Question
Dear Rabbi, Why is it customary to remain seated while reciting the Shma Yisrael prayer in the morning and the evening? It would seem that during such an important and central prayer, we should show the utmost respect and attention by standing. Thank you.

Question
Dear Rabbi, I recently hired a magician for my son’s birthday party only to be told by a well-meaning friend that doing magic tricks is questionable according to Judaism. Is this true?

Question
Hi Rabbi, how do I control my anger when I am deeply insulted in public? I know what I’d like to do, but — what does Judaism teach is the right thing to do? Thanks!

Question
Shalom aleichem Rabbi Lauffer. Thank you for answering my last question. Is one allowed to unscrew the top of a sippy cup on Shabbos, the top of the sippy cup containing the straw, dump out the water, put new water in the sippy cup and then screw the top back on, or would this be forbidden because one is thereby making a vessel? Thanks a lot.