The Synagogue
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Should a Rabbi Get Paid?
I am researching the historical question of when and how it came to be over time that rabbi would work for a living and taught the Torah for free (as I am led to understand)? Is this true and what…
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Women Rabbis
Can you tell me what traditional Jewish opinion on women Rabbis is? I know that certain branches of Judaism do not allow it. How come? Could you give me any scripture references from the Torah? Answer: We must understand that…
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How to Build a Kosher Ark
We are using a portable Ark to hold our Torah Scroll that was built several years ago and which is worn out beyond repair. I am planning to build a replacement, with three other men. Can you provide guidance to…
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Concentrating During Prayer
I just do not seem to be able to get many things out of my mind while I pray! I fully sympathize with your challenge. One reason Halacha (Jewish Law) says that we should repeat the same prayers every day,…
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Minyan Counting
In counting a minyan, one is not supposed to “count” the people. So, custom says, count “not one, not two…” What is the tradition of reciting the ten words of Torah? What verse is recited? As you correctly point out,…
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Being on Time (to the synagogue)
Is there something in the Torah that talks about how important it is to be on time, rather than to be consistantly late for everything? I am certainly aware of Torah ideas connected to “zrizus”, or alacrity, for doing mitzvos.…
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Synagogue Membership Dues
There are members of our congregation on fixed incomes who simply have no money. I suggested that they be able to pay their membership in installments, or have them reduced, possibly waved in light of their circumstances. I must present…