halacha

American Jewish author Dara Horn trains her robot to shake a lulav

The fun little video made the rounds on X (formerly Twitter), and it points to what will only get more relevant as a question for religious authorities to resolve.

Do people with dementia have to follow Jewish law?

We see how Halacha seeks to keep people with dementia in the world of mitzvot for as long as possible, while always doing everything to protect their physical well-being.

By SHLOMO M. BRODY
15/09/2023

Ukraine-Russia War: A halachic perspective on conflict and peace - opinion

As Jewish individuals, we have a responsibility to advocate for non-violence and support to those affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

By DARREN HOLLANDER
13/08/2023

Conservative rabbis endorse use of electric cars on Shabbat, but divisions over driving remain

The rise of the electric car offers a widely accessible way to drive without creating fire. Concerns about driving too far or needing repairs still apply.

By JACKIE HAJDENBERG/JTA
28/07/2023

Alexa and Halacha - opinion

Proud Sabbath observers who possess Alexa are not required to switch her off on Shabbat. What is halachicly forbidden, of course, is to use Alexa intentionally on Shabbat.

Is quality of life a Jewish concept?

Judaism certainly places a premium on preserving life and usually calls upon us to do everything to save a life. Nonetheless, as Kohelet proclaims, “There is a time for death.”

By SHLOMO M. BRODY
01/07/2023
Female rabbi being ordained

France gets its first Orthodox woman rabbi

Out of France's tradition of traditional, Orthodox Judaism, is emerging an invigorated movement of women who are looking to serve as rabbis for the Orthodox community.

By ALICE D'OLEON/JTA
29/06/2023

'Values in Halakhah': Lichtenstein's views on humanism in Jewish law - review

The central thesis of the book – supported by careful text analysis – is that Halacha itself reflects and promotes many humanistic values. 

By MARTIN LOCKSHIN
16/06/2023

These Israeli women are breaking barriers in the Orthodox community

Historically, rabbis were always men. The Reform movement has been ordaining female rabbis since 1972.  

11/06/2023

Judaism and organ donation: Is respiratory brain death considered death?

Within the Israeli religious-Zionist community, we strongly encourage organ donation and signing an Israeli organ donation card. Many haredim, however, disagree and Diaspora rabbis are divided.

By SHLOMO M. BRODY
26/05/2023
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