Mitzvos (Commandments)
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Sharing Clothes
I have kinda a silly question. My sister in law stays over at our house sometimes. She likes to borrow my clothes. I think she likes to wear somebody elses clothes more than hers. I really don’t like to share…
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Modesty in giving
I have been involved in fund rasing (as a volunteer). At many events or caucauses, we would stand and announce our gifts. I attended such events even in the Beit Kennesset, where millions of dollars were raised. I know what…
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Vegetarianism
I’ve recently been studying the torah for a school project, and I have found that Judaism may be right for me. I am a vegetarian, and I was wondering what your stance on vegetarianism is. Thank you. It depends on…
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A Blessing for Charity?
Dear Rabbi, Is there a brocha (a blessing to recite) for giving charity? At the moment I say “shekideshanu… vetzivanu letet tzdaka.” We do not make any beracha (blessing) on giving charity. All agree to this but there is discussion…
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Chicken with Milk?
Does the milk/meat restriction apply to chicken? If so why, since chickens don’t suckle their young with milk. The reason that Jewish law forbids chicken and milk is due to a rabbinic law, dating back 2000+ years. Because the properties…
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Why is poultry not pareve
Would you please explain why poultry is not considered pareve (neither meat or dairy)? Thank you for your question. You are correct. On a bibical level poultry is considered to be pareve as it is not meat. However the Talmud…
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Circumcision and Oral Suction
What are the exact instructions of the rite of circumcision, particularly about Metsitsa Bpeh (oral suction). How is this requirement follow the laws about blood? The procedure is as follows: The proper amount of foreskin is measured that will be…
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Terumah and Maaser Nowadays
What is done with terumah and maaser nowadays? Nowadays the Levites' tithe is separated and kept (since anyone can eat it); the kohanim's 1% (plus a token amount for terumah) is separated and destroyed (because it can only be eaten…
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Tzedekah/reason
Could you explain why Tzedekah is both a religious and a moral obligation for Jews. Thank you for your help. Much appreciated. Hayley Dear Hayley, All religious obligations are moral in Judaism and as such it is difficult to understand…