A. It’s easier to be Jewish here than anywhere else in the 2000 year Diaspora (excluding modern Israel of course). It’s also easier to assimilate here than ever before. So while America is good f
A. Once in 7 years, Torah directs us to let the land lie barren in Israel. We don’t plant or harvest that year (which happens to be the Jewish Year 5761/2000, which was the year when this question was
A. It’s nice to, and in some circles expected, but not a must. Most understand that students have limited resources. It doesn’t have to be a lot, just a token of your thoughtfulness for this new
A. The other way around would be much better. The handwritten parchment scroll IS the Mezuzah, while the colorfully designed box is only an ornamental cover. I can get you a Mezuzah for about $30.
A. Generally speaking they’re grouped together, and Persian Jews share many characteristics and customs with Sefardic Jews. Historically though, Persian Jews pre-date the divide between Ashkenasic and
A. Sefardic / Middle Eastern Jews have a custom to pull the soft, luscious loaves apart by hand. Others have told me that their families have a similar tradition. Personally we use a knife, and there’s
A. For a full week after marriage, the celebration continues. Each meal family and friends enjoy together with the bride and groom, is a Sheva Brachos meal, with 7 special blessings recited by guests, follow
A. Sure does. The Jerusalem Talmud (1900 years old), quoted in Tosefos (900 year old commentary printed alongside the Babylonian Talmud) says “the world is circular as a ball” (Talmud Avodah Zara
A. According to the strictly technical rules of Kosher, and if it is prepared according to Kosher Law, Yes. Some Jews don’t feel comfortable with eating veal because of the conditions in which most suc
A. Don’t you know? Girls mature earlier.… Read the rest