My mother was diagnosed with cancer 20 years ago. The disease was asymptomatic for years, but once it went into high gear, she had to begin treatment which tied her down to the hospital. When she made progress in fighting the cancer (she appears to be in remission, thank God!) and her new treatment protocol […]
Dear Jew in the City- If there’s no Temple anymore, why are we still counting an Omer that’s not even being brought? Didn’t other Temple-related actives just cease after its destruction? Thanks, Losing Count Already Dear Count, That’s a pretty good question. Let’s first explain what “counting the omer” is. Leviticus chapter 23 […]
Passover appears in several TV shows and movies, from comedies to dramas and everything in between. By watching this media, kids and adults alike can learn about the holiday and get into the spirit before the seder. However, the depiction of Passover is not always accurate. Sometimes, when adding a dramatic or comedic spin, TV […]
Dear Jew in the City, How can we celebrate our freedom this Passover when there are still hostages being held in Gaza? Sincerely, David Dear David, Thanks for your question. Shortly after the current war in Gaza began and antisemitism was being normalized in the U.S. (and elsewhere), I replied to a completely different […]
Dear Jew in the City, Are Orthodox Jews allowed to consume alcohol? Thanks, Sam Dear Sam, Thanks for your question, though I really wonder what prompted it. Anyone even passingly familiar with Jewish ritual life would be aware that wine plays a regular role in it. We usher Shabbos in and out with kiddush and havdalah […]
For many years during the Passover seder I have struggled with how to handle “the wicked son.” We are told that there are four sons: wise, wicked, simple and one who doesn’t know how to ask. Says the hagaddah: “What does the wicked son say? ‘What does this ritual mean to you?’ To you and […]
