Rabbi Mark Washofsky
Rabbi Mark Washofsky, Ph.D., is associate professor of rabbinics at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, Ohio, and serves as chair of the Responsa Committee of the Central Conference of American Rabbis.
Articles by Rabbi Mark Washofsky
Smoking, Alcohol, and Drugs
As a culture that values sobriety, individual responsibility, and health, Judaism is wary of substances that may cause more damage than the enjoyment they may bring their users.
Medicine, Healing and the Jewish Tradition
Despite early theological objections, Jewish law views the practice of medicine as a mitzvah.
Cosmetic Surgery: A Jewish View
If it does not serve a legitimate medical purpose, cosmetic surgery is frowned upon by the Jewish legal tradition.
Reform Judaism & Halakhah
Seeking guidance from the Jewish legal tradition, without a belief in its binding nature—especially in light of contemporary moral sensitivies.
Men’s Head Covering in Synagogue: Reform Judaism’s Views
Changing ideas about whether men should wear a kippah (skullcap) during prayer reflect development and maturation of American Reform attitudes toward tradition.