Ask the Rabbi - Miscellaneous

Ben Stine
Magnolia, Texas, USA
I have heard a lot, but not enough, about the temple and sacrifices and I was wondering where you, the Jews, stand at this point. This may be a dum question that I would like to find out the answer to. Is the Temple still standing or are you rebuilding it? Are you offering animal sacrifices to God and if not do you plan on doing this and if so then when? And the last questions for now are "Are you waiting for the Masiah? And if so how do you know that he is coming?" I do thank you for your time and if you could get back with me on the answer to these questions I would really appriciate it.
Thanks, Ben

Dear Ben,
There is no Temple and no sacrifices in our times. We are waiting for the Messiah and there will be clear signs which we will recognize.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Could you please tell me about the source of the idea of wearing a tallis?

This is explicit in the Torah in sefer Bamidbar.

Dear Rabbi, Could you please be more specific??

This is the mitzva of tzisis Bamidbar 15:36-41

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Maria Adolphi, Ukraine
Could you explain the meaning of "dry bones", in Hezekiel.
Thank You, Maria

Dear Maria,
Dry bones represents the reliving of the dead.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Kevin Richardson
Oxnard, CA, USA
What were the original languages and cultures in which Judaism found its first expression?

Dear Kevin, It was from the beginning in Hebrew.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Rabbi, I am married almost four months, Baruch H-shem. We are baal tshuvahs and live in the same city as our parents. they are tradional/modern, yet do not embody the values/hashkafa we want. I feel they influence us and inhibit us from growing in ruchnius and true Torah values. Yet for kibud av v'em I feel we should spend more time with them. I am torn. I wonder often if we should move. Does the rav have advice? Thank you so much.

I think that you should move elsewhere. The most important thing in life is to grow spiritualy, and since you feel hindered you must find a new place. There is no problem in not honoring them, since you have the privilge to live where you wish and where it is good for you.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Switzerland
Dear Rabbi,
I got to this site through a link in alt.religion.judaism. My situation is as follows:
I am of jewish origin (from my mother), I converted from Christianity (the religion I was brought up in) to Islam 6 years ago. My marriage with my husband is at an end (i.e. we are having a divorce). What puzzles me for a long time are these dreams I have had:
Last year...it was at the time of Yom Kippur (which I did only know after I told my dream to my jewish friend) I heard the whole Shma Israel in my dream. However in real life I only know the first words of this prayer.
Since I have had this dream, I really think about it all the time. I write to you because I need an answer in order to progress in my life. Shortly before I had this dream: I dreamt that I was very angry with my husband...I was singing "Hawa Nagila" very aggresively and was clapping my hands in front of my husband. I then left my husband joining a group of men dressed in orthodox jewish clothing ( kaftan, pejes, hut....), at this moment i felt very relieved.
I simply do not know where I can put these dreams. I am writing to you just to get an answer to all this. Should I see a rabbi here near Basel where I live? Seeing a muslim Imam or scholar just does not make any sense in this case, i dare say.
I thank you Rabbi Feinhandler for your time and answer.
Best regards, ...

Dear ...,
Your dream is a clear message from G-d that you must returen to Judaism since this is your religion that your received with birth from your mother.
See an orthodox rabbi as soon as possible.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

I am not Jewish, however my step-brother died very recently. My step-father, whom I am close to is Jewish (as is the deceased), wishes to follow his customs. Is there anything I should/could do for him at the funeral (on Monday) to respect his and his family's beliefs. I really do not know much about Jewish customs and would like to know to show my sympathies and respect. I would appreciate any/all help you would be able to offer me.

I think that kind words is the best gift that you can offer.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Dear Rabbi,
While I understand the hamsa or chumsa (hand shaped symbolic jewelry amulet) is of the Sephardic tradition, is there a blessing over a hamsa? I have purchased one for my wife and would like to say such a blessing. Any further information is appreciated.

There is no blessing when purchasing this.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

gail reiter
Kingston, RI, USA
dear rabbi, What do our teachings tell us about coping with depression?

Dear Gail,
I do counseling for depression through the thoughts of the Torah, and it costs $85 for one session of 50 minutes including my calling you on the phone.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

what is the purpose of a siyum?

The siyum is a celebation that we have finished learning something, and we praise G-d that this has happened.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Dear Rabbi,
I am getting married to an Israeli here in the United States. What is required for our wedding to be accepted as legal in Israel? Can we be married by a reform rabbi?
Thank you,

If you will be married by a reform rabbi you will not be recognized in Israel. Get yourself an orthdox rabbi and save yourself trouble.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

I'm interesting in the way of life of the Jews.
I fully believe in "Shema Yisrael, God is Our Lord, God is One". I know God commands us to speak it twice a day. Could you tell me how to that ? And what does it mean to make it sign at your hand and write it down on your gate/door ?
Please tell me because there is no jews in my country to ask.
Thanks.

You need to read this chapter twice a day. The other verse is refering to the commandment of putting on teffillin on our hands and upon our heads. Putting it on the door is referring to the mitzva of mezuzah.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

New York, USA
I converted (conservative) last year. I would like to marry an orthodox man therefore am considering talking to a rabbi about an orthodox conversion. In the mean time I am behaving more modestly and dressing accordingly as a result of my continuous studying. One man may have tried to get my attention recently and I am concerned that during this time I am perhaps communicating that I am an orthodox woman who is available for dating. I do not wish to mislead someone. I am divorced 6 years, 40 yrs old and single. Perhaps my impression is wrong. I have heard that orthodox people usually date with the assitance of a third person. Do you have any helpful comments or suggestions.
Thank you.

Dear Renee, I think that since you are going in the correct direction, and you do wish to make an orthodox conversion, you can date an orthodox man. On the third date you must inform him of your status.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Northport, Florida, USA
Is it possible for someone to be considered a Hebrew by having a Hebrew father?

No, you need to have a jewish mother.

How can one find out what Hebrew tribe they are from?

We do not know what tribe we are from.

In Deuterononmy 28:68 it states that G-D would bring the Hebrews into Egypt again with ships. We would be sold unto our enemies and etc..Meaning the return to slavery. Could you please elaborate on this subject?

This is a curse that has not yet happened.

I am an African American Hebrew and when I visit synagogues during my travels I am often questioned when did I convert. When my Ashkenazics and Sephardic friends are accepted warmly.

Without being a convert you are a gentile.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Meleki Romano
Pensacola, Fla, USA
Shalom Aleichem, may this question find You Well. Question: Commentators say that the Tzitzis remind us of the 613 mitzvos by the gematria of tzitzis spelled Tz-yud-tz-yud-tav=600+5 knots & 8 strings=613. But in the Torah, BaMidbar,15.37-39, tzitzis is actually spelled "tz-yud-tz-tav which equals 590.
Can You explain???
Wishing You Well........Meleki

Dear Meleki,
There is a hint here to the 613 mitvas since we normally spell it with 2 yuds, and it makes no difference how it is spelled in the Torah.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Mexico, DF
I've heard that the Mosque of the rock in Jerusalem is flooding, like it was profetisized, is this true? has this been profetisized?
Another question if you allow me: Was the exorsism of the dibbuk real? Thank you very much.

I also heard about the rock, and time will tell what will happen.
The dibbuk was real.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

New York, NY, US
I met a boy when I was at a hotel over Pesach and we talked alot and really got to know one another...we both feel very close to each other...both of our parents are aware that we met..we both are dating now for tachlis.
I know it wasnt the ideal way to meet him but the fact is that I did already and we like each other..do you think that we should get someone involved to "set us up" if its at a point where we are serious about everything and our parents know...I know that a shidduch would be the ideal way for us to have met..but its too late for that..whats done is done...I know that hashem does everything for a reason and this is beshert that I met this way...please if you can give me advice on what to do now...I hate that people will talk and say its not a shidduch but do you think I should get someone to "make" the shidduch now even though we already have met and got to know each other well??
Thank you!

If you feel uncomfortable you can make up a shidduch, and try to pretend that it was a shidduch.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Kara, Providence, RI
I am a student at a Catholic college, but for a museum studies class, We are doing extensive archiving and research on local synagogue designed by Percival Goodman. In researching the architect, I found that the Mishkan theme-of the wilderness, desert, etc. is common in his work. I was wondering if you could give me more information about the concept of Mishkan and any Biblical references that I could use to find more specifics.
Thank you!

You can find many details in the whole bible.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

New York, NY, US
Recently my friend suggested a practice which raised an old issue about Judaism. The question is when is something a recommended practice & when is it a prohibited superstition. I am under the impression that Judaism frowns upon superstitious beliefs, yet the so called "segula", or custom is a commonly found practice.
The practice that my friend suggested seems rather bizarre & I hope my mere mentioning it, is not offensive. Apparently, in some circles it is believed that if one takes the wine which is spilled when we mention the 10 plagues on the seder night, & he then dips his foot into it, he has significantly increased his chances of getting married soon.
I know a number of people that are willing to do much to be married but would like to know that what they are doing is a legitimate custom & not a silly superstition. Is there a way to research such "segulas". I ( & many of my single friends) would greatly appreciate if you could help us in finding the true source of this custom & establishing whether it is recommended.
Thank you for your consideration.

I have never heard of this sgula, and I think that it is not authentic. Wait until my book "Why Some Stay Single" will come out by Feldheim.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Maria Adolphi
Ukraine

Could you explain the meaning of "dry bones", in Hezekiel.
Thank You, Maria

Dear Maria,
Dry bones represents the reliving of the dead.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

We would appreciate an explanation of the shema.
Thank You.

You can find that in detail in the Art Scrol Siddur.

Best wishes from:
Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler

Albert Sultan
Dear Rabbi,
The Torah states that there were about 600,000 Jewish males at Har Sinai, and a total of 3,000,000 people. How do we reconcile this number if at the time of the babylonian exile there were only about 150,000 jews in the world? Even if we take into account the Jews of Israel decimated by the Assyrians, there is still a large difference in numbers?

Dear Albert,
First, I do not know where you got the figure for the Babylonian exile. Second the population can change dramaticly, as we know from the holocaust.

Sanford Moos
Centereach, NY

In Baba Mezia it says, (concerning a found object), that the finder has to wait for an additional 7 days after a festival so that the person who thought he had lost the article can go home and look for it
3 days for going home,
3 days for returning and
1 day to look for the "lost" item.

What happened to Shabbos? Since the finder can't travel on Shabbos, he will certainly need at least one additional day...

Dear Sanford,

Maybe Shabbos is the day when he searches for his item. It is also the day when he cannot travel, and thus to search and to rest from travelling can be done on the same day.

Yosef Weber
Independence, MO

I have a friend from Russia. He wants to learn how to lein Torah. Please write me with a list of sites that would teach him how to lein.

Thank You,
Yosef Weber

Dear Yoseph, I do not know and I do not beleive that such a thing can be learned without a personal teacher.

Josh Raderman
Pomona, NY

In Gen. The serpant is not a serpant.. What is it a wizard, or a man , an angel?

Dear Josh,

. Who said he was not a serpant?

Jerusalem, Israel

Dear Rabbi:

I read something today in the Jerusalem Post which I just can't get out of my mind. A chareidi woman in Bnei Brak, the mother of ten children, was gang raped by three foreign workers as she left the mikva. Her husband called some rabbis and was told that he must divorce her. According to the article, the couple love each other and don't want to get divorced but the rabbis say they must because the husband believed her story instead of saying, "It can't be." Someone else told me that he must divorce her because he is a Cohen. Could this be true? Is there no leniency able to keep this family together?

Dear Sheri,

I found out that the story is a hoax. Completely false. The person who wrote is was fired from his job in Yediot Achronot.

Dennis Pittenger
Fresno, Ca

DEAR RABBI:

I HAVE HEARD THAT IF THE CURRENT YEAR, 5758, IS CONVERTED TO A HEBREW WORD IT HAS THE MEANING "SEASON OF NOAH". IS THIS CORRECT?

SINCRELY,
DENNIS PITTENGER

Dear Dennis,

That could be since it is tashnach, and the nach is Noah, and tash could be tekufat shana, which is season. But it has no real meaning to us.

Frank, Jones
Dearborn, MI

What is origin of word 'Ashkinaz'? Is it a geographical location, philosphic, ect?

Dear Frank,

It means "Germany". Most of the Jews lived there, so the Europan Jews got that name.

Where can I find a list of the mikvaot in the u.s?

Dear Madam,

I think Shema Yisrael has a list. If you know which city, I may be able to help.

Oleg Nerodin
Ukraine

You love Y'shua haMashiah?

Dear Oleg,

Who is he?

Dear Rabbi,

I have a very serious question for you that I have been battling for years that I can't seem to conquer rematter what I do. Materbation. It's harder than anything to control. I'm very religious, I learn 2 1/2 hours everyday, I doven hard, I try to be very nice to everyone, but this urge I just can't conquer. I've tried dovening harder, saying Shema before I go to bed, you name it, I've probably done it. It gets to the point where if I refrain for a little while, I can't concertrate on anything else, I get nervous, antsy... I know this is a very serious sin, and I feel terrible about it. It's a big problem among everyone I know as well, not just me. What can I do? Please help me. Thank you very much

Sincerely,
Mordechai

Dear Mordechai,

You need counseling to help you overcome your problem. This is a problem that one cannot overcome with his own powers. I do counseling in that area, but I do not know where you live. The counseler must be frum.

Where is the Mekor for Children Not going To a parents second Chasunah?

Dear Shlomie,

I do not know, since it is not in Shulchan Aruch. Are you sure there is such a minhag?

Yonason Kaplan
Kiryat Sefer, Israel

My mother is a 50 year-old American with virtually no Torah education. She would like to begin to learn Torah but she would like to simultaneously begin learning Hebrew (loshon hakodesh) so she can understand the original texts. Is there any good computer software that she can buy to get her started?

Thank you for your help!

Dear Yonasan,

I am sorry but I do not know.

Stan Waisbrod
Gauteng, South Africa

Our son has recently become engaged and the couple would like to have the wedding ceremony in Israel. The problem is that their grandparents and other senior relatives are not able to travel from South Africa to Israel.

The question is whether it would be possible to have part of the ceremony in South Africa and another part in Israel. Or perhaps the whole ceremony in South Africa and something meaningful in Israel, or vice versa.

Thank You.

Dear Stan,

What is usualy done is such cases, is that the wedding is in one place, and then in the middle of the sheva brochos days, the couple travels to the other country and continues there to make sheva brochos. If that is not possible, then you can make a kabals ponim, or reception whenever they like.

I shall be in South Africa in July, and if you shall leave me your number I shall try to visit you.

What is the importance of the First Temple to the jews? What about the ordinances that were performed in the Temple, were they discontinued?

Dear Yatyr,

The first temple was to bring sacrifices, and when it was destroyed we could not continue them.

Jeff Corbett
Ontario, Canada

Shalom, > I am 24 and was raised non observant, although I am Jewish (both my parents are Jewish). Recently, I have become interested in learning how to be an observant Jewish person. I would like to follow the laws of Torah and halalha. I am going to visit Israel for the first time and volunteer on a Dati (religious) Kibbutz called Kibbutz Shluchot over the month of June 1998. My question is, is what I'm doing called "becomming a 'Baal-teshuvah' and is it proper to call myself a Baal-teshuvah? Thank you. Could you also pray for me to have a safe trip to Israel? My Hebrew name is Gedalia Isaac, my mother's Hebrew first name is Nehiema and my father's Hebrew name is Ziskend Shumel. I am a Cohen.

Jeff Corbett

Dear Jeff,

If you really wish to be observant you should not be going to a kibbutz, but rather to a place where you can learn about Judaism. Either Aish Hatorah, or Ohr Somayach, are excellent places that have programs for beginners like you, and since you are thirsty for Judaism, I am sure you shall enjoy these yeshivas.
I certainly shall pray for your success!

Rehovot, Israel

Why is the word Jerusalem not mentioned in the Torah (Chumash)?

Dear PHillip,

Malke Tzedek is the hint to Jerusalem.

Rehovot, Israel

Why is the word Jerusalem not mentioned in the Torah (Chumash)?

Dear PHillip,

Malke Tzedek is the hint to Jerusalem.

Justin Rakes
Acworth, GA

I'm Catholic, but have always had a lot of respect for the Jewish faith, considering it the roots and parent of my own. There's something that I've wondered about, though. When looking at Jewish webpages or whatever, I've noticed words like G-d or L-rd. Why can't the whole word be written? And does He somehow not know you're referring to Him, simply because the letter "o" is left out? I've noticed the same kind of thing in Christians who take the Lord's name in vain, and then claim "I said 'GoT', not 'God'", although the reasons behind that are probably a little different.

Thanks for you time.

Dear Justin,

The reason for using the dash, and not the full name, is so that if anything happens to the holy name, then it will only happen to the abbreviation, and not the real name. It really does not apply to computers where there is not writing on paper, but the custom stuck.

Bob Nagy
Manchester, MO

Concerning the Book of Genesis where God gave Jacob the name of Israel, I am confused about one thing. After the new name is given, the Scripture continues to use the old name of Jacob and in some places even uses the two names Jacob and Israel simultaneously. When Abram was given the name of Abraham. the name Abram was never used again to mention him. Why does Scripture then continue to use the name of Jacob after he becomes Israel?

Respectfully yours in the Lord,

Bob Nagy

Dear Bob,
As you have correctly observed, the name Abram was erased because of the new name Abraham, but the name Israel was added on, but it did not replace Jacob.

Dear Rabbi,
Thank you for your timely response. I will be sure to review the site that you so highly recommend.

If I understand correctly, the name Abraham was a replacement for Abram. The name Israel is not a replacement, but another name for the person of Jacob. This is similar to my name being Robert, but many people call me Bob. When my teachers and friends began to call me Bob it did not erase Robert.

Now I look for significance in this. Should I consider that Abram was transformed into a new man spiritually and the name Abraham is the outward sign that God gave to declare that spiritual transformation? Likewise, I would understand that Jacob was not similarly transformed in a spiritual way, in that the Abrahamic covenant was already in place. However, should I understand that God gave him this name to signify that Jacob wrestled with God and that in losing the fight to God, in fact Jacob won a great reward, not a new character, but a promise to be the father of a great nation, Israel, under the covenant made with Abraham.

Secondly,
You have been very gracious in your response to me. I am extremely excited about what I understand to be the growing anticipation of the Jewish Nation that the Messiah may soon be coming. Is there any web site that is about the coming of the Messiah and the preparation of the Jewish people for that time? I understand there are plans to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. I would like to know more about how this is coming about.

Sincerely yours in the Lord,

Bob Nagy

Dear Bob,
I know of no web site on the subject. But your observations are very preicise. We have to be worthy, and the messiah will come soon.

David N. Sunderland
Texas, USA

I'm sorry to bother you with such an dumb question, but I'm a Christian who is trying to learn more about the Jewish festivals. I do not have a Jewish calendar, and I was wondering what day Tishri 10 (The Day of Atonement) fell on. I know it will either be late September, or early October, but I was looking for the exact day. Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Sincerely,
David N. Sunderland

Dear David,
It will be on the Sabbath, Oct. 11, 1997, and commences Friday night on Oct. 10.

Question: Is the Land Sabbath kept by the Jews? If so when is the date of the next one? Do you have the date for for the next Jubilee?

Thanks

Dear Madam,
The next is 5760, and starts on Sept. Oct. 1999 (New Year). It certainly is observed by the Orthodox Jews in Israel who refrain from working the land. Jubileee does not apply in our generations.

Hello! My question is if Muslims are considered idoliters by the Torah or not. Thank you!

Dear Sir,
The Muslim are not considered worshipping idols, and therefore one may even enter a mosque, since they have no images in their mosques.

Libby
Brooklyn, NY USA

Respectfully, I would like to add some information regarding the Mormon's Family History Center. The Mormons have gathered all historic data from Europe and have the largest available database in the world. Jewish people such as myself who wish to gather info on their geneology need to do their research at one of the centers. I am aware of a number of very frum, chassidic individuals who have gone there to do extensive research of ancestry. Many of us have yichus in our backrounds and wish to have precise info on our lineage. Thank you.

Dear Libby,
I understand all you said, but I truly think that since the Mormons are very missionary, their whole purpose of this matter is to aid them in their missionary work. I heard that they do this so that when they covince a person to become a Mormon, they convert all of his ancestors also!!

Raphael Goldmeier
Jerusalem, Israel

Dear Rabbi,
I am an aspiring geneaologist. I am working on my family tree. I have found out about the Mormons. They have institutions all over the United States called Family History Centers with microfilms of records from many countries all over the world dating back to very early times. I have personally witnessed their vast information database, as someone sent me 50 photocopied pages of records of my family from Germany. I have been told it is a question as to whether I am allowed to enter a Mormon institution and pay service fees to them. Would I be allowed to utilize the services of the Mormons in my quest to unearth the secrets of my history?

Thank you,
Raphael Goldmeier

Dear Raphael,
Do they connect their service with religion? Is it part of their church? I was always wondering why the Mormons are so interested in this field. Please send me more information so I can answer you.

Dear Rabbi,
Supposedly they do not push religion in their centers for geneaology. Most of the workers in these centers are not even Mormons (supposedly).I assume they use the proceeds for their church. I have heard that they do it because when someone does convert, they can "convert" the whole family generations back retroactively.
This is all based on stuff I have heard - not first hand knowledge.
Thank you,
Rafi Goldmeier

Dear Rafi,
Since it is made by missionaries for the purpose of spreading christianity, it is ugly to use such a thing, and you should not do it.

I had my bar mitzvah a couple months ago and I did really bad and everyone laughed at me during the service, even my mom. I am really depressed and I don't know what to do please help me!

Dear Sir,
It is interesting to note that the very same thing happened at my bar-mitzvah!!

I was so upset that I said to myself that I am not going to let this happen again. I started learning so hard until I began reading every week from the Torah in shul, and even became a rabbi. So I suggest that you do the same!!

Ariel Avrech
Los Angeles, California USA

I have heard that there is an effort being made in Eretz Yisroel to breed red heifers for economic purposes, such as selling the meat. Assuming that this is the authentic breed of the Parah Adumah, wouldn't this be forbidden because of the issur hanaah involved? Or does this only apply in the time of the Beis Hamikdash?

Dear Ariel,
Since the animal will not become hekdesh by anyone, it will not be holy, and there is no problem.

Melbourne, Vic Australia

Dear Rabbi,
I was born in Israel but have grown up here in Australia. I have always had a great yearning to go back and live in Israel. I cannot stop dreaming about the day we will live there once again.

I was wondering what the Torah says about going to live in Israel. Should Jews make an effort to live there?

Thankyou

Dear Madam,
It is definitely a mitzva to live in Israel. But it also depends on other things, as whether you will have parnassah, where to live, education for your children etc. So I need to know more information if you wish me to help you decide.

Wiesbaden-Naurod, Germany

What is the status of the non-Jewish monotheist who does not subscribe to a religion other than Judaism, who has no family connections to the Jewish community and who feels attracted to the Jewish faith. NOTA BENE: this person is happily married to another non-Jew and is a proud father of twin children. Presumably conversion is not advisable.

Dear William,
There is no need to convert. But you should help Jews and Judaism. This can be done by supporting orthodox Jewish institutions, and speaking out for their causes.

Also you should keep the seven commandments that even gentiles are commanded. This way you have fulfilled your task.

Daniel Smith Pembroke, North Carolina USA

Dear Sir,
I would like to Thank you for making such a web site in order for many people to ask question since this world is full of lies and false religions. Please explain something to me. I am a gentile, who wanted to get closer to God. I want to do the right thing in this world in order to avoid hell in the next world. Therefore, I went to a Church of God on July 20, 1996 and something happened to me that I can not explain. The pastor concluded that I had in fact recieved the Holy Spirit because I was speaking in tongues, which I believed. But three days afterwards I felt the Holy Spirit telling me to wash a brother's feet. Now I got scared and did not do it. The next morning I woke up, God had marked me on my forehead. Why do you feel he has done this and do you believe in the Holy Spirit? Why do I feel so confused? I want to know God and His Kingdom but I feel like He has forsaken me. By believing in Jesus am I condemned? By disobeying the Holy Spirit am I in trouble?

Any comment will help. Thank you.

Daniel

Dear Daniel,
Your letter shows great sincerity and a strong will to find out what is your task in life and where the truth is.

Since Judaism is the original religion that Christianity sprouted from, it is worth your while to learn more about it. You must find out the commandments and see if you are willing to obligate yourself to all of its laws. You can stay a gentile, but you must keep the seven commandments which are basic to all mankind.

There is no need to worry about the Holy Spirit. Try to learn what your obligations are and then you shall not be in trouble.

Auckland, Auckland New Zealand

What are the eight laws for non - Jews. Can you explain the Sabbath (how much work can you do)

Their are seven laws for non-Jews.
1) To have courts to judge
2) Not to curse G-d.
3) Not to worship idols or false gods
4) Not to commit adultery or forbidden relations
5) Not to murder
6) Not to steal
7) Not to eat a limb of an animal that was taken off his body when he was still alive.

Quarry Bay, Hong Kong

Dear Rabbi,
Shalom! I had read that the book of Jonah was read as the Torah reading for the Yom Kippur afternoon service. I am studying the book of Jonah right now and may I know the reason why it is read on the Yom Kippur afternoon service. Thank you very much!

Dear Sir,
We read Jonah since it speaks of repentance, which is what is needed on Yom Kippur. A second reason is because it teaches us that we cannot flee from G-d, and so we must repent.

LOLA BALDRIDGE
REDDING, CA USA

RABBI:
I have believed all my life, but cannot find it in the Tanach, that we all are appointed a "guardian angel" when we are born and that angel stays with us until we die. I also believe that Satan appoints a fallen angel to try to deceive us, etc., away from Hashem, but not necessarily the same "bad angel." Is there anywhere in the Tanach about a personal "guardian angel" appointed to us for our whole life?

Dear Lola,
This is not in the Tanach, but it is probably mentioned in the words of our Sages. Would you like me to look for it there?

Dear Rabbi,

If I use a list of names to say a refuah shleimah for those people, but I don't know if all of these people are still unwell, what do I do? I'm worried if I say a refuah shleimah for someone who is well I'm giving them an ayin horah. Thank you for your time.

Dear Lola,

I think that you should stop after a while, since otherwise there is no end to your list. Even beforehand you can make a condition, that if they are well, you are not praying for them.

Richard Braun
Asheville, NC US

On a package of pesachtige Yerushalayim matzah, there is a statement "No chashash, tevel, and shevi'it.

I can understand chashash and tevel, but shevi'it? This is apparently a reference to the sabbatical year, but I don't see the connection with kashrut.

Thank you.
R. Braun

Dear Richard,
Food that was grown during the sabbatical year in prohibition to the laws, is forbidden to eat. Therefore they are guaranteeing you that there is no such problem.

Jerusalem, Israel

DEAR RABBI,

I DO BUSINESS WITH A GENTILE THAT IS VERY INQUISITIVE ABOUT JUDAISM. HE RECENTLY ASKED ME TO EXPLAIN TO HIM ABOUT THE RED HEIFFER. WHAT AREAS OF INFORMATION CAN I EXPLAIN TO HIM OR GIVE HIM A BOOK OR TAPE ON. I WOULD LIKE TO GIVE HIM A TAPE ON THE RED HEIFFER AND ANOTHER BOOK OR TWO. WHAT CAN I GIVE HIM AND/OR SPEAK TO HIM ABOUT (AND I DO NOT TRY TO ENCOURAGE HIM TO CONVERT NOR HAS HE SHOWN INTEREST IN DOING SO)?
THANKS

Dear Sir,

I am sorry but I know of no tapes or books. I can give you a short explanation if you wish.

Dear Rabbi,
Thanks for your response.
Would there be a prohibition against giving the gentile a tape or book on the subject he was interested which is mentioned in the Chumash, such as the Parah Adumah?
Thanks

Dear Sir,
There is no prohibition giving him a book, since he will be just filling out his curiosity and not learning Torah to do a mitzvah.

Gary Taber

Escondido, CA USA

I am a Seventh-day Adventist minister and have been asked by a parishioner what the Jews, both in Bible times and today, understood the meaning of the sacrificial lamb to be? This question was asked out of sincerity and an attempt to understand the sanctuary and its services better.

Dear Gary,
The idea of sacrificing animals has two opinions of explanation. One is that it is due to the custom of idol worshipping, G-d wanted to give us something so that we would have also a way to worship Him, and not use the idols for sacrificing.
The second opinion is that when we sin, it is really correct for us to receive capitol punishment as one that has rebelled against the king. But G-d takes the lamb in our place, when we sacrifice it, and that is as if we should have been slaughtered.

Hello

In Baba-Mezia chap-4 it deals with "honaat dvarim". Where can I find the exact explanation of this paragraph, with all it's examples (David...)

Dear Rami,

In Choshen Mishpat 227 or 228. Also Rav Zelig Pliskin, in his book "The Power of Words" writes many examples.

Simon Leigh
Edgware, Middx., ENGLAND

At Kabbalat Shabbat, why do some have the Minhag of changing the Niggun half way through Lechah Dodi ?(Lo Tevoshi) ?
Your full reply would be appreciated.
Chag Sameach

Dear Simon,
I heard the reason is since that from there on, the words are of comfort. For instance "Lo tevoshi". So the niggun is changed to fit the words.

Micha Males
Kiryat Telz Stone , ISRAEL

Dear Rabbi - I was wondering if there would be a problem with using a counter on my web site. Perhaps I am counting Jews that way? Thanks for this service.

-Micha Males

Dear Micha,
I do not see a problem since the counter will count Jews and gentiles alike, and also will count one person the ten times he looks at your site. Good luck!

Dear Rabbi,
Recently, a person in the community asked me along with 2 others to annul him of a Neder he had made in the past. When the 3 of us read from the Siddur I was not able to keep up with them and therefore did not properly pronounce the words. Was the annulment valid? I knew what the purpose of the annulment was for, just did not read the words properly.

Thanks

Dear Sir,

It depends what you said. If you said the part that has mutar lach, and you knew how to annul the neder then it is ok.

Dear Rabbi
I am aware of the origin of the law that obligates Jews in the diaspora to celebrate an additional holy day on the pilgrimage holidays. I would like to know how come, with advanced telecommunications around the world, this law persists, while Jews in Israel celebrate only one day. Is this additional day perhaps a custom turned to law?

Dear Sir,
You are right. It is a custom turned into law, and although it does not apply nowadays, we still have to keep it.

Dear Rabbi,
There has been some speculation lately on the location of the Aron Hakodesh. Does Chazal discuss this issue and if so can you share some thoughts on the topic. Thank you.

Dear Sir,
I never heard a dispute of the location of the Aron Kodesh. It is always up front, in the mizrach. Why do you ask?

Sacramento, CA USA

I am a goy and none of the Christian/Catholic/Protestant bibles contain Deut. 34.5 which mentions that Moses died by the mouth of the Lord.
This death by the Lord's kiss is mentioned in a book I am reading--Louis Jacobs JEWISH MYSTICAL TESTIMONIES, pp59-60.
Can you provide a Jewish source that contains the reference to Moses' death by the mouth of the Lord?
Thanks for your assistance. I'm writing from Sacramento, CA.
Cheers
PS: I enjoy surfing your web site

Dear Sir,
The source is in Rashi's commentary on Deut. 34:5 and he writes that Moses died with a kiss from G-d. Rashi always quotes other older sources as midrashim, and this is Rashi's source.

Ron Guetta

Dear Rabbi,
How come your site is open on shabat???

Dear Ron,
The site is international, and thus Shabbat is at different times across the world. Nothing is done on the site during Shabbat.

Alexandria, Virginia, USA

I have several questions. Thank you for taking the time to reply. I look forward to your answers.
Re: Dietary Law
Are mushrooms considered "unclean" according to Torah? If so, please cite supporting scripture(s).
Re: Historical/Theological
What is the Almighty's name (not his title)? In Isaiah, he's referred to as "Yah"-- is there another or longer proper name?
In Genesis where it says "let US make man in OUR own image, please explain the plurality of Elohim suggested there as opposed to Shema.
Re: Children
What does Torah say, if anything, about married couples (male/female) who are not in agreement about having or not having children?
Thanks, again.

Dear Sir,
Mushrooms are kosher.
G-d has many names, and seven are mentioned in the code of law.
The plural is to teach modesty, that a wise person should nevertheless confer with those of lower status. Therefore G-d is conferring with the angels.
The Torah says that there is a mitzvah to have children and each one is another mitzvah. When the couple cannot agree they should confer with their rabbi.

Minneapolis, MN, USA

Can you give me a precise explanation of the differences between "kosher", "glatt kosher", and "kosher lamehadrin". Thank you.
PS. My great grandfather was a "shochet" in Tilsit, East Prussia.

Dear Sir,
There is no difference between "glatt kosher", and "kosher lamehadrin". Both are a higher standard of kashrus than just "kosher". The difference may be that some of the ingredients are disputable in "kosher".

Noam Hinberg
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Dear Rabbi,
1. In the benediction of Shema Koleinu, is it right for one to add one's own, personal requests to Hashem in English?
2. What can one do if he has a strong desire to learn Torah, but cannot learn by himself because he does not understand the Hebrew and cannot find a study partner who does understand?
Thanks in advance and have a happy Pesach!

Dear Noam,
You can add your own personal requests in English in shema kolenu.
If you wish to learn Torah, you must take time out during the year to travel to a place where you can have someone who shall teach you Torah. If this is difficult for you, pray that G-d shall help you acheive this goal.

Leah Paley
Richmond, VA, USA

Hi!
I need to know what we (orthodox Jews) think of the Jews who commited suicide at Masada. Do we regard them as heretics or heroes? The reason I need to know is my local newspaper was comparing different cults, and it used the Jews at Masada as an example of an early cult. While I understand that Jewish law forbids suicide, I never thought of them as a cult.
Thank you for your time.
Leah

Dear Leah,
Why do you ask about Masada when you could ask about King Saul who did the same thing even earlier?
The answer is that one is allowed to commit suicide when one fears great pain, trials or embarrassment. Both King Saul and the martyrs at Masada knew of the great pain, trials or embarrassment that awaited them in the hands of their enemies, and thus were allowed to commit suicide. They were not cults at all, but doing according to the Torah.

Baton Rouge, LA, USA

In the newspaper today, it mentioned that a neo-Nazi group is located in Elo- k- im (actually spelled with an "h" and no dashes) City, Oklahoma.
My question concerns the use of a divine name written in English letters. What do I do with today's newspaper? Even though such a use of a divine name might be chilul hashem, may I throw out the newspaper or has it taken on sanctity?
Furthermore, how may I pronounce the name of this place if I need to mention it in conversation?
Lastly, how do Israeli newspapers handle such a situation and are the answers to my questions different if the name of this place in Oklahoma is written in Hebrew letters?
Thank you.

Dear Sir,
You are allowed to pronounce this city since you do not have any intention for His name, just as other words in Hebrew that can mean His name are allowed when they are not intended for Him. You can also throw away the newspaper. I do not know how the newspapers here handle the subject. There is no difference whether it is in English or Hebrew letters.

Petach Tikvah, Israel

If it may be possible,I want to ask some questions that bother me for quite a long time:
1. How can the distruction of the first temple be justified inspite of god's promise to never let it be destroyed?
2. Why don't orthodox extremists believe in zionism, even in the cost of burning the Israeli national flag?

Dear Sir,
G-d never promised that He would not destroy the temple. The opposite is true. He warned us in the Torah of all the terrible things that shall happen to us if we sin.
The extremesits see any violation of the Torah as the worst thing in the world. Therefore, they have no respect for anyone that violates the Torah.

Dear Rabbi,
Is it true that a Red Heifer was born in Israel recently? And does this have anything to do with the coming of the Moshiach?

Dear Sir,
It has nothing to do with the coming of the meshiach since we cannot use it without having a beis hamikdash.

Houston, Texas, USA

Rabbi Feinhandler,
Could you please provide me the Torah, Mishna, and Gemara sources that (i) set out the proper means of conversion and (ii) define who is a Jew? Are you aware of any succinct discussions of these subjects, including cites, of these subjects? Could you provide one?
Many thanks

Dear Sir,
The source is in Yevamos 46b and Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah 268. I did not understand your question about cites.

Dear Sir,
Someone like you who knows the reform from within is a valuable asset to the Jewish people. Utilize your knowledge to fight the reform!!

Peter Durrant
!RD Christchurch, New Zealand

My mother was a Jewess, she came from a large family. Unfortunately she was not able to conceive due to medical complications following a ruptured appendix, as a young woman. My mother and father wanted children and I was adopted into the family at the age of 6 weeks. The question is am I Jewish or not. Thank you for your time.

Dear Peter,
The only way that a person can be Jewish is to be born to a Jewish mother. Although you were raised by a Jewish mother, but since you were not born to her, you are not considered Jewish at all.

Brooklyn, NY, USA

When the yidden received the manna there were certain foods that they didn't receive such as onion , garlic , watermelon etc please tell me the rest of these foods -I was told that this was because pregnant or nursing mothers could not eat these foods. My question is ;which foods are these? to whom is this applicable-nursing or pregnant women?Is it at all applicable now days that we totally cannot eat these foods, or do we test it on how the baby responds to the foods while nursing after the mother eats these foods.

Dear Madam,
This does not apply today since our natures have changed.

2nd question; can you use roll on deoderant on shabbos?

Yes you can, since it is a liquid and not an ointment.

3rd question ;how can people use "shabbos " make up after all isn't that applying color to the face?

You are right that it is a problem. Only makeup that does not stick to the face is allowed.

Louis Morris
Denver, CO, USA

Dear Rabbi,
Did G-d plan the Shoah? If He did, why should one believe in such a terrible Being?
If He deserves credit for all that is wonderful why does He get off the hook for this Evil?
Thank you,
Louis Morris

Dear Louis,
Of course G-d planned the Shoah. But what must be understood, is why did He plan such a thing when it seems so horrible in our eyes. The answer is that to really know why G-d does things, we must have information. We must not only know past history, but also future history. We must know His plans for the rest of the existence of the world. Another thing that we must know, is the personal records in Heaven of every person that was killed, and of his parents, and all of his relatives.
Obviously, we do not have all the neccessary information so that we can judge Him. But we can judge on His past performance, that He is very kind, that He has great wisdom, and that He has preserved the Jewish nation for thousands of years.
A father may give some bitter medicine to his child. Should the child continue to beleive in his father. Should he be called evil?
I suggest that you make a daily plan in reading the Tanach. This will help you strengthen your faith and trust in G-d. He knows what He is doing, and it is all for the very best, but we do not understand it all.

David Salvadori
Este, Italy

Why do we have to put a kippà?
Where is it written that we have to put it on?
When did Jews begin to use a kippà?
Thanks
David Salvadori

Dear David,
The Talmud mentions that a rabbi said to a mother, "Cover your child's head so that he shall have fear of Heaven." This is the source and as you see it begins at the time of the Talmud at least.

Coral Springs, FL, USA

This weeks parsha we learn of the 13 Atrributes. What is the differnece between saying Tehhillim and saying these 13 Atrributes when we are looking to repent.
Thank You

Dear Sir,
The 13 attributes are similar to a specified medicine for a certain illness which of course is more effective than a general one. Tehillim is more general but the 13 attributes was what Hashem showed us as the way to repent.

Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, USA

The Christian Calendar is in the year 1997, because Jesus Christ is considered to have been born 1997 years ago. What event is reflected by the year 5757 in the Jewish Calendar?

Dear Sir,
The creation of the world, and the creation of the first human being.

I am an assisstant principal of a public school in the United States. A teacher has asked me to come to his room for a few days to teach about Judaism in his comparative religion class. I can not "sell" Judaism, but must only "explain" it. What should I say. I'm tempted to tell the Hillel story "While on one foot. . . " Some ideas would be appreciated.
Stu Berlin

Dear Stu,
You can say that Judaism is the father of the religions called Christianity or Muslim, since both are based on the Holy Bible.
You can also say that the Jews try to be an example for the rest of the world, in their piety and ethics, and that is what the Bible teaches us, and they try very hard to put it into practice, and not just theory.

Dear Rabbi,
In Rabbi Alfred P. Kolatch's translation of the Nishmas prayer in The Family Seder,p.95, the last verse is translated "For praise is becoming to Thee, Songs of thankfulness worthy of Thee." I think for English speakers the word "becoming" is confusing in this context. I was wondering if you could suggest a clearer wording.

Dear Madam,
Perhaps "is fitting" is more fitting.

Dear Rabbi:

I have been following the news recently about the Reform and Conservatives trying to make inroads into Judaism. I have read about the news conference of the Union of Orthodox Rabbis. The uproar that erupted from this I don't quite comprehend. There wasn't one thing that was said that wasn't true. Reform and Conservative Jews are Jewish. Reform and Conservative converts to Judaism are not Jewish. This is the halacha, is it not? Why are so many religous organizations scared to back up the truth. Please respond to me as I would like to clarify the situation. Thank You.

Dear Sir,

You are absoultely right that Reform and Conservative converts to Judaism are not Jewish. But what is going on in with the religous organizations is unknown to me. If there is anything you can do to back up the truth, I am sure that they would appreciate your help.

Louis Schreiberg
Owings Mills, Maryland, USA

I understand in Kabbalah, there is mentioned that angels or seraphim (spelled right?) appear in groups of four, seven, and twelve. Is this true? Where may I find mention of this?

Dear Louis,

I am sorry but this is not my field. Actually, it is only correct to learn Kabbalah when you have finished learning the rest of the Torah. I have not yet done that.

Jack Mezrahi
Barranquilla, Columbia

Dear Rabbi,
Why is there Pesach and Pesach Sheni and not so with other holidays?Thank you, Jack Mezrahi

Dear Jack,

It is because the Torah tells us explicitly that if we were unable to bring the sacrifice of Pesach since we were far away or tamey, then there is a special day of Pesach Sheni were we have a second chance. (See Bamidbar 9:9-14). There is no such thing by other holidays.

Kansas City, Missouri, USA

We will be married the end of the month. We both believe that our committment to each other is also reflected in our committment to our community and family. We believe that we have a duty to help our family, friends and community, and that they have a duty to support our union. I hope this makes sense! We would like to include prayers, or even stories, that reflect this theme in our ceremony. If you would be so kind as to give us direction.

Dear Sir,
Mazel Tov!!! I suggest that you use my book "Beloved Companions - Insights from the weekly parsha on domestic tranquillity" It has stories, and many interesting ideas about marriage. It is on my site on the web, and can be obtained from me or Feldheim Publishers in Nanuet, New York. Good luck!!!

a groiser am hooretz
Lakewood NJ, USA

Should a kollel yungerman try out a business for parnossa purposes against the consent of relatives including de shvigger?

Dear Anonymous,
I protest your calling yourself an "am haaretz" since whatever you know in Torah, you aquired through your striving and working hard, and therefore you deserve the due respect. Chazal say that everyone should say that for him alone it was worth to create the whole world, which teaches us that each and every individual has tremendous importance, so please do not belittle that importance.

Concerning the question you posed, it is your life and you yourself have to decide what to do in it. If your relatives are willing to support you, and they have what to offer you, in that case, it is up to you and if you have the cheshek to learn, you should definitely accept their offer. But if you have no parnassah and they are not offering any support, then it is your obligation to support your family and you must go and try a business whether they like it or not.

I wish you much success in whatever you do.

Brooklyn NY USA

Question:

1. How do we get the Yiddish name "Fishel" from the Hebrew "Ephraim"? They don't seem to be related.

   Dear Anonymous,
   It is not clear to me whether Fishel is the same as Efraim, but if it is, people make nicknames that show that a person is dear to them.

2. Can I have my vort during the Three Weeks? What about during the Nine Days?

   You can have your vort even on Tisha B'av since chazal said that someone might steal your chasan through his prayers. But in the the three weeks do not make music, and serve only mezonot. And mazel tov!

   Sincerely,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Newton MA USA
   
   Question:A non-Jewish friend of mine recently called my attention to an article disscussing slaughter methods used in the US. The article described a mehtod in which cattle was hung upside down in a manner that is often painful for the animal. According to the article this method is used for Kosher and non-Kosher slaughtering but in case of the Kosher slaughter the animal does not recieve a sedative because of the Kosher laws. My question is how can this method be used to produce Kosher meat since the main ethic of shechita is to kill the animal without its suffering? I originally thought the article must be in error but I have confirmed what it says so I am truly confused and do not know what to tell my friend.

   Dear Anonymous,
   

   I am not acquainted with the methods of shechita in the USA, but I know that here the animal is enclosed in a metal cage and it lies down, with his head protruding from the cage.

   If in the USA the method is really the way you describe it, I would say that they do not have another means of protecting themseleves since there is great danger when an animal is shechted since he can kick you or move in a dangerous way.

   The use of a sedative is forbidden since it numbs the animal and then he may be harmed from the sedative in such a way that he is not considered kosher, but I am really not sure why a sedative is not permitted.

   But the main idea is that although we are not allowed to cause any unnecessary pain to an animal, but when it is necessary to protect ourselves then it is allowed because Man is greater than animals. But we cannot do anything that shall jepordize the kosherness of the slaughtering, otherwise once again we have the rule that Man comes before animals in importance, and the animal was created to serve Man.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Bruce R. Adams
   Idaho Falls ID USA
   
   Question-: Some time after Jacob arrives in Egypt and is reunited with Joseph, Joseph brings his sons Ephraim and Manasseh to Jacob (Israel) for lineage-birthright blessings from the patriarch. Why does Jacob then tell Joseph that he is adopting Ephraim and Manesseh? What is the significance of the "adoption"? Is Joseph's marriage to Aseneth a factor?

   Dear Bruce,
   Joseph is being told by Jacob that his two sons will not be considered as grandsons but shall be considered as brothers to the other sons of Jacob. This means that all the other sons of Jacob will have to split the land of Israel equally with them. Joseph is also told that his other children that shall be born from now on, will not have this privilege, and they will be considred as children of Joseph and not have an equal portion in the land as the brothers of Joseph. Joseph's marrying Osnath is not a factor in this decision. This was a Heavanly prophecy that Jacob carried out.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Melvin Etra
   Hicksville NY USA
   
   Dear Rabbi, Why is it customary to remain seated during the recitation of the Shema at Shacharit and Maariv? Shouldn't such an important and central passage be recited while standing?

   The tefillah KEIL ADON in the Shabbat Shacharit is written in alef-beit roshei-teivot. The line that should begin with a "samekh", however,begins with the word "s'meichim", with a "sin". Was this an error on the part of the poet?

   Dear Mel,
   Although Shema is a very central passage, the Torah specifying that it is said in all positions, as it is written, "When you sit in your house, when you go on the road, when you get up and when you lay down,". Due to an argument of the interpertation of this verse between Beis Shamai and Beis Hillel, one is not allowed to even be machmeer and stand up in the morning shacharis. The explanation could be that the Shema represent our constant involvement with G-d in all the things that we do.

   Concerning "Keil Adon" the letters "samech" and "sin" are exchangable as found many places in the Torah, and thus the author felt that he could use a "sin" to get the word happiness "smechim" into the prayer.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Jeff
   
   Question: What diplomatic answer do you give to a non-Jew when they ask why we don't drink their wine?

   Dear Jeff,
   The Jewish nation has survived thousands of years due to their consistency of not intermarrying and thus not losing their Jewish identity. Our Sages felt that if we dring a gentile's wine, it will subsequently cause intermarriage since wine makes merry, and leads to a type of friendship that could lead to marriage. Therefore, although we greatly respect our gentile friends, their wine is not allowed.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Aron Friedman
   Brooklyn NY USA
   
   Question: If the yidden died when Hashem said anything then why didn't Hashem tell them the Aseres Hadibros in shamayim?

   Dear Aron,
   The Asres Hadibros were made for this world, therefore it would not be correct to teach them in shamayim, and lose this world. When we accomplish keeping the mitzvos in this world, then we can enjoy the next one. Otherwise it has no meaning.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Ralph Birnbaum
   Tel-Aviv Israel
   
   Question-: Who fixed the Jewish calendar? Was it Hillel the elder or Hillel the younger? When and where did the latter live?
   Thank you

   Dear Ralph,
   It was Shmuel Hakatan and he lived in Yerushalyim.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Yokine Western Australia
   
   Dear Rabbi,
   I have two questions to put before you. The first question is in regard to a dinner invitation. A close friend has invited me for dinner. This friend does not fully observe kosher in regard to crockery, cutlery and dishwashing. I strictly adhere to the Laws of Kashrus but do not wish to offend this friend by suggesting that her observance is lacking. How do I reply to this invitation without offending my friend?. The second question is regarding the purchase of fish. Can fish be purchased from a non kosher fish shop provided the purchaser can see that the fish meets kosher requirements?

   It is a common problem how to avoid offending friends that are not observing kashrus as much as we are when it comes to invitations. I suggest that you be frank with your friend and tell her why you cannot eat by her. You can say first that you do not wish to offend her in any way, but she certainly would not want you to compromise on religious principles which are so dear to her.

   This method is preferable since it might convince your friend to do keep the same standards of kashrus as you do since she will see your sincerity. If you simply give some excuse why you cannot come to dinner, you will definitly not acheive that goal.

   Purchase of fish is possible in a non kosher store, as long as there is no contact with the non kosher fish. For instance many stores cut and clean the fish and thus there will be contact through the knife or the table with the remainders of the unkosher fish.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Rafi Goldmeier
   Jerusalem Israel
   
   Question: I would like to know whether there is a need to wash negel vasser on the hands of a young child. My daughter is only 11 months old and it seems silly to wash her hands in the morning with n.v. (aside from the flood it would cause), but it seems necessary. After all, ruach raah should affect her too?

   Dear Rafi,
   There is a dispute among the poskim at what age a child should wash negel vaser. If you feel it is difficult you can wait until the child is old enough to wash with out a bal-egan.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Jeff Robinson
   Melbourne Victoria Australia
   
   Question:Shalom Rabbi.Could you please help me with a well worded answer for an 8 year old girl. She asked me the question..."Where did Hashem come from and who created him".She also asked "If everyone descended from Adam why do we have so many different religions?". Please can you help with answers that would be suitable for an 8 year old... Thank you.

   Dear Jeff,
   Tell her that Hashem is not like humans that come from somewhere but He was here before anyone else and He created everything in the world.

   Everyone came from Adam, but they were offered the Torah, and they refused to accept it because of all the difficulties in keeping all the mitzvahs. They preferred the other religions since they do not restrict you like the Torah does. Only the Jewish people accepted it.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Question: In the Rambans letter to his son,it is stated that he wrote it to his son Nachman.How is it possible that my ancestor Moshe would name his son after his family name,thus making his name Nachman ben Nachman ? My research indicates that Rabbi Moshe ben Nahman had three sons, Joseph(advisor to the King,Castile),Salamon and the youngest Isaac.I would appreciate clearing this matter up since I have researched and written our family history for our Nahman descendent so they would not have to rely on oral history as we did at the knees of our father Haim Joseph Nahman.

   I am sorry but this a historical question, and I am not in that field. But I can tell you what may be the answer.

   A family name was not intoduced in all countries until later, and therefore the name was simply Moshe, and he added Ben Nachman not as a family name but rather to define who he is, which is the son of Nachman. Also it is common for the Sefardim to name their children after their father even if he is still alive. So, the Ramban called his son Nachman after his father. The son's name would therefore be Nachman Ben Moshe.Perhaps in a later generation the family decided on a family name of Nachman.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Nofia Altman
   Israel
   
   Question: Just recently an international conglomerate has begun taking over a major Israeli food company. For me the takeover is distressing for two reasons: Firstly,it is important to keep Israeli companies Israeli. It serves Jewish interests. The Int'l company is under boycott in several countries for their bad track record. One of their lines consists of baby foods. This company consistently violates Int'l recognized infant food marketing codes. In some countries their violations have resulted in thousands of deaths. Until now, we in Israel haven't really been affected; it was not a Jewish issue before. Should it become one now, and how should we address it?

   Dear Nofia,
   You are correct that a company that dangers baby's health, should not be one that we do business with at all. Concerning business with a gentile company, the rule is that if both prices are equal or that is not a difference of a sixth, you should use the Jewish company. But if it is more than a sixth than you can use the gentile company.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Richard Wolterman
   Kaitaia Northland New Zealand
   
   Question: In June 1967, Rabbi Shlomo Goren spoke out a blessing over the Western Wall in Jerusalem, and welcomed the beginning of the Messianic Age. What exactly are the signs of the beginning of the Messianic Age in Jewish thought/tradition? Is there any parallel between that and what are called "end days" or "end times" in Christian apocaliptic thought? How can we recognize the Messiah when he comes? Is there some sort of timetable of the Messianic Age, and, with regard to the coming of the Messiah, when is he expected to come?

   Dear Richard,
   The Rambam writes (Melachim, ch. 12, par. 1) that the days of the Messiah shall be no different from nowadays, and there will be no difference in the way the world is operating. But what shall be in those days is that all the nations of the world will become Jewish, and they shall refrain from stealing or cheating or being immodest, and they shall eat only kosher food and live in harmony and happiness with the Jewish people.

   The signs of the Messiah are mentioned in the Talmud (Sota 49). For instance there will be much chutzpah, and the government will be atheistic, and prices will soar. Obviously, there are no clear signs that the Messiah has come and we are still waiting for him. Therefore I would say that Rabbi Goren's prophecy was wishful thinking.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Herbert Rosin
   
   Question: Another "frum" person in my community is tellling others not to talk to me, i.e. he is attempting to put me in 'cherem'. What halachic recourse do I have. Note: The rabbi of the only orthodox shul in my city will do nothing. Note: I am involved in beginning a new orthodox shul in my neighborhood. The other person is the paid Chazzan of the shul. This Chazzan has told the gabbai that I am not to get any aliyas, 'hagba' or 'gelila'. Do I have any halachic recourse? Can I take him to a Bais Din?

   Dear Herbert,
   The other person can not put you in cherem since you need a higher authority to do such a thing. I would suggest that you try to talk to him and find out what is bothering him and patch things up. If this is not possible, then simply ignore what he is doing. Also, be friendly with him and smile to him when you see him. This may change his attitude towards you. It is a good sign if you have an opponent when you want to do something for a mitzvah. It shows that it is a holy thing, and thus the satan tries to intervene. Just keep on going and you will succeed.

   Best wishes,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Jerusalem
   

   ---

   Zurich, Switzerland
   Question:
   
   Through a discussion with Christian and Muslim friends I was asked the following questions to which I couldn't find a good answer:
   What meaning has Hagar according to Jewish tradition. How does Judaism view the injust treatment of Abraham to Hagar by sending her to the desert with Ishmael?

   Rashi says that Yishmael was trying to murder Yitzchak. He was throwing arrows at him and saying, "Oh, I was just playing." Rashi also says that there was a fear that Yishmael who had gone off the proper road, would influence Yitzchak, and therefore it was an urgent need to send him away unless Yitzchak would be lost. But even without these clear explantions, the verse says explicitiy that G-d commanded the exile, and it is clear that G-d knows what He is doing!!!!!
   

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Author of Avney Yashpeh and Beloved Companions
   2/12 Gedera St.
   Jerusalem, Israel 94427
   telephone: 972-2-5371447
   fax: 972-2-537-2658
   e-mail: feinhan@aquanet.co.il
   web site: http://www.shemayisrael.co.il/ask
   

   ---

   Noam Hinberg
   Ottawa Ontario Canada
   
   Question:
   Regarding the mitzvah of tzedakkah, when does the schar (reward) kick in? Is it when you actually put the money in a box, or when the orgranization receives the money in the box or is it only when the organization redistributes the money to its cause? This has been puzzling me for quite a while. I posted the question on many newsgroups and was not provided with an answer.
   With thanks,
   Noam.

   Dear Noam,
   The mitzvah is to give the tzedakah, and therefore the moment that you gave to the organization you have done a mitzvah, even if they have not fulfilled the purpose of the giving.

   For example you may give a yeshiva a sum of money, and of course your purpose is that the students will learn Torah, and you are supporting them. But your money goes into the general account and it does not go specifically for the boys, and it may go for the secretary or the janitor. But the answer is that the general account is a tzedakah account, and since your money arrived at that place, you have your mitzvah guaranteed.
   

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Author of Avney Yashpeh and Beloved Companions
   2/12 Gedera St.
   Jerusalem, Israel 94427
   telephone: 972-2-5371447
   fax: 972-2-537-2658
   e-mail: feinhan@aquanet.co.il
   web site: http://www.shemayisrael.co.il/ask
   

   ---

   Mr. Scism
   Atlanta, GA
   
   Dear Sirs,
   Could you please explain the reasons behind the upside-down shoveling by the Rabbi and certain family members at a Jewish burial. My family attended our first Jewish burial here today in Atlanta and I noticed the first shovels of dirt were placed on the coffin by the Rabbi's with the shovel in the inverted position. Thank You.

   Dear Mr. Scism,
   Most of the customs that pertain to burial are from the kabbalah, which are mystic and not understood by laymen, and only by people who have learned this area of Judaism. This is one of them.
   

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Author of Avney Yashpeh and Beloved Companions
   2/12 Gedera St.
   Jerusalem, Israel 94427
   telephone: 972-2-5371447
   fax: 972-2-537-2658
   e-mail: feinhan@aquanet.co.il
   web site: http://www.shemayisrael.co.il/ask
   

   
   

   Rafael Shachar
   Moshav Matityahu, D.N. Modiin, Israel
   
   Dear Rabbi Feinhandler,
   In this week's parsha, Ya'akov's "bracha" to Reuvein basically strips Reuvein of his birthright status of bechor, status as king and status as Cohen. The reason, if I'm not mistaken, is that he was "pachaz k'mayim" - he acted impetuously when he messed around with his father's sleeping arrangements. Levi also seemingly acted impetuously, and the result seems to me much more chamor - the death of the entire male population of Schem. Yet Levi was awarded with Kehuna. How is that? Also, How can someone lose their status as bechor? If someone is the first born son, how can he be made not to be the first born son, as we see in this parsha, and by Ya'aakov and Esau? Thank you and yashar kochacha!

   Dear Refael,
   The sin of Reuven is obviously much greater than that of Levi, since he was interfering with his father's decisions. Killing out the people of Shechem was not sin as much as it was a fear that it would bring a catastrophe to them as Yakov told them at the time.

   (From an absolute viewpoint, the people of Shechem had committed the (capital) crime under the Noachide law of total lawlessness,ie there was no attempt at all to provide Justice for victims.This was clearly demonstrated when one of their most respected people raped Dinah with total impunity and this seemed to be considered normal behavior by his father (the Ruler) as well.)

   This distinction can be seen in Midrash Rabba 98:4 where Yakov admonishes Reuven and says to him that he has never lost a drop of keri, so how could Reuven do such a thing. In other words it was a chutzpah to his holy father.

   This also explains the punishment that Reuven received. Being a bechor is not just a thing that you are born into. It is actually continuing the father's tasks in the world. Therefore since this is his job, he receives a greater portion of the inheritence to facilitate his doing so. But once Reuven showed chutzpah to his father, he was belittling his father's importance. Such a person could not continue his father's tasks in the world, since he did not fully appreciate them.

   What about Teshuva? Wasn't Reuven terrible sorry for what he did and did teshuva? Isn't the punishment a bit drastic?

   That is a general question throughout the tanach. There is no doubt that teshuva was done, but it cannot always replace what is lost. It may seem drastic but Chazal say that Hashem is careful with the tzaddikim as the thinness of a hair.

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   Author of Avney Yashpeh and Beloved Companions
   2/12 Gedera St.
   Jerusalem, Israel 94427
   telephone: 972-2-5371447
   fax: 972-2-537-2658
   e-mail: feinhan@aquanet.co.il
   web site: http://www.shemayisrael.co.il/ask
   

   ---

   Michael M. Duggan
   
   
   Dear Sir,
   Please forgive my ignorance and allow me to pose to you a sincere question: In Leviticus 23 I read of the 7 Feasts of Israel, and I note that the Feast of Unleavened Bread begins on the 15th day of Nissan, one day after the Passover. Yet, I believe that the Feast of Unleavened Bread lasts 7 days, and may sometimes be said to begin before passover. This has me confused. Does the Feast of Unleavened Bread BEGIN after Passover, or is it a fluid or floating seven day period which sometimes brackets Passover.

   Please forgive my ignorance. I just don't understand, and I know you are familiar with the way things are done.

   Is it possibly connected with the time period spent before Passover looking for leavened bread in the house, or the time which the sacrificial lambs are kept isolated before Passover.

   Thank you for your help and trouble, and kindness in answering...

   Dear Michael,
   The word Passover refers to the day of the sacrifice of the Pesach, which is the Passover sacrifice, and this happens on the fourteenth of Nissan. Then on the fifteenth, starts the seven days of the holiday of Passover, and the last day is 21 days in Nissan. Searching for the unleavened bread is done on the 14th, since from the 14th noon time none is allowed until after the holiday.

   Best wishes from, Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler Author of Avney Yashpeh and Beloved Companions 2/12 Gedera St. Jerusalem, Israel 94427 telephone 972-2-5371447 fax 972-2-537-2658 e-mail feinhan@aquanet.co.il web site: http://www.shemayisrael.co.il/ask

   ---

   Craig Halper
   Denver, CO USA
   
   I am interested in the explanation to the year 5757 being counted from creation. Would these not mean that the world is only 5,757 years old!

   Dear Craig,

   Some say that the first 6 days of the creation were not normal days, but rather long periods of time. Others say that the world in those days went through a speedy process that normally takes thousands of years to happen.

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Montreal Quebec CANADA
   
   What is a girl supposed to daven for a Zivug?

   Say to Hashem, "G-d, you created me so that I can serve You. Without a zivug I cannot fulfill my purpose in life to serve You. Please with Your great mercy do not consider my sins, but rather look at my will to serve You, and bring me my zivug that together we shall serve You as You wish. Give me the kind of zivug that we shall love each other always, and never have any disputes, we shall raise our children to serve you with all their hearts and souls.

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   
   

   ---

   Cecelia Plechinger
   Pittsburgh PA USA
   
   Somebody from Dorset, England asked you if Goyim observing Shabbos is "Chayav Mita" and why. I was confused by the reply. What does "Chayav Mita" mean and why is a Goy not to also rest in thanks for Creation. Creation was already done and the world is continued today by the goodness of haShem and by the labors of all the people in the world except that the Jews must not labor on Shabbos. The Goyim are not required to rest on Shabbos, but if they wish to, why is the "not fulfilling their puropose?"

   Dear Cecelia,
   It is really hard to understand why our Sages say that such a harsh punishment as death is deserved for a gentile that keeps Shabbos. We cannot fully understand but we can give some understanding. The purpose of the goy is to make a world that is liveable so that the Jews who are the real purpose of the world will have where to live and be able to serve G-d which is the purpose of the whole creation. When the goy is keeping Shabbos, he is saying that he is not willing to be the one who will make the world liveable, but rather he wishes to be the one who is testifying about the creation. That he is not allowed to do since it is not his task in life, and he is not fullfilling his purpose.

   What about somebody planning to convert and is observing Shabbos in order to make sure that he or she can do it before actually converting. This person is certainly a Goy observing Shabbos. What is the differnce, if any, in this case and the case of a Goy who does not want to convert, but observes Shabbos for some other reason?

   Even when a person wishes to convert, he must desecrate the shabbos at least once during every shabbos so that he shall not be over this prohibition. So you see that he has the same din as any other goy.

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   
   

   ---

   Dusseldorf Germany
   
   I have got a somewhat complicated question. The mother of my mother's mother, that is, my grand- grandmother, unfortunately converted to Catholicism some eighty years ago. However, I feel very close to Jewsih culture and I am wondering whether I am still Jewish according to the Halakha despite her conversion. Thank you for your help.

   If your mother's mother was Jewish, it makes no difference that she converted to Catholicism, and you are a Jew in all aspects. I suggest that you learn about how to keep the various commandments since they obligate you. Good luck!!

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   
   

   ---

   Philip Porter
   Harrisburg PA USA
   
   When we say the Torah was given in 70 languages,do we mean languages that were spoken than if so what were those languages. Is there an alternative explanation to the term languages?

   Dear Phillip,
   I think that 70 languages is symbolic to all the nations of the world. This can be proven by the fact that there are 70 oxen sacrificed on Sukkos to represent the 70 nations of the world, which means that we are bringing appeasement-offerings for all the nations of the world. Here too, the idea is that no nation had an excuse that it could not understand the Torah, since it was accessible to all.

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   
   

   ---

   Los Angeles California USA
   
   I observe two yahrzeits in Adar. My mother, z"l, died on 14 Adar 5754; my brother, z"l, died on Rosh Chodesh 1 Adar II, 5755. Which of these two yahrzeits must I observe in both Adars this leap year?

   Dear Michael,
   The yohrzeit that is in Adar II you should keep in Adar II, but the one that is plain Adar, should be kept in each Adar. If there is a difficulty in keeping both days, let me know and I shall advise you further. (Shulchan Aruch 568:7)

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   
   

   ---

   Martin Dusig
   Tarzana, CA
   
   Unfortunately the voices of reason do not make good fodder for the news media. Here in the States news coverage of Palestinians and Jews focuses on the extremists. The hatred each exudes seems insurmountable. I have seen Jews from America on TV, they have lived in Israel for a short period of time. There they are demanding that an Arab move from his home, a home he and/or his family have occupied for hundreds of years. It seems incongruous to me, on what basis does he demand they leave their home? On the other side, what makes the Arab feel the same about the Jew.

   I do not wish to sound sacriligeous, but is religion as we know it the root of evil in the world. Muslim vs. Serb - Jew vs Arab - Irish Catholic vs Irish Protestant - In history, the Crusades, the Inquisition - on and on, generation after generation. Or, would mankind find other differences to smite their neighbor? Thank you for your anticipated reply.

   Dear Martin,
   You have hit a very important point. In the name of religion people are willing to anything they like, as killing, robbing etc. Obviously religion does not say such things. Even the Koran says be kind, but people utilize it for their own desires. In my opinion if an Arab has bought his home in the proper way, it is a halachic question whether he can be driven from his home. Such questions must be asked to rabbis who are experts in the monetary part of the shulchan aruch, and should not be decided by laymen or politicians.

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   
   

   ---

   As an infant I was not circumsised but I LOVE and worship family life and the traditions along with the customs of the Jewish faith. May I become Jewish, one of GOD'S chosen people? This is critical to me!!!!! PLEASE respond soon.

   Dear Sir,
   You may become Jewish. But you must ask yourself if it is worthwhile since you will be obligated with so many commandments, and the punishment for not obeying them is so great. So why get into Judaism, when you can avoid it, and no one will have any complaints about you if do not become Jewish.

   Best wishes from,
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   
   

   ---

   Bruce Roberts
   Arlington, Tx U.S.A.
   
   

   I am starting an in depth study of Psalms. What is the full meaning & understanding of the word 'Selah'? I see it over 70 times in the book of Psalms.

   Dear Bruce,
   "Selah" means forever.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Dr. Jody Prinzivalli
   Ramsey, NJ USA
   
   Yerushalyim is in my heart and soul all the time. Although I have been there many times, I find myself feeling very helpless when I am on this side of the world and a tragedy happens there. Is there any specific prayer that I can use when I am praying for peace in Yerushalayim and the Middle East and for the people who become tragically effected by the events that sometimes occur there? I always daven deeply, but it seem there might be a very specific prayer,as there is for many things in the Jewish faithm specifically for this topic. Any guidance?

   Dear Dr. Jody,
   I am sorry for my late response, but I was away in the USA. I think that any prayer that you say for the Jewish people or for the people in Israel is great. Psalms no. 74 and 79 are recommended.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Dear Rabbi
   My son has been assigned a project and it is not clear to me what the correct sources of information might be.The general topic is Israel - at the time of the Avot. His sub -topic is Amon.What are the specific relevant sections of the Chumash that may give me information and what are the appropriate reference sources? Would the encyclopedia judaica have info on this topic? Is it available on line? If so how? Any direction you can give would be most appreciated.
   Thank you,
   Mom in distress

   Dear Mom in Distress,
   I am sorry that I am late in my reply but I was away in the USA. Amon is mentioned by the Avot in Bereshis 19:38

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Irene Zelepuhin
   Cincinnati, OH USA
   
   Why do the Christians worship Jesus if he was jewish, did he convert to Christianity?

   Dear Irene,

   The Christians think that he was the messiach and he created a new religion where if one beleives in him he will not go to gehinnom.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Paul Velick
   
   Please,
   I am trying to trace my family line through the Torah. Can you help me?

   Dear Paul,

   We do not have family lines all the way to the time of the giving of the Torah due the many exiles that the Jews suffered.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Wynnewood, PA USA
   
   Can a mesheberach be said for a sick person if you do not know their mother's name?

   Dear Madam,

   You can say the meshaberach, and for the mother's name say Chava or Sarah.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Karen Vanic
   Redmond, WA USA
   
   Dear Sir,

   I am teaching sign language to a class of 1st grade elementary students. My resources for holiday signs are geared to Christian holidays. Do you know where I could find a signs for Jewish holidays and customs? I do not want to leave anyone out of the fun, they are so eager to share!

   Dear Karen,

   Perhaps in the clipart of Word.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   London, U.K.
   
   Dear Rabbi,

   I am a 39 year old man, living in London, who was originally raised as a Catholic. I have had a developing interest in Judaism over several years now and am currently taking an academic course in Hebrew scriptures. Is there anyway I can legitimately learn about Judaism and its teachings from a recognised Jewish teacher? As I cannot become Jewish myself (not having Jewish mother), what is my position?
   Many Thanks.

   Dear Sir,

   You can become Jewish even if your mother was catholic, but it is not recommended since the Jewish people are constantly persecuted and also there are so many commandments to fulfill.

   You can learn from books in Jewish libraries or participate in classes.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Doreen Hoy
   OYSTER BAY, NEW SOUTH WALES AUSTRALIA
   
   How is it that I am a Scottish-born Australian and also a Christian and can somehow "feel" Jewish.? This is something that has baffled me for so long. I have just begun to undertake researching my family tree and as my father's middle name is Abel I asked where he got it from. Apparently his mother Barbara Abel died when he was four and nothing much is known about her. My maiden name is Ingram. There are so few living relatives in Scotland now who can answer my questions. I just thought I'd write. I am not really very familiar with the whole Internet thing yet and I have searched just about every conceivable source, all bar getting on a plane and returning to the UK. My other family names on my mother's side are Lawrence, Sherriffs, Innes, Forbes. Thank you for your time. I know you cannot probably solve any of this for me. I just thought I'd write.

   Dear Doreen,

   In order for you to be Jewish, your mother must be Jewish. Find out if there is any Jewishness on her side. If not, then you are not Jewish at all.

   Let me know.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Antwerp, Belgium
   
   Dear Rabbi,

   1. I would like to know how to calculate the hebrew dates of the year and the chagim, if possible could you refer me to a book where I can understand how to calculate all the zmanim and stuff?

   Dear Sir,

   All the calculations can be learned from the tur and shulchan aruch Orach Chaim 428.

   2. What's the halacha on going on a trip boys and girls together (15-18 years old)? Is there any things to be careful of (talking, clothes, tznius, ...)?

   Dear Sir,

   It is not correct to take such a trip together since they are old enough to be interested in the opposite sex, and there is bound to be things going on which are not tznius.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Brett Tancer
   Goleta, CA USA
   
   I have a quick question tell me what you know about azazel if you know anything about it that is. I don't know how much writing has been done on it but i expect that more than we just don't know will be the answer.

   Dear Brett,

   Azazel is the goat that is thrown off a cliff on Yom Kippur.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Vincent Rizza
   Brooklyn, NY USA
   
   Dear Rabbi,
   I am not of Jewish decent that is why I am asking for your help. I have searched the internet, to no avail, for anything I can find on Chanukah. This is for a school report for my nephew. He has to do three reports, one on Kawanzaa, one on Chanukah, and one on Christmas. I have two, now I need one for Chanukah. Any help you can give will be greatly appreciated. Thank you and may God bless.

   Vincent

   Dear Vincent,
   I think your best source would be a library or a Jewish book store.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Holliswood, NY USA
   
   Dear Rabbi Feinhandler,

   I'm going iy"H to E"Y for seminary next year. My choice schools are Seminar Yerushalayim and Bais Yaakov Academy. I know that these schools follow the Bais Yaakov Derech, and that's exactly what I'm looking for. However, I go to a modern Orthodox school which doesn't follow the B"Y derech of learning.
   I have two questions:#1-Please send me any information about these two seminaries(i.e. level of learning, types of girls, facilities...)?
   #2-Coming from a modern Orthodox school, what are my chances of getting into these schools?
   Thank You for your time and effort.
   P.S-I am not representative of my school,and consider myself a B"Y girl through and through!

   Dear Miss, I taught at Seminar Yerushalyim, and it is an excellent school. I think you have a better chance of getting in there, since the other one has an unbelievable demand, and turns down even excellent girls due to lack of space.
   I do not know what your chances are but you should try as hard as you can!!!!

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Julio Cesar Ponciano
   Curitiba, Paran Brazil
   
   I need more information: Day of tabernacle or feast of tabernacle.

   Dear Julio,
   It is called Feast of Tabernacle.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   John Ross

   Have you heard of the Netzarim? Are they part of the legitimate Orthodox Jewish community? I am considering studying with them but wish to first independantly confirm that they are in fact a recognized "branch/sect" of Orthodox Judaism.

   Dear John,

   I have never heard of them.
   

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   

   ---

   Charles Tuzzo
   Fair Haven, Mi

   I would like to know the exact translation for Genesis 1:1
   Bereshit Bara Elohim Et Hashamaym Ve'et Ha'rets
   I believe Bereshit = "In the Beginning"
   Bara = "Created"
   Elohim = "Yawah or God"

   Charlie

   Dear Charlie,

   The translation is "In the beginning G-d created the earth." In Hebrew the verb is before the noun in many instances.

   Best wishes from:
   Rabbi Israel Pesach Feinhandler
   2/12 Gedera St.
   Jerusalem, Israel 94427
   tel. 972-2-5371447
   fax 972-2-5372658
   web: shemayisrael.co.il
   e-mail: feinhan@aquanet.co.il