Question
"If you make an altar of stones for me, do not build it with dressed stones, for you will defile it if you use a tool on it." (Shemot 20:25) So, how was the altar made?

Question
Rabbi, when I prayer in front of the Shabbos lights on Friday evening, I pray for the welfare of all my children and parents, etc. Do I mention their names using their mother's name or do I mention their father's name? Thank you.
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Question
Shalom aleichem Rabbi Lauffer. If one has a havdalah candle holder with the words "borei me'orei ha'eish" written on it in Hebrew, would it be proper or improper to use it as a havdalah candle holder, considering wax from the dripping candle covers the letters and also wine gets on it? Thanks lot.

Question
I was reading an article in The Yeshiva World, and the word 'przitus' was used, and I didn't know what it meant. Would it be possible to have the word defined, if that is done here? Thank you for your attention to this note, and to any help you may give me.

Question
Is there any issue with hosting a community event on a Saturday? We have an opportunity for the Southern Poverty Law Center to speak at our synagogue on the topic of "Hate and Intolerance In Our Community." A Saturday is the only day available.

Question
I have noticed the custom that when ladies light candles Friday afternoon they wave their hands in front of their eyes before they cover their eyes. What is the reason and source of this custom to wave before making the blessing? Thanking the Rabbi in advance.
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