Is quinoa kosher for Passover?
Quinoa, a grain-like crop grown in South America, is not one of the grains considered chametz (wheat, barley, rye, oats, spelt, or their derivatives). Some medieval Ashkenazi rabbis ruled that kitniyot (legumes) could not be eaten during Passover because they could be confused with chametz products. Some authorities consider quinoa to be kitniyot, while others do not.
Does one wear a tallit to services the night of Yom Kippur (Kol Nidrei)?
In the book of Numbers (15:38-39), we read that the Israelites were instructed to "make for themselves fringes on the corners of their garments…that they shall look at it and recall all the commandments of the Eternal and observe them..."
How can I observe Sukkot if I do not have a sukkah?
It is a mitzvah to build a sukkah and to celebrate in a sukkah.
What, if anything, can be done with the etrog after Sukkot?
The etrog is the citron fruit used as a component in the arba minim, the four species.
How can we explain circumcision to our friends?
Do Reform Jews Believe in the Messiah?
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.
What greetings are appropriate on Purim?
On Purim, we can greet one another with “Chag Purim sameach!” (Happy Purim!)
Are There Options for Interfaith Couples to be Buried in the Same Cemetery?
While it is true that, historically, only Jews were permitted to be buried in Jewish cemeteries, the prevalence of interfaith families has necessitated new options.
Stories We Tell: Made to Hug
On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah -- Yitro: Courageous Leadership
In this episode of On the Other Hand, Rabbi Jacobs talks with Rabbi Judy Schindler. They discuss Parashat Yitro, expanding the tent of Jewish life, the legacy passed down by her father, social justice activism, and Rabbi Schindler's bo