Answers to Jewish Questions

Headstone engraved with a Star of David with small stones on top

What is the Jewish expression to refer to someone who has died?

Answered by

Rabbi Julie Zupan

In Judaism, when someone has died, it is customary to add the expression, “May their memory be for a blessing” after mentioning the deceased by name. In Hebrew, the expression is “zichrona livracha” (feminine, “zichrono livracha” (masculine), or “zichronam livracha” (plural or gender-neutral) and is typically abbreviated as z”l when writing. This serves a similar function as describing someone as “the late [insert name here].” Alternatively, the honorifics “aleha hashalom” (feminine) or “hashalom alav” (masculine)

What is the meaning of wearing a red string?

My friend returned from a trip to Israel with a red string tied around her wrist. What can you tell me about the meaning of wearing a red string?

Is it appropriate to visit a grave on Passover?

According to Jewish custom, it is preferable to visit graves before a holiday, so that on the day of the holiday, we can focus attention on observing or celebrating.

Can you recommend a Jewish prayer book for someone who is exploring Judaism? There are so many from which to choose.

Mishkan T'filah, the Reform Movement’s newest siddur, includes Hebrew with both transliteration and English translations, as well as beautiful prayers in English.

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

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 children after

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