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.
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.
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.
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On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah - How the Book of Ruth Connects Us All Today Shavout
Chag Sameach and welcome to a special Shavuot edition of On the Other Hand! On this week’s holiday episode, Rabbi Rick Jacobs talks about Ruth, her connection to this unique Jewish festival, and what her story of unity and bridge-building means for us as we celebrate Shavuot today.
B'ruchim Haba'im - Welcome Back to Wholly Jewish: Season 2!
Welcome to the first episode of Wholly Jewish: Season 2! Hosted by Jewish performance and ritual artist Shira Kline (she/her), a.k.a. ShirLaLa, this season features interviews with LGBTQIA+ Jews from the Union for Reform Judaism's JewV'Nation Fellowship.
On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah - What Is Blasphemy, Anyway? - Emor
In ancient times, crimes of blasphemy were punished by stoning - but what does it really mean today to blaspheme? Rabbi Rick Jacobs explains the biblical prohibition against Chilul HaShem, desecrating God's name, and talks about what we are called to do to combat it.
On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah - Do You Really Care? Bechukotai Behar
How much do you care about the environment? Yourself? Other people? Rabbi Rick Jacobs talks about our fundamental responsibility to care for God’s earth and attend to the neediest among us. It’s not a newfangled, 21st-century idea; it’s literally what our age-old biblical text calls for.