LifeCycle Events
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Levirate Marriage Today
If Levirate marriage conflicts with the law of the land, eg laws of prohibited affinities for marriage, do (Orthodox) rabbis still solemnise Levirate marriages? If not, when did they stop doing so, and under whose decision? To my knowledge, Levirate…
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Burying Limbs
I recall being taught that when an individual looses a limb or a body part, in this case an arm, the arm is to be buried in the ground for reasons of respect for the body that G-d has given.…
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Marriage Midrash
I am studying the Midrash Rabbah in a class at San Francisco State University. We are looking at Midrash Genesis Rabbah. (Gen. 2:18) I who like to know where it is taught: He who has no wife dwells without good,…
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Birthdays
Today is my twentieth birthday. I’ve always learned that it is a significant time. What exactly is the significance of this day and what, if anything, should one specifically do on their birthday in general? Hi, Thanks for asking the…
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Burial of Apostate Jews
What are the guidelines, rules, or position when an apostate Jew dies and the family wants the “synagogue” to both perform the burial Apostate Jews are buried in a dedicated area away from the other graves usually separated from the…
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Dating During Separation
My wife and I are going to have a “trial separation” and most likely divorce. I will move out of the house. Once we are “separated” but not divorced, does Jewish Law, Ethics or Morals allow me to date other…
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Jews and Baptism
Hi, I am wondering if Jews practice any kind of baptism today? Thank you Baptism derives from the Jewish Mikvah, immersion in a pool of natural water. Men immerse themselves before major holidays and women do so after their menses.…
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Blood Test for Jewish Identity
How does one obtain a blood test that establishes Jewish identity? Where can it be obtained and what is the cost? There really isn’t a blood test that establishes Jewish identity. A convert or descendant of one could have very…