My Jewish Learning: Articles By Rabbi Maurice Lamm

Articles By Rabbi Maurice Lamm

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Maurice Lamm is the author of many books, including The Jewish Way in Death and Mourning. He is the president of the National Institute for Jewish Hospice, and Professor at Yeshiva University's Rabbinical Seminary in New York, where he holds the chair in Professional Rabbinics. For years he served as rabbi of Beth Jacob Congregation, Beverly Hills, CA.

The Ketubah Text

The traditional Aramaic text of the ketubah (marriage contract) reflects the history of Jewish marriage.
What Motivates People to Become Jewish?

Although many converts today are motivated by an impending marriage to a Jew, their motivations often change over time as they learn and live as Jews.
Jewish Words of Comfort

Judaism helps provide the words to comfort mourners.
Why Immerse in the Mikveh?

Immersion in the mikveh (sometimes pronounced mikvah) actualizes the transition between the convert's old identity and his or her new one as a Jew.
Marriage & Community

In entering into marriage, a couple takes on new responsibilities for the Jewish community and its future.
The Beit Din (Rabbinic Court)

Final authority for conversion rests with the three-person beit din, which rules on a candidate's sincerity, knowledge, and potential for success as a Jew.
How Not to Comfort Mourners

Compassionate thoughts sometimes lead to insensitive comments.
Choosing a Hebrew Name

As with a literal newborn, the convert as a spiritual newborn selects a Hebrew name and adopts Abraham and Sarah as spiritual parents.
The Ketubah Text (Part 2)

The second part of the ketubah (marriage contract) details the additional gift promised by the groom, the lien on his property, and the acquisition sealing the contract.
The Conversion Process and the Covenant

For the Israelites, acceptance of the covenant was twofold: identification with the people through circumcision in Egypt and acceptance of God at Sinai.