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PODCAST

Dear Rabbi

Menachem Lehrfield

Concise weekly answers to your questions about Judaism. If you are a wondering Jew, visit www.joidenver.com/dearrabbi to submit your own questions.

religion & spirituality judaism

All Episodes

2:29

Why Jews Don't Count People: Biblical Origins and...

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/04/16

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I continue our exploration of why Jewish tradition avoids directly counting people. Tracing this practice back to biblical times, I explain how even during desert censuses, Jews were counted indirectly through coin contributions. I share the cautionary tale from the Book of Samuel where King David's census led to calamity, and draw on commentaries from Rambam and Rashi about the "evil eye." More profoundly, I suggest that assigning numbers to people diminishes their

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1:45

Why Jews Don't Count People

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/04/09

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I explore the curious ritual a viewer observed when their rabbi was pointing at congregants while saying seemingly random Hebrew words before a Kaddish service. I explain that this was likely the rabbi counting to ensure there was a minyan (ten adults) present for prayer, but doing so indirectly. Since Jewish tradition discourages counting people directly, rabbis often use verses with exactly ten words, assigning one word per person rather than numbers. I share that

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1:37

Why Do Jews Break a Glass at Weddings? The Profound...

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/03/26

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I explain the deep significance behind breaking a glass at the end of a Jewish wedding ceremony. While many might think it's just a festive moment signaling the end of the wedding, the tradition carries a profound spiritual meaning. I discuss how even in our most joyous moments, we remember the destruction of the Temple and the suffering of others. By breaking the glass, Jewish couples and their guests practice empathy, acknowledging that while they celebrate, there

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1:31

Can You Be Buried in a Jewish Cemetery with Tattoos?

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/03/19

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I address the frequently asked question about tattoos and Jewish burial. While Leviticus 19:28 clearly prohibits Jews from getting tattoos, I explain that there is no halachic (Jewish law) basis preventing someone with tattoos from being buried in a Jewish cemetery. I clarify that the prohibition applies only to getting tattoos, not having them. Though some communities historically may have refused burial to those with tattoos as a deterrent, this practice is

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2:24

Do all Jews Speak Hebrew?

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/03/12

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I address the common question about whether all Jews speak Hebrew. While Hebrew has experienced a remarkable renaissance as Israel's national language, and most Jews today do live in Israel, not all Jews are Hebrew speakers. I explain how historically, Jews have primarily spoken the languages of their host countries while developing unique Jewish dialects that blend local languages with Hebrew and Aramaic elements. From Yiddish and Ladino to modern "Yeshivish" heard in

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1:31

Halal vs. Kosher: Are They the Same?

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/03/05

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I break down the similarities and differences between halal and kosher dietary laws. While both are religious food guidelines for Muslims and Jews, respectively, they are not identical. I explain that Kosher foods are generally acceptable for halal diets, but not vice versa. Drawing on the nuanced distinctions between these dietary practices, I provide insights into each tradition's overlaps and unique aspects. Whether you're curious about religious food regulations or

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2:38

When to Observe Yahrzeits in a Leap Year: Adar I or...

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/02/26

In this informative episode of Dear Rabbi, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield answers a practical question about Jewish observance: when should one observe a yahrzeit (death anniversary) during a Jewish leap year with two months of Adar? After providing a concise explanation of the Jewish lunisolar calendar system and why leap months are necessary to keep holidays in their proper seasons, Rabbi Field discusses the differing customs between Sephardic and Ashkenazi traditions regarding yahrzeit observances

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2:23

Understanding Divine Judgment During the Days of Awe

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/02/19

In this thought-provoking episode of Dear Rabbi, we address a fascinating question about mortality during the Days of Awe - the ten days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Rabbi Arkham explores how Judaism reconciles deaths that occur before the Book of Life is sealed, offering two traditional perspectives: that the previous year's judgment extends through these ten days, or that one's fate is determined on Rosh Hashanah but can be altered through repentance. This episode provides deep insight

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2:19

Why Do Jewish Days Begin at Sundown? The Hidden...

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/02/12

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I explain the unique Jewish concept of the day beginning at sundown. Tracing this tradition back to the biblical account of creation, I explore how the Torah's pattern of "evening and morning" established our distinctive approach to marking time. I share a deeper spiritual meaning behind this practice - how night represents life's challenges while day symbolizes clarity, suggesting that by beginning with darkness, Judaism teaches us that light always follows. This

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3:21

Why Does God Hide When We Need Him Most?...

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/02/05

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I explore the profound question of why God sometimes seems distant, even in our moments of deepest prayer. Through the lens of the Purim story and the Book of Esther, I explain how God's apparent absence is actually a form of hidden presence. I share a personal parenting analogy from teaching my kids to ski, illustrating how sometimes stepping back allows for growth. Drawing from biblical examples and everyday life, I discuss how these moments of perceived distance

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4:24

How to Solve the Trolley Problem: A Jewish Ethical...

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/01/29

In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I tackle the famous philosophical trolley dilemma from a Jewish perspective. I analyze Jewish law and the Talmud and explain why Judaism's approach might surprise those who take a utilitarian view. I explore why sacrificing one life to save many - whether through pulling a lever or pushing someone off a bridge - goes against Jewish ethical teachings. Drawing from the Mishna and Jerusalem Talmud, I share how Judaism values each life equally and absolutely, regardless of

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5:08

How to Understand God's Plan in Times of Suffering

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/01/22

In today's episode of Dear Rabbi, I'm answering a profound question about God's role in our suffering, especially during these challenging post-COVID times. I explain why we can't fully grasp God's ways by sharing two powerful stories – one about a hypothetical cousin from the jungle seeing a gym for the first time, and another about my personal experience with my son Ozzy during his medical procedure. Through these examples, I illustrate how our limited perspective, like looking at a painting with

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2:12

The Hostage Dilemma: Navigating Unity Amidst Tough...

Dear Rabbi ·

2025/01/16

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we tackle the pressing questions of our time! 🕍This week, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield reflects on the current hostage deal in Israel and its complexities. 🤔Explore the debate over prioritizing safety versus making concessions, and discover why unity among the Jewish people is more critical now than ever. 🌍 Let’s stand together, even when faced with difficult choices, and hope for the safe return of all hostages.We Have A Common Enemy, and It's Not Each

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2:03

Rediscovering My Jewish Heritage: A Journey from...

Dear Rabbi ·

2024/12/25

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we explore the nuances of Jewish identity!🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield addresses the question of Jewish lineage and conversion. 👪 Discover the traditional Jewish view on matrilineal descent and why it's so important.Learn about the complexities of Jewish identity in the modern world and how one's upbringing or current practices relate to their Jewish status. Keep the questions coming! If you have a burning question about Judaism,Email us at

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2:45

What is Zionism? Understanding the Jewish National...

Dear Rabbi ·

2024/12/18

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we tackle complex topics in Jewish history and politics!🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield breaks down the concept of Zionism and its significance to the Jewish people. 🌟 Learn about the movement for Jewish self-determination and statehood.Explore the biblical connections to the land of Israel and the contemporary debates surrounding Zionism. Keep the questions coming! If you have a burning question about Judaism,Email us at Dearrabbi@Joidenver.com📧Tune in to

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2:07

What is Tzedakah? The Jewish Concept of Charity and...

Dear Rabbi ·

2024/12/11

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we explore the depth of Jewish concepts!🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield unpacks the true meaning of tzedakah and how it differs from conventional charity.🤲 Discover the root of this Hebrew word and why it's connected to justice rather than benevolence. Learn about the Jewish perspective on giving and how it could change the world if universally practiced. Keep the questions coming! If you have a burning question about Judaism,Email us at

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2:42

What is the significance of Little box on Jewish door...

Dear Rabbi ·

2024/12/04

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we unlock the secrets of Jewish home life!🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield reveals the significance of the mezuzah, that little box on Jewish doorposts.🚪 Learn about the biblical commandment behind this practice and discover what's really inside that case. Explore the deeper meanings of the mezuzah and how it serves as a reminder of Jewish values and divine protection.Keep the questions coming! If you have a burning question about Judaism,Email us at

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1:38

What is the significance of the Sidelock you see...

Dear Rabbi ·

2024/11/27

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we untangle the mysteries of Jewish appearances!🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield decodes the significance of the distinctive sidelocks worn by Hasidic men. 🧔 Explore the biblical origins of this practice and learn about the variations in how it's observed. Discover how these curls serve as a visible symbol of Jewish identity and pride.Keep the questions coming! If you have a burning question about Judaism,Email us at Dearrabbi@Joidenver.com📧Tune in to Dear

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1:20

Why do Jews place Rocks on graves instead of flowers?

Dear Rabbi ·

2024/11/20

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we unearth the significance behind Jewish practices! 🕍In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield explains why Jews place rocks on graves instead of flowers. 🌹 Discover the symbolism behind this enduring tradition and how it honors the memory of loved ones. Learn about the Jewish perspective on remembrance and the value of lasting tributes.Keep the questions coming! If you have a burning question about Judaism,Email us at Dearrabbi@Joidenver.com📧Tune in to Dear Rabbi

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3:31

Are Orthodox marriages arranged?

Dear Rabbi ·

2024/11/13

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, where we explore the intricacies of Jewish life!🕍 In this episode, Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield debunks the myth of arranged marriages in Orthodox Judaism. Discover the unique approach of "shidduch dating" and how it differs from modern dating apps. Learn about the emphasis on compatibility, shared values, and meaningful conversations in Jewish courtship. Find out why Orthodox Jews might be talking about the big stuff on their first date!Keep the questions coming! If you have a

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99 results

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