Miscellaneous
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Cantor’s Hat
What is the name of the hat the Cantor will wear with his Kittel? It is usually very tall. Thank you for your question. A professional Cantor told me that the official name is a mitre, but since that has…
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Perspectives on Body Piercing and Tattoos
I want to teach my students about body piercings and tattoos from a Torah perspective in a way that they will be receptive. If you have any suggestions please let me know. Answers: Jewish law does prohibit the application of…
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Jews and Success
I love the Jewish people, and I have recently discovered that I might be Jewish. I wonder then, why has my life been so difficult, why have I been unsuccessful. Why has it been, and still ism such a struggle…
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Hasidic Life Today
I have recently been assigned to complete a project on Hasidic Judaism. I have several questions on the subject I would like to ask; the main queries being (1) what are the rules of membership, (2) what is the interaction…
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Hebrew From Right to Left
Why is Hebrew written and read from right to left? Answer: Fascinating question. Perhaps I should just say that I don’t know! But I’ll mention something that might help. In the world of Torah understanding, right is always associated with…
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Hasidic Garb
Is there is difference in appearance between Hasidic and Orthodox Jews? The question came up at work about who wears the longer hair, curls around the ears, etc. Forgive the layman terminology but while I am Jewish I have been…
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Mediums, Speaking to the Dead
What does the Torah say, if anything on the subject of mediums, people who can (presumably) see, sense or interact with the dead. If the Torah does not address this, is it addressed anywhere? And if so, what does it…
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What’s the Holiest Thing?
What is the most holy thing or object in Judaism, and how is reverence to it expressed by the believer? For example, if it is the Torah, do believers stand when it is opened, and is it not touched by…
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How to Vote in the Elections
What is the Torah outlook regarding Presidential elections? I cannot come to terms with either the Republican or Democratic candidate, as I feel they do not fully represent my interests and values. Should I stay home on Election Day? Answer:…