Shabbat

Shalom aleichem Rabbi Lauffer. Thank you for answering my last question. Is one allowed to unscrew the top of a sippy cup on Shabbos, the top of the sippy cup containing the straw, dump out the water, put new water in the sippy cup and then screw the top back on, or would this be forbidden because one is thereby making a vessel? Thanks a lot.

I woke up in the middle of the night and wondered: “Why is it Jewish practice to dip the Challah or bread we eat in salt?” What’s so important about salt in Judaism?

I was a guest at the home of a religious family this past Shabbat, and they served the tastiest delicacy into which I’ve ever sunk my teeth. It had an intoxicating aroma and looked like a molasses-colored potpourri. I believe they called it “Jolt.” What is the significance of this tasty tradition?

Shalom aleichem Rabbi Lauffer. Thank you for answering my last question. On Shabbos, if someone asks you who you are going to vote for for President, are you allowed to say? Or would this be forbidden because it is talking about doing something after Shabbos which you are not allowed to do on Shabbos? Thanks a lot.

Shalom aleichem Rabbi Lauffer. Thank you for answering my last question. If one notices that there is a sharp piece/sliver of wood, or whatever those things are that you step on in the house, in one's sock on Shabbos, is one allowed to take off his sock and remove the sharp thing in his sock, and if this is permitted, would it also be permitted even if it is embedded in the fabric of the sock? Thanks a lot.

Hi Rabbi, I’m a bit confused about what’s involved in keeping Shabbat. I know it’s supposed to be a day of rest, but I see some Jewish neighbors taking long walks – not exactly my idea of rest – and yet refrain from turning on a light, which doesn’t sound like work to me. I appreciate your explanation, Rabbi. Thanks!

What is the source that teaches to light candles for Shabbat?

Is it possible to use a bagel for "lechem mishneh" on Shabbos? On one hand this is a complete baked item, but on the hand, its shape makes it appear as if it is not complete.