My DNA Test Shows I Have Jewish Ancestry; Am I Jewish?
With the popularity of DNA testing kits and ancestry websites, I often hear from people wondering if their test results of "X% Ashkenazi Jewish" mean that they are Jewish.
What if my ketubah witnesses don’t know how to sign their names in Hebrew?
If your witnesses aren’t comfortable writing in Hebrew, consult your officiating rabbi or cantor for their practices and preferences
What is an appropriate honorarium for the rabbi or cantor who performs our wedding?
Wedding honoraria vary widely by geography and circumstance, so it’s not possible to give a definitive answer.
What is the proper format for Hebrew names?
We talk about the customary format for Jewish or Hebrew names, plus options for individuals who do not use gendered designations.
What is a Hamsa? Is it a Jewish Symbol, a Middle Eastern Symbol, or Something Else?
The hamsa is a palm-shaped symbol historically used by both Jews and Muslims in Arab countries as an amulet to ward off evil forces, particularly the “evil eye.”
Why do Jews give gifts and charitable donations in multiples of 18?
What is the significance of the number 18 in Judaism?
Why do some Jews say “l'chayim” when making a toast? What does the word actually mean?
“L'chayim,” means “to life,” and is a classic Jewish toast.
I have a chai pendant that I love because it was a bat mitzvah gift. But what does “chai” mean and why is it such a popular Jewish symbol?
What does chai mean, and why is it such an important Jewish symbol?
What, exactly, is a Haggadah?
The Hebrew word Haggadah means “telling,” and it refers to the service or script for the Passover seder table ritual. The Haggadah provides the order and script of the service with step-by-step instructions.
I’m a regular listener of your podcast On the Other Hand. Can you explain the meaning of the Hebrew sign-off/farewell phrase at the end of each episode?
The Hebrew phrase at the end of the podcast is “L’hitraot." Here's what it means.
I plan to attend Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur services this year for the first time. Will I be expected to donate money during the service, like in a church service? If so, what’s the "right” amount?
You will not be expected to give money during the Rosh HaShanah or Yom Kippur services. In fact, it is customary to not exchange money on Shabbat or major Jewish holidays.
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