Afterlife

Dear Rabbi: Is it true that the original Septuagint omitted the phrase "before the Ark," in Joshua 7:6? If so, why do modern version contain the phrase. Thank you, any help you may offer. Was the phrase included in the original Hebrew? Thank you, PW

I’m 71 year old man. My great-grandmother’s (my mother’s mother’s mother) Jewish family immigrated from Poland in the late 1800s. I first visited a synagogue when I was 14 years old and was told because it was on my mother's side that I was Jewish. I know nothing of the Jewish faith other than from my Christian upbringing, but I feel a desire to know more. Where can I start please? Am I a Jew by birth?

Will God save us from climate change? did he punish us with climate change? is it a natural event, or is it a test?

Hello, Rabbi. I am worried so much about my part in the world to come. I have gotten that Pfizer vaccine 2,5 years ago. I have suffered a serious injury. But what worries me is that HaShem numerous times in the TaNakh prohibited genetic changes even of the plants, saying that He wouldn’t bless them. So I have read recently about vast genetic modifications Pfizer vaccine causes to happen. Including so called VMAT2 gene. So, I am worried a lot about how it will affect my part in the world to come. I can say that it has affected blessings of my health for sure, it has deteriorated greatly. Thank you.

What is the source for the tradition "when you build a new town the first thing you do is make the cemetery... even before the shochet or yeshiva is set up..." I know I've heard this teaching before and am having trouble locating the source.

Our cat had to be euthanized after it was determined by numerous sources that the pet was undergoing severe discomfort, pain, and suffering. Due to a possible rabies situation, the vet was required (according to law) the cat had to be cremated and tested for rabies. What should be done with the cremated remains? Should the remains be buried in a pet cemetery? I am understanding that it should not receive a grave stone and not be mourned like a human. Could the cremated remains be kept in a Jewish home or would burying be more appropriate? Thanks

Thoughts and actions on IVF may vary depending on which part of Judaism you are part of. I was wondering a Rabbi's perspective on IVF

Where exactly in the Torah does it say women can't read for the Torah?

hi. are there ways for jews to atone for their sins? it stresses me out that my mom cheated on my dad because adulterers aren't allowed in heaven and my mom is the one person I need to be with forever. I also shoplifted a few times when I was younger. thieves cant get into heaven so am I screwed either way? I am a young woman with plenty of life left to live but the fear of the unknown weighs a heavy burden on me