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. Note that this is not a homework service!

Ask the Aish Rabbi a Question

Cousin Marriages

Does the Torah permit cousin marriages? Is the topic discussed at all? I’m concerned in particular because the inbreeding is likely to cause genetic... »

New Hebrew Name

I am 22 years old and starting to take my Judaism more seriously. The problem is that I don’t have a Hebrew name. I’ve asked my parents... »

Torah versus Talmud?

I'm hoping that you can clarify a few terms that are not clear for me. What is the difference between Torah, Talmud, Mishnah, Gemara and Midrash. If... »

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... »

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... »

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... »

The Number 40

In my Torah studies I keep running across the number 40 - for example, Moses on Mount Sinai for 40 days. Is there an underlying message of the... »

Shtisel Returns

Shtisel Returns

Why France Refuses to Prosecute an Antisemitic Murderer

Why France Refuses to Prosecute an Antisemitic Murderer

Religion in America is Fading

Religion in America is Fading

Ancient Coins Tell the Story of the Jewish People

Ancient Coins Tell the Story of the Jewish People

Bert Smith's Scary Fall Saved His Life

Bert Smith's Scary Fall Saved His Life