| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| killing the pursuer | 11/3/2009 |
Q: I am discussing the need for abortion when the fetus will kill the mother. I was sure there was some ...
A: I don't think you will find any clear verse that describes a fetus threatening the mother's life ...
|
| belief | 11/2/2009 |
Q: Shalom Rabbi, I would like to know, do Jews believe in heaven and if so, who goes, do Jews believe ...
A: I find it strange (although it is common) that important topics such as this are not dealt with at ...
|
| intermarriage | 10/25/2009 |
Q: I have written to you before with regards to the problems associated with intermarriage. I know ...
A: I can see that you are grappling with this issue, which is quite common for a person in your ...
|
| Ezekiel, Jeremiah and Isaiah | 10/24/2009 |
Q: I am a Christian Sunday School Teacher who is trying to write plays about the lives of the major ...
A: The Talmud (Yebamoth 49b) relates that Isaiah was killed by King Menasseh, who accused him of ...
|
| Genesis | 10/12/2009 |
Q: I want to get an understanding regarding Genesis Chapter 6:3 where the age of man is set to be 120 ...
A: The Bible is telling us that the average person would live to a maximum of 120 years from after the ...
|
| Intermarriage | 10/8/2009 |
Q: I am an agnostic male (22). I have recently met and fallen in love with an orthodox Jewish girl ...
A: You're in a very tricky situation and can expect that one of you- or likely both of you- will get ...
|
| top two current concerns facing Judaism | 10/6/2009 |
Q: I am a college student taking a world religions course. I have to answer the above question. Will ...
A: I think the top two concerns facing the Jewish world today are: 1) The spiritual threat of Jewish ...
|
| branches of judaism | 9/15/2009 |
Q: Is there animosity between the difference branches of Judaism like there is between the different ...
A: I think it would be accurate to say that Jewish branches often criticise each other and vehemently ...
|
| burial | 9/12/2009 |
Q: I was told that in Israel it is possible to bury one body above the other. i.e. My late husband ...
A: I have to admit that I was unaware of such a practice before you sent your question, but you got me ...
|
| number 9 significance | 9/8/2009 |
Q: Some friends of mine are going to be married tomorrow on 9/9/09.....this date was very important to ...
A: To be honest, Jews don't generally attach much significance to the secular date. But, we do attach ...
|
| the temple | 9/1/2009 |
Q: I would like to know about the sacrifices at the time of the passover in ancient Israel. I would ...
A: "Big bloody mess"- LOL : ) Truthfully, the Temple was quite messy at that time of the year. They ...
|
| Reverend | 8/30/2009 |
Q: Before I converted to Judaism 10 years ago, I was an ordained Baptist minister. As such, I carried ...
A: Maimonides writes that the Jewish community may not remind a convert of his/ her past, as the Torah ...
|
| Religion | 8/29/2009 |
Q: 1. Can you tell the lists of all religions out there? 2. How do emails all experts at once?
A: I'm not sure that I can list "all" the religions out there, there are hundreds. This link may help ...
|
| the temple | 8/28/2009 |
Q: I would like to know about the sacrifices at the time of the passover in ancient Israel. I would ...
A: The courtyard of the Temple had a water conduit running right through it. After all the sacrifices ...
|
| facial hair... | 8/24/2009 |
Q: what is the permissable way for a jewish man to shorten his facial hair?
A: A Jew may not cut his beard/ facial hair with an exposed blade. That means that razor blades are not ...
|
| Brit Mila | 8/13/2009 |
Q: Our daughter & son-in-law are presently working in India and expecting a baby around the time of the ...
A: Firstly, besha'ah tovah! Please G-d everything should go well and everyone should be healthy. The ...
|
| unlcean pottery... | 8/4/2009 |
Q: Leviticus 11:33 What do I do? how am I supposed to know everything I eat doesn’t have water from a ...
A: It seems you've got quite a lot of stuff going on there :) For some reason, the Divine Author of ...
|
| unlcean pottery... | 8/2/2009 |
Q: Leviticus 11:33 What do I do? how am I supposed to know everything I eat doesn’t have water from a ...
A: Your question is a classical example of how important the Oral Tradition (recorded in the Talmud) ...
|
| hair curls... | 7/31/2009 |
Q: i do not understand the commandment "you shall not round off the hair at the sides of your heads." ...
A: I had to laugh at the thought of all curly-haired people straightening their hair "by law". The real ...
|
| food | 7/15/2009 |
Q: Rabbi This may seem like a silly question but, are chickens mentioned in the bible? I know ...
A: This is actually a very interesting question. As you have indicated, the Bible lists the birds that ...
|
| Judaism | 7/14/2009 |
Q: What ,if any, serves as a "church" for the followers of Judaism?
A: Jews pray in a Synagogue (or Shul, as it is often called). Jews pray in the morning and evening. A ...
|
| Judaism | 7/14/2009 |
Q: Is there acknowledgement of sin in this Judaism?
A: Judaism believes that sin exists and that there are different types of sin: 1. "Cheit"- sins that a ...
|
| Judaism | 7/14/2009 |
Q: Does Judaism see people as basically good or basically evil and why?
A: Judaism believes that people are basically good. The Torah describes that Adam and Eve originally ...
|
| Judea at the time of Herod | 6/17/2009 |
Q: Rabbi- I was wondering what the impact was that Herod's killing of all the Judean male children ...
A: To be honest, the only source I am aware of that refers to Herod killing all Judean males at that ...
|
| whats next? | 6/9/2009 |
Q: Correct me on this first part if I have it wrong, but I am that the "reward" is the same for both ...
A: The Jewish understanding of "reward" for people who "get it right" is not simply eternal life. ...
|
| King David | 6/4/2009 |
Q: G_d bless you Rabbi, I have been exploring King David recently. Can you give me any information ...
A: That is a very interesting question! I don't believe that the Bible spells out David's ratings as a ...
|
| law | 5/27/2009 |
Q: I am considering becoming a lawyer and was wondering if that would be an acceptable profession ...
A: A lawyer is an acceptable Jewish profession, as long as you follow the ethical guidelines of Judaism ...
|
| Sacrifice | 5/22/2009 |
Q: I just came across your answer about sacrifice from 4/19/09, which lead me to wonder: When do you ...
A: I think we could all do with an extra act of kindness, and sometimes we need to creative with it : ) ...
|
| Noahide Laws | 5/19/2009 |
Q: I am currently taking Judaism classes online with a Rabbi. I love Judaism, every aspect of it and I ...
A: Your situation is certainly unique, and commendable. As you know, Judaism does not encourage nor ...
|
| halloween | 5/19/2009 |
Q: Are Jews allowed to celebrate Halloween?
A: What an interesting question! I think it's fair to suggest that the average American Jew would not ...
|
| Sacrifice | 5/17/2009 |
Q: I just came across your answer about sacrifice from 4/19/09, which lead me to wonder: When do you ...
A: The daily sacrifice ceased when the Romans attacked Jerusalem and destroyed the Temple in the 1st ...
|
| Support for Israel | 5/16/2009 |
Q: I've been wanting to find a way to show my support for Israel. A friend of mine suggested wearing a ...
A: I, and many other Jewish people, appreciate your sentiment and support. I would not suggest that you ...
|
| Jewish Ethics and Law | 5/5/2009 |
Q: can you please explain and expand the Jewish Ethics and Laws of the three main branches of Judaism ...
A: This is really a broad topic, so I'll just give you a brief outline: Orthodox Judaism believes in ...
|
| David and the Temple | 5/4/2009 |
Q: You previously answered a question for me about David bringing the sacrifices. I would assume that ...
A: While you are correct that the overall law is not to bring a sacrifice anywhere but in the Mishkan ...
|
| David and the Temple | 5/3/2009 |
Q: You previously answered a question for me about David bringing the sacrifices. I would assume that ...
A: 1) The Mishkan was erected in Gilgal when the Jews entered the Land of Israel and remained there for ...
|
| explaining puberty to our son | 4/23/2009 |
Q: Our son is 12 yrs. old and will be having his bar mitzvah in a few months, G-d willing. We have ...
A: Firstly, mazal tov on your son's upcoming bar mitzvah. Your question really resonates with me, ...
|
| Several questions | 4/20/2009 |
Q: I hope you and your family had a wonderful Passover! I have several unrelated questions: 1) In this ...
A: 1. Before the Temple in Jerusalem was built, individuals were allowed to sacrifice on a "bamah", a ...
|
| Sacrifice | 4/19/2009 |
Q: What is the meaning of the sacrifical laws in ancient israel? Many christians claim that it ...
A: Jews do not believe that anything or anyone can be sacrificed and atone for our sins. We are ...
|
| Several questions | 4/19/2009 |
Q: I hope you and your family had a wonderful Passover! I have several unrelated questions: 1) In this ...
A: Pesach was excellent, thank you. You've got some good questions here, let's take a look: 1) David ...
|
| a question on idolatry and kids movies | 4/13/2009 |
Q: coming soon there is a film called "Where the wild Things Are." In this film, people wear big ...
A: I think the issue in question here is not really about the technology as much as it is about the ...
|
| service | 4/8/2009 |
Q: Are non-orthodox jews allowed to attend orthodox services? And is every part of the service ...
A: Yes, Orthodox prayer services are generally in Hebrew. Hebrew is the holy language, the language G-d ...
|
| occupations | 4/7/2009 |
Q: What kind of occupations do orthodox jews engage in?
A: Sorry for not replying sooner, but the Pesach season is very busy. Orthodox Jew engage in just ...
|
| "In sin" | 4/6/2009 |
Q: First let me thank you for your willingness to answer questions in this forum. Your service has been ...
A: I appreciate your thanks, and am glad to be able to assist. As you can see from the context of the ...
|
| jewish "People" | 4/3/2009 |
Q: I was having a debate with someone about Jews being both a religion and a race. I said that we are ...
A: Defining what Jews are is a tricky business, and people have been debating this for ages. You ...
|
| Wine-kosher for Passover? | 3/30/2009 |
Q: I know that during Passover we not only avoid yeast but also those things that yeast acts upon (ie ...
A: I have to be honest, I have more experience with drinking wine than I do with making wine. As I ...
|
| rabbis | 3/29/2009 |
Q: I'm sure this is an odd question but I was thinking of becoming a rabbi but I can't find out any ...
A: Interesting question! Each rabbi is in a different financial situation. Some rabbis serve very ...
|
| Jewish wedding ring | 3/2/2009 |
Q: does a wedding ring for a Jewish wedding be of a certain mineral? Must it be silver or gold? Can it ...
A: Ideally, a Jewish wedding ring should be gold. Gold symbolizes the deepest type of love, according ...
|
| Jewish Mysticism | 3/1/2009 |
Q: I am working on a report about Jewish Mysticism. Right now I am focused on the animals, angels and ...
A: Sounds like you're doing a very interesting project, good luck! You can find loads of information ...
|
| BAr Mitzvah & Puberty | 2/25/2009 |
Q: If I may I would like to ask a followup question. Your answer implies that if the bar mitzvah boy ...
A: A boy's barmitzvah is supposed to be a happy event, not an uncomfortable or embarrassing experience. ...
|
| community | 2/25/2009 |
Q: NOw i now the rabbi wouldn't shun me but I hear alot of talk within Reform congregations that ...
A: The Torah forbids us from looking down on converts. On the contrary, the community is expected to ...
|
| hebrew/conversion | 2/22/2009 |
Q: I was wondering if they would accept me or if I would be for lack of a better word shunned?
A: I think it's fair to say that most people who approach the Orthodox community to convert do not have ...
|
| Bar Mitzvah & Puberty | 2/20/2009 |
Q: I understand that according to strict Jewish law in order for a boy to become a bar mitzvah he must ...
A: This is a very interesting question and most people are probably unaware of the issue altogether. ...
|
| occupations | 2/20/2009 |
Q: Do to the fact that they keep to themselve throughout the community are Orthodox Jews limited in the ...
A: The only job restrictions that Orthodox Jews have are due to Shabbat observance or moral issues, not ...
|
| Free choice | 2/17/2009 |
Q: Im a male 21 from India. Could you answer these - 1) How to use the Gift of Free Choice that it ...
A: 1) Free choice is a gift, as you say, and we need to use it to make choices that will improve our ...
|
| kippah | 2/15/2009 |
Q: I was wondeirng if you have to wear a kippah in your own house or if you just have to wear one in ...
A: Often when you understand the reason for something, the question answers itself. The reason for ...
|
| Question | 2/13/2009 |
Q: Could you these questions -- 1) Why the Divine revelation is hidden from me? 2) Will the ...
A: G-d deliberately hides from us so that we can look for Him. If you open your eyes, you see sparks of ...
|
| community | 2/11/2009 |
Q: DO Orthodox Jews keep to themselves within the community?
A: I assume that you're asking if Orthodox Jews keep to themselves within the community. When you ...
|
| kippahs | 2/9/2009 |
Q: I also live in Dumont NJ, near Teaneck NJ and when walking through the town I saw alot of plain ...
A: Wearing a kippah is essentially a Jewish tradition, rather than a law per se. The purpose of the ...
|
| General Inquiry | 1/24/2009 |
Q: First and foremost... I am not a Jew. However, I wake up each day to the same earth, the same sun, ...
A: I have no idea WHY G-d would choose one specific group as His "chosen" people, so I can't answer ...
|
| More on Is God Cruel | 1/22/2009 |
Q: The below verse in Deuteronomy says that if a person propagates and entice people to worship idols, ...
A: As always, Torah verses need to be understood in context. In this case, there is a twofold context ...
|
| judaism | 1/9/2009 |
Q: shalom.recently i convertdas ajew.before i used to believe yahshua as messiah.now i have some ...
A: 1. We believe that G-d is infinite and beyond any description. The first statement of the Ten ...
|
| Instruction of the faith | 1/8/2009 |
Q: Rabbi, I am doing research on collaborative ministry in the area of religious education and am ...
A: There is definitely precedent of communities working together to teach children, right through ...
|
| Instruction of the faith | 1/3/2009 |
Q: Rabbi, I am doing research on collaborative ministry in the area of religious education and am ...
A: Sorry for my delayed response, I have been out of town and out of Internet range (what a great ...
|
| Is God cruel - Follow up | 12/17/2008 |
Q: If God wants to punish the deviants, why does He punish their children. You wrote "When a parent ...
A: The Torah teaches (Deut. 24:16): "The fathers shall not die for the children, nor shall the children ...
|
| the Oral law... | 12/2/2008 |
Q: i have heard that the written law is less powerful without the Oral Law. Since the Oral Law is ...
A: It sounds like someone has given you a slightly skewed version of the Oral v. Written Law. The ...
|
| Is God cruel? | 11/14/2008 |
Q: I was reading Leviticus. The below verses says that God punishes innocent children. How could a God ...
A: Generally speaking, G-d looks to show kindness and love to all His creations. "G-d is good to all, ...
|
| Jewish prayer | 11/11/2008 |
Q: Why do Jews nod or repeatedly bow during prayer. I have seen this numeous times at the wailing wall?
A: You won't only see this at the Wailing Wall, but pretty much everywhere that religious Jews pray. ...
|
| More on circumcision | 11/5/2008 |
Q: You wrote that God wished to emblazon His covenant by mark on their flesh. Why should that be in ...
A: Good questions : ) Judaism believes that the task of Jewish people is to take the physical world ...
|
| Reg circumcision | 11/4/2008 |
Q: Why Judaism asks men to circumcise? What is the reason behind this?. If circumcision is good, why ...
A: Jews circumcise their children because G-d commanded Abraham to circumcise his son and all future ...
|
| tattoos and converts? | 10/21/2008 |
Q: i have a friend that has sent in the paperwork for his conversion to orthodox jew. he has never met ...
A: I guess it would depend on what the tattoos depict. Generally speaking, Judaism forbids tattoos. ...
|
| 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: Firstly, my apologies for not responding sooner, we have just completed the busiest month on the ...
|
| Change of outlook | 10/10/2008 |
Q: About two years ago, if that, I gave up my christian belief. I struggled with it for 20 years until ...
A: I think that what you're experience is very normal, though quite unnerving (as you indicate). It ...
|
| Familiar Spirits/Occult | 10/7/2008 |
Q: I am extremely concerned about my sister. She has mentioned that she had a couple of contacts with ...
A: Kabbalah is an intrinsic part of Judaism- it is the ancient Jewish mystical tradition that has been ...
|
| you and i | 10/6/2008 |
Q: why don't Jews' believe in the messiah? And why don't you believe the new Gospel? Has it been ...
A: Jews sure do believe in the Messiah- in fact Jews are the people who introduced the concept of ...
|
| Proper way of mourning under the circumstances | 10/3/2008 |
Q: my friend is a convert and an Orthodox Jew. Her mother, however, was not Jewish and was a practicing ...
A: Whenever a person loses a loved one, it is a challenging and emotional experience. There is no ...
|
| Familiar Spirits/Occult | 10/2/2008 |
Q: I am extremely concerned about my sister. She has mentioned that she had a couple of contacts with ...
A: I think you have good reason to feel concerned. People tend to involve themselves in things which ...
|
| "Other gods that you have not known" | 9/28/2008 |
Q: In this week's Parshah, the Torah discusses the curses and how we will bring them upon us by ...
A: Shana Tovah! Please remember that the Torah's directive is aimed at US. The fact that other ...
|
| number 19 | 9/15/2008 |
Q: Is there any significance of number 19 in judaism? For example, bahais have 19 months in their ...
A: Every number in Judaism has significance, because the Hebrew letters all have numerical values and, ...
|
| Life on other planets | 9/10/2008 |
Q: what can we deduct from the Torah and orthodox and mystical teachings about life on other planets? ...
A: There clearly isn't much written about ET and friends in the Torah. After the famous story of ...
|
| Deuteronomy 11 | 9/2/2008 |
Q: I ran into a snag during my parshah reading and would like your help. Deuteronomy 1:3 sets the time ...
A: Good question! The people who died before entering the Promised Land were the those who had been ...
|
| More on Animal cruelty. | 9/1/2008 |
Q: You wrote that animal burnt offerings of the old were part of spiritual exercise. Can you please ...
A: If you consider the way that ecosystems work, you will see an interesting cycle. Soil gives life to ...
|
| "The cause of the fatherless and the case of the widow" | 8/31/2008 |
Q: Early on in Isaiah, there is mentioned the importance of "the cause of the fatherless" and "the case ...
A: There are quite a few Biblical references to the fact that G-d looks out for orphans and widows. The ...
|
| two questions! | 8/29/2008 |
Q: firstly, do you think you could tell me what or who the "avenger of blood" is? Secondly, the law ...
A: I hope that I've understood your reference correctly. The "avenger of blood" means any family member ...
|
| Essenes | 8/28/2008 |
Q: I was reading history about how the Essenes separated from Temple worship because they said that ...
A: The Essenes were a small sect of radical Jews, living around the end of the Second Temple era. They ...
|
| Animal cruelty | 8/26/2008 |
Q: I read several verses in Bible about animal burnt offering at altar and marking and sprinkling of ...
A: Judaism is strongly opposed to animal cruelty. But, this does not mean that we are not allowed to ...
|
| About resurrection | 8/26/2008 |
Q: You wrote that even Heaven is not a permanent position and the souls will be resurrected and born as ...
A: it allows me to clarify. When I spoke about resurrection, I meant at the time of the Messianic ...
|
| About Hell | 8/22/2008 |
Q: I read in one of your reply that Hell is not permanent position. Do you mean according to Judaism, ...
A: Firstly, the term "Hell" is not really a Jewish term. We use the expression "Gehinnom", which ...
|
| Time - Counting of Days | 8/21/2008 |
Q: Rabbi Shishler, I have been researching the day that Jesus died, a subject that you are probably not ...
A: The Talmud commonly uses the phrase "Part of the day constitutes a day". This has practical ...
|
| Matrilineal Descent | 8/4/2008 |
Q: you have recently replied to someone's question that G-d makes Gentile souls and Jewish souls, and ...
A: You can read up on the subject in the "Shaar HaGilgulim" (Gates of Reincarnation) by the famed ...
|
| Matrilineal Descent | 7/25/2008 |
Q: you have recently replied to someone's question that G-d makes Gentile souls and Jewish souls, and ...
A: Let's deal with these questions one by one: 1) Souls are not made at conception, the soul exists ...
|
| Matrilineal Descent | 7/23/2008 |
Q: you have recently replied to someone's question that G-d makes Gentile souls and Jewish souls, and ...
A: Let's start with a Torah reference: "You shall not intermarry with them; you shall not give your ...
|
| Converting to Reform Judaism | 7/16/2008 |
Q: I'm a non-jew wishing to convert to Reform judaism, and I would just like to know where about in Jhb ...
A: I must be honest, I have serious reservations about following the Reform conversion process. ...
|
| conversion....! | 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: Before you go down the conversion course, please consider this: Judaism does not believe that every ...
|
| Efrain Tribe | 6/24/2008 |
Q: My family were spanish jews whos came from the tribe of Efrain. We came to North America in the late ...
A: The tribe of Efraim was a branch of the tribe of Joseph. You can find information here: ...
|
| Gensis 1 | 6/10/2008 |
Q: I am trying to understand Genesis 1 from a Jewish perspective. I am particularly interested in ...
A: I think your best bet for getting a good compendium of Midrashic and Talmudic sources on Genesis 1 ...
|
| Conceptual questions about God | 6/10/2008 |
Q: This is about the question of God-PART I. If you notice, there are many different gods in the world. ...
A: I have to be honest and say that I know very little about what Conservative Judaism believes or ...
|
| The Talmud | 5/14/2008 |
Q: "Hi, I read Israel Shahak's book "Jewish History, Jewish Religion, the Weight of Three Thousand ...
A: J. First up, I have to admit that I haven't read Shahak's book, so I can't comment on his ...
|
| images. | 5/13/2008 |
Q: i have been asking many of the practicers of Judaism on this website about the law on images in ...
A: This is a very interesting question, and other people have shared your reservations in the past. ...
|
| Sabbath | 4/6/2008 |
Q: Is there any evidence from the Tanack that the seventh day was observed on Saturday? The Gregorian ...
A: There's no direct reference in the Torah to the names of the days of the week (as we know them). The ...
|
| christian dating a Jew ????? | 3/24/2008 |
Q: Hey, I recently met a wonderful young lady, she is Jewish. I am a Christian, and I've never really ...
A: Well, that changes things a little- certainly from my point of view. Judaism only considers you ...
|
| idolatry | 3/21/2008 |
Q: Deuteronomy, Chapter 4, verses 16-19 "Therefore watch yourselves very carefully, so that you do not ...
A: The Hebrew term used to introduce that section is "semel", which means a 3D figure. So, Judaism ...
|
| christian dating a Jew ????? | 3/14/2008 |
Q: Hey, I recently met a wonderful young lady, she is Jewish. I am a Christian, and I've never really ...
A: Well done on looking into this before going out, I think it shows great sensitivity on your part to ...
|
| Burial | 3/9/2008 |
Q: Rabbi, Why are there to be no nails in a Jew's coffin? Thanks and shalom!
A: The truth is that some Jewish coffins do have nails, but generally we prefer to use wooden pegs. ...
|
| adultery.. | 3/2/2008 |
Q: is it adultery if she has a boyfriend but not a husband?
A: Technically, adultery only applies to a married woman. Nonetheless, that does not permit a person to ...
|
| praying | 3/2/2008 |
Q: Are there any examples of going to Graves of sadeekem to pray in the Tanach, why did not the kings ...
A: Rashi explains that Rachel died in Beis Lechem and was buried on the side of the road, so that her ...
|
| Deut. 22:5 | 2/29/2008 |
Q: We have heard many explanations of this verse about a man is not to wear womens clothing, and a ...
A: I'll assume that you've covered the standard answer that the Torah wants to keep men and women from ...
|
| What's in a name? | 2/28/2008 |
Q: According to the Arizal, the nature and behavior of a person can be found by analyzing his or her ...
A: As you correctly point out, this opens a Pandora's Box of related issues on Free Choice v. ...
|
| What's in a name? | 2/25/2008 |
Q: According to the Arizal, the nature and behavior of a person can be found by analyzing his or her ...
A: The Gemorah teaches that when parents name a child, they have a spark of Ruach Hakodesh (Divine ...
|
| Fiction. | 2/18/2008 |
Q: I am currently a writer of fiction. Is this lying? The Commandments say it is false witness AGAINST ...
A: That's a very interesting question! I don't believe that writing fiction constitutes lying. ...
|
| Greek Orthodox Jew | 2/7/2008 |
Q: A friend recently exchanged greetings with a man in a hospital elevator. He was wearing a kepah and ...
A: Shalom Gwen Greek Orthodox Jews? That's news to me. Of course, he could simply have meant that he ...
|
| Anxiety | 2/1/2008 |
Q: I have terrible anxiety, I keep having thoughts of making deals with the devil (though I honestly ...
A: Yes. Darkness has no real substance and can be undone with a little light. Actions need work to be ...
|
| orthodox view of homosexuals | 1/5/2008 |
Q: How do the Orthodox feel about homosexuals? Why?
A: The Torah clearly prohibits homosexual relationships and Orthodox Jews subscribe to that. We feel ...
|
| Satan. | 12/16/2007 |
Q: I am a keen believer in YHWH and hope to one day endure the rites of passage to become a Jew. I ...
A: Your observations about Satan are quite correct. As you see in the story of Job, Satan appears ...
|
| loosing focus | 12/11/2007 |
Q: I am dating a lovely guy who not even two dates with me decided he wanted to convert. He and i have ...
A: To be honest, your situation is tricky, and you probably find it quite frustrating. Conversion, as ...
|
| Cohens marrying converts | 12/1/2007 |
Q: first, I live in NZ and Shabbat is out. I have a young relative who is a Cohen and who is going out ...
A: The "kohen-marrying-a-convert" issue is thorny and uncomfortable for many. Simply- a kohen may not ...
|
| Observancy | 11/28/2007 |
Q: First of all, thank you for taking your time for replying my e-mail. I am a convert to Judaism. I ...
A: We always joke about Jews having a constant sense of Jewish guilt, so I guess your concern is itself ...
|
| Clothing/Old Testament | 11/26/2007 |
Q: I do not have the scripture reference verse, but you probably will find it quickly. I am curious as ...
A: The Torah prohibits wearing garments of a wool and linen mixture. There is no reason given for this ...
|
| 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. Inter-faith dialogue is the conversation between members of different religions where each side ...
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| re:wig | 10/31/2007 |
Q: my name is j.Z.my Jewish friend told me that Jewish women wearing a wig, because they shave their ...
A: Z. Relax, you don't need to shave anytime soon : ) There is nothing in the Bible about Jewish ...
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| Jewish and Christian friendships | 10/24/2007 |
Q: My Jewish friend and I (I am Christian) went to a Jewish bookstore to learn more about Judaism - as ...
A: Quick answers are luck of the draw, depending on whether or not I'm at my PC when you ask your ...
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| Jewish and Christian friendships | 10/24/2007 |
Q: My Jewish friend and I (I am Christian) went to a Jewish bookstore to learn more about Judaism - as ...
A: I think that you were right in advising your friend to ask a rabbi. What's the worst that can ...
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| Jewish and Christian friendships | 10/22/2007 |
Q: My Jewish friend and I (I am Christian) went to a Jewish bookstore to learn more about Judaism - as ...
A: Whoa! What a story! Question 1: Can you tell me what questions you guys asked him? Maybe something ...
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| Speaking G-d's name | 10/21/2007 |
Q: I would greatly appreciate any information you could provide on th efollowing questions. Thank you. ...
A: Jews are very careful not to refer to G-d by name unnecessarily, regardless of what language they're ...
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| Leah | 10/18/2007 |
Q: We named our daughter Leah, after her great-grandmother. We were aware of the meaning "weary" at the ...
A: I can just imagine what goes through a 7 year-olds' mind when she hears that... The truth is that ...
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| Drums | 10/17/2007 |
Q: When I was a Christian I once found a site that said that drums were used in African religions to ...
A: Judaism does not have any issue with playing drums. In fact, the Torah notes that Miriam (sister of ...
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| i feel bad and need someone to talk to... | 10/12/2007 |
Q: i'm askin' you, rabbi, because i am jewish. i am constantly feeling bad because this is my ...
A: It sounds like you're really having a rough time. It doesn't matter how long ago your father passed ...
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| Rest Room | 10/12/2007 |
Q: I've noticed that when an Orthdox person uses the restroom, He fills up a plastic cup with water ...
A: Actually, Jews wash their hands in that manner for various things. According to Jewish custom, a ...
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| 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: I think the best thign for you to do is to be in touch with the rabbi of that Synagogue. He can ...
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| Whose People 2 | 9/4/2007 |
Q: Q- Re Hosea 1:10 -If Hashem prophesies through Hosea to His people that “Israel would no longer be ...
A: The "queen" is used in the Talmudic metaphor to represent the Jewish people, as the king is used to ...
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| career and spirituality--time planning? | 8/30/2007 |
Q: I find that wanting to have a career which demands about 50 hour work weeks leaves little time to ...
A: Sorry for the long delay in responding, it is a very busy time of the year. Our great Talmudists ...
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| Whose People? | 8/27/2007 |
Q: Q- Re Hosea 1:10 -If Hashem prophesies through Hosea to His people that “Israel would no longer be ...
A: The famous commentator, Rashi, refers us to a Talmudic discussion of these juxtaposed verses. The ...
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| Creating a Torah based physical education program | 8/27/2007 |
Q: I have recently been approached to create a PE program for a new elementary school. There is a range ...
A: This sounds like a wonderful idea! I am unaware of a precedent for this sort of program, but ...
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| Conversion, Orthodox vs. Conservative | 8/19/2007 |
Q: My girlfriend is considering conversion through either the orthodox or conservative sects. Can you ...
A: Conversions tend to be quite personalized, so the way things work in one city is not identical to ...
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| Jewish hats | 8/17/2007 |
Q: I was wanting to know what you call a hat that is about 5" wide and has brown fur around it. I moved ...
A: There are various sects within Orthodox Judaism, including a number of groups called Hassidim. These ...
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| Zebulon | 8/16/2007 |
Q: Q- Can you tell me....is the tribe of Zebulon ddescendants of Ham? It is said that the "IBO tribe ...
A: Zebulun is one of Jacob's sons, so his tribe are essentially descendants of Shem. There are a ...
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| Forgiveness | 8/16/2007 |
Q: Q- What exactly “desecrates” the Sabbath, and is there “forgiveness” if one does?
A: That's a good question. There are 39 categories of "work" that a Jew may not do on the Shabbat (or ...
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| This Day | 8/15/2007 |
Q: Q- Why is Yom Kippur called the “Day of Repentance”…when every day is an opportunity to repent ...
A: Yom Kippur is called "one (day) in a year". That means that repentance is available every day, but ...
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| Future Sight | 8/15/2007 |
Q: Q- Where does the Tanakh say prophecy will not be possible until the Moshaich and what specifically ...
A: The Tanach does not say there will be no prophecy until Moshiach, the Talmud does. Certain classical ...
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| 70 soul families | 8/11/2007 |
Q: I am very intrigued by the idea of there being 70 soul families, and I'm interested in learning more ...
A: I should have anticipated that this was the direction of your question... Well, it's tricky. ...
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| 70 soul families | 8/7/2007 |
Q: I am very intrigued by the idea of there being 70 soul families, and I'm interested in learning more ...
A: You surely know that there were seven nations that the Children of Israel conquered when they ...
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| Hell(?) in Judaism | 8/7/2007 |
Q: Is there such thing as an idea of "Hell" in Judaism? It seems to be a popular motif in other ...
A: The way most people (and religions) view Hell is a place of eternal damnation and punishment. ...
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| Brazeness 2 | 8/3/2007 |
Q: The brazen sinner was barred from the sanctuary, and had to bear his own iniquity because of his ...
A: Within Judaism, there is always scope for repentance, which essentially means "righting" what a ...
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| Brazeness | 7/31/2007 |
Q: The brazen sinner was barred from the sanctuary, and had to bear his own iniquity because of his ...
A: The sin offering was designed to complete the process of atonement. Clearly, if a person brought the ...
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| 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: There are two types of laughter described in that account. Sarai laughed AND stated her disbelief ...
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| Order | 7/24/2007 |
Q: R.Shishler- I was waiting for your response on this (2nd time) Re this passage: 2Ch 35:5 And ...
A: That's strange, I don't have this as a pending question... Apologies. The Passover sacrifice was ...
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| Gabriel 2 | 7/16/2007 |
Q: Q- Is the Angel Gabriel considered to be the “guardian” of Israel? ANSWER: Hi R Michael is the ...
A: To be honest, I wasn't entirely sure what you meant by "guardian", which is why I gave both options. ...
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| Tempting? | 7/9/2007 |
Q: Q-Re: Numbers 14:20-22 -What does Hashem mean by saying in vs. 21 “All the earth shall be filled ...
A: The "glory" of G-d means His Divine Presence (this is a great example of the impact getting lost in ...
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| Comment | 7/2/2007 |
Q: When Moshe made this comment: "I am making this covenant, with its oath, not only with you who are ...
A: I think the context is important. The preceding verses say that G-d had gathered THOSE people for ...
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| Wedding Confusion | 6/1/2007 |
Q: Rabbi Ari Shishler, I am planning on getting married in June 2008. I am learning and studying about ...
A: Firstly, Mazal tov for your wedding. I hope that everything goes well for you and your fiancé. It's ...
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| Gentile/Israelite | 5/29/2007 |
Q: Gen 10 tells us that the descendent of the sons of jepath are all Europeans (kittim,javan,,meshesh ...
A: The Ashkenazim and Sephardim of today are descended of the original Jewish People, referred to in ...
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| Gentile/Israelite | 5/18/2007 |
Q: Gen 10 tells us that the descendent of the sons of jepath are all Europeans (kittim,javan,,meshesh ...
A: The reference to Jews as Asheknazi or Sephardi is a recent reference to refer to their main places ...
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| Why Angels? | 5/16/2007 |
Q: I have not heard of this being mentioned in the Tanakh anywhere...is there such a notion? "And the ...
A: I am assuming that you have encountered angels in the Tanach and that your question is specific to ...
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| Mysterious He-Goat? | 5/16/2007 |
Q: Rabbi Shishler: I was told by your colleague “R. Eli Hadar that you may be more qualified to answer ...
A: Very interesting questions! The normal process of atonement, whether for an individual or for the ...
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| Mysterious He-Goat? | 5/15/2007 |
Q: Rabbi Shishler: I was told by your colleague “R. Eli Hadar that you may be more qualified to answer ...
A: On Yom Kippur, the Kohen Gadol would represent the entire Jewish people to receive atonement from ...
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| Furnace2 | 5/15/2007 |
Q: Q-R. Shishler, I’d like to ask again regarding your prior response regarding the meaning of “UR OF ...
A: The Midrash relates that Terach was a senior member of his pagan society. He even owned an idol ...
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| Furnace? | 5/14/2007 |
Q: Q-R. Shishler, I’d like to ask again regarding your prior response regarding the meaning of “UR OF ...
A: I am impressed! I had toyed with the idea of including this in my original response... The Midrash ...
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| Exodus 6, 7, 8 and 9 | 5/13/2007 |
Q: Could you please tell me what it means to bind them upon the hand and shall be between your eyes as ...
A: This verse refers to "Tefillin" (a.k.a. phylacteries), which males over 13 wear daily for prayers. ...
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| adultery | 5/9/2007 |
Q: I would like an answer, with supporting authorities, on whether, in Orthodox Judaism, halakha ...
A: For a start, Orthodox Judaism bans any Jewish person from having a relationship with a non-Jewish ...
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| Descendants | 5/7/2007 |
Q: Q-Re Be’reshis 10:6-8 Why does the Torah specifically mention “CUSH” descendants? -Why not ...
A: 1) The Torah often alludes to an entire story with a word or two. When Hashem makes the "Covenant ...
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| Descendants | 5/4/2007 |
Q: Q-Re Be’reshis 10:6-8 Why does the Torah specifically mention “CUSH” descendants? -Why not ...
A: The Torah only provides information that is important to know- either as a lesson for us, or because ...
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| Daniel 9 | 4/18/2007 |
Q: Who is this Messiah that is spoken of in Daniel 9:24-26? The JPS TNK calls him an anointed one and ...
A: I know you probably imagined I just gave up on your question. Truth is, that I had answered off the ...
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| Daniel 9 | 4/17/2007 |
Q: Who is this Messiah that is spoken of in Daniel 9:24-26? The JPS TNK calls him an anointed one and ...
A: Daniel 9 is one of the most difficult passages in the Tanach to study. It's quite enigmatic, and ...
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| Daniel 9 | 4/16/2007 |
Q: Who is this Messiah that is spoken of in Daniel 9:24-26? The JPS TNK calls him an anointed one and ...
A: Has Moshiach ben Yosef come already? I'd love to say yes, but I don't know that it is cut and dry. ...
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| Question | 4/16/2007 |
Q: I'm having trouble understanding Judaism's stance on the after life? what are your views on this ...
A: If you could be a little more specific, I could probably help you more. Very basically, Judaism ...
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| Daniel 9 | 4/14/2007 |
Q: Who is this Messiah that is spoken of in Daniel 9:24-26? The JPS TNK calls him an anointed one and ...
A: The term "Mashiach" is often rendered in English as "Messiah", while the correct translation is ...
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| veracity of judaism | 4/13/2007 |
Q: Does judaism hold that is the only true path to spirituality? And if so, why should I believe in ...
A: Nope, it's not only the amount of witnesses that makes an event true, but it does play a role. ...
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| veracity of judaism | 4/11/2007 |
Q: Does judaism hold that is the only true path to spirituality? And if so, why should I believe in ...
A: As Jews, we believe that the Torah is 100% true. That's not because one or two people told us so, ...
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| veracity of judaism | 4/11/2007 |
Q: Does judaism hold that is the only true path to spirituality? And if so, why should I believe in ...
A: We were chosen as a special people at the time of the giving of the Torah. In other words, that's ...
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| Psalm 110 | 4/8/2007 |
Q: I am discussing this Psalm with a Christian friend of mine. I'm sure you know their take on the ...
A: Sorry for the delayed response, I only checked the site after the Chagim. The Ibn Ezra (well-known ...
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| veracity of judaism | 4/8/2007 |
Q: Does judaism hold that is the only true path to spirituality? And if so, why should I believe in ...
A: Judaism doesn't claim to have a monopoly on spirituality. We believe that there are 70 soul ...
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| Akedat Yitzchak | 3/28/2007 |
Q: So was the act of the Akeidah (all the motions, not necessarily following through even) necessary to ...
A: Shem and co. were all great people, but none measured up to the unique greatness of Avraham. For a ...
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| Idols? | 3/26/2007 |
Q: Q- Psalms 81 speaks of: "Oh, Israel, if you would but listen to ME. There shall be no strange god ...
A: According to Jewish mysticism, the worst type of "foreign god" is ego. The Talmud refers to an ...
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| Noah | 3/26/2007 |
Q: The Torah says that Noah had his sons at the age of 500, and the flood was over when he was 600 ...
A: After the Flood, there's a story of how Noah got drunk and was harmed (various interpretations of ...
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| True prophet | 3/19/2007 |
Q: Sir, Do the jews await for a new prophet to come or had he already come?. How can the people ...
A: Jews believe that there have been a number of true prophets that have come. We also look forward to ...
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| Ephraim 1 | 3/18/2007 |
Q: Q- It was understood that, "Joshua's task, (Tribe of Ephraim) was to lead the people in and conquer ...
A: Not sure what happened, but I've submitted the answer twice already, and it did not go through. ...
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| Ephraim | 3/14/2007 |
Q: Q- It was understood that, "Joshua's task, (Tribe of Ephraim) was to lead the people in and conquer ...
A: After the death of King Solomon, the Jewish nation was split into two kingdoms: Judah and Israel or ...
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| Creation 2 | 3/12/2007 |
Q: Shishler.. Yes, this answers my question, but since the passage in Exodus speaks of the "mixed ...
A: That's an interesting point that you raise. The issue here is that Shabbat observance comes with a ...
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| Rites | 3/12/2007 |
Q: What are the procedures to go through during a Barmitzfah?
A: The truth is that a young man becomes Barmitzvah automatically at 13, even if he does nothing about ...
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| Akedat Yitzchak | 3/12/2007 |
Q: OK so after thinking about it here are my few objections. Firstly, I do not agree that there are no ...
A: No problem, being insistent is a healthy Jewish trait :) The Muslim example is not good enough, in ...
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| Akedat Yitzchak | 3/12/2007 |
Q: So was the act of the Akeidah (all the motions, not necessarily following through even) necessary to ...
A: Apologies for taking so long with this one, my internet was knocked out by lightning (it's still not ...
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| Jews about Angels. | 3/12/2007 |
Q: Does the Judaism endorse belief in angels such as Gabriel, Michael etc. ?. Also does Judaism endorse ...
A: Jews certainly believe in Angels, including Gabriel and Michael (as per various references in the ...
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| Kosher Dining | 3/9/2007 |
Q: I am thinking about becoming kosher and I want to know what are the kosher rules on going out to ...
A: I think that's a very bold move on your part- all strenght to you! The main rule about kosher ...
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| Creation | 3/8/2007 |
Q: I see that Genesis 2:2, 3 tells us that God rested on the "seventh day" after his work of creation ...
A: Interesting question! Jewish understanding teaches that the 7-day Creation cycle repeats every ...
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| Akedat Yitzchak | 3/7/2007 |
Q: Rabbi Shishler, I feel a little disappointed at your answer because I expected I guess something ...
A: I guess I didn't explain myself clearly enough, apologies. We all appreciate that Hashem doesn't ...
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| Akedat Yitzchak | 3/6/2007 |
Q: Rabbi Shishler, there is a question that I have asked many rabbis and scholars but was unable to ...
A: The story of the Akeda is a very pivotal piece of Jewish history and a defining moment in its ...
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| Matrilineal descent | 3/1/2007 |
Q: Rabbi I believe I have found a great teacher in you - are you sure you're not Rabbi Akiva Tatz? ...
A: Firstly, sorry for my delay in responding, the preparations for, and celebration of Purim left me ...
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| Pinehas 2 | 2/27/2007 |
Q: Okay R. Shishler, I don't quite understand your reply to this question asked earlier... Q-Was ...
A: Sorry, maybe I should have been more specific. When G-d introduced the concept of being a Kohen, ...
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| Matrilineal descent | 2/27/2007 |
Q: What is the deeper reason - beyond the practicality - of why a person is a Jew only if his/her ...
A: Great question! You must know the old Jewish saying that Jews always answer a question with a ...
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| Pinehas | 2/21/2007 |
Q: That helps much R. Shishler, but for further understanding: Q- what exactly do you mean by saying" ...
A: You're welcome. 1) When you say someone else "atones for you", it implies that they do all the work ...
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| Pinehas | 2/20/2007 |
Q: Shalom R. Shishler- Q- Was Phinehas already of a “priestly family”…and what is meant by the ...
A: Shalom R 1) Pinchas was in a unique situation. When Hashem appointed Aaron as a kohen/priest, the ...
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| FalseProphet | 1/26/2007 |
Q: Follow-up again.. Ok, R. Shishler regarding your comments: "This would fit with the Deuteronomy ...
A: The Rambam refers to the Daniel reference you originally quoted (I hadn't checked the Rambam when I ...
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| Psalms | 1/26/2007 |
Q: Q- Can you help me PLEASE help me understand Psalm 72:1-15 and 72:17-19 It speaks of a king that is ...
A: It's great to see someone doing meaningful research into Torah :) As the opening verse of Psalm 72 ...
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| FalseProphet | 1/25/2007 |
Q: yes it does help me..but for a bit more of clarification can you further explain your last ...
A: 1) Firstly, the term "peritzei" used by Daniel is commonly understood to mean rebel against G-d (the ...
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| FalseProphet | 1/24/2007 |
Q: Shalom R.Shishler- A question was asked…....Is JC referred to in the Jewish Bible, the answer ...
A: Shalom R I think one must always be cautious about making Scriptural references (or inferences). ...
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| Followup | 1/23/2007 |
Q: My apology, here is there reference to the above inquiry: Numbers 16:38 “The censers of these ...
A: Ok, now I know what you're referring to. The "sinners" in the first instance is not a general term, ...
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| 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 believes that there is only one G-d. He is the source of all life, both spiritual and ...
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| Question | 1/22/2007 |
Q: Ari Shishler- Q-I have these questions on these passages: -Who were the “sinners” in these ...
A: but I need a little more detail. I'm not sure which passages you're referring to. The "sinners" may ...
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| philo | 1/12/2007 |
Q: "The role of these righteous individuals or prophets is twofold. They assist us in making contact ...
A: The righteous individuals I mentioned teach the methodology of prayer. They also direct individuals ...
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| philo | 1/12/2007 |
Q: I have been reading the ancient writings of Philo and am trying to understand the Jewish concept of ...
A: Judaism believes that every human being has a direct connection to G-d. This connection works both ...
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| Adam & Eve | 1/8/2007 |
Q: Rabbi, Here's an article I wrote several years ago that touches upon our conversation. Please let me ...
A: So, we have proof that Eve was a Jewish wife : ) I like your article, but have to make a few ...
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| Adam & Eve | 1/8/2007 |
Q: Welcome to AllExperts! What do you believe would have happened if Eve ate of the fruit of the Tree ...
A: and for your intriguing question. The truth is, your question is highly hypothetical. I mean, women ...
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| Sabbath observance | 1/5/2007 |
Q: Without telling my religious history, I am trying to become a better Jew. I have not observed ...
A: Firstly, sorry for the delayed response. You obviously posted your question before Shabbat began, ...
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| converting | 1/3/2007 |
Q: I am currently dating a man who's father is Jewish but mother is not. I am Jewish and he knows how ...
A: Firstly, I think it's always important to put conversion in the correct perspective. As Jews, we ...
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| Converting from Reform to Orthodox? | 1/2/2007 |
Q: Is it unusual or rare for someone who has converted to Reform or Conservative Judaism to later ...
A: It's not that unusual. I guess it depends on where a person lives. Certain communities have a strong ...
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| the laws | 12/21/2006 |
Q: When we read the some of the Torah, there are laws that tell us to do harsh things; to stone ...
A: I've just come across your question. The main issue here is context. When the Torah taught these ...
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| Question | 12/19/2006 |
Q: I am a Philosophy student and a Christian, but I am very interested in Judaism as well as ...
A: I've just come across your question. Here are some thoughts: The one and only time that Satan is ...
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