Now that we are in the month of Shevat, approaching the 15th of Shevat, TU Bishvat, I think it is appropriate to discuss some of the laws of the land of Israel. For the first three years after a tree is planted, the fruit is known as orlah, and it may not be eaten, it…
Join us on February 22, 2017 for the New Generation of Leaders – Brownstone Signature Event. The event supports The Brownstone Experience – a vibrant, cultural, educational, and social center for young Jews to gather, explore ideas, create community, and grow spiritually and intellectually. Register online
Question: Hi Rabbi, we are expecting our first child – a boy. How do we decide who should be Sandak (the person who holds the baby at the circumcision)? Each of our fathers wants the honor. But it’s stressing my wife out! Any advice you have about how to decide whom to choose, while also…
In this parsha we are introduced to the term “…and the stranger that dwells with you.” Rabbi Becher examines to what extent must the convert to Judaism be given the same treatment as a person who was born Jewish. View this video directly on Vimeo.
Generally, we classify the commandments of the Torah into commandments that pertain to our relationship with G-d and commandments that pertain to our relationship with other people. There are some who had a third category, the commandments that govern the relationship between body and soul, in other relationship with the self. Generally, when we think…
Question: I was raised in a secular environment and want to “do teshuva”. Maybe not all at once, but I want to start changing my ways and start observing Judaism more. However, I’ve heard that to be forgiven for my past I need to regret what I’ve done. But I find it really hard to…
Harry Rothenberg explains the lesson we can learn from the frogs. View this video directly on VIMEO
How did the Jewish people “fill” the land of Egypt so quickly? Harry Rothenberg uses his sister, who gave birth to quadruplets, as an example to explain how. View this video directly on VIMEO
Question: Why is it that according to Judaism one should face east when praying? I saw a sign in a friend’s home that said “East” in Hebrew, and when I asked what it’s for, my friend told me it was a reminder of the direction for prayer. Thank you. Thanks for this service. AskTheRabbi.org answered:…
Jacob gives very detailed instructions to his sons regarding his burial. Harry Rothenberg explains why. View this video directly on VIMEO