FAQ
Who Are Messianic “Jews”?
These Christians observe some Jewish practices, but the major Jewish denominations do not recognize their faith as a form of Judaism.
What Does A Mashgiach, or Kosher Supervisor, Do?
The person who makes sure a restaurant or food producer complies with Jewish dietary laws.
Is Mah-Jongg a Jewish Game?
This Chinese parlor game found Jewish enthusiasts in the Catskills.
What Are Kohanim, or Jewish ‘Priests’?
Descendants of the biblical figure Aaron, kohanim enjoy special privileges.
Do Jews Believe In Angels?
These supernatural beings appear widely throughout Jewish texts.
What Is An Eruv?
The eruv is a boundary that allows observant Jews to carry needed things in public on Shabbat.
What Were Shtetls?
Clearing up myths about these Eastern European villages where Jews lived.
Yahrzeit: Remembering on the Anniversary of a Death
Lighting candles and saying Kaddish each year in memory of a loved one.
How to Make a Shiva Call
Because a shiva call requires total sensitivity to the needs of the mourner, the tradition mandates appropriate behaviors for the visitor.
The Jewish Denominations
A quick look at Reform, Conservative, Orthodox and Reconstructionist Judaism — and at other Jewish streams.
What It Means to Keep Kosher for Passover
Hametz, kitniyot and the holiday's dietary restrictions.