Ezekiel 48 My name is Curtis Cherry, I am 38 years old my ... A: You obviously spent a lot of time studying these chapters. I have never studied this material. I ... | |
| Jewish Midrash | 2/13/2005 |
| Q: What does the Jewish Midrash say about the Sin of the Golden Calf and the reason Aaron is not ... A: Aaron did not participate in the sin. His only purpose was to delay the process in hopes that by ... | |
| Hello, How are you? I... | 2/12/2005 |
| Q: How are you? I have two questions. The first... I would like to know what do the great sages have to ... A: Michael, I remember your name from previous queries so I am answering you personally. Normally I ... | |
| Purim | 1/30/2005 |
| Q: I've read the reference you gave and it appears you misunderstood my question. Perhaps I was too ... A: We never celebrate 2 Purims. That's why I thought you did not mean to ask about Adar 1 and 2. In a ... | |
| Purim (s) | 1/25/2005 |
| Q: Why 2? A: In the time of Esther when the miracle happened, the capital Shushan had the celebration on 15 Adar ... | |
| Spirit of the Law | 1/22/2005 |
| Q: Rabbi, Here's the verse inDE 22:11 "Thou shalt not wear a garment of divers sorts, as of woollen and ... A: You actually hit on a significant point here. The rule when the Torah starts with a generality and ... | |
| SACRIFICIAL RITES | 1/21/2005 |
| Q: I understood that this sacrificial system applied to all communities and was not exclusively ... A: Until king Salomon built the first Temple people were able to bring them on their own altar. I am ... | |
| Spirit of the Law | 1/20/2005 |
| Q: Rabbi: Funny how tradition often falls out on the side of men...he-he...ie definition of adultery. ... A: Because I enjoy this conversation I will answer partially what I know, quickly. There is a ... | |
| 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: Not my forte, but here are my 2 cents: 1) Sin is defined as transgressing G-d's will 2) G-d has ... | |
| 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: Since the desctruction of our second Temple in 67 AD we have not brought any sacrifices. We are not ... | |
| 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: 1. linen is not cotton. **OK, what is it?** ****A common fabric known in the textile industry ... | |
| the ten commandments | 12/31/2004 |
| Q: one of the commandments tells us not to make any images of any thing in heaven, earth orthe waters ... A: It is not what I think that matters but rather what the Torah Law states since the basic rules are ... | |
| salvation of the Jews | 12/2/2004 |
| Q: I am wondering how the Jews, persent and past decades, since they have no Temple or sacrifices ... A: Is there some forum or network where this question is being circulated? You are not the first ... | |
| Morality and Mental Health | 11/18/2004 |
| Q: In my analysis of psychology and the torah, I have difficulties understanding how being moral ... A: Generally speaking the Torah does not restrict any human desires. The Torah just limits it's ... | |
| Sabbath Observance | 11/15/2004 |
| Q: I was wondering since I may be moving to Sweden soon how I should observe the Sabbath. Much of the ... A: The best thing is to contact the Orthodox Jewish leadership in the community where you will be ... | |
| forgiveness of sins | 11/5/2004 |
| Q: I am a Christian and have been taught to bless Jews, G-d's chosen people and to pray for the peace ... A: G-d in His mercifullnes accepts our prayer instead of sacrifices. The main requirement for ... | |
| Noah and Abram | 10/17/2004 |
| Q: According to the Torah, Noah lived 350 years after the flood. If you add up the years in Abram's ... A: I got as far this Shabbos as making the same calculation you did. I am not good with research ... | |
| Jewish rites of passage | 9/23/2004 |
| Q: Could you please explain to me what is meant by the term 'Shiva'? I have a female Jewish friend who ... A: Ironically the term shiva means 'seven' referring to the seven (not three) days one is required to ... | |
| morality issues | 9/22/2004 |
| Q: for my english class i'm responding to an article written by a jewish man. he makes reference to ... A: It does not say specifically in the Torah that one may not dorm coed. There are multiple laws about ... | |
| Torah | 9/21/2004 |
| Q: Why is the Torah so important to Jews? How long does it take to write a scroll? And how much does a ... A: The Torah defines the Jews as a nation. The only purpose for the Exodus out of Egypt 3300 years ago ... | |
| Mt. Zion | 9/10/2004 |
| Q: How are you. My question today is what is the spiritual significance of Mt. Zion and what does the ... A: As you have probably read in my bio, I am not the best person to answer such type of questions. ... | |
| Yevemot | 9/7/2004 |
| Q: David: There's the answer: "asher teyleid" '[the woman] who will give birth'....thanks! "...the ... A: When I said: "...the Torah would need an additional teaching to include the aged woman. You cannot ... | |
| Yevemot | 9/6/2004 |
| Q: Perhaps I didn't 'splain very well. Obviously the Ailonis was eligable for marriage or there would ... A: In the parsha of Yibum it says "asher teyleid" '[the woman] who will give birth' which comes to ... | |
| Yevemot | 9/5/2004 |
| Q: I can always count on you for solid answers, whether from the books or the neurons! I thought of ... A: Not sure I understand your question. The Ailonis was not divorced. Agreed. She still was never ... | |
| 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: The bit in Ezekiel about a 'small Sanctuary' is fulfilled in our current exile with our Synangogues ... | |
| Yevemot | 9/5/2004 |
| Q: I'm studying Yevemot from the ArtScroll Mishnah Series. It is indeed a complicated yet fascinating ... A: Very nice question. I did not look it up so I will just tell you my impression. A normal woman who ... | |
| Torah, Creation | 9/3/2004 |
| Q: A Midrash in the Talmud brings down the legend that the Torah was actually composed before Creation ... A: The part that G-d looked into the Torah and created the world is found in the Zohar. Shemot chelek B ... | |
| Kesuvos | 8/31/2004 |
| Q: Ok , how about the Rashba? Can you tell me his 3rd question and answer on mesechta kesuvos?Thank ... A: The Rashbo really covers the flow of the sugya. I couldn't hone in on a '3rd question' per se that ... | |
| Devarim vs Samuel | 8/27/2004 |
| Q: The Torah says: The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, neither shall the children ... A: I am not going to have a chance to look it up before Shabbos so I will tell you what I think. ... | |
| The Apple and Be Fruitful | 8/25/2004 |
| Q: David: Thank you for taking my question! I have been studying and discussing Genesis with a study ... A: Excellent question(s)! "Be fruitful and multiply" is followed by the words "...and conquer..". To ... | |
| Hello, I have heard that... | 8/17/2004 |
| Q: I have heard that one wears a kittle on Passover. I was wondering if this was true and if yes then ... A: The idea is to wear a white garment. There are two reasons for this custom: 1) After a person has ... | |
| gemorah | 8/12/2004 |
| Q: I'm having trouble understanding the 2nd tosfos in kedushin. Thank you for your time.If I asked you ... A: I was hoping your question would be more specific. I assume you mean the one about Beis Shamai. A ... | |
| daven | 8/2/2004 |
| Q: I'm an Ashkenazi who davens ashkenaz and wants to know how to say netilas Apayim(before Ashrei on ... A: Monday and Thursday morning, from "Vehu Rachum" one should stand all the way until "Rachum Vechanun" ... | |
| Fall of Adam | 7/31/2004 |
| Q: I am just wondering, is the sin of Adam inherited? And does the Torah mention original sin? A: If you read my bio you will see I am not the best person to ask such questions. I don't think we ... | |
| dress | 7/29/2004 |
| Q: But what do the strings do?Warn you not to sin? What? thanks.johnpesce A: And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments ... | |
| The Messiah | 7/29/2004 |
| Q: I recently debated a Jehovah's Witness on various Biblical issues, among them was the issue of when ... A: Daniel 2: we are currently in the period of the fourth kingdom (Rome). Even though the Roman ... | |
| ------------------------- ... | 7/26/2004 |
| Q: How are you. My question is in Judaism what constitutes the law of Moses. Is it the Written Torah ... A: I cannot reconcile "custom of Moses" with anything I know. It did make me think of the inverse ... | |
| Israelite population referred to in BaMidbar | 7/16/2004 |
| Q: Was there a later census taken than the one taken upon leaving Egypt? Number of Israelites who ... A: Yes, the one in parshath Pinchas was done at the end of 40 years, shortly before entering Eretz ... | |
| Torah | 7/12/2004 |
| Q: I've read the OT twice. But I'm one of those who seem to question what I'm reading and prefer to go ... A: I haven't read the OT in english. My guess is that with perhaps a few exceptions the translation is ... | |
| Torah | 7/12/2004 |
| Q: Hey David, Can you give me a link where I can download an english translation of the Torah? I've ... A: We call Torah what is commonly known as the Bible (Old Testament). Assuming you have read the Bible ... | |
| 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: I cannot speak for the Egyptians. The rewriting of history is nothing new. I have heard that the ... | |
| Death | 6/25/2004 |
| Q: Shalom. Why do people die? Why would Hashem take the lives of young people when it hurts the parents ... A: Whatever I say will be far too inadequate to comfort any soul in pain. We all know how death ... | |
| The New Testament | 6/24/2004 |
| Q: Hey I am not a Jew and I just had a few questions about your beliefs and if you could clear this up ... A: We do not believe in the New Testament or the people mentioned in it. Your question regarding the ... | |
| TANAKH | 6/16/2004 |
| Q: I would like to ask few questions regarding the Hebrew Scriptures (TANAKH): 1) Are the Hebrew ... A: 1) Basically yes 2) I can only speak of Torah observant Jews (generally known as orthodox). Public ... | |
| orthodox 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: A body must be buried. I am not very well versed in such issues. However it is my understanding ... | |
| Kasdim in Habakuk | 5/26/2004 |
| Q: Can you tell me when Habakuk was written? What is this book called in English? Finally, who were ... A: Habakuk must have lived towards the end of the first Temple era (833 before C.E. to 423 before ... | |
| Kosher animals | 5/20/2004 |
| Q: I have been asked a question by a friend and am struggling to answer. I know that a Giraffe is ... A: I am not a zoologist. So I don't know what a Rhino has or doesn't have, sorry. From what I ... | |
| PRE-CHRISTIAN SEPTUAGINT? | 5/9/2004 |
| Q: Was there a pre-Christian Septuagint? I know there is some controversy about this and I want to ask ... A: I don't know the Christian history with the Septuagint. According to a non-Jewish website The ... | |
| Hello Rabbi, How are you... | 4/18/2004 |
| Q: How are you today. I was wondering what does Judaism think about the term demon possessed. Meaning ... A: I don't know anything about the New Testament so I don't know exaclty what you mean by demon ... | |
| Mourning - Jewish women | 4/16/2004 |
| Q: .. I'm doing some research on mourning....specifically in relation to Jeremiah 9:17 - 21 where a ... A: I wont be able to get back to you until Monday with a more educated answer so I am just giving you ... | |
| Hello, How are you today.... | 4/15/2004 |
| Q: How are you today. I was wanting to know in hebraic thought when talking about the twilight of the ... A: Can you provide me with an example? Just to clarify your language: I assume you mean to distinguish ... | |
| kosher | 3/26/2004 |
| Q: Can wild game ever be consumed as kosher? Must a shochet always be involved in inspection and ... A: Can wild game ever be consumed as kosher? yes (see next question) Must a shochet always be involved ... | |
| 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: It is my personal belief that ultimately they are all frauds. Maybe they are very intuitive and can ... | |
| ethics | 3/16/2004 |
| Q: What is the Jewish position on embryo eperimentation? A: I am not qualified to answer this question. This must be left to Rabbis who are extremely well ... | |
| Definitions | 2/27/2004 |
| Q: David as I understand it the Torah is the Word of God. I further understand that as the Word of God ... A: The Talmud is the knowledge of the Torah sages they decided is important to transmit to future ... | |
| ------------------------- ... | 2/13/2004 |
| Q: How are you today. I was wonderering what do the sages say about the seven day creational plan of ... A: The number 7 signifies completion, wholeness. Had the world been created in 6 days it would have ... | |
| ancient Jewish children's toys | 2/9/2004 |
| Q: In our attempt to be as accurate as possible for a drama presentation including a Jewish mother ... A: I have wondered this myself for a long time. Our laws have not changed, if it is permissible now, ... | |
| converism | 1/24/2004 |
| Q: I was wondering why if you were in love with a Jewish person and wanted to be married and convert ... A: The Rabbis from ancient times prohibited it because gentiles would go through the conversion for ... | |
Orthodox Judaism
Answers by Expert:
David Rosenblum
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
I am an ex-student of yeshiva and I like to be presented with Torah study problems. If you have studied the Torah and have questions on the subject matter, I want to hear about it. I am not a Rabbi and not qualified to decide halachic issues. I am still interested in halachic questions for which I can sometimes offer general guidelines or present decisions in halachic works such as Mishna Berurah. I welcome questions from non-Jewish people but I cannot respond to religious references that are not part of Judaism. If you are working on a paper or doing research and want general information on a Jewish subject, I may or may not satisfy your need, depending on how comfortable I am with the question. If you have a personal problem, I am not qualified to help you but I will do what I can to offer you some assistance.
Experience
yeshiva student
Education/Credentials
Yeshiva student
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