Ask The Rabbi

Where did the Jewish tradition start to generously open their homes to guests?

If humans ever colonize the moon or other planets, which direction would we face while praying?

Last week I had a business meeting with an Orthodox Jewish woman and she politely declined to shake my hand. What is the reason for this?

How does Judaism view the crime of rape? Is it considered more serious than in Western society, or less serious?

How long after must I wait between eating meat and milk? And why?

I heard that all my pots and dishes need to be dunked in a mikveh. Why?

The siddur I use has a stilted translation. Is there anything more up-to-date?

The store forgot to charge me for one item. Is it considered stealing not to pay for it?

Why are Jews historically known as charitable? And what are my charity obligations today?

What is the significance of the synagogue in Jewish life today? How has that role changed over the years? What are some of the challenges facing the modern American synagogue?

I have a tattoo from my younger days, which I now regret. Will it prevent me from (eventually) being buried in a Jewish cemetery?