Beliefs & Practices

The Tattoo Taboo in Judaism

Body ink is a no-no, but it won't bar you from Jewish life.

Magic & the Supernatural Quiz

How well do you know Jewish magic, and the debates around it?

Jews and Guns

What Judaism teaches about firearms, hunting and more.

Do Jews Believe in Satan?

In Jewish texts, the devil is sometimes an adversary and sometimes an embodiment of evil.

Ask the Expert: Can Women Wear Kippot?

Many liberal Jewish women wear yarmulkes during prayer and at other times.

What is a Mezuzah?

On the doorposts of houses and rooms.

Hair Coverings for Married Women

Why some Orthodox women cover their hair, whether with wigs, hats or scarves.

Jewish Views on Cremation

Taboo in Jewish tradition, but increasingly popular nonetheless.

Judaism and Mental Illness

While Jews were instrumental in establishing the field of psychology, the Jewish community is not always comfortable dealing with those who suffer from psychiatric conditions.

Are Jews Allowed to Gamble?

In Jewish tradition, gambling is frowned upon, but not prohibited.

Jewish Custom (Minhag) Versus Law (Halacha)

Though often widely practiced, customs are not considered mandatory by traditional Jews.

The Death Penalty in Jewish Tradition

Capital punishment: allowed in the Torah and Talmud, but rarely carried out by Jewish courts.