Dear Rabbi

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I address the frequently asked question about tattoos and Jewish burial. While Leviticus 19:28 clearly prohibits Jews from getting tattoos, I explain that there is no halachic (Jewish law) basis preventing someone with tattoos from being buried in a Jewish cemetery. I clarify that the prohibition applies only to getting tattoos, not having them. Though some communiti...

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I address the common question about whether all Jews speak Hebrew. While Hebrew has experienced a remarkable renaissance as Israel's national language, and most Jews today do live in Israel, not all Jews are Hebrew speakers. I explain how historically, Jews have primarily spoken the languages of their host countries while developing unique Jewish dialects that blend...

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I break down the similarities and differences between halal and kosher dietary laws. While both are religious food guidelines for Muslims and Jews, respectively, they are not identical. I explain that Kosher foods are generally acceptable for halal diets, but not vice versa. Drawing on the nuanced distinctions between these dietary practices, I provide insights into...

In this informative episode of Dear Rabbi, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield answers a practical question about Jewish observance: when should one observe a yahrzeit (death anniversary) during a Jewish leap year with two months of Adar? After providing a concise explanation of the Jewish lunisolar calendar system and why leap months are necessary to keep holidays in their proper seasons, Rabbi Field discus...

In this thought-provoking episode of Dear Rabbi, we address a fascinating question about mortality during the Days of Awe - the ten days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Rabbi Arkham explores how Judaism reconciles deaths that occur before the Book of Life is sealed, offering two traditional perspectives: that the previous year's judgment extends through these ten days, or that one's fate is...

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I explain the unique Jewish concept of the day beginning at sundown. Tracing this tradition back to the biblical account of creation, I explore how the Torah's pattern of "evening and morning" established our distinctive approach to marking time. I share a deeper spiritual meaning behind this practice - how night represents life's challenges while day symbolizes clar...

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I explore the profound question of why God sometimes seems distant, even in our moments of deepest prayer. Through the lens of the Purim story and the Book of Esther, I explain how God's apparent absence is actually a form of hidden presence. I share a personal parenting analogy from teaching my kids to ski, illustrating how sometimes stepping back allows for growth....

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I tackle the famous philosophical trolley dilemma from a Jewish perspective. I analyze Jewish law and the Talmud and explain why Judaism's approach might surprise those who take a utilitarian view. I explore why sacrificing one life to save many - whether through pulling a lever or pushing someone off a bridge - goes against Jewish ethical teachings. Drawing from the...

In today's episode of Dear Rabbi, I'm answering a profound question about God's role in our suffering, especially during these challenging post-COVID times. I explain why we can't fully grasp God's ways by sharing two powerful stories – one about a hypothetical cousin from the jungle seeing a gym for the first time, and another about my personal experience with my son Ozzy during his medical proce...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we tackle the pressing questions of our time! 🕍 This week, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield reflects on the current hostage deal in Israel and its complexities. 🤔 Explore the debate over prioritizing safety versus making concessions, and discover why unity among the Jewish people is more critical now than ever. 🌍 Let’s stand together, even when faced with difficult choices,...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we explore the nuances of Jewish identity! 🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield addresses the question of Jewish lineage and conversion. 👪 Discover the traditional Jewish view on matrilineal descent and why it's so important. Learn about the complexities of Jewish identity in the modern world and how one's upbringing or current practices relate to their Jewish...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we tackle complex topics in Jewish history and politics! 🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield breaks down the concept of Zionism and its significance to the Jewish people. 🌟 Learn about the movement for Jewish self-determination and statehood. Explore the biblical connections to the land of Israel and the contemporary debates surrounding Zionism.  Keep the que...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we explore the depth of Jewish concepts! 🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield unpacks the true meaning of tzedakah and how it differs from conventional charity. 🤲 Discover the root of this Hebrew word and why it's connected to justice rather than benevolence. Learn about the Jewish perspective on giving and how it could change the world if universally practice...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we unlock the secrets of Jewish home life! 🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield reveals the significance of the mezuzah, that little box on Jewish doorposts. 🚪 Learn about the biblical commandment behind this practice and discover what's really inside that case. Explore the deeper meanings of the mezuzah and how it serves as a reminder of Jewish values and div...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we untangle the mysteries of Jewish appearances! 🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield decodes the significance of the distinctive sidelocks worn by Hasidic men. 🧔  Explore the biblical origins of this practice and learn about the variations in how it's observed. Discover how these curls serve as a visible symbol of Jewish identity and pride. Keep the questions...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we unearth the significance behind Jewish practices! 🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield explains why Jews place rocks on graves instead of flowers. 🌹  Discover the symbolism behind this enduring tradition and how it honors the memory of loved ones. Learn about the Jewish perspective on remembrance and the value of lasting tributes. Keep the questions coming!...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we explore the intricacies of Jewish life! 🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield debunks the myth of arranged marriages in Orthodox Judaism.  Discover the unique approach of "shidduch dating" and how it differs from modern dating apps. Learn about the emphasis on compatibility, shared values, and meaningful conversations in Jewish courtship. Find out why Orthodo...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we unwrap the mysteries of Jewish traditions! 🕍  In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield reveals the secret behind the foil-covered kitchens during Passover. �matsah Discover why some Jewish families go to great lengths to prepare their homes for this important holiday. Learn about the concept of "chametz" and the various methods of making kitchens kosher for Passov...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we explore the diverse landscape of Judaism!  🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield breaks down the main branches of Judaism: Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform. 🌿Discover the core beliefs and practices that distinguish these movements. Learn about their historical origins, approaches to Jewish law (Halacha), and interpretations of divine revelation. Gain insig...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we unravel the mysteries of Jewish practices!  🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield explains the curious "boxes" worn by Orthodox Jewish men during prayer. 📦🙏Learn about tefillin, often mistaken for "GoPros" by the uninitiated. Discover the spiritual significance of these prayer accessories, how they're worn, and what they contain. Uncover the symbolism behin...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we tackle thought-provoking questions about Jewish identity!  🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield addresses the complex question: Can one be Jewish without believing in God? 🤔Explore the multifaceted nature of Jewish identity beyond religious belief. Learn why Judaism is more than just a religion - it's a family, a people, an ethnicity, and a nation. Discover...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we explore intriguing aspects of Jewish prayer!  🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield explains the curious practice of shaking or swaying during Jewish prayer, known as 'shuckling'. 🙏Discover the spiritual and practical reasons behind this distinctive prayer posture. Learn how this meditative movement enhances concentration and deepens the prayer experience. E...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we tackle your pressing questions about Judaism!  🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield addresses the intriguing topic of conversion in Judaism. 🌟Discover why Judaism doesn't actively pursue converts, unlike some other major religions. Learn about the Jewish perspective on being a good person, the responsibilities that come with joining the Jewish people, and t...

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, the podcast where we explore Jewish traditions and practices!  🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield delves into the fascinating world of kosher eggs and commercial baking. 🥚🍰 Discover how modern technology meets ancient Jewish law in ensuring the kashrut of mass-produced baked goods. Learn about the process of candling, the concept of bitul (nullification), and why...

Terrorists murdered 1,400 Jews in cold blood while recording their massacre on their GoPros. Over 200 people were taken hostage, including women, children, babies, and the elderly, some of whom were Holocaust survivors. "Never again" is now. While the Nazis tried to conceal their crimes against humanity, Hamas is live-streaming them. The world's silence is deafening, as some "enlightened" individu...