Why do some prayers seem unanswered? Can you pray at the grave of a righteous person? Is it permissible to ask a Rabbi or Rebbe to pray on your behalf?
In this week’s Ask the Rabbi Q&A, Rabbi Chaim Coffman explores the Jewish perspective on prayer, divine providence, and spiritual growth. Learn the proper way to pray at the graves of righteous individuals, why heartfelt prayer matters, and how challenges in life can deepen our relationship with God.
Rabbi Coffman also discusses:
• Praying at cemeteries and avoiding idolatry
• The role of righteous people in interceding through prayer
• Why God sometimes withholds what we ask for
• The power of sincere and desperate prayer
• Divine control versus human responsibility
• Writing prayer requests at the Western Wall
• Fear of Heaven as the foundation of wisdom
• Free choice and religious conversion
• Acceptance, belonging, and spiritual growth