Question
When Isaiah 49:6 says that Jews are to be a light to all nations, would that be via Tikkum Olam? I know it means repairing of the world and that many Jews believe it’s best implementation is via social justice. However, as the saying goes: “The road to hell is often paved with good intentions.” Social justice movements such as feminism have been rightfully criticized for doing more harm than good. Also, some of these organizations have turned out to be charity scams, making the repairing more like damaging. But, if Tikkum Olam is the way that Jews are to be a light to all nations, then how can it be applied without doing damage to the world?

Question
While napping just the other day, I awoke uttering " I will bless YHVH at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth." (Psalms 34:1) I was stirred inwardly by this and feel it was afflatus a "Divine" prompting to always praise G-d in every circumstance, whether "good" or "evil". This isn't easy when " evil" seems to work overtime. Then something inspiring happened while studying Torah. I came across 2 Chronicles 20:21: "And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto YHVH, and that they should praise the beauty of His holiness as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise YHVH, for His mercy endures forever." 2 Chronicles 20:22: "And when they began to sing and to praise, YHVH set ambushes against the children of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, which were come against Yehuda; and they were smitten." This is powerful! Like dynamite awaiting detonation; Heartfelt praise toward G-d turns any situation into favour from G-d. Exodus 15:3 says that YHVH is a man of war, YHVH is His name. Praise is vital. What are your thoughts?

Question
I wanted to know why we respect our elders. One reason I heard is because they’re closer to Sinai, but why does that merit respect?

Question
The greater the person, the greater yetzer hara. A man becomes great spiritually through challenges of yetzer hara. So, great Jewish sages have a bigger yetzer hara. How can I make my yetzer hara greater, while not being a sinner?

Question
If the Jewish new year is in September 12 months already passed? and before then are we the world and catholics now too behind and because we changed new year behind in months and days , too ? bcus If already next year and I think that's all main like and question and now . and we have extra days too and so would like to see months with right days less

Question
Hi Rabbi, A friend showed me a verse in the Torah that says: “All God asks is that you do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God.” I am not Orthodox but am trying to learn about my Judaism and want to understand what would make me a good Jew. Is it really enough to “do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God” to be a good Jew? Thanks!

Question
Hi Rabbi, I read that there are 36 righteous people in every generation whose identities are hidden from the world. My question is: Why do they stay hidden? Shouldn't they be in the thick of society as renowned Torah leaders? I wonder if it’s possible that I might be one of these 36?! Thanks for this terrific Ask the Rabbi service which Gateways provides!  

Question
Shalom aleichem Rabbi Lauffer. Thank you for answering my last question. Poskim in the past have ruled that it is a mitzvah to vote. Would this still hold true in countries like America, where the elections are rigged and one’s vote doesn’t count, chas v’shalom? Thanks.