Judaism in practice questions
Directions: Answer the following questions about the practice of Judaism today. Answer in detail with
complete thoughts. When you have finished answering the questions, write five good questions on your
own, that you would like to ask Rabbi Weiner when he comes to speak. You will receive a process grade for
your work as well as a participation grade based on the quality of questions you write for Rabbi Weiner.
1. Modern Jews speak of a covenant with God. Explain that covenant in detail—what did god promise and
what does he ask the Jews in return? What procedure do Jewish males go through that is symbolic of that
covenant?
2. What is Rabbinic Judaism? How are Rabbis trained? Where do they hold worship services? What is a
Midrash and what two types of interpretation does it yield (explain them in detail, do not just list the
names)?
3. What is Hasidic Judaism? Explain its tenets and history.
4. What is a mitzvoth? How is it “given” and interpreted/used in modernity?
5. Explain the laws/ideas/sacred practices/reasons behind the Sabbath, Kosher, T’fillin, and Yarmulkes.
6. Explain the importance of the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah,, and Daniel to the history of Judaism and the
practice of Judaism today.
7. What are the major Jewish holidays and how are they celebrated?
8. Explain the three branches of modern Judaism and the differences between them: Orthodox,
Conservative, and Reform.
Write five good questions for Rabbi Weiner below:
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