Ask the Rabbi

Due to limited resources, the Ask the Rabbi service is intended for Jews of little background with nowhere else to turn. People with questions in Jewish law should consult their local rabbi. For genealogy questions try JewishGen.org. Note also that this is not a homework service!

Ask the Aish Rabbi a Question

Recommended Tehillim (Psalms) Lists

I have several frustrating issues going on in life today, as well as a relative who is really not well. I’d like to recite Tehillim. Is there a... »

Chanukah Gelt

Where does the custom of "Chanukah gelt" (of giving money to children) come from? My understanding is that the practice of giving presents is... »

Ashkenazi versus Sephardic Jews

Can you explain to me something about the difference between Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jewry? What exactly do those terms mean and what are the... »

Davidic Line Today

I’m wondering what happened to the House of David. After the end of the Kingdom of Judah was there any memory what happened to King David’s... »

One Night of Chanukah?

This year during Chanukah I will be on a wilderness survival trip, and it will be very difficult to properly celebrate the holiday. I certainty... »

Most Important Prayer

Of all the prayers, which is the most fundamental to Judaism? »

Why First-borns Killed?

It has always bothered me why all of the first-borns in Egypt had to suffering in that final, devastating plague. There is no mention in the verses... »