Question
I heard that a cow is both a metaphor and physical expression of an intense desire to receive. In view of this, cows are seen as powerful tools for attracting spiritual energy. Thus, red meat is a recommended dish for the first meal of the Shabbat, since the internal energy of the meat serves to draw down the Light of the Creator. Now my question: Should we eat beef every day?

Question
I admit that recent rockets from Gaza, in addition to other world events, frighten me. What does Judaism teach about dealing with fear?
,

Question
I am not Jewish but wish to learn more about Judaism and to worship on the Sabbath. Perhaps, I am a seeker and very interested in learning more. Would you point me to appropriate and accepted resources or places where I might continue this journey?

Question
So, I'm a convert to Judaism. I converted 7 years ago. I started working part time at a salvation army thrift store (I also work with the school district with Autistic Children). I really needed more more to survive. So this year I took off for Rosh Hashanah ....but they scheduled a "manatory" meeting on that day. I did not show up since I had taken the day off. No one said anything about it, but they put on the schedule that I would have to work on Friday to make it up. So there was no school on Friday...I said "great". They offered the evening or morning shift. I reminded the manager that I don't work Shabbot. So I get a call reminding me to come into work on Friday evening. I reminded the manager that I took the morning shift. She became angry and said "I knew this would happen". There is no one else who can work for you...so you will come in?" So I told her I would not come in but would turn in a two week notice. She called me about 30 minutes later and said "We can't afford to lose you...you're a good cashier so I just got someone to cover your shift Friday." I feel like she views my beliefs as invalid. She always telling me she will pray for me...but in a kind way. And now I'm considering still giving notice. What do you think???
, ,

Question
I just took a job giving tours of my hometown to tourists. I am supposed to start next week. One of my duties is to take periodic head counts to make sure no one is missing. My boss said it is necessary for safety. But Jewish law as I understand prohibits counting people by head. How do I deal with this?

Question
I would like to ask the rabbi a question. I was at a birthday party recently and the hostess insisted that the birthday boy not blow out the candles. Rather, she put them out by hand. Is there any basis to this practice? And, if so, what’s the difference between blowing out a candle and extinguishing it by hand? Thanks!
, ,

Question
Hi Rabbi: I have the following question: Are non-Jews permitted to read portions of Torah (or other honors) during services? I have a friend who goes to Shabbat services nearly every Saturday (for many, many years). He wants to covert to Judaism but hasn't gone through all the steps. (He's actually more observant than most Jews). During services, he is often asked to step-up to the Bema to read a portion of the Torah, hold the Torah, or perform other honors. He politely declines because he's not sure if he's allowed to perform these honors because he is not "technically" Jewish. The temple we go to is very inclusive, on the reform side, and extremely welcoming to all. Also, the number of people who attend on Saturday is usually small -- we barely have a minyan most Saturdays. So, my question is: May a non Jewish person perform the above honors during services? Do different temples have different rules on this subject? Do reform synagogues have different rules on this subject than more orthodox temples? Thank you.