My dog, a beloved family pet, has recently died. She was with my family for fourteen years. We're all grieving so much right now and I can't seem to come to terms with her death-- she was part of my childhood (We adopted her when I was 12 and I'm now 26) and I feel such an emptiness. Even though I haven't lived at home with my parents in a long time, I still always loved her and spent time when I went home, including special trips I made when she was sick. I was wondering what Jewish faith says about death of pets. I remember when my grandfather died, I was really comforted by our faith and how we view the loss of life. With my dog, there are no services, no rabbis, special prayers (of what I know!) or anything like that. It seems to only be a grieving process, but still and all, I'm hoping there is something that can be said about the loss of a cherished pet. I think it would comfort me (and my family) a lot. Thanks, Lauren

Why is the shofer not blown on Rosh Hashanah when it falls on Shabbos. I've heard that the Shofar is considered Muksah, and I've heard to prevent one from carrying on Shabbos. I think there are more deeper reasons.

I am taking an Introduction to Judaism Class offered through the Oregon Board of Rabbis. The nineteen sessions are taught by fifteen Portland area rabbis, and while not a conversion course, I do intend to convert when I am finished with the course (the course is a prerequisite before a rabbi will consider us for conversion instruction). I am wanting to learn the Hebrew language as early as posssible in order to get the most out of the Tanach and the Shabbat services. I was wondering if I should learn mainly biblical Hebrew, conversational, or both? I don't see any local classes in my area (even the community college). I know I won't learn just from a book. Do you know of any resources (including the internet) where I could learn to read and speak Hebrew? Any help you could provide would be greatly appreciated. Thank you and Shalom. Paul

Hi, I was wondering if it is against the Torah if a man crossdresses as a woman, for fun like at a party with other men, on a regular basis. Is it only the sexual act associated with homosexuality that is against the law of the Torah? Thanks!