I am in the process of converting to Judaism. Is it considered customary to render a gratuity to the Rabbi that we have been working with?
I am in the process of converting to Judaism. When the Conversion ceremonies are completed, is it considered customary to render a gratuity to the Rabbi that we have been working with? This is a sensitive subject to ask of our Rabbi, whom we love.
Is it the policy that men must be circumcised prior to conversion? My 8-year old son wasn't circumcised.
Is it the policy that men must be circumcised prior to conversion? My 8-year old son wasn't circumcised. My husband is Jewish, I'm not. I would prefer for him to make his own decision when he is older, or when it can be done with a local anesthetic.
I am dating a woman who is considering conversion to Judaism. How can I support her?
I am Jewish and dating a woman who is considering conversion to Judaism. I'd be so happy if she did convert, but I don't want to seem like I'm forcing her to convert. How can I best support her without coercing her?
In Judaism what is believed to happen to someone after they die? Is there some idea of an afterlife, or is that purely a Christian concept?
Judaism has, from the Torah itself always spoken of a life following this one. The Torah speaks about what seems to be a physical place, called Sheol, to which one "goes down" following this life.
How do Orthodox and Reform practices differ?
The differences in the manner in which Reform and Orthodox Jews practice their tradition is grounded in their view of the Hebrew Scripture (Bible) and the status of other sacred texts, such as the Mishnah and Talmud.
What is the most fundamental difference between Reform Judaism and Orthodox Judaism?
What is the most fundamental difference between Reform Judaism and Orthodox Judaism? How does this difference then manifest itself in the ways these two respective groups live their lives in response to God?
How does Judaism view the relationship between people and God?
Our tradition reflects the view that humans are created in the image of God.
What are the names for God that are used in the Hebrew Bible?
There are many different names for God in the Hebrew Bible, or the Tanach.
I know that there is a prohibition against erasing the name of God. Given today's technology, how is that prohibition being interpreted?
I know that there is a prohibition against erasing the name of God. Given today's technology and the widespread usage of computers, how is that prohibition being interpreted?