The Book of Leviticus Chapter 18:5 Part 6 What does it mean to live by the Torah?
Living by the Torah: Boundaries, Holiness, and Sanctifying God’s Name in Jewish Life What does “living by the Torah” really mean in Jewish philosophy? In Jewish philosophy, the phrase “living by the Torah” reflects a core principle: the Torah and its mitzvot (commandments) are meant to sustain life, not end it. This idea emphasizes that […]
Pirke Avos (Ethics of our fathers) Chapter 2 Mishna 16 Part 69 What is the purpose of life?
Jewish Spiritual Growth Through Challenges: Torah Perspectives on Rebuke, Hardship, and Faith How does Jewish philosophy view hatred toward others? In Jewish philosophy, particularly in teachings like Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers), hatred toward another Jew is seen as deeply problematic for spiritual growth. The Torah prohibits harboring hatred in one’s heart, even if […]
Pirke Avos (Ethics of our fathers) Chapter 2 Mishna 16 Part 68 Learn to change your mentality
Evil Eye, Jealousy, and Spiritual Growth: A Jewish Perspective from Pirkei Avot What does Jewish teaching say about the “evil eye” (ayin hara) and its impact on our lives? In Jewish philosophy, the concept of the ayin hara (evil eye) is closely tied to jealousy and negative perception between people. In this Torah study session […]
Ask the Rabbi – Q/A #698 Are Lubavitcher’s who believe the rebbe is the Messiah, idolatrous?
# Jewish Conversion and Messianic Beliefs: Navigating Faith, Identity, and Spiritual Growth **What does Judaism actually teach about the Messiah (Mashiach), and why is there so much confusion?** In Jewish philosophy, the concept of the *Mashiach* (Messiah) is central but often misunderstood—both within and outside the Jewish world. Jewish tradition teaches that the Messiah is […]
Ask the Rabbi – Q/A #697 Preparing for Passover
Passover Preparation and Observance: Practical Halacha and Spiritual Perspective What are the real requirements for Passover cleaning, and how do they relate to Jewish law? When preparing for Passover (Pesach), many people assume that intense spring cleaning is a religious obligation. However, Jewish law (halacha) focuses specifically on removing chametz (leavened products), not achieving a […]
Pirke Avos (Ethics of our fathers) Chaper 2 Mishna 16 Part 67 How does the evil eye take us out of this world?
Overcoming Jealousy in Jewish Thought: Pirkei Avot, Simcha, and Spiritual Growth What does Pirkei Avot teach about jealousy and hatred? Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers), a foundational text in Jewish philosophy and Torah study, teaches a striking idea: negative traits like jealousy, hatred, and excessive desire can “remove a person from this world.” This […]
Ask the Rabbi – Q/A #696 How does the rabbinical court work for conversion?
Jewish Conversion Process: Practical Preparation, Rabbinical Court, and Spiritual Growth What is the Jewish conversion process and how long does it usually take? The process of conversion to Judaism (giyur) is both a structured journey and a deeply personal path of spiritual growth. According to the discussion, the minimum timeline is typically around two years, […]
The Book of Leviticus Chapter 18:4 Part 14 The mitzvos change us
Torah Study and Spiritual Growth: How Mitzvot Strengthen Your Connection to God **What is the purpose of mitzvot in Torah study and Jewish life?** In Jewish philosophy, mitzvot (commandments) are not simply religious obligations—they are the primary way a person connects to God and builds a meaningful Jewish identity. When someone performs a mitzvah properly, […]
Ask the Rabbi – Q/A #695 Ulterior motives in conversion
# Jewish Conversion, Torah Study, and Rabbinic Authority: Understanding Jewish Law in Modern Life **What does authentic conversion to Judaism require, especially in relationships?** Conversion to Judaism is not just a formal process—it requires genuine intent (kavanah) and full commitment to an observant Jewish life. In this discussion, a key issue raised was conversion within […]
The Book of Leviticus Chapter 18:4 Part 14 The mitzvos change us
Torah Study and Spiritual Growth: How Mitzvot, Divine Providence, and Daily Choices Shape Jewish Life What is the purpose of mitzvot (commandments) in Jewish life? At the heart of Torah study and Jewish philosophy is the idea that mitzvot (commandments) are not for God’s benefit—but for ours. Since God lacks nothing, the performance of mitzvot […]