Ask the Expert
Questions from readers with answers from experts.
Ask the Expert: Can I Say Mazel Tov to a Pregnant Person?
A better thing to say is b’sha’ah tovah — here’s why.
Ask the Expert: Can a Non-Jew Hang a Mezuzah on their Doorpost?
We want to show solidarity with the local Jewish community.
Ask the Expert: Is Sex Permitted on Shabbat?
Sex isn't only permitted on Shabbat — it's encouraged.
Ask the Expert: What If It’s Not Safe To Display My Menorah?
There have been antisemitic incidents in my area and I’m worried about being visibly Jewish.
Ask the Expert: Can I Convert to Judaism and Still Be Christian?
Judaism and Christianity profess beliefs that are incompatible with each other.
Ask the Expert: What’s the Difference Between Jewish Prayers and Jewish Blessings?
Distinguishing between different types of Jewish prayers.
Ask the Expert: How Do I Celebrate the In-Between Days of Passover?
How to mark the middle days of the eight-day festival.
Ask the Expert: Applauding During Services
The ancient rabbis forbade clapping on Shabbat — for one very specific reason.
Ask the Expert: How Do I Know When To Stop Saying Kaddish?
Traditionally, mourners recite Kaddish for parents for 11 months minus one day.
Ask the Expert: Can I Attend a Family Wedding on Shabbat?
What do we do when two Jewish values clash?
Ask the Expert: Should I Light a Yahrtzeit Candle For an In-law?
Lighting memorial candles is well-established Jewish custom, but not obligatory under Jewish law.
Ask the Expert: Bread Alternatives for Tashlich
Can something other than bread be thrown into the water during Tashlich?
Ask the Expert: Double Torah Readings
Why are two Torah portions read together on certain weeks?
Ask the Expert: Orthodox Wedding Attire
The underlying Jewish value governing how we dress is modesty, or tzniut.