Basic Values and Morality
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Healing through Study?
I have been suffering with chronic medical issues for the past 7 years. It gets worse and then reverts to manageable, but I never feel healthy. What are the Jewish teachings on healing through study? Answer: Our Sages ask the…
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Innocent Midianite Children
In Numbers 31, Why did Moses order the death of the young male children if they could not have participated in any way in causing the Children of Israel to sin? What are the ethical and moral ramifications of Moses’s…
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Euthanasia and Cultural Ethics
I am currently preparing a debate on Euthanasia and would like a point of view on this subject from your religious principles. I am arguing against euthanasia. I think I would be better to argue the point of social standards…
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The Value of Friends
Where does the Torah tell us that good friends are hard to find and are very valuable? Answer: The statement “A friend can be acquired only with great difficulty” is found in the Midrash (Sifrei on Nitzavim; Yalkut Shimoni on…
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Altruism in the Torah
I am writing a paper on altruism in Judaism. I need to specifically use examples from the Torah and the Talmud. I think I would like to focus on the selfless and humble values of Moses. However, I am having…
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Wholesome Premarital Values
I believe that before marriage we should have limitations in relationships with people. The way we talk and interact should be definitely different from the way we interact with fiance or husband. This limitation is a means for respect and dignity for ourselves. I am…
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Diversity and Multiculturalism
I am seeking biblical text that describes the Jewish view of diversity and multiculturalism. I assume there’s some information that discusses the importance of respecting those from other cultures. Answer: This is a subject of such complexity that I couldn’t…
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Social Responsibility vs. Visiting Israel
My dilemma is choosing between a trip of a lifetime to Israel with my class which will help my growth with my education and my Judaism or staying home and attending my cheerleading practices so I do not let my team…
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What is a Tzadik?
I’ve learned that only Joseph and Noah are called Tzaddikim – the term for “righteous.”, in the entire Torah. What is the similarity in the way they completed their missions for Hashem that allows them both to have this title?…