Let's Play "Ask The Jew"!

[Typo Lad]

This is something I've wanted to do for a bit, and since all my posts today seem to have something to do with my religion...

Shoot. No questions of limit. If I know the answer, I'll give it. If I don't, I'll ask someone.

Any takers?

[Velorix]

Yeah, I got one. Okay so why do Jewish people eat Kosher food and what does Kosher mean? Did I spell Kosher right?

Okay...that's three questions...that should get you started.

[Typo Lad]

Ouch. Start with a hard one, why don’t you?

The concept of Kashrut stems from a chapter of the Bible where G-d lists certain animals that are forbidden to eat and which are ok. Like, only fish with fins and scales, and the scales have to be the kind that flakes off easily. Or only mammals that chew their cud and have fully cleft hooves. And no lizards or other “creeping things”. In fact, with birds there’s only certain ones allowed, and a lot of translations have been lost. Heck, some Jews won’t eat Turkey.

There’s a misconception that non-Kosher food is somehow “unclean”. It’s not. I’m sure that ham hock is yummy as all get out. However, I have this code of conduct from G-d and he says I can’t eat it, still, enjoy.

There’s also a misconception that Kosher means “blessed by a Rabbi”. Nah. However, it is watched by one. Kosher animals have to be raised under certain conditions and slaughtered a certain way. Kosher processed foods have to have ONLY Kosher ingredients. So you can rest assured that there’s no lard in your Oreos anymore. The “watch-rabbis” who do this are called “Mashgichim”.

Different people keep different levels of Kosher or “Kashrut”. There are organizations of Mashgichim that certify certain brands. For example…if you see a U in an O on a box, that food is certified kosher from the Union of Orthodox Congregations. A K in a Star is Star K Labs. There are many suck places.

Did I miss anything?

---

And yeah, you spelled Kosher right.

---

Also, a note that I am not a Rabbi of any kind and this is all layman’s knowledge and stuff.

[Buzz Dixon]

Remember the classic Hebrew National hot dog commercial from years back? "We answer to a higher authority." :)

[Dreadstar]

...Like, only fish with fins and scales, and the scales have to be the kind that flakes off easily.

So, catfish is out, then?

Oh and I asked you this before, but I thought it would be a good place to re-iterate it.

If you accidently eat a non-kosher product (yes, yes, I know, you're VERY careful. stil...), and you became aware of it later, what's the procedure? What if you did it intentionally?

I mean, is it anything like confessing to a priest and being absolved of the sin, or something like that?

[Typo Lad]

Remember the classic Hebrew National hot dog commercial from years back? "We answer to a higher authority." :)

The irony of that being that I have YET to meet a Jew who finds the cerification on Hebrew National (and Ballpark, btw) to be reliable.

[Typo Lad]

So, catfish is out, then?

Oh and I asked you this before, but I thought it would be a good place to re-iterate it.

If you accidently eat a non-kosher product (yes, yes, I know, you're VERY careful. stil...), and you became aware of it later, what's the procedure? What if you did it intentionally?

I mean, is it anything like confessing to a priest and being absolved of the sin, or something like that?

Catfish is out, yeah.

Nowadays you say you're sorry and move on, as far as I know. We don't have confession.

In the times of the Temple you would bring an offering for sinning accidently.

And hey, non-Kosher accidents happen. I accidently made Rice Krispies treats in a meat pot and the Krispies were dairy. Had to throw the pot out.

[Dreadstar]

... I accidently made Rice Krispies treats in a meat pot and the Krispies were dairy. Had to throw the pot out.
OK, now that's insane...



I mean, where do you find the cabinet space?????

[JeffreyWKramer]

So, how do the kosher rules on what one can and can't eat, and under what conditions, apply to oral sex?

[SteelTownr]

Were there any famous jewish cowboys?

Mark B.

[Ed Cunard]

And hey, non-Kosher accidents happen. I accidently made Rice Krispies treats in a meat pot and the Krispies were dairy. Had to throw the pot out.

Not a question, but a comment. I was reading through one of those home decorating/interior design magazines, and there was one house that had a completely kosher kitchen, with all appliances doubled on the other side (one side for meat, and the other for dairy). The room looked like a mirror image of itself. Aesthetically, it rocked.

That is all. I have no questions.

[Beatnikman]

I'll apologize up front for spelling stuff wrong.

Before Easter, we had a Messianic Jew speak in our church, and take us through a Passover Sater (see, first questioable spelling already). The history and symbolism of the culture was pretty fascinating. Of everything he discussed, it was the middle matza (afekomin? ahfeecomyn? afecomin?) that intrigued me the most. According to him, it's traditionally broken, then part of it is hidden, then redeemed for some kind of reward.

He presented this as a picture of Jesus (broken, burried, then found -resurrected- as a part of redemption). His perspective was that it was something God had made a part of the tradition to give a picture of the Messiah to come.

So, my "ask the Jew" questions are these. (1) Does the Passover Sater typically include the hiding and finding of the middle matza? (2) Is it generally seen as a symbol (of the Messiah or something else)? (3) What is your opinion about his take on it being a prophetic picture of the Messiah?

[Typo Lad]

OK, now that's insane...

I mean, where do you find the cabinet space?????

I'll take pictures of my apartment's kitchen and post it.

And keep in mind, we have another set for Passover, whcih has more stringent laws.

Off the top of my head The Typo Family has:

1) Dairy Pots
2) Dairy Dishes
3) Dairy flatware
4) Dairy Silver (inhereted, we wouldn't have gone out and bought it)
5) Dairy china (also inhereted)
6) Dairy glassware.
7) Meat pots
8) Meat dishes
9) Meat flatware
10) Meat fancy flatware (not silver, but stylish)
11) Meat China.
12-14) Passover Dairy Pots, dishes, and flatware
15-17) Passover Meat pots, dishes and flatware.
18) Assorted meat serving dishes
19) Assorted dairy serving dishes

So yeah, my kitchen is a mess.

[Typo Lad]

So, how do the kosher rules on what one can and can't eat, and under what conditions, apply to oral sex?

Well, you can't waste semen so the whole "what to do with the end result" question takes on new meaning...

(You know, phrasing that in such a way that it would not get me in trouble was a challenge!)

Seriously though, Oral Sex is a big "if". Most say it's ok, as long as the actual ejaculating is done within the vaginal cavity. Others say not. I am not a Rabbi and am not going to share what mindset we hold by,

[Dom]

Do you have that leaflet on famous Jewish sports legends? I've lost mine.

[Buzz Dixon]

My wife is Korean, we're nowhere near Kosher, but she's addicted to The Food Network and everytime I turn around there's a new pot/applieance/utensil in the kitchen.


Oy! (I can say "Oy!" can't I? I work in show biz, after all... ;))

[Typo Lad]

Not a question, but a comment. I was reading through one of those home decorating/interior design magazines, and there was one house that had a completely kosher kitchen, with all appliances doubled on the other side (one side for meat, and the other for dairy). The room looked like a mirror image of itself. Aesthetically, it rocked.

That is all. I have no questions.

Heh. My aunt has a kitchen like that. It truely is swell.

There building an apartment complex out in Queens with the ultimate in Kosher kitchens built in. They're like, Orthodox Jewish Luxury apartments. Seperate meat and dairy DISHWASHERS, even.

Oh and, I left out above that part of Kosher is that you can't eat milk and meat together (Bye bye, cheeseburgers). You're also supposed to wait between eating meat and milk. Differing opinions. Those of Dutch descent wait only one hour. Others 3. We wait 6.

[Sir Tim Drake]

Okay, here's a tough one.

In your opinion, what is the central principle (or principles) of Judaism? That is, if you had to give a very short definition of what Jews believe, what would it be?

(You'd think that I would know the answer to this question, since I was raised Jewish, but I really don't. I can think of several possibilities, but I feel that it's a question with no single correct answer. I'm mostly interested in your personal opinion on the matter.)

[Buzz Dixon]

Do you have that leaflet on famous Jewish sports legends? I've lost mine.
You mean like Sandy Kofax, Moe Berg, and all those guys boxing under Irish/Italian names in the 1920s-30s?

And, yeah, there were Jewish cowboys. Not a lot, but they existed.

[SteelTownr]

You mean like Sandy Kofax, Moe Berg, and all those guys boxing under Irish/Italian names in the 1920s-30s?

And, yeah, there were Jewish cowboys. Not a lot, but they existed.

Thank you for your response, are you Jewish?

Are you a cowboy?

Mark B.

[Typo Lad]

I'll apologize up front for spelling stuff wrong.

Before Easter, we had a Messianic Jew speak in our church, and take us through a Passover Sater (...So, my "ask the Jew" questions are these. (1) Does the Passover Sater typically include the hiding and finding of the middle matza? (2) Is it generally seen as a symbol (of the Messiah or something else)? (3) What is your opinion about his take on it being a prophetic picture of the Messiah?

Ok, Messianic Jews aren't my kinda people, to put it lightly, but let me comment regardless. Oh and as for spelling, I mangle english enough, you have fun with Hebrew>

1) The Afikomen is an essential part of the Seder, yes. The hiding thing is done by most, but many do not. My family never did it for prizes when we were kids. My dad hid it and we had to find it. Later, he modified it for the grandkids: One of them gets to hide it (with a grown-up watching), and then they all get prizes. My dad felt that letting one kid hide it and then essentially hold it hostage for gifts was a tad mercenary.

2) Symbolism - It is a symbol of poverty: A pauper never eats a meal in entirety, always saving some for later. We do it in memory of when we were slaves in Egypt. I've never heard his Messianic take on it, but that doesn't mean it's not based in some teaching or another, however loosely.

3) To be frank? The concept of Messianic Jews kind of annoys me. The simply fact is that, the way I was taught, a Ressurected Messiah is antithetical to Jewish thought. You can't have it both ways. I feel the same way about a subsect that thinks that thier Rabbi is going to be ressurected as the Messiah. Some say we shouldn't count either group for prayer serveces or eat by thier certifications.

No offence, of course,to my cousins here who believe in a Ressurected Messiah.

[Typo Lad]

Okay, here's a tough one.

In your opinion, what is the central principle (or principles) of Judaism? That is, if you had to give a very short definition of what Jews believe, what would it be?

(You'd think that I would know the answer to this question, since I was raised Jewish, but I really don't. I can think of several possibilities, but I feel that it's a question with no single correct answer. I'm mostly interested in your personal opinion on the matter.)

That is a tough one. I think the Sage Hillel said it best, in response to a mocker who said that if he could teach him the whole of the Torah while standing on one foot, he would convert and dedicate his life to study:

"That which is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor. That is the whole Torah; the rest is commentary. Go and study it."

Really, you can't top that.

[Typo Lad]

Were there any famous jewish cowboys?

Mark B.

You know, I've NEVER heard of any. Odd. Then again, I was never into cowboys...

[SteelTownr]

Let's say that you were stuck in the Overlook Hotel (from the Shining) for the Winter. The Hotel decides to leave you alone, so that isn't a concern, but there is no Kosher food avalaible.

You aren't in any danger of starving because there is plenty of non-Kosher food, but you aren't going to get out of there until next Spring.

What do you do?

Mark B.

[Typo Lad]

Let's say that you were stuck in the Overlook Hotel (from the Shining) for the Winter. The Hotel decides to leave you alone, so that isn't a concern, but there is no Kosher food avalaible.

You aren't in any danger of starving because there is plenty of non-Kosher food, but you aren't going to get out of there until next Spring.

What do you do?

Mark B.

Again, I am not a Rabbi...but if you are in a situation where your life is in peril and the only way to save youself is to eat non-Kosher, you can.

If Austin were to pull a gun on me one day and say "if you don't eat this Cheeseburger I will blow your brains out", I would eat it. I probably would never talk to him again though.

Unless, you know, it was a really GOOD cheeseburger.

[Hoss]

I've noticed that you never speak up on discussions about Isreal.

So, what is your view on the Palestinian/Israeli situation? Let me point out first that I have no desire to get you into any kind of political discussion and will only ask you further questions on the topic if you reply to it and the questions will come only if I need you to clarify a point for me.

I just think that your POV will help me learn and understand.

[Beatnikman]

3) To be frank? The concept of Messianic Jews kind of annoys me. The simply fact is that, the way I was taught, a Ressurected Messiah is antithetical to Jewish thought. You can't have it both ways. I feel the same way about a subsect that thinks that thier Rabbi is going to be ressurected as the Messiah. Some say we shouldn't count either group for prayer serveces or eat by thier certifications.

No offence, of course,to my cousins here who believe in a Ressurected Messiah.
No offense taken at all. And not to be argumentative, but I don't understand how "a Ressurected Messiah is antithetical to Jewish thought." I've always thought that one of the cool connections between Christianity and Jewish faith is the belief in a Messiah. You believe he's coming. I believe he came. But we both believe. Is that accurate?

This is totally fun for me, by the way. I love learning about other perspectives.

[Typo Lad]

I've noticed that you never speak up on discussions about Isreal.

So, what is your view on the Palestinian/Israeli situation?

Well, I have piped up once or twice, but yes, it is a rare event. Let me tell you why. Brace yourselves, I’m going to use a story:

Once upon a time, before the events of 9/11/01, a man strung a tightrope across the Twin Towers. He then took out a balancing stick and began to walk across it, back and forth. This being New York, it took a while for anyone to notice (New Yorkers really never look up, it’s true).

After a small crowd had gathered to stare at this obvious lunatic, he stopped, mid-rope, and pulled out a megaphone from his belt.

“’allo! I am Ze Great Phillipe! Ze Greatest Tightrope walker in all ze world!”

Catcalls and hollers ensued. This is New York, after all. We’re not so easily taken in by claims of greatness.

“Very well zen! I, Ze Great Phillipe, shall now walk across ze tightrope wizout ze balancing stick?”

A few more hollers mixed with some shouts of encouragement. After all, he might fall. Wouldn’t that be COOL?

And he does it. Over and over. Then backwards. Impressive. Still, the greatest? Pretty big claim.

He takes out the megaphone again.

“I am Ze Great Phillipe! Ze Greatest Tightrope walker in all ze world!”

This time he gets some applause. The crowd has gotten considerably bigger by now. Some hecklers have left, seeing that the change of street pizza is fairly unlikely/

“Do you believe zat I, Ze Great Phillipe, can walk across this tightrope, wizout ze balancing stick, wearing…ze blindfold?”

The audience is now hooked.

And you know what? He DOES it. Somehow, the crazy Frenchman does it. And then back. And then backwards. And then sideways.

By now the crowd is huge. Really, really huge. And they’re all cheering. They love him. There’s no doubt, this guy’s the real deal. He’s the greatest.

He takes out the megaphone again.

“I am Ze Great Phillipe! Ze Greatest Tightrope walker in all ze world!”
The crowd goes nuts. Cries of “You are” actually reach his ears, all the way up at the tipe of the Trade Centers”

“Do you believe that I…”

The tumult from below cuts him off. If he could hear what they were saying, he’d here “we believe, we believe, you are the greatest!” A master showman, Phillipe waits until the crowd calms down, silently. He then continues:

“Do you believe that I, Ze Great Phillipe, Ze Greatest Tightrope walker in all ze world, can walk across zis tightrope, wizout ze balancing stick, wearing ze blindfold…pushing ze wheelbarrow?”

Insanity from below. Cars honking, news crews gathering.

Again, he waits for silence.

“Very well zen…

who will get in the wheelbarrow?”
----

I’m not up on the tightrope. I have no right to tell Israel what it should or should not be doing.

I will say, however, that as I believe that one day, the Exile will be over and the Messiah will come, then frankly it doesn’t matter if we have a State of Israel, because one day, we’ll have a Land. One day.

[Boldido]

Okay, here's a tough one.

In your opinion, what is the central principle (or principles) of Judaism? That is, if you had to give a very short definition of what Jews believe, what would it be?

Never pay retail.

Ouch, sorry about that, I just couldn't resist. It got me to thinking about a Jon Stewart stand-up routine in which he compared Yom Kippur's one day to Lent's 40 days and said how even in sin the Catholics are paying retail.

Speaking of Yom Kippur, I have two questions. First, what strictures are you under for Yom Kippur and do people still employ Shabbas goys for the occasion?

[Typo Lad]

No offense taken at all. And not to be argumentative, but I don't understand how "a Ressurected Messiah is antithetical to Jewish thought." I've always thought that one of the cool connections between Christianity and Jewish faith is the belief in a Messiah. You believe he's coming. I believe he came. But we both believe. Is that accurate?

This is totally fun for me, by the way. I love learning about other perspectives.

It's fun for me too. And it's making me think.

The whole Messiah concept is..confusing. For example, the battle at Megido that will herald the End Times according to Revelations? Well, according to the school of thought I subscribe to, that battle is a misreading of the battle between Babalonians and Egypt in the book of Jerimiah. it's read as Prophecy wheras it actually happened. It was a huge tragedy because the then king, whos name I forget, brought a golden age to Israel. Except he took bad advice and decleared himself the Messiah anc wouldn't let the Egyptians take a shortcut through Israel, saying no sword shall pass through the land. Instead, the Egyptians took the long way, got whiped out, and the Babalonians thanked us by exiling us.

Memory is a tad rusty but I believe that's the way it goes.

As for the Messiah, there's gonna be a war, then Messiah ben (dang, forget who!) will be killed, and then the Messiah from David will come. Two distinct indviduals.

So yeah, close though.

[Pinball]

Let's say that you were stuck in the Overlook Hotel (from the Shining) for the Winter. The Hotel decides to leave you alone, so that isn't a concern, but there is no Kosher food avalaible.

You aren't in any danger of starving because there is plenty of non-Kosher food, but you aren't going to get out of there until next Spring.

What do you do?

Mark B.

Again, I am not a Rabbi...but if you are in a situation where your life is in peril and the only way to save youself is to eat non-Kosher, you can.

Yeah, didn't Jesus say "If a lamb fell into a pit on the Sabbath, would you not go and get it out?"



Were there any famous jewish cowboys?

Mark B.

You know, I've NEVER heard of any. Odd. Then again, I was never into cowboys...

:eek:
You've never heard of Bucky Goldstein? :D

[Typo Lad]

Do you have that leaflet on famous Jewish sports legends? I've lost mine.

Nope. Sorry man. Do a google search.

[SteelTownr]

:eek:
You've never heard of Bucky Goldstein? :D

I have now.

Was he at the OK Corral?

Mark B.

[Typo Lad]

Never pay retail.

Ouch, sorry about that, I just couldn't resist. It got me to thinking about a Jon Stewart stand-up routine in which he compared Yom Kippur's one day to Lent's 40 days and said how even in sin the Catholics are paying retail.


I love that bit.


Speaking of Yom Kippur, I have two questions. First, what strictures are you under for Yom Kippur and do people still employ Shabbas goys for the occasion?

Yom Kippur. Hmm. I may miss some…

No eating, that’s for one thing. No drinking also. All Jewish fasts are food and drink, not just food.

It’s easier to bear because you generally spend the whole day in prayer.

No marital relations too.

Here, this site has it broken down better than I could http://www.everythingjewish.com/YomK/YK_laws.htm

Some people only wear white, to be as angels.

One of my favorite bits about Yom Kippur is this one bit of prayer said every day, silently, that we say aloud on Yom Kippur. It’s the only day a year we’re on a level to say that without it being Blasphemy.


As for Shabbos Goys, most synagogues employ them year round. On weekdays too. When I worked for one of the largest synagogues in New York, our maintenance staff would show up on Saturday and go through their usual duties, with some additions. This gets around the problem with hiring someone to JUST work for you on Shabbos, which is questionable at best, and an out and out violation of the Sabbath at worst.

Fun Fact: Colin Powel was the Shabbos Goy for his local shul when he was a kid.

Fun Fact, Bonus Edition: When Senator Joseph Liberman was once stuck in the capital for the Sabbath (“life or death” level vote, so he had to stay), he and his family spent Shabbos at the closest residence to the Senate, one belonging to Albert Gore Sr. The then Vice Prsident said to Mr. Leiberman, on his way out “So Joseph, remind me again, can you tell me which lights to turn on and off or should I just leave them on?”

That’s right, the Vice-Presidents jobs include breaking ties, being standby equipment, and official Senate Shabbos Goy.

[Typo Lad]

Yeah, didn't Jesus say "If a lamb fell into a pit on the Sabbath, would you not go and get it out?"



Psst. Citing Jesus for a source on Judiasm is generally frowned upon.

That's a really complicated question, actually. Is the lamb ok down there? Is it hurt? Is it within a fenced in area? It it your lamb? Wild?

I wouldn't even hazard to answer that. it's much more complicated than it looks.

[Slam_Bradley]

Were there any famous jewish cowboys?

Mark B.

I'm not Jewish, but I'm big on the history of the old West. There were a few Jewish cowboys. The Autry Museum did an exhibit on Jewish Life in the American West.

Autry Exhibit (http://www.museumoftheamericanwest.org/explore/exhibits/jewish_life/index.html)

[Buzz Dixon]

Thank you for your response, are you Jewish?

Are you a cowboy?

Mark B.
No, just a Christian and a history buff and a Western fan (odd how they all seemed to overlap into this one area of questioning! :D ).

[SteelTownr]

I'm not Jewish, but I'm big on the history of the old West. There were a few Jewish cowboys. The Autry Museum did an exhibit on Jewish Life in the American West.

Autry Exhibit (http://www.museumoftheamericanwest.org/explore/exhibits/jewish_life/index.html)

That link isn't working at the moment, but I will check it out later.

You must be digging Deadwood then.

The Shopkeeper, Sol Starr is Jewish, but I don't know if he qualifies as a cowboy.

Mark B.

[SteelTownr]

No, just a Christian and a history buff and a Western fan (odd how they all seemed to overlap into this one area of questioning! :D ).


Well, I know that you like Deadwood, t*t-l*cker, so I won't plug it to you.

Mark B.

[Buzz Dixon]

That is a tough one. I think the Sage Hillel said it best, in response to a mocker who said that if he could teach him the whole of the Torah while standing on one foot, he would convert and dedicate his life to study:

"That which is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor. That is the whole Torah; the rest is commentary. Go and study it."

Really, you can't top that.
You can't. Christ quote Hillel in the New Testament when he said the greatest commandment was to love God with all your heart, strength, and mind and that the second was like the first, to love your neighbor as you love yourself.

[Buzz Dixon]

You must be digging Deadwood then.
Mark B.
Immensely. Plotwise it moves as slow as molasses, but the dialog, performances, and historical details are fascinating. Al Swearington is arguably the single most likable out-and-out villain in TV history.

[Buzz Dixon]

Is it breaking the Sabbath to have a electronic timer? To have your computer or TiVo programmed to do things while you're not directly operating it?

And how would an observing Jewish astronaut observe the Sabbath in orbit? By the rising and the setting of the sun would give him a couple of Sabbaths every three days.

Silly questions, but not mean spirited.

[Hoss]

Immensely. Plotwise it moves as slow as molasses, but the dialog, performances, and historical details are fascinating. Al Swearington is arguably the single most likable out-and-out villain in TV history.

Not to derail too much - but Deadwood is awesome.

[Davideaux]

Dear Jew,

What's the difference between a temple and a synagogue?

[JeffreyWKramer]

That which is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor. That is the whole Torah; the rest is commentary. Go and study it."

Really, you can't top that.

I'd agree, that's a pretty good principle to live by. And it even leaves out all that god business, which is the primary problem I have with religion.

As I've said before, most major religions have some good guidelines for getting along well with others, and if people would pay more attention to those aspects, things would work lots better for everyone.

[Shades0077]

Why don't you ever type the "o" in God or Lord?

[Alex]

Where did the rumor about jewish girls loving to give oral sex start?
Now, ive only been with one actual jew, and she was only a half jew, but it seemed true, and ive been told by others this is true.
Is it a "Sex is nto ok...but i can still do this!" Thing, or am i missing a passage in the OT?

[MacQuarrie]

As for the Messiah, there's gonna be a war, then Messiah ben (dang, forget who!) will be killed, and then the Messiah from David will come. Two distinct indviduals.
Messiah ben Joseph. The suffering servant who is unrecognized by his own family until he saves them.

[Typo Lad]

Where did the rumor about jewish girls loving to give oral sex start?
Now, ive only been with one actual jew, and she was only a half jew, but it seemed true, and ive been told by others this is true.
Is it a "Sex is nto ok...but i can still do this!" Thing, or am i missing a passage in the OT?

First of all, sex is ok. Sex is great. Sex is wonderful. It's just supposed to be between husband and wife. Oral Sex is a grey area and depends on how you hold or if you'd even bother to ask a Rabbi. Most people feel that if no semen is "wasted", it is permissible. So as long as the job's not finished, your wife could work on you as much as she likes.

Your girlfriend however...no.

The rumor probably started as something derisive and became a sterotype most likely.

(I'm proud of this place. On page four and not ONE question about that stupid hole in the sheet thing)

[Typo Lad]

Why don't you ever type the "o" in God or Lord?

I do sometimes. Usually when refering to something other than the G-d of Abraham, Jacob, and Issac. As for why, I posted this earlier today in another thread...let me find it:

I was raised that you shouldn't commit ANY name of G-d to wiritng, even a euphamism. So in plases where I am refering to the G-d of my forfathers, as opposed to talking about say, Herakles, I try to do so. It's also a way to differentiate (for me, anyway) between G-d and other gods.

Or, we can just say that it's an affectation and leave it at that, kay?

There, saves me re-typing it.

[Typo Lad]

Dear Jew,

What's the difference between a temple and a synagogue?

Dear David,

Darn good question. Once upon a time, nothing. A temple was a synagogue. The terms were interchangable. Now it seems that different sub-sects of Judiasm are being picky. Some only will refer to thier houses of worship as syangogues, some as temples. There's also a shtiebel, which is generally a small prayer group that meets w/o a Rabbi, many times in a converted house or a set apartment.

i use the term shul, myself.

[Typo Lad]

Is it breaking the Sabbath to have a electronic timer? To have your computer or TiVo programmed to do things while you're not directly operating it?

And how would an observing Jewish astronaut observe the Sabbath in orbit? By the rising and the setting of the sun would give him a couple of Sabbaths every three days.

Silly questions, but not mean spirited.

The first isn't silly AT ALL. In fact, there were HUGE debates as to the permissability of timers. My family uses them, but some don't. One nice thing in Israel is that most houses have "built in" timers in the wiring closet. Makes life easier.

Those who use these things on the Sabbath usually say "Well, it runs all week, so if it runs on the Sabbath too, that's ok". Which is technically true I suppose. Still, the lights are on WITHOUT the timer, so it is a change of a kind.

As for the VCR, many do. I don't, because it makes me uncomfortable. There's a saying "nisht Shabbos gerecht", meaning it's not entirely appropriate for Shabbos. I dunno, I just feel odd doing it. In fact, nowadays I turn off the TVs outlet entirely, because my daughter knows how to turn on the TV, VCR, rewing the tape, and then play. And of course, then WE can't turn it off!

My Mac never gets turned off. Ever. Well, Yom Kippur. And lightning storms. Now that Typo Tot likes to press keys, I even unplug the KB and mouse.

No idea on the second question.

[SteelTownr]

How do you rewing a tape?

Mark B.

[fly on the wall]

Dear Jaws,

In Jaws IV, why was it personal that time?

[Typo Lad]

How do you rewing a tape?

Mark B.

You glue the old wings back on. She's pretty good at it...

Rewing, rewind...so close. In my defence, she's here in the tech room driving me NUTS

[SteelTownr]

You glue the old wings back on. She's pretty good at it...

Rewing, rewind...so close. In my defence, she's here in the tech room driving me NUTS

I thought that you might have been typing with your feet, but I couldn't be sure.

Mark B.

[jessecuster]

Morts, I actually learned a reltively interesting point of view regarding keeping Kosher. Apparently if you do not keep Kosher or do any of the other 612 laws, you are essentially saying that this wrong and therefore the whole text is wrong. Thus you are in fact disproving G-d. It was definitely intense when my rabbi told me that, and made me question what I actually believed in. Howver I grew up reform and pretty much broke a bunch of these laws already. I have become more and more conservative over the years. And now going to a reform service is terrible for me.

[Will]

Ok, this is probably a very ignorant question, but please humour me as none of my friends are Jewish and ive never met anyone IRL who is Jewish, so i honestly dont know. But is it true that you cannot Convert to Judaism and that you have to be born Jewish to be a part of the religion?

[SteelTownr]

Jewish people are often stereotyped as cheap.

What do you think about that?

Mark B.

[Pinball]

Psst. Citing Jesus for a source on Judiasm is generally frowned upon.



Uh, okay.

...but why? What do Jews have against Jesus anyway?
besides his apparent claim to be the son of God, that is?

[Smoogis]

Uh, okay.

...but why? What do Jews have against Jesus anyway?
besides his apparent claim to be the son of God, that is?

I'm not 100% sure...but isn't it because, when Jesus said that he was the son of God, he was basically saying he was God in human form and proclaiming to be a god was a sin..?

[MacQuarrie]

I'm not 100% sure...but isn't it because, when Jesus said that he was the son of God, he was basically saying he was God in human form and proclaiming to be a god was a sin..?
Jumping in on Morts' thread here, but anyway...

It's more than that. Jesus was not only claiming to be God, which would be blasphemy unless he could prove it was true, but he was also claiming to be the long-awaited Messiah ("Anointed One") who would free the jews from oppression and give them the kingdom promised to Abraham. Since the nation of Israel was at that time under the oppression of Rome, such a claim was not only seen as blasphemous, but also as a particularly cruel and vicious hoax perpetrated upon desperate people.

Certainly there would be deep anger and resentment among those who didn't believe his claims.

[Ed Cunard]

Oooh, I do have a question!

What are the most common misconceptions about Jewish faith and culture?

[Typo Lad]

Dear Jaws,

In Jaws IV, why was it personal that time?

Dear Fly,

Because that time, they called my mommy mean names.

Love,
Jaws

[Typo Lad]

Jumping in on Morts' thread here, but anyway...

It's more than that. Jesus was not only claiming to be God, which would be blasphemy unless he could prove it was true, but he was also claiming to be the long-awaited Messiah ("Anointed One") who would free the jews from oppression and give them the kingdom promised to Abraham. Since the nation of Israel was at that time under the oppression of Rome, such a claim was not only seen as blasphemous, but also as a particularly cruel and vicious hoax perpetrated upon desperate people.

Certainly there would be deep anger and resentment among those who didn't believe his claims.

Please. It's a public thread. And you handled it better'n I would.

Are you SURE you're not Jewish?

Oh, an also, being a False Prophet was a stoning offense I believe.

[Austin]

If Austin were to pull a gun on me one day and say "if you don't eat this Cheeseburger I will blow your brains out", I would eat it. I probably would never talk to him again though.

Unless, you know, it was a really GOOD cheeseburger.


I would never do that because I don't eat cheeseburgers. Now a grilled chicken breast sammich with cheddar cheese and bacon...

Here's my imput into the conversation. Some Jewish businesses that are opened on Saturdays have found a loophole to the Sabbath thing. Ownership is turned over to a (non-jewish) manager or employee over the weekend (in paperwork only), then on Sunday, it reverts back, or so I've been told.

I really don't understand the concept of Jews for Jesus. Could you shed some light on that?

[Typo Lad]

I thought that you might have been typing with your feet, but I couldn't be sure.

Mark B.

No, I found out that was an Abomination.

(Um, joke).

[Abomination]

Dear Jew,

What modern day famous Jew, do you feel best (or worst) exemplifies the sterotype of Jews being money hungry. My vote would be for Gene Simmons of Kiss.

[Typo Lad]

Ok, this is probably a very ignorant question, but please humour me as none of my friends are Jewish and ive never met anyone IRL who is Jewish, so i honestly dont know. But is it true that you cannot Convert to Judaism and that you have to be born Jewish to be a part of the religion?

Not true at all, just ask my wife.

Here, a good breakdown of converting:

http://www.soyouwanna.com/site/syws/judaism/judaism.html

[Typo Lad]

Jewish people are often stereotyped as cheap.

What do you think about that?

Mark B.

I think someone stiffed a very mouthy delivery boy on a tip once.

Seriously? Slander. There are no more cheap Jews than there are cheap anything else.

[MacQuarrie]

I really don't understand the concept of Jews for Jesus. Could you shed some light on that?
It's a christian missionary organization founded by a jewish convert to christianity, and its focus is converting jewish people.

It's also used generically to refer to any of the other missionary groups that focus on jewish people, sometimes unfairly, since Jews for Jesus have a reputation for being particularly pushy.

There is also a reverse movement aimed at reintroducing jewish teachings and traditions into christianity.

The basic premise is that there is no contradiction or dispute between Judaism and Christianity; Jesus is the Messiah of prophecy.

[Typo Lad]

Oooh, I do have a question!

What are the most common misconceptions about Jewish faith and culture?

Well, the point of this thread is for YOU to tell ME that.

Seriously though, there's this dumb thing that bugs me. Some people think Jews have sex through a hole in a sheet. I've had intelligent people ask me if this was true.

NOTHING could be further from the truth. In fact, you're not supposed to have ANYTHING on during sex, so as to fully "experience" each other's bodies. Lots of good stuff. Sure, we don't have Kama Sutra, but we're not robots people.

[Austin]

It's a christian missionary organization founded by a jewish convert to christianity, and its focus is converting jewish people.

It's also used generically to refer to any of the other missionary groups that focus on jewish people, sometimes unfairly, since Jews for Jesus have a reputation for being particularly pushy.

There is also a reverse movement aimed at reintroducing jewish teachings and traditions into christianity.

The basic premise is that there is no contradiction or dispute between Judaism and Christianity; Jesus is the Messiah of prophecy.

Thank you Mac. And I can attest that those sombitches are pushy. They're always yellin' and screamin' on the subway platforms with their flyers. They frighten me.

[Austin]

In fact, you're not supposed to have ANYTHING on during sex, so as to fully "experience" each other's bodies.


That's so hot, I'm going to have to excuse myself for a minute...

[Typo Lad]

Dear Jew,

What modern day famous Jew, do you feel best (or worst) exemplifies the sterotype of Jews being money hungry. My vote would be for Gene Simmons of Kiss.

I try to ignore famous Jews, but I would say any Jewish singer who's made a Christmas album makes the list.

[Typo Lad]

I would never do that because I don't eat cheeseburgers. Now a grilled chicken breast sammich with cheddar cheese and bacon...

Quick, go get a gun. I'll wait.


Here's my imput into the conversation. Some Jewish businesses that are opened on Saturdays have found a loophole to the Sabbath thing. Ownership is turned over to a (non-jewish) manager or employee over the weekend (in paperwork only), then on Sunday, it reverts back, or so I've been told.

Yeah, it's done. A lot of people take issue with it. The stricter Kosher Certifiers, for example, will not certify a restaurant that does this.

I really don't understand the concept of Jews for Jesus. Could you shed some light on that?

Jim did it better than I could. Again.

[Typo Lad]

Morts, I actually learned a reltively interesting point of view regarding keeping Kosher. Apparently if you do not keep Kosher or do any of the other 612 laws, you are essentially saying that this wrong and therefore the whole text is wrong. Thus you are in fact disproving G-d. It was definitely intense when my rabbi told me that, and made me question what I actually believed in. Howver I grew up reform and pretty much broke a bunch of these laws already. I have become more and more conservative over the years. And now going to a reform service is terrible for me.

I'm sorry you had such a bad experience Jesse. I was always taught that G-d wants us to keep his Torah to the best of our ability. If you sin, it's between you and G-d and you can always atone. Especially since you simply CANNOT keep all 613 Mitzvot. Some can only be done in Israel, some only by Kohanim (Priests) and some only when there is a Temple.

We can only be the best Jew (or person, in fact) we can be.

And the other thing is, if you're not...oh well, you'll be reincarnated and given another go. Hell is the last step. You have to be GOOD ENOUGH to get into Hell. I love that one.

[Typo Lad]

Thank you Mac. And I can attest that those sombitches are pushy. They're always yellin' and screamin' on the subway platforms with their flyers. They frighten me.

Atlantic Avenue, am I right?

Next time look at them and say 'Dude, preaching to choir, k?"

[Typo Lad]

That's so hot, I'm going to have to excuse myself for a minute...

That just put me off sex for at least a month. Thanks Austin. Sheeeesh.

[Iangould]

This is something I've wanted to do for a bit, and since all my posts today seem to have something to do with my religion...

Shoot. No questions of limit. If I know the answer, I'll give it. If I don't, I'll ask someone.

Any takers?

How much baby's blood should I add to my Matzohs? The always end up either too dry and crumbly or too moist.

[JeffreyWKramer]

That just put me off sex for at least a month. Thanks Austin. Sheeeesh.

Poor Typo Lass.

[rick]

How much baby's blood should I add to my Matzohs? The always end up either too dry and crumbly or too moist.


In a related question, does it make a difference if the baby is a boy or a girl?

[rick]

I try to ignore famous Jews, but I would say any Jewish singer who's made a Christmas album makes the list.

Neil Diamond certainly fits that bill.

His Christmas special was just plain scary.

[TheLewisShow]

I have a question (great thread by the way)

I'm looking at my calendar and I'm reminded how the Passover seems to start on different dates, like Easter is on a different Sunday every year also.

I'm aware that there is a Solar calendar and the one that we use (January 31 days, February 28 or 29, etc).

How exactly does that work? Do Jewish people refer to the solar calender for religious holidays and observe the lunar one with everyone else?

I think I answered my own question, but why was this solar calendar not acceptable? The sun I think is more of a constant than the moon.

[Kid Omega]

Psst. Citing Jesus for a source on Judiasm is generally frowned upon.



Why is that? Seems to me that Jesus is one of the more popular, beloved, and cited Jewish Rabbis there ever was! Yay!

Anyway, let's get serious.

We've all heard this old joke:

"What do jewish women say during sex?"

"'We should paint the ceiling.'"

Get it? They talk about home improvement during coitus because they're boring lays. Old stereotype.
But in my experience, this is true. Informal surveys among my sleazy friends indicate that this is more than mere stereotype. Informal surveys show that Jewish girls are just not that fun in the sack.

Heck! Even Young Morts went outside the tribe to wrangle in his very own fiesty philly!

My question?

Why are Jewish Girls so notoriously lousy in bed?

And don't give me that "it's just a stereotype" thing. This one is too goshdarned specific to not have some truth to it somewhere down the line.

Or maybe I'm just a horrible anti-Semite who lives to propogate ill will. Only time will tell.


love,
k

[rick]

Why are Jewish Girls so notoriously lousy in bed?




I've got to say that in my experience that just hasn't been true.

Marina, Naomi and Julie were all excellent fun.

Plus they would cook afterwards.

Italian girls are good this way too

[Alex]

I've got to say that in my experience that just hasn't been true.


Ricks right, its not true.
I've heard rumors of...other groups, but can't confirm.

[Kid Omega]

I've got to say that in my experience that just hasn't been true.

Marina, Naomi and Julie were all excellent fun.

Plus they would cook afterwards.

Italian girls are good this way too

Maybe it's a New York thing.

But more importantly, do you remember back in the olden days, when I would always crack wise about dating yor daughter?

And then you would calmly offer my destruction by your hand?

That was funny.

Can we bring back that running joke?

I miss our old repartee, Rick. You're all Mister Political, and I'm all Mister Hadly Ever Posts.

Let's relive old times. It'll be fun!


-k

[Alex]

Maybe it's a New York thing.


-k
Certainly have another idea for a shirt.
"NEw York Jews, they are horrible in the sack."
Or possible "So THATS why Woody is with that little asain girl!"

[Kid Omega]

Ricks right, its not true.
I've heard rumors of...other groups, but can't confirm.

Well, if Alex says it, close the book!

Wuxtry, wuxtry!

"JEWISH GIRLS ARE SPIFFY IN SACK! SAVVY?"

"Pentagon officials cite ALEX as they're source in this thrilling new discovery!"

Wait, wait!

That fake Headline can't be true... I did Informal Polling among my OverSexed friends! My findings must be voiced! My statistics are shoddy and based on pure speculation and opinion, but I hold them out to you, CBR Assembled, nonetheless!

Wuxtry! Wuxtry!

Late Edition!

"HAREM OF HIMBOS AGREE: HEBREW BROADS ARE A SNORE!"

"Disputing the earlier findings of the Pentagon, a large group of over-sexed twenty-something New Yorkers proposed new findings in the Jewish Woman Sex Program.
'They're just really dull.' stated Dr. Awol, while quaffing a pint of dark lager."Not to mention annoying."
Dr. Kamandi agreed with this assessment, but refused to be quoted."


The argument rages on!


-k

[Justin Davis]

Because I like you, Mort, I'm refraining from asking a joke question involving Jewish stereotypes.

However, because I like you, Mort, I want to ask a joke question involving Jewish stereotypes.

I'm so conflicted.

[Alex]

Because I like you, Mort, I'm refraining from asking a joke question involving Jewish stereotypes.

However, because I like you, Mort, I want to ask a joke question involving Jewish stereotypes.

I'm so conflicted.
DO IT!
Thats what this thread is for afterall.

[Rob Imes]

Thank you, Mordechai, for starting this informative thread!

And the other thing is, if you're not...oh well, you'll be reincarnated and given another go. Hell is the last step. You have to be GOOD ENOUGH to get into Hell. I love that one.

OK, you have to explain in more detail about this! Does Judaism teach reincarnation? Or is it a case of, as you said for other things, some Jews do, some don't?

Here's another one: What do Jews believe about Satan / the devil? A man in my Bible study group, a couple weeks ago, mentioned that he had seen an episode of Joan of Arcadia where Joan visited a rabbi and asked him about Satan, and the rabbi said that Jews didn't believe in the existence of Satan. So, my friend was wondering about that.

I told him that it might be a thing where different sects of Judaism (Orthodox, Reform, etc.) might disagree on such things, so maybe the rabbi was representing the belief of a more liberal wing that viewed Scripture as more like a symbolic fairy tale with a moral or lesson attached than something that really happened. I had recalled seeing a young rabbi on Politically Incorrect once who said he didn't think stuff like the flood really happened, they were just stories.

What is your take on it?

[rick]

Maybe it's a New York thing.

But more importantly, do you remember back in the olden days, when I would always crack wise about dating yor daughter?

And then you would calmly offer my destruction by your hand?

That was funny.

Can we bring back that running joke?

I miss our old repartee, Rick. You're all Mister Political, and I'm all Mister Hadly Ever Posts.

Let's relive old times. It'll be fun!


-k


Threatening guys for hitting on my girls got kind of redundent after Jessie turned up pregnant and Sarah moved in with a jerk.

These days I'd be happy to give you their address.

Of course there's the problem of no girl wanting to date someone their Dad set them up with, though.

[AoAMimic]

Dear Morty,

I like to eat lox and bagels. I say "Oy Vey!" alot. My first and middle name are both Hebrew. I have off work on Saturdays and I don't do anything. Am I Jewish and didn't know it?

Sincerely,
Confused in Carolina

[Paradox]

No questions. I have my own Jew at home for that (although doubtful he's as well-informed). :D

I just wanted to add this link.

CANADIAN Jewish Cowboys! (http://www.hadassah.org/news/content/per_hadassah/archive/2000/May/jewishtraveler.html)

[Typo Lad]

How much baby's blood should I add to my Matzohs? The always end up either too dry and crumbly or too moist.

Heh. When I came down to Memphis to meet Suzannah's folks, this girl and I had a conversation like this while walking down the street. Suzannah was horrified, and kept waiting for a lynch mob to show up.

Considering what happened in Messinah NY, I guess we should have not done it.

Still, wow, who's dumb enough to think that, eh?

Rick: I've always hard of the alleged victims being male. Might just be misogyny on the mob leaders parts, though.

[Typo Lad]

Poor Typo Lass.

Actually, she danced around the bed, throwing confetti.

Not good for the ego, let me tell YOU.

[Typo Lad]

Neil Diamond certainly fits that bill.

His Christmas special was just plain scary.

Suzannah owns that one! I can't TAKE it.

[Typo Lad]

I have a question (great thread by the way)

I'm looking at my calendar and I'm reminded how the Passover seems to start on different dates, like Easter is on a different Sunday every year also.

I'm aware that there is a Solar calendar and the one that we use (January 31 days, February 28 or 29, etc).

Uh Lewis? The one you use IS the solar calendar. it's also known as the Julian Calendar, although I may have mangled the spelling. Although months are loosely lunar based, the calendar is solar. In Judaism, days literally start at Sunset. For example, the first day of Shavout is Wednesday, but Wednesday STARTS with sunset.

Cool lunar fact: The Jewish Lunar calendar and the solar one have an 18 year cycle. This means that when Typo Lass is 18, her Hebrew and English birth-dates will match up again.

exactly does that work? Do Jewish people refer to the solar calender for religious holidays and observe the lunar one with everyone else?

Other way around. We use the solar when dealing with the world, and the lunar for religion. Although I know more than a few people who only celebrate their Hebrew birthday or anniversary. Which is fun, because you need to note it in your day timer so you remember to switch it a day the next year.

I think I answered my own question, but why was this solar calendar not acceptable? The sun I think is more of a constant than the moon.

The Jewish people are heavily tied to the moon. I've heard lots of Kabbalistic reasons, but the calendar has a more simple basis: The month used to begin when two witnesses came to the Temple and said they saw the New Moon. There was an elaborate set of laws about this.

Under the Romans, the New Moon ceremony was outlawed and punishable by death. They thought it ridiculous. After all, it's a cycle - you should KNOW when the moon is, you don't NEED someone to LOOK. So the Sages sat down and codified a calendar, which is still in use today.

[Typo Lad]

Why is that? Seems to me that Jesus is one of the more popular, beloved, and cited Jewish Rabbis there ever was! Yay!

Anyway, let's get serious.

We've all heard this old joke:

"What do jewish women say during sex?"

"'We should paint the ceiling.'"

Get it? They talk about home improvement during coitus because they're boring lays. Old stereotype.

See, what this is saying to me is that it's the MEN who are boring.


But in my experience, this is true. Informal surveys among my sleazy friends indicate that this is more than mere stereotype. Informal surveys show that Jewish girls are just not that fun in the sack.

Heck! Even Young Morts went outside the tribe to wrangle in his very own fiesty philly!.

Heh. Yeah, but I have plenty of friends who didn't and trust me, you and your amigos got a bad batch or something. Jewish girls can be very, very fun.

[QUOTE=AlexanderOr maybe I'm just a horrible anti-Semite who lives to propogate ill will. Only time will tell.[/QUOTE]

If I had your boss, I know I'd hate at LEAST one Jew.

[Typo Lad]

I've got to say that in my experience that just hasn't been true.

Marina, Naomi and Julie were all excellent fun.

Plus they would cook afterwards.

Italian girls are good this way too

You had cooking sex?

I've never, ever had cooking sex.

Wow. You're just my hero, now more than EVER.

[Typo Lad]

Certainly have another idea for a shirt.
"NEw York Jews, they are horrible in the sack."
Or possible "So THATS why Woody is with that little asain girl!"

Again, research by friends suggest otherwise.

In fact, now that I think about it, it seems that the more religious the girl's upbringing, the more fun she is.

I wonder what they teach them in Girl's schools...

[Typo Lad]

Because I like you, Mort, I'm refraining from asking a joke question involving Jewish stereotypes.

However, because I like you, Mort, I want to ask a joke question involving Jewish stereotypes.

I'm so conflicted.

Please do! Let me have my FUN!

[Typo Lad]

Dear Morty,

I like to eat lox and bagels. I say "Oy Vey!" alot. My first and middle name are both Hebrew. I have off work on Saturdays and I don't do anything. Am I Jewish and didn't know it?

Sincerely,
Confused in Carolina

Dear Confused,

Pull down your pants and check for a circumcision. You may need a magnifying glass and tweezers. If you find one, go have a long talk with mom. Remember, Jews only hold by Matrilineal Descent, so if it's on dad's side, piss off we don't want'cha.

And don't call me MORTY!

Yours,
Morts

[Paradox]

Morts hollers:
And don't call me MORTY!

Ahhh, quitcher whinin'. It's better than "Mord" anyway. :)

[hugh45]

What's your take on (Rev7:1-8) 144,000?Most evangicals believe they are
suppose to be Jews during the end times.

[Typo Lad]

Thank you, Mordechai, for starting this informative thread!

Thank YOU for posting on it.

OK, you have to explain in more detail about this! Does Judaism teach reincarnation? Or is it a case of, as you said for other things, some Jews do, some don't?

In this, I don't know about other Jews. I haven't discussed it much outside my family. However, the Jewish concept of Hell is widely accepted to be a 12 month maximum sentence. After this, your soul is "cleaned" as it were. However, you have to be clean enough already to get in, or at least, this is how I was taught. The world is like, a giant pre-wash soak for the soul and Hell is the rinse cycle. Sometimes you have to repeat.

There's a concept in Judaism of "gilgul", which is someone brought back, usually as an animal of some kind, to complete a specific task. Some Jews see them as fairy tales, some take them seriously.

One thought I like is that if you find you have problems with a specific sin, then most likely THAT is what you were sent back to work on.

Here's another one: What do Jews believe about Satan / the devil? ...What is your take on it?

Ah, Joan of Arcadia. Yet another show I would possibly be interested in put on Friday nights. Sometimes I think Network Programers are all anti-Semites. I had to wait YARS to see X Files. YEARS!

Seriously though, what's the Devil? Do you mean Lucifer? The Fall? That's a strictly Christian concept. In Judaism, Angels are automatons, extensions of G-d's will. They are defined by their jobs. They are, in a sense, their names. G-d needs Abraham healed and Lot saved? An Angel is sent, and he is called Gavriel (Gabriel) because that is the task he undertook. An Angel cannot rebel.

There are references to a "Satan" in the Torah. Most prominent would be the book of Job. I have never studied Job myself, so cannot comment on it.

I myself was taught that we are all born with a personal, evil inclination and don't receive our good inclination until we come of age (Bar or Bat Mitzvah). What I find interesting about that is it's sort of like Freud's idea of id, Ego, and Superego. isn't Superego something that develops over time? Or am I misremembering?

[Typo Lad]

Ahhh, quitcher whinin'. It's better than "Mord" anyway. :)

Go to bed, Pervydox.

[Typo Lad]

What's your take on (Rev7:1-8) 144,000?Most evangicals believe they are
suppose to be Jews during the end times.

Never studied Revelations so I don't feel fit to comment on it.

Well, actually... one comment:

According to many schools of Jewish Thought, Revelations is a misapplication of a passage in Jerimiah. It happened and it is taken to be a prophecy. So since the war happened to the jews already, this "supposed to be Jews" thing may stem from the same passage.

[Paradox]

Morts makes me wonder what HE'S doing up this time of day:
Go to bed, Pervydox.

My bosses kind of frown on that when I'm on the clock. :p

[Jessie]

There's seems to be a lot of information on separating food. Does the Torah, or any other text, actualy contain recipes? If so, what are they?

[Kiriyama]

Why do Jews circumsize?

[JeffreyWKramer]

I myself was taught that we are all born with a personal, evil inclination and don't receive our good inclination until we come of age (Bar or Bat Mitzvah). What I find interesting about that is it's sort of like Freud's idea of id, Ego, and Superego. isn't Superego something that develops over time? Or am I misremembering?

A very simplified version of Freud's concepts:

The Id is what everyone is born with. Instinctual drives, our animal side. Sex, fight/flight, survival. This is also the source of energy, the connection between mind and body. Get pleasure, avoid pain.

The Ego is rational thinking, problem solving. Higher order processing. The capacity is there from birth, and it starts developing early on, but it doesn't become well-developed until age 8 or so. Its purpose is to make sure the Id's needs get met in as efficient and non-problematic a manner as possible. In a mature, balanced person the Ego balances the needs of the Id and the demands of the Superego, so a person gets his or her needs met in a manner that is appropriate to society's rules.

The Superego is an internalized representation of the world's rules, restrictions and mores, gained through experience and usually strongly based on internalizing the value system of the same-sex parent or other significant male role model(s). Problems can arise if the person doesn't develop a Superego, due to not having a good role model to internalize, or internalizes a dysfunctional one. Lack of/underdeveloped superego = psychopathy (per psychoanalytic theory). The Superego acts as a conscience, and helps us get by in society. It develops as part of the resolution of the Oedipal conflict (roughly age 6-7).

[Mike Smash!]

Why do Jews circumsize?

Because helmets look better than anteaters.

[Typo Lad]

Why do Jews circumsize?

As a physical sign of the Covenant between Abraham and G-d.

[Kid Omega]

Threatening guys for hitting on my girls got kind of redundent after Jessie turned up pregnant and Sarah moved in with a jerk.

These days I'd be happy to give you their address.

Of course there's the problem of no girl wanting to date someone their Dad set them up with, though.


Jeezum, rick.

It's not as fun when you get all serious on me. Now I kinda feel bad.

Can't you threaten to clobber me, just a little? It will make me feel better.

-k

[Typo Lad]

Thanks Jeff. So yeah, the Good Inclination is like, a cross between the Ego and Superego.

[Typo Lad]

There's seems to be a lot of information on separating food. Does the Torah, or any other text, actualy contain recipes? If so, what are they?

You know, I've never come across one! Doesn't mean that they aren't there though.

And technically, Matzo is bread that you have to make within 18 minutes and no yeast, so that in itself may be a recipe, now that I think in it.

[Nicole Lee]

What or who exactly are the Lost Tribe of Israel? I'm referring to when Whitney and Bobby went to Israel to supposedly connect with them or something.

[Austin]

What or who exactly are the Lost Tribe of Israel? I'm referring to when Whitney and Bobby went to Israel to supposedly connect with them or something.

Ms, Lee, I'm a little let down by this. I thought you'd have known the truth. Whitney and Bobby went to Israel for the sole purpose of scoring some of that mondo Israeli crack. There's just none finer...


(Boo! Get off the stage!)

I'm sorry. I just was ever so desperate to talk to the lady.

(She's engaged to Brandon)

I know! Stop bothering me. I wasn't hitting on her!

(sure, sure)

[Typo Lad]

What or who exactly are the Lost Tribe of Israel? I'm referring to when Whitney and Bobby went to Israel to supposedly connect with them or something.

Ten Lost Tribes, actually. Early on, I think in Kings II, there was a split between the tribes of Israel. Only Judah and Benjamin(I think it was Benjamin, I have to double check that) remained in Jerusalem and the rest left top found a new kingdom.

The group that Whitney and Bobby met with claim to be the decendents of at least one of those lost tribes.

[Typo Lad]

Ms, Lee, I'm a little let down by this. I thought you'd have known the truth. Whitney and Bobby went to Israel for the sole purpose of scoring some of that mondo Israeli crack. There's just none finer...
)

Actually, they went to Africa, because that's where the self proclaimed "lost tribes" dwell. They did go to Israel too, and waded in the Jordan.

[DarkBlade]

Wait, what? I thought women were born Jewish, and men had to become it with the briss and bar mitzvah.

That was probably poorly phrased, but I'm not too awake.

Or is that an older outlook? When DID they start having bat mitzvah's anyway? Are there still some groups that ascribe to this?

[MacQuarrie]

Ten Lost Tribes, actually. Early on, I think in Kings II, there was a split between the tribes of Israel. Only Judah and Benjamin(I think it was Benjamin, I have to double check that) remained in Jerusalem and the rest left top found a new kingdom.
They aren't lost. God knows where they are if he needs them.

My understanding is that there's more than one split. When Joshua finally led the people to Canaan, the tribes of Reuben and Gad remained on the east side of the Jordan, in accordance with the agreement they had made with Moses in Numbers 32.

Later Israel was divided into into two kingdoms (Israel and Judah). Then the exile of Israel you mentioned occurred, as found in Kings II 17.

This is fun!

[Typo Lad]

Wait, what? I thought women were born Jewish, and men had to become it with the briss and bar mitzvah.

That was probably poorly phrased, but I'm not too awake.


S'okay, you're cute when you're out of it.

Or, um, so Tadgh says anyway.

Men are born Jewish. However, the child of a Jewish male is not, defacto Jewish. It goes by Matrilial descent. Your tribe, however, comes from your father. So if a Jewish Woman were to have a child by a non-Jewish man, the child would be Jewish, but would have no tribe.

Bar and Bat Mitzvah is a rite of adulthood. On your 13th (12 for girls, because thye're holier) birthday you are now libel for the 613 commandments and all the subclauses and what have you. Before then it was all practice. And actually, with girls they have a special period (no, not THAT kind of period) right after thier Bat Mitzvah where they have special status. A sort of transitional phase. I think it's three months, but I wouldn't swear to it.

Or is that an older outlook? When DID they start having bat mitzvah's anyway? Are there still some groups that ascribe to this?

Nope.

[RubinCompServ]

I think it's three months, but I wouldn't swear to it.

I'm pretty sure it's six months, but I could be wrong.

So...what is up with that "sex through the sheet" thing?

[rick]

Jeezum, rick.

It's not as fun when you get all serious on me. Now I kinda feel bad.

Can't you threaten to clobber me, just a little? It will make me feel better.

-k

I said you could go out with them.

But, I didn't say that I wouldn't kick your ass if you laid so much as a finger on one of them, did I???

:)

[Typo Lad]

I'm pretty sure it's six months, but I could be wrong.

So...what is up with that "sex through the sheet" thing?

RUBIN!

Guys, Rubin is a pal, make him feel welcome too.

And he's a fellow ortho, so he can correct any errors. I may have made.

[SteelTownr]

Why does being called Morty irritate you so much?

When I was a kid, the little neighborhood girls called me "Marky" and it drove me nuts until I figured out that if I didn't let them know that it bothered me, they would quit.

Mark B.

[Typo Lad]

Why does being called Morty irritate you so much?
.

All the Morty, Mordy and Mords that I have known have been utter wastes of genetic material.

Plus, I'm Morts cause my granpa called me that. he can change it, no-one else.

[JeffreyWKramer]

RUBIN!

Guys, Rubin is a pal, make him feel welcome too.


Welcome, Rubin. A friend of Morts is a friend to us.

[Typo Lad]

That said, I have to start preparing for Shavout now. I'll be back online on Thursday night at some point. Feel free to keep asking questions.

Also, anyone who knows any good Jewish jokes...share!

[SteelTownr]

All the Morty, Mordy and Mords that I have known have been utter wastes of genetic material.

Plus, I'm Morts cause my granpa called me that. he can change it, no-one else.

Fair enough!

Welcome to your Pal Darth Rubin!

Mark B.

[Buzz Dixon]

Morts cause my granpa called me that. he can change it, no-one else.
You do realize what "Morts" spelled backwards is? ;)

[RubinCompServ]

You do realize what "Morts" spelled backwards is? ;)

"Strom"? You think that Morts is channelling the spirit of former Senator Strom Thurmond?

And, to stay on topic...

Also, anyone who knows any good Jewish jokes...share!

"The Talmud Lesson"

A Rabbi was giving the children's message during a shul service. For this part of the service, he would gather all the little children around him and give a brief Talmud lesson before dismissing them.

On this particular Saturday, he decided to use squirrels for an object lesson on teaching the need for industry and preparation.

He started out by saying, "I'm going to describe something, and I want you to raise your hand when you know what it is."

The children nodded eagerly.

"This thing lives in trees (pause)

and eats nuts (pause)..."

No hands went up.

"And it is grey (pause)

and has a long bushy tail (pause) . . . "

The children were looking at each other, but still no hands raised.

"And it jumps from branch to branch (pause)

and chatters and flips its tail when it's excited (pause) . . . "

Finally, one little Morris tentatively raised his hand. The Rabbi breathed a sigh of relief and called on him.

"Well," said little Morris, "I KNOW the answer must be Moses -- but it sounds just like a squirrel to me!"

[Sir Tim Drake]

That is a tough one. I think the Sage Hillel said it best, in response to a mocker who said that if he could teach him the whole of the Torah while standing on one foot, he would convert and dedicate his life to study:

"That which is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor. That is the whole Torah; the rest is commentary. Go and study it."

Really, you can't top that.

I know that story and I like it a lot. The negative Golden Rule is a pretty good guiding principle to live by. Though I do think there are some Jewish beliefs that don't necessarily fit under this rubric.

Thanks for the answer!

[Buzz Dixon]

Ahhh, quitcher whinin'. It's better than "Mord" anyway. :)
Certainly better than "Merde." :D

[SteelTownr]

This is a great game and all, but where are the prizes?

Mark B.

[Buzz Dixon]

A Rabbi was giving the children's message during a shul service..."Well," said little Morris, "I KNOW the answer must be Moses -- but it sounds just like a squirrel to me!"
A teahcer's showing her first grade class pictures of animals. She held up a picture of a lion. "What's this?" she asked.

"A lion!" the class shouted.

"Good! Now what's this?" she said, holding up a picture of an elephant.

"An elephant!" said the class.

"Very good! Now what's this?" the teacher asked, holding up a picture of a deer with antlers.

Dead silence.

"Oh, come now, surely you know what it is."

More silence.

"Well, then, I'll give you a little hint. What does your mommy call your daddy?"

At that point a little girl in the back of the class jumped upand down excitedly, shouting, "I know! I know! It's a horney bastard!" :D

[Beatnikman]

The prizes are right here. (http://www.kohnskosher.com/) But does Morts win for answering, or is this more like Jeopardy where we win for asking the right questions?

If we win, then just go to that site and order whatever you want. Tell 'em it's "on my pal Morts." They know he's good for it.

[Pól Rua]

Do any of you remember that game thingie from the 70's where you had a little model of a teacher in a gown and mortar board pointing a stick and he'd point at the correct answers or something. I think it was operated by magnets.
I imagine 'Ask the Jew' would look pretty much the same, except with a little Rabbi figure in the middle.



_________________________________________
Pól.

[Guapo Méndez]

Because helmets look better than anteaters.
heheheheh
heheheheheheh!
heheheheheheh!heheheh
hahhahhahhahhahhahhahhah!



Good one.

[Bouncing Boy]

Okay, my question:

What's up with that fiddler, and why is he on the roof?

[Rallura]

What I want to know is, how limited are you in terms of
going out to eat? It has to be a kosher establishment that's approved by your Rabbi?
Also, what if I offer you say, a tomato I just picked in my backyard, is that ok to eat? Are there restrictions on fresh vegetables and fruits, or in thier preparation?

[MacQuarrie]

Can you explain the derivation of the various derogatory slang words for jews and non-jews? Like, what does "goy" really mean? Or "shiksa"? I always thought "kike" was a really stupid word, but what does it mean?

And, just to be insulting, do you guys only put the propellor on for special occasions?

[Paradox]

Buzz Dixon is a bad, bad boy!:
Certainly better than "Merde." :D

NAUGHTY!!!

http://forums.comicbookresources.com/showthread.php?t=1656 :D

Yeah, I thought of that one, too...but, naaaah...too easy. ;)

[Justin Davis]

Please do! Let me have my FUN!

Will you be my accountant?

[mgs]

First of all, sex is ok. Sex is great. Sex is wonderful. It's just supposed to be between husband and wife. Oral Sex is a grey area and depends on how you hold or if you'd even bother to ask a Rabbi. Most people feel that if no semen is "wasted", it is permissible. So as long as the job's not finished, your wife could work on you as much as she likes.

Your girlfriend however...no.

The rumor probably started as something derisive and became a sterotype most likely.

(I'm proud of this place. On page four and not ONE question about that stupid hole in the sheet thing)
Kind of what Alex was saying, I've heard of this, but it went something like this, jewish girls tend to go quite crazy with the sex BEFORE they get married, because after they do, they are not supposed to be so wild while married.

This is something I legitimately heard a while ago working with many jewish folk and there was apparently some problem about the men not wanting to marry jewish women for this reason. There were no, 'pure' marriages to speak of, a while ago, and this was seen as a problem.

This is certainly something I've noticed, but living in New york, everyone can get a bit wilder than they normally would, so....

And here's mine: do you know anything about the orthodox? While they seem to maintain certain norms and traditiional beliefs, they seem to have no aversion to such material things as jewelry and walkmans, etc.

I was kinda wondering, if everyone started to dress like them, and form commmunities, etc, would they stop? Do you know the reasons for their actions, or do they do it to distingush themselves?

just wondering, thanks, morts.

[DarkSoldier]

So...what is up with that "sex through the sheet" thing?
Read this (http://www.snopes.com/religion/sheet.htm).

[Boldido]

Read this (http://www.snopes.com/religion/sheet.htm).

The times for conjugal duty prescribed in the Torah are: for men of independence, every day; for laborers, twice a week; for ass-drivers, once a week; for camel-drivers, once in thirty days; for sailors, once in six months. These are the rulings of Rabbi Eliezer

WOW!!!! Every Day?!?!?!?! What exactly is a man of independence? I never thought I would say this, but that is just too much sex.

[JeffreyWKramer]

WOW!!!! Every Day?!?!?!?! What exactly is a man of independence? I never thought I would say this, but that is just too much sex.

Doesn't seem to be doing any harm here.

"Too much sex" is, I suppose, theoretically possible, but I haven't found it to exist yet.

[Boldido]

Doesn't seem to be doing any harm here.

"Too much sex" is, I suppose, theoretically possible, but I haven't found it to exist yet.
How did I know you would be responding to this?

[Hoss]

[I]for ass-drivers, once a week;


Back when I was Odin Son, I would have had a very crude and offensive joke to make here.

[MacQuarrie]

The times for conjugal duty prescribed in the Torah are: for men of independence, every day; for laborers, twice a week; for ass-drivers, once a week; for camel-drivers, once in thirty days; for sailors, once in six months. These are the rulings of Rabbi Eliezer
In an unrelated story, the Navy reports today that enlistment has seriously declined recently.

[DarkBlade]

Fair odds I again learned something slightly odd in religions class, but I'll take a stab at one of those. Basically, you're supposed to cover your head in the presence of God, and since he's everywhere, male orthodox jews wear it all the time. Many women (I -think- less in recent year) do the same, but with a scarf or something, especially when going to worship.

How much it's worn by followers of non-orthodox jewish traditions varies. Usually it's just for prayer and when visiting a holy site.

EDIT: Actually, I think the female head covering has more to do with propriety and that you're supposed to keep the hair covered in public. Vaugely similar to muslims in that regard. Morts, is this in that modesty listing code?

~DarkBlade

[LtMarvel]

The Jewish people are heavily tied to the moon. I've heard lots of Kabbalistic reasons, but the calendar has a more simple basis: The month used to begin when two witnesses came to the Temple and said they saw the New Moon. There was an elaborate set of laws about this.

So, can you speculate about the Earth-bound Jews of Space: 1999. Or is that series considered offensive?

[DarkSoldier]

What exactly is a man of independence?I believe it might refer to the independantly wealthy; ie. Bruce Wayne.

[Typo Lad]

You do realize what "Morts" spelled backwards is? ;)

Strom?

I don't get it.

Now stay away from my Spider-Slayers!

[Typo Lad]

This is a great game and all, but where are the prizes?

Mark B.

Well, I'm the one answering the questions, so shouldn't *I* get the prize.

Oh great. I just perpetuated the '"greedy" stereotype, didn't I?

[Typo Lad]

Okay, my question:

What's up with that fiddler, and why is he on the roof?

You know, I never saw that until I got married. Suzannah loves the movie, so i watched it.

I gathered the Fidler was a metaphor of some sort.

[Typo Lad]

What I want to know is, how limited are you in terms of
going out to eat? It has to be a kosher establishment that's approved by your Rabbi?

Pretty much. Or by a Certifying Organization that I hold by. For example, there was a restaurant that I loved that switched certification. Nothing changed, but I no longer eat there, as I do not believe the current certification to be reliable.

Also, what if I offer you say, a tomato I just picked in my backyard, is that ok to eat? Are there restrictions on fresh vegetables and fruits, or in thier preparation?



Preparation, yes. However, fresh fruits and veggies are almost always acceptable.

[Typo Lad]

Can you explain the derivation of the various derogatory slang words for jews and non-jews? Like, what does "goy" really mean? Or "shiksa"? I always thought "kike" was a really stupid word, but what does it mean?

"Goy" is a diminutive of "Goyim", which means "Nations". A "Goy" is simply someone who is not Jewish. My wife feels it has become a slur lately and will not let it be used in the house.

A "Shiksa", or in the masculin, "Shaygitz" is Yiddish. It means a Jew who behaves improperly (a slut/himbo, basically). It's bastardized to mean a non-Jew but that's NOT what it means.

No idea where "kike" came from.

And, just to be insulting, do you guys only put the propellor on for special occasions?

har-de-har.

Actually, some Jews only cover their hair on special occasions, in fact. So there.

[Typo Lad]

Will you be my accountant?

I actually am quite bad at math. Why not ask one of the asian posters?

[Alex]

I actually am quite bad at math. Why not ask one of the asian posters?
Asains are good with numbers in general, jews are good with money specificly.
Jeeez, you should know that, what being a jew and all.

[Typo Lad]

Fair odds I again learned something slightly odd in religions class, but I'll take a stab at one of those. Basically, you're supposed to cover your head in the presence of God, and since he's everywhere, male orthodox jews wear it all the time. Many women (I -think- less in recent year) do the same, but with a scarf or something, especially when going to worship.

In fact, Orthodox Jewish women wear wigs. All day. Or hats. S'truth. And the first part is pretty accurate.

How much it's worn by followers of non-orthodox jewish traditions varies. Usually it's just for prayer and when visiting a holy site.

I'm impressed. Your teacher got something RIGHT for a change.

EDIT: Actually, I think the female head covering has more to do with propriety and that you're supposed to keep the hair covered in public. Vaugely similar to muslims in that regard. Morts, is this in that modesty listing code?


It's like this: Hair is sexy. Damn sexy. In fact, Jewish thought is basically that it's one of the sexiest things on a woman, apparently. Jewish married women are supposed to cover their hair, because it's something intimate between husband and wife. To what extent varies. And, just to show some of my fellow Jews weird me out, I will point out that some very, very observant women actually shave their heads. Since the point of the hair covering is because it is sexy... I don't get this.

[Alex]

It's like this: Hair is sexy. Damn sexy. In fact, Jewish thought is basically that it's one of the sexiest things on a woman, apparently. Jewish married women are supposed to cover their hair, because it's something intimate between husband and wife. To what extent varies. And, just to show some of my fellow Jews weird me out, I will point out that some very, very observant women actually shave their heads. Since the point of the hair covering is because it is sexy... I don't get this.
...
.....
As a jew, you ever notice a lot of jewish women have really nice racks?

[Typo Lad]

So, can you speculate about the Earth-bound Jews of Space: 1999. Or is that series considered offensive?

Never seen it.

[Typo Lad]

Asains are good with numbers in general, jews are good with money specificly.
Jeeez, you should know that, what being a jew and all.

I *wish* I were good with money. Sigh. I keep loosing my shirt on shipping with my ebay sales.

[Typo Lad]

...
.....
As a jew, you ever notice a lot of jewish women have really nice racks?

DO I EVER!

This is why jewish men and women pray separately.

[Typo Lad]

The times for conjugal duty prescribed in the Torah are: for men of independence, every day; for laborers, twice a week; for ass-drivers, once a week; for camel-drivers, once in thirty days; for sailors, once in six months. These are the rulings of Rabbi Eliezer

WOW!!!! Every Day?!?!?!?! What exactly is a man of independence? I never thought I would say this, but that is just too much sex.

This is the REAL reason we circumcise. Better ventilation.

Seriously though, I wonder what the source is for that. A Jewish man CAN'T have sex EVERY night. There are certain times when he's not allowed to get frisky.

[Typo Lad]

I know that story and I like it a lot. The negative Golden Rule is a pretty good guiding principle to live by. Though I do think there are some Jewish beliefs that don't necessarily fit under this rubric.

Thanks for the answer!

Thanks for the question. Now I have one.

Which beliefs do you find to be incompatible?

[Typo Lad]

My understanding is that there's more than one split. When Joshua finally led the people to Canaan, the tribes of Reuben and Gad remained on the east side of the Jordan, in accordance with the agreement they had made with Moses in Numbers 32.

True, but they were still considered a part of the Nation, from what i can recall. They may have not dwelt IN Israel, but they were OF Israel.

[Alex]

DO I EVER!

This is why jewish men and women pray separately.
Yeah, let me take this moment to thank you guys for that.
the best part about reports on isreal, are all the hotties in the background.

[Typo Lad]

Kind of what Alex was saying, I've heard of this, but it went something like this, jewish girls tend to go quite crazy with the sex BEFORE they get married, because after they do, they are not supposed to be so wild while married.

Well, first off, since pre-marital sex is a big no-no they shouldn't be getting crazy with it anyway...

But seriously, married Jewish sex life is supposed to be intense and passionate. Like sex with anyone, it varies from person to person. However, we actually have laws about sex to guide us. In fact, most Orthodox Jews take pre-marital counseling. It's a great place to ask interesting questions.

This is something I legitimately heard a while ago working with many jewish folk and there was apparently some problem about the men not wanting to marry jewish women for this reason. There were no, 'pure' marriages to speak of, a while ago, and this was seen as a problem.

Well, those men were either morons or those girls were using a lie to excuse being loose.

This is certainly something I've noticed, but living in New york, everyone can get a bit wilder than they normally would, so....

I think it has more to do with - in the cases of the girls or boys raised religiously - taking an extra "thrill" in sinning. You "know" it is wrong based on your beliefs, and that adds spice. After you get married, it's expected. Know what I mean.

And here's mine: do you know anything about the orthodox? While they seem to maintain certain norms and traditiional beliefs, they seem to have no aversion to such material things as jewelry and walkmans, etc.

Hold up. I'm Orthodox. You don't mean Orthodox. You mean Chasidic. Long black coats, rarely shave, high population in Brooklyn, right?

And btw, Judaism is not an Aesthetic faith. Jewelry has been around since the times of Abraham and Sarah. Nothing wrong with it.

I was kinda wondering, if everyone started to dress like them, and form commmunities, etc, would they stop? Do you know the reasons for their actions, or do they do it to distingush themselves?

From what little I know of Chassidic Jews, it's a cultural thing. This is how they feel they are supposed to dress and act. They are still part of the world around them - they just have a different code of conduct than you or I, and a mode of dress.

I suspect if everyone acted like them, they would be quite pleased.

[mgs]

First of all Morts, thanks for being so kind to go through all my questions, onward. :)

"Well, those men were either morons or those girls were using a lie to excuse being loose."
yeah, that's what i gather, it's not like other women aren't acting like that too. ;)

"Hold up. I'm Orthodox. You don't mean Orthodox. You mean Chasidic. Long black coats, rarely shave, high population in Brooklyn, right?"
Oops! Sorry, you are correct.

"Nothing wrong with it."
no, of course, not, I was not trying to be stereotypucal, I was just thinking about what i had seen on the trains lately.

"I suspect if everyone acted like them, they would be quite pleased."
THanks, but I guess I was not specific enough. What about their dress, specifically, I mean, if people still were sacreligious and stuff, but they all mimicked the dress code, do you think they would balk and change their own, accordingly? :confused:

thanks for all your help.

[Typo Lad]

First of all Morts, thanks for being so kind to go through all my questions, onward. :)
"I suspect if everyone acted like them, they would be quite pleased."
THanks, but I guess I was not specific enough. What about their dress, specifically, I mean, if people still were sacreligious and stuff, but they all mimicked the dress code, do you think they would balk and change their own, accordingly? :confused:

thanks for all your help.

There are people like that within the Chasidic Community, alas. I don't know how they are dealt with, as I am not a part of that community.

[Fenris]

I will say, however, that as I believe that one day, the Exile will be over and the Messiah will come, then frankly it doesn’t matter if we have a State of Israel, because one day, we’ll have a Land. One day.


How much will the coming of the Messiah change things? Will it be a total revision of the world? Will it be the end of the world? Or is it simply the reestablishment of Israel in a spiritual rather than political sense?

[Alex]

How much will the coming of the Messiah change things? Will it be a total revision of the world? Will it be the end of the world? Or is it simply the reestablishment of Israel in a spiritual rather than political sense?
Yeah...do you guys have an equivliant of Revelation and i just missed it?

[DarlingNikki]

why do many jews believe in not marrying someone who's not of the jewish faith?

[Typo Lad]

How much will the coming of the Messiah change things? Will it be a total revision of the world? Will it be the end of the world? Or is it simply the reestablishment of Israel in a spiritual rather than political sense?

RICHARD!

Oh boy.

You know, truth be told, I don't know well enough to say. It's not the end of the world though, not at all. I've heard it described as a revision; an earth 2.0 if you will.

I've hard a lot of differing opinions, in fact. So many it makes my head hurt.

Part *is* the rebuilding of the Bais Hamigdash (The Great Temple) in Jerusalem and yes, the return of the Spiritual Israel.

Sigh. You had to come back and ask a toughie, didn't you?

[Fenris]

RICHARD!

MOREDECHAI!

Oh boy.

You know, truth be told, I don't know well enough to say. It's not the end of the world though, not at all. I've heard it described as a revision; an earth 2.0 if you will.

I've hard a lot of differing opinions, in fact. So many it makes my head hurt.

Part *is* the rebuilding of the Bais Hamigdash (The Great Temple) in Jerusalem and yes, the return of the Spiritual Israel.

Sigh. You had to come back and ask a toughie, didn't you?

Well, all the food talk was making me hungry!

In all seriousness, this is an excellent thread. Thank you, Mordechai!

[Typo Lad]

why do many jews believe in not marrying someone who's not of the jewish faith?

Well, keep in mind that Judaism is a religion, but it's not a race per se. It's not like Irish only marrying Irish or somesuch - there are Jews from all walks of life and all races. There's a huge diversity out there. There are black Jews, asian Jews, hispanic Jews - each with a rich culture (and, in the case of the Sephardic - spanish- ones, some of the most stunning women and men I have ever seen). By only marrying in the religion, it's a religious choice rather than a racial one. What depresses me is when a Jew refuses to date another Jew because he or she is of another race. I once knew someone who was looking for a girl of a certain personality type. I knew the perfect girl. However, he wouldn't go out with her because she was black. Never mind she was one of the most brilliant people I've met in a long time, or that she was one of the kindest, or that she could give my wife a run for her money in the looks department: She was different.

Sigh.

Back on topic... it's pretty much verbottin to marry outside the faith. Think of it this way: Jews are like, 1% of the world population, if even that. Anyone leaving the faith in any way is a great loss. Especially since we go by matrilineal descent. Think about it: if my sister were to have married a Gentile, all of her children would be Jewish. However, they might not be raised that way and might never know. Or how about if someone doesn't know about matrilineal descent and assumes that their children ARE Jewish. In fact, a child of a jewish male and non-Jewish woman would have to convert if he wished to be a part of any aspect of Jewish Ritual.

I have an uncle on each side who's intermarried. My paternal uncle is married to a wonderful, amazing woman and their son is a great guy. However, he's very aware that he's not "really" Jewish. It creates a friction, no matter how hard we try for it to not. My Maternal cousins think that they are Jewish, and that causes a tad MORE friction. They want to be included and technically, they can't be.

Actually, now that I think of it, a better example is my wife and her sister. Both converted to Judaism. Suzannah converted Orthodox. Her older sister, Jen, converted Conservative. Now, Orthodox Judaism doesn't recognize Conservative conversions, so to us, she's not Jewish. Recentl