While the Orthodox Union and some Modern Orthodox rabbis announced their support of taking the Covid-19 vaccine when the shot first became available last week, there have been misunderstandings about its endorsement in the Haredi community. However, the news now shows that in line with the mitzvah to guard one’s life, many prominent and respected […]
Hi JITC- Is there prohibition with a Jewish person enjoying Christmas lights since it’s not our holiday? Thank you, Ben F. Dear Ben F.- Here’s the thing about Christmas lights: pretty much everyone likes them. They’re pretty and they’re only around for a brief time so we don’t get too used to them. Objectively speaking, […]
As we publicized the miracle of Chanukah this week, there was, unfortunately, an antisemitic attack to number each day of the holiday. As our enemies rise up to destroy us, may we find renewed commitment to our heritage and pride. Lexington, Kentucky authorities are investigating an attack at a menorah-lighting. A driver assaulted a man […]
Dear Jew in the City- What’s the significance of the number eight in the Chanukah story? Thank you, Noam Dear Noam – Sometimes I read a question and I have to ask, “What’s this person really asking?” This is one of those times. The reason I don’t take your question at face value is because […]
Dear Jew in the City- How do you balance Kibud Av v’Em when you’ve chosen a different path within Judaism than your family? Sincerely, B.T. Dear B.T.- No joke, this is literally the first “Ask Rabbi Jack” question I ever received, though I received it from the parent. Decades ago, on my very first day […]
Dear JITC- How do we know that God created the world out of kindness? How do we know that God doesn’t lie? Thanks, Jake Dear Jake- I must confess that this is one of the more interesting questions I’ve received, as well as one of the more challenging in that if one assumes the worst […]
