Dear Jew in the City, Is it a problem for Jews to celebrate the Gregorian New Year? Sincerely, Brad Dear Brad, Thanks for your very interesting question. The Torah prohibits us from copying other nations’ practices (Leviticus 18:3), which means that we’re not allowed to observe the holidays of other religions. This can be […]
Dear Jew in the City, How do I raise my kids to be respectful of Christmas yet not have Christmas-envy? People always seem to go to one extreme or the other, but I’d like to give over a nuanced perspective to my children. Sincerely, Holiday Cheer Dear Cheer, That’s a great question. I’m no parenting expert, […]
Dear Jew in the City, Is the Lev Tahor cult actually Jewish? Best, Max Dear Max, Thanks for your question. You know, had you asked “Is Lev Tahor a cult,” I might have balked at answering (I have an aversion to lawsuits), but I didn’t say it’s a cult, you did. And so do lots […]
Dear Jew in the City- This week Americans will show their thanks by getting together and eating Turkey and stuffing. Are there any Jewish customs or rituals for expressing gratitude? Thanks, Adam Dear Adam- Thanks for your question. There is an important characteristic in Judaism called hakaras hatov, acknowledging the good. It is stressed that […]
Dear Jew in the City- Is being wicked for good a Jewish concept? All the best, Linda Dear Linda- Thanks for your question. Before I answer it, let me just say that I see what you did there. I can answer this question, but as of this writing I have not yet seen the movie […]
Dear Jew in the City, Is there a blessing to recite when a hostage is rescued? Thank you, Eliana – Dear Eliana, Thanks for your question. Brachos (blessings) are recited on a number of special occasions. We recite brachos on natural phenomena like thunder and lightning, and upon seeing a rainbow. We recite brachos on […]
