Why didn't Joseph notify Jacob that he was still alive?
By Rochel Chein
This question has troubled many of the biblical commentaries. How could Joseph have allowed his father to mourn him for so long? Why didn't he let Jacob know that he was alive? Egypt is not so far from Canaan, and it was certainly within Joseph's means ...
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On what date was Joseph released from prison?
By Rochel Chein
According to the Talmud, Pharaoh's dreams and the release of Joseph from prison occurred on Rosh Hashanah, the first day of the year. On that day, G‑d determines the fate of the world...
Jewish Holidays » High Holidays » Rosh Hashanah » Study » Q&A » On what date was Joseph released from prison?
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Which blessing is said upon seeing a rainbow?
By Rochel Chein
After the flood, G‑d promised Noah that He would never again bring a flood that would destroy the world. A rainbow is a reminder of this covenant that G‑d made with Noah, his descendants, and all living creatures. Therefore, upon seeing a rainbow in the ...
Ask the Rabbi » Latest Questions » The Details » Which blessing is said upon seeing a rainbow?
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Why the Open Hands at Ashrei?
By Rochel Chein
Question: Why do some people open their hands during the Ashrei prayer? Answer: According to the Talmud Berachot 4b., this prayer is recited three times every day partly because it contains the verse “You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every ...
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Is Chanukah mentioned in the Torah?
By Rochel Chein
Chanukah is not specifically mentioned, since the story happened after the Torah was written. Nevertheless, G‑d, who is above the limitations of time, included in the Torah allusions to Chanukah.
Jewish Holidays » Chanukah » Insights & Stories » Questions & Answers » Is Chanukah mentioned in the Torah?
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At what age should a child stop nursing?
By Rochel Chein
I do not know of a recommended age for weaning. There are many factors involved, so one size can't fit all. The American Academy of Pediatrics currently (2005) recommends: "Pediatricians and parents should be aware that exclusive breastfeeding is ...
Ask the Rabbi » Latest Questions » The Details » At what age should a child stop nursing?
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Can a woman blow the shofar?
By Rochel Chein
Blowing the shofar on Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year) is a mitzvah (a commandment.) Women are not obligated in time-bound positive mitzvot, because of their overriding family responsibilities. However, it is certainly meritorious for a woman to hear ...
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Why Is honey kosher?
By Rochel Chein
The rabbis of the Talmud discuss this question.Bechorot 7b The Mishnah states "that which comes from something which is not kosher is not kosher, and that which comes from something which is kosher is kosher." So, for example, the milk of a camel or the ...
Jewish Practice » Kosher » Handbook » Kosher Q&A » Why Is honey kosher?
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Are mushrooms kosher?
By Rochel Chein
Yes, mushrooms are kosher. A mushroom is a fungus, and in general, natural fungi are kosher. Since bugs are not kosher, you should make sure that your mushrooms aren't infested with insects before eating them. Rinse the mushrooms and check a few samples ...
Jewish Practice » Kosher » Handbook » Kosher Q&A » Are mushrooms kosher?
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Why were the Levites chosen to be G‑d's special ministers?
By Rochel Chein
Originally, the firstborn sons were to have been the priests of the Jewish nation, who would serve in the Tabernacle and in the Temple and be the spiritual leaders. When G‑d spared the Jewish firstborn during the Plague of the Firstborn in Egypt, He ...
Ask the Rabbi » Latest Questions » The Details » Why were the Levites chosen to be G‑d's special ministers?
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