In SPECIAL DAYS: SHABBAT AND HOLIDAYS, Rabbi Michael Skobac, Director of Education of Jews for Judaism presents Part 6 of JUDAISM 101, an entry level seminar series for Jews to explore the essential ideas and practices of Judaism and Jewish thought.
Zalman Kravitz
By Barry Yeoman Published: 11/15/2007 From JTA: http://www.jta.org/cgi-bin/iowa/news/article/20071115evangtwo.html CARY, N.C. (JTA) -- The Shabbat morning service at Congregation Sha’arei Shalom in this suburb of Raleigh has a familiar feel to anyone who grew up in a mainstream American synagogue. Sixty adults and a handful of children have gathered in a sanctuary adorned with seven-branched menorahs and an Israeli flag. Many of the men wear yarmulkes and tallitot; the women are dressy but no
Zalman Kravitz
Today's spiritual consumer encounters a tremendous range of choices and opportunities. A walk down the "Judaism" aisle also reveals a plethora of styles and approaches. Not all options, however, are necessarily wholesome. Therefore, the old watchword, caveat emptor, let the buyer beware, is sound guidance. Interfaith families face unique challenges when it comes to making spiritual choices. Unscrupulous missionary organizations, capitalizing on a possible impulse to blend, offer the illusory pr
Zalman Kravitz
Why is it important to give the women in your life flowers before Shabbat? What is the power of a flower? Let's find out. Question of the Week: My wife tells me that it is tradition to give the women in your life flowers before Shabbat - is this true and what is the significance? And secondly, why give something that dies like cut flowers - and not a pot plant? Answer: Flowers are useless. They are impractical, temporary, and they are not an investment. But that's precisely their power. You
Zalman Kravitz
By Aron Moss Question: My religious observance has started to become neurotic. I am forever worried if I am doing things one-hundred-percent right. Did I say the correct blessing? Did I wash my hands correctly before the meal? Did I accidentally violate the Shabbat? I am scared that I'm becoming compulsive. On the hand, I do want to take Jewish law seriously. Can I be fully observant and not go mad? Response: Being careful about mitzvot is a very good thing. When it comes to fulfilling the
Zalman Kravitz