Answers to Jewish Questions

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Can I say the Mourner’s Kaddish for Non-Jewish Loved Ones?

Answered by

Rabbi Ellen Nemhauser

Jewish people can say the Mourner's Kaddish for loved ones who are not Jewish. Many Jewish individuals have close family members from different backgrounds and religions and it is appropriate for Jews to observe mourning rituals for their loved ones.

What is the correct term for people who adhere to Reform Judaism: "Reformed Jews," "Reform Jews," or "reformed Jews"?

Thanks for asking! The correct term is “Reform Jews.” Reform Judaism teaches that change is ongoing; the reforming of Jewish tradition and practice is not something that concluded in the past, but rather is something that continues with each individual. Therefore, “Reform” in the present tense is the appropriate term.

Is there a Jewish holiday that highlights love?

Answered by

Rabbi Victor S. Appell

A little-known holiday is Tu B'Av, a day marked by dancing and courtship.

I’m a Jew-by-choice. Can we plan to name our baby after a living relative who is not Jewish?

Answered by

Rabbi Mark Washofsky, Ph.D.

In Ashkenazic practice ( Jews of Eastern European origin), the custom is to name a child after a relative who has died, while Sephardim ( Jews of Spanish and Middle Eastern origin) tend to name their children after living relatives. Reform practice allows either option. Jews-by-choice certainly may name their

Do Reform Jews Believe in the Messiah?

Answered by

Rabbi Joseph B. Meszler

In the Jewish prayer book, the siddur, there are references to an “end of days”: the Temple in Jerusalem will be rebuilt, the dead who were righteous will be resurrected, and a figure known as the Messiah, or in Hebrew the Moshiach, will restore Israel to new-found glory. The word