Dear Jew in the City- How does Judaism know which experts to trust on controversial topics such as masks and vaccines? I understand that the Jewish approach is to guard our lives by taking care of our health, but what if there are different medical opinions? Thank you, Boruch Dear Boruch- Thanks for your question, […]

Dear JITC- What are some possible ways the Covid pandemic might affect fasting on Yom Kippur this year? If I have symptoms, if I’ve been exposed, if I’m sick, if I’m higher risk, if I’m the ba’al tefillah, etc? Sincerely, Avi Dear Avi- Thanks for your question. As you are probably aware, all mitzvos in […]

Dear Jew in the City- If Hashem is our father and He loves us, how come he keeps on sending nisayonos (tests) to us. I know this is only for our best and we gain from it but it’s so hard that I get angry at Hashem and I don’t feel like I have what […]

Dear Jew in the City- How can I get the most air circulation in my sukkah this year? We are considering having company since outdoor socialization seems safer now. What’s the least amount of material my sukkah can have for maximum airflow and still be kosher? Thank you, C.M. Dear C.M.- Okay, first things first. […]

Dear Jew in the City- Is there religious significance if someone dies on Rosh Hashana or Erev Rosh Hashana? -Josh Dear Josh- Thanks for your question, which I assume was motivated by Justice Ginsburg’s passing. A lot of people online are saying that it’s a sign of righteousness. The rationale underlying this is that a […]

Dear Jew in the City- Why do we ask God to remember us on Rosh Hashanah? It’s not like God forgets things. Thanks, Eitan Dear Eitan- Thanks for your question, though my reply will probably have less to do with Rosh Hashana than you were expecting. It has more to do with grammar. Obviously, we […]