Episodes

5d ago

What does it mean to serve as shaliach tzibbur—the representative of a community in prayer—if you struggle with belief in God? This episode explores the halakhic and theological dimensions of a question that sits at the heart of Jewish spiritual life. Does disbelief disqualify someone from leading davening, or does the act of prayer itself create a space that transcends personal theology? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Shema by Saul Kaye

Dec 10

I recently started attending a shul that gives joint aliyot. What, if any, are the halakhic issues with two people receiving an aliyah at the same time? Do any of the issues rise to the level that I should privately request only solo aliyot from the gabbai, or perhaps even ask not to receive an aliyah at all? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: A Prayer for Everyone by Cindy Alexander

Dec 3

I am starting an adult b'nai mitzvah program this year and will be holding a Shabbat morning service for the students in the program. I have twelve students participating and am trying to figure out a way to give them each an individual aliyah. Is it permissible to add aliyot in order to do so? If so, would you repeat an aliyah or divide the aliyot into smaller sections? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: American Dreams by John Torres

Nov 26

I occasionally get a massage. Recently, there was a change in massage therapists. The new therapist emphasized that she uses Reiki, which is concentrating an energy field to help in healing. I mentioned this to a friend who is very knowledgeable in Reiki, and she mentioned that Reiki is an independent, sentient entity with volition and intelligence. She also says that someone doing Reiki involves the spirit of the Reiki entity through specific chants and phrases. Now I am concerned that what I thought was just an energy healing technique is somehow tied up with sorcery, witchcraft, divination. Bottom line: is it okay to get massages that include Reiki energy healing?

Nov 19

I am an attorney currently working on a death penalty appeal on behalf of a convicted client. We have a brief in the case due on a Friday, and I lined up assistance from non-Jewish colleagues in case the brief isn’t ready when Shabbat starts. Was that necessary here, given that I am trying to prevent an execution and save a life? Are there any circumstances in which it would be permissible to work on a death penalty case on Shabbat? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Heavy Weight by White Noise Maker

Nov 12

Can one sell their plasma for export? The US is a major player in this field of plasma export. Does Halacha say anything relevant about this? Are there any specific considerations about use of blood? And do we need to take into account the risk of taking advantage of desperate people, who may not really be doing this voluntarily? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Young Blood by The Solarists

Nov 5

I grew up in a very religious Catholic family and attended Catholic schools through college. Through my upbringing, I accumulated a number of rosaries, bibles, and other accoutrements. When I started converting, I took all these things and put them in a box. My family is no longer religious whatsoever and also has no use for them. I didn't want to throw all these things away because this felt disrespectful, but I I feel uncomfortable still owning all of them. Is there a proper way to dispose of the items? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Finer Things In Life by The Texas Gypsies

Oct 29

A close friend is getting married in a church and I'm very conflicted about what to do. I have always avoided entering churches as I was taught that this was forbidden. But I feel terrible skipping my friend's wedding. What are the relevant halakhic considerations and sources? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Wedding March (Mendelssohn) by Cyrus Farrah

Jun 11

It's my first time blowing the shofar for my community this year. What tips can you share and what considerations should I be thinking about as I prepare? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Girl Can Wail by Chloe Dolandis

Jun 4

I grew up fasting on Yom Kippur, and usually on Tisha B’Av also, but I never even knew about the minor fast days. Now I am in a community that does observe them, and I am curious about their importance. Is my obligation to fast on these days the same as on Yom Kippur? Why is there so much variety in how they are observed by people who are otherwise observant? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: A Hymn For Tomorrow By Anjou

May 28

This episode deals with Shavuot questions about decorating shul with flowers, as well as the custom of having a Tikkun Leil Shavuot, a night of staying up to learn Torah. Where do these customs originate, and what is their status? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Sleep by BJSR

May 21

As a parent of little children, our family always has a lot of tension around the second night of a two day Yom Tov, especially when it gets dark very late. I was always taught that you have to wait until it is fully dark after the first day of Yom Tov to start preparing anything for the second day. That means we don’t start cooking or even setting the table until after 9 PM. This wreaks havoc on my family schedule. Is there any wiggle room here? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Prayer For My Children by Soul Aviv

May 14

What are the halakhic considerations about saying “Chr***” given the prohibition on uttering names of other gods? How does that work in interfaith and academic contexts? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Planets by Jared Lutes

May 7

What does halakhah have to say about life insurance? Should we get it or is relying on the community sufficient, or even expected? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Human Life by Tiffany Thompson

Apr 30

Should a person who died by suicide be buried "outside the fence?" How does mental illness factor into this question? And are there grounds to consider reburial of someone so that they can be near family members? Trigger warning: This episode deals with sensitive and painful content. Please take care in choosing whether to listen. Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Water Burial by Fisher.

Apr 23

When davening in a prayer space that is not oriented towards Jerusalem, is there ever a time when it would be appropriate to physically orient oneself toward the east? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: New Direction by Dave Tough

Apr 9

I like to go out the night after Passover to grab a cool beer in celebration of eating hametz (leaven) again. Do I need to worry if the owner of that bar is a Jew that didn't remove his hametz for the holiday? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Apr 2

Can I use ingredients like spices, pure dried fruit, oil, or nut butter, without Passover certification on Passover? Are there ingredients you can use without a certification? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

Mar 26

If I spend Passover with family members who don't kasher their kitchens for the holiday can I eat kosher for Passover food from their pots or dishes? Is there room for leniency because they're my family? What if my roommates want to use non-kosher for Passover dishes and products? How can we share the kitchen? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Feb 5

What is the halakhic weight of shalom bayit and to what extent is it permissible to do something forbidden for the sake of preserving one’s marriage? For example, I have sleep apnea and use a CPAP machine during the week, mostly because it prevents me from snoring and disturbing my spouse’s sleep. My spouse wants me to use it on Shabbat too, since we have young children and sleep is a precious commodity in our home. Should I acquiesce and use the CPAP machine on Shabbat for the sake of shalom bayit? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Breathe Easy by Tai Shan.

Jan 29

I have only ever been to seders where karpas is a simple piece of parsley dipped in saltwater, but there seems to be a growing trend of people doing much more elaborate karpas courses, often with multiple, full-blown appetizer dishes. Is this halakhically permissible? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Salty by Robbi Atkins https://soundcloud.com/robbi-atkins/salty-v3

Jan 22

I am a teenager who is becoming more observant. My parents are less then thrilled. For example, I would like to be observe Shabbat and not use my phone, but this sometimes creates difficulties as they will call or text me things during Shabbat. How can I balance my observance with honoring my parents? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Mom and the Radio by Bill Harley. https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=q20XpkwGSUO9DD-w&v=yqeKu23CJ2E&feature=youtu.be

Jan 15

As a gabbai, I am often reluctant to correct the person reading Torah so as not to add to their anxiety. I am wondering if we are entering a moment where technology might be helpful, such as writing the vowels and trope onto the Torah itself, or, less radically, making a see-through overlay. Would any of those options be acceptable to make reading Torah more accessible to all? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: Help You Stand by Justin James. https://youtu.be/ICnzG6Qfibo?si=3n9K_3FRlNGQnBVD

Jan 8

Can I read my horoscope? Does it matter whether I’m reading it “just for fun” or if I’m really trying to predict the future? Are horoscopes more forbidden for us than they were for medieval rabbis, who probably considered astrology a legitimate science? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org Music featured in this episode: All The Stars Have Aligned by The Morning Glass

Jan 1

In the mishnah we see the idea of a person who would translate the Torah into Aramaic after each verse is chanted from the Torah scroll. Would it be appropriate to have something like this now in order to enhance the understanding of the community? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Dec 26, 2024

What is the history and reasoning behind the mechitzah? Why do they vary so much in size and material? In a setting where this is a mechitzah, can a man walk over to the women’s side to carry a Torah? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Dec 18, 2024

As a person who is disabled, how am I supposed to relate to a system of mitzvot that often assumes its audience is able-bodied? For example, the morning blessings include the line thanking God for "opening the eyes of the blind"—but what if I am blind? Am I supposed to say this blessing? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Dec 11, 2024

I am a kohen who lives in Israel where I make the priestly blessing every day. After October 7th, I was recruited to my town’s First Response Team and am now required to carry my gun at all times, including the synagogue. Is it prohibited to make the blessing of Birkat Kohanim, which is essentially a blessing about peace, while carrying a weapon? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Sep 18, 2024

There is a principle that says that milk from a deathly sick animal is not kosher. But in today's modern dairy industry it may be reasonable to assume that most if not all cows fall into this category. Can we justify consuming factory milk? If so, how? This episode was recorded live at Hadar's 2024 Halakhah Intensive. Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Sep 11, 2024

I was at a meal at a non-Jewish colleague's home. We agreed to order food from a kosher restaurant but one of the dishes looks homemade. I don't want to be rude. Can I eat it? How can the framework of "sfeik sfeika," having two axes of doubt, help us make decisions when we don't have all of the information? This episode was recorded live at Hadar's 2024 Halakhah Intensive. Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Sep 4, 2024

My community has a retreat over Yom Tov where almost everyone spends a lot of time at the pool. I grew up in a community that never swam on Shabbat or Yom Tov and now I'm trying to navigate a community where everyone does it. What should I do? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Aug 28, 2024

While almost all Jewish communities celebrate a boy's Bar Mitzvah at 13, many communities are split for girls—some 12, some 13. Why should girls be required to do mitzvot before boys? What does this age split accomplish? And is it still relevant in egalitarian Jewish communities? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Aug 21, 2024

You're not supposed to pray somewhere unclean, like a bathroom. But if I'm in the bathroom and can hear the prayers nearby, am I allowed to say "amen"? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Aug 14, 2024

With any new industry, there are important questions to address from legal and religious perspectives. Responsa Radio creator David Zvi Kalman comes back to ask this question about generative AI for his new podcast, Belief in the Future . Given the way the new large language models trawl the internet for content, is it permitted to use them or does it count as theft? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Aug 7, 2024

There's a stereotype that I've seen on the internet recently that Jews don't care about non-Jewish life. How am I supposed to respond when somebody uses this argument? What do Jewish sources say about the imperative of saving the lives of non-Jews? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Jul 31, 2024

I've often heard the phrase "all of Israel are responsible for each other" (kol yisrael areivim zeh be-zeh). But what does this mean? What does the responsibility entail? How is it supposed to change my actions toward other Jews? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org

Jul 24, 2024

You asked and we answered! A new season of Responsa Radio begins next week. We're going to dig in to topics like artificial intelligence, the value of human life, and our responsibilities toward fellow Jews, just to name a few. Have a halakhic question you want answered on Responsa Radio? Send your question to responsa@hadar.org.

Jul 15, 2024

Halakhic works are often a dizzying compendium of multiple perspectives on a given issue, often making it difficult to determine how to behave in a given situation. In this lecture, R. Ethan Tucker argues this is a feature rather than a bug. Critical values that are meant to guide our lives are rarely fully manifest in any given time, place, or situation. It is our job to discern the wisdom of each voice and allow that wisdom to make a claim on us, rather than submitting ourselves to one path. Recorded at the Halakhah Intensive, May 2024. LOOK OUT FOR NEW RESPONSA RADIO EPISODES COMING SOON!

Apr 18, 2024

In celebration of 100 episodes of Responsa Radio, we're re-releasing our favorites with an update from Rav Eitan and Rav Avi at the end of the episode. Our producer, Jeremy Tabick's favorite is episode #7: The laws of eruv—constructing a sometimes questionable boundary around a neighborhood to allow carrying objects on shabbat—often seem obscure, bizarre, and made-up. But what are the ways in which it makes sense? What are the operating principles behind these laws?

Apr 11, 2024

In celebration of 100 episodes of Responsa Radio, we're re-releasing our favorites with an update from Rav Eitan and Rav Avi at the end of the episode. Our sound engineer, David Khabinsky's favorite is episode #78: A few months ago, one of the largest kosher certification agencies announced that it would not certify "Impossible Pork," despite the fact that nothing in the ingredients or preparation of Impossible Pork is not kosher. What determines whether or not a food is kosher, apart from the ingredients?

Apr 4, 2024

I'm planning on going to the total solar eclipse that will be visible in North America on April 8th. is there a blessing or some other liturgy that I should say as I see it?

Mar 28, 2024

I was trying to help someone on the street get some food. They asked for a sandwich, so I went into a nearby shop—and suddenly panicked because I realized it was Passover! What was I supposed to do in this case? What are the parameters of buying and touching hameitz for non-Jews during the holiday?

Mar 21, 2024

My family are coming in from 1000s of miles away for the eclipse on April 8th, but they won't be around for Pesah on April 22nd. I want to do a mock or model Seder with them, but I know some things are only supposed to be done on actual Seder night. What should I include or exclude? How can I make the mock Seder feel substantive, but at the same time, still a rehearsal and not a replacement of Seder itself?

Mar 13, 2024

I'm organizing my community's reading of Megillat Esther. Can I include English explanations or kids' plays between the chapters? What is at stake in breaking up the reading?

Mar 7, 2024

In celebration of 100 episodes of Responsa Radio, we're re-releasing our favorites with an update from Rav Eitan and Rav Avi at the end of the episode. Responsa Radio creator David Zvi Kalman's favorite is episode #9: I'm a lawyer who often has to look at crime scene photos. What are the considerations of k'vod ha-met (honor for the dead) that I should be taking into account in my job?

Feb 29, 2024

In celebration of 100 episodes of Responsa Radio, we're re-releasing our favorites with an update from Rav Eitan and Rav Avi at the end of the episode. Rav Eitan's favorite is episode #27: Can I set up my coffee maker on a timer before Shabbat to make my perfect cup on Shabbat itself? And if I can't do that, can I use a French press on Shabbat to get a better cup than instant?

Feb 22, 2024

In celebration of 100 episodes of Responsa Radio, we're re-releasing our favorites with an update from Rav Eitan and Rav Avi at the end of the episode. Rav Avi's favorite is episode #24: Brit Milah is an ancient and well-known ceremony to welcome boys into the world, but there's no such long-standing, equal ritual for girls. How should we think about this, and what are steps for the future when creating rituals like this?

Feb 21, 2024

When kids ask big questions, how do you respond? Whether you are parent, educator, or just a curious person, you've probably asked yourself the same questions. This podcast doesn’t have all the answers, but it can give you language and frameworks to engage meaningfully with these questions. Every week, Rabbi Shai Held invites an expert guest to explore a big question: Who is God? Why did God create the world? Why do bad things happen? No pressure.

Feb 15, 2024

I want to be more observant. Where do I start? Rav Avi and Rav Eitan reflect on this important question as they also celebrate our 100th episode! In honor of our 100th episode, over the next few weeks we will be updating and re-releasing some of our favorite episodes ever. Stay tuned!

Feb 8, 2024

Why might cheese not be kosher even if all the ingredients are? What does this say about relationships between Jews and non-Jews today?

Jan 24, 2024

For centuries, the process of halakhah has relied on a rabbi or posek, someone who is learned in Jewish texts, who has trained for years to be a resource for our halakhic questions. But now, with the release of large language models like ChatGPT, I'm wondering: is the human interaction an essential part of the halakhic process, or can I get my halakhic answers from an AI chatbot?

Dec 11, 2023

If I find myself at a large Hanukkah party or a communal gathering where Hanukkah candles are lit, do I still need light when I get home? If I do, is it okay to say the blessing two times? What if I said the blessing at Ma'ariv while leading the service? Does it matter how late I'm getting home? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

Dec 4, 2023

My shul has started reciting extra Tehilim and adding the Mi SheBerakh for captives. I've heard that some communities in Israel are saying Avinu Malkeinu every day, even on Shabbat. Is that something we should be doing? How should we be thinking about liturgical changes right now? How will we know when it's time to stop saying Tehilim? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

Nov 27, 2023

What is our obligation to redeem captives from a halakhic perspective? How far does this obligation extend and are there limits? Email us at responsa@hadar.org if you have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio.

Aug 3, 2023

There's a new community that just started in my neighborhood and I want to check them out but I heard they use instruments during their Shabbat service. What is the problem with instruments on Shabbat? What are the factors I should think about when working out if I want to attend this service?

Jul 13, 2023

I live in Australia and I have a Zoom call with someone in the UK. The call is scheduled at 9:00 PM for me and 12:00 PM for them - it is therefore not Shabbat for me but *is* Shabbat for them. Do I have to reschedule this Zoom call? Am I allowed to be involved with someone else doing violating Shabbat when I'm not doing anything wrong at all?

Jun 29, 2023

I have a blue tallit with white tzitzit. Someone recently told me that the tallit is supposed to be white. Is this true? Do I have to go out and get a white tallit? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org.

Jun 8, 2023

After learning about green burials and mushroom death suits, I’m wondering about halakhic implications of such burials. It seems to me that such methods for burial uphold the charge to go up to the dust even better than traditional burial where the body remains intact in a casket or even sometimes in a concrete box for a very long time. Should all Jews switch to a mushroom burial? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

May 18, 2023

I was recently at a sporting event where the line to exit the bathroom took close to five minutes. How long following an action or event requiring a berakhah can you still make the berakhah? How does one behave while waiting for the opportunity if you are conscious of the fact that you need to make the berakhah but are temporarily unable and what ultimately severs the connection to the berakhah? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

Mar 30, 2023

If I spend Passover with family members who don't kasher their kitchens for the holiday can I eat kosher for Passover food from their pots or dishes? Is there room for leniency because they're my family? What if my roommates want to use non-kosher for Passover dishes and products? How can we share the kitchen?

Mar 16, 2023

Can I use ingredients like spices, pure dried fruit, oil, or nut butter, without Passover certification on Passover? Are there ingredients you can use without a certification? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

Jan 26, 2023

It is common in some shuls for the family of the Bnei Mitzvah to say Shehehiyyanu at some point during the Shabbat service. What is the function of Shehehiyyanu in this context? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

Jan 12, 2023

On a previous episode ( Can You Make Seltzer on Shabbat? Responsa Radio #80) , you mentioned that there is room to be lenient on the rules of food preparation when welcoming guests on Shabbat. Is that the really the case? If so, what are the limits? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

Dec 29, 2022

The Shema is one of the most important prayers in Judaism, which is supposed to be recited when we go to sleep and when we wake up. But it's also part of the liturgy for morning and evening prayers. Which is more important? How many times a day should we be saying Shema? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

Dec 15, 2022

As a veterinary technology student, I'm struggling with ethics of the use of animals in biomedical research. How does the halakhic concept of avoiding pain experienced by living things - tza'ar ba'alei hayyim - inform the treatment of animals in modern research? And is there a Jewish way to mark the death of animal outside of ritual slaughter? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

Nov 17, 2022

Content warning: this episode discusses suicide. As an oncologist, I am often asked for guidance as patients approach end-of-life. To what extent am I obligated to encourage patients to continue life-prolonging treatment? How much does their quality of life matter? Am I allowed to mention physician-assisted suicide? Does anything if the patient is Jewish? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

Oct 27, 2022

I recently heard the idea that if the reason behind a rabbinic ruling (gezeirah) becomes irrelevant, because the surrounding factors are no longer applicable, the decree no longer applies. This sounds like it could undermine a lot of halakhah in modern times. What is the definition of this concept how and when can it be applied? Have a question you'd like answered on Responsa Radio? Email us at responsa@hadar.org .

Sep 14, 2022

We have an obligation to give tzedekah and care for those in need. At the same time, life is expensive and often requires having savings. Is it wrong to save money when others are suffering?

Sep 1, 2022

Can Jews conduct audit studies? These are studies in which researchers send out fictitious job or service applications, a random selection of which have a characteristic that may be discriminated against. Researchers then measure the differences in callback rates. This kind of study is often considered ethical because the scientific gains outweigh the deception and lack of consent, but is that the case in Jewish law? What does halakhah have to say about lying for the sake of research?

Jul 21, 2022

Can I make seltzer, using a home soda maker, on Shabbat? How about on Yom Tov? R. Ethan Tucker and R. Avi Killip discuss the religious instincts and halakhic issues at play.

Jun 23, 2022

Many people in aveilut (mourning) observe a practice of changing their usual seat in shul. But mourners are also supposed to avoid public demonstrations of mourning on Shabbat. If you are in mourning, and going to shul on Shabbat, should you change your seat?

Jun 9, 2022

In my family, after eating meat, we wait 3 hours until we eat dairy. Why 3 hours? And why don't I have to wait after eating dairy?

Jun 1, 2022

A 5-year-old named Ya'ara asks - when moshiach comes, and people come back from the dead, how old will everyone be? In this episode of Responsa Radio Kids Edition, R. Ethan Tucker and R. Avi Killip discuss the concept of the resurrection of the dead.

May 12, 2022

Did the sages have last names? When did people start using last names anyway? In the next episode of Responsa Radio Kids Edition, R. Ethan Tucker and R. Avi Killip answer a question from a 6th grader named Avital.

Apr 29, 2022

Can you make Kiddush on frozen grapes if that's all you have? In the first episode of Responsa Radio Kids Edition, a new mini-series produced with a little help from Hadar's Children and Families Division, R. Ethan Tucker and R. Avi Killip answer a scrumptious question from a 5th grader named Ronit.

Mar 31, 2022

A few months ago, one of the largest kosher certification agencies announced that it would not certify "Impossible Pork," despite the fact that nothing in the ingredients or preparation of Impossible Pork is not kosher. What determines whether or not a food is kosher, apart from the ingredients?

Mar 10, 2022

Now that Covid-19 rapid antigen tests are widely available, can I take them on Shabbat? We've previously talked about the halakhic restrictions on medical therapeutics on Shabbat (Responsa Radio #21), do these restrictions extend to diagnostics? Are there challenges that arise from the mechanics of the test itself, such as erasing the control line or dying a new color on the test strip?

Nov 3, 2021

Jun 17, 2021

My minyan will likely want to keep broadcasting on Zoom after the pandemic is over and we are back in person. As someone who doesn't use technology on Shabbat, what does that mean for me? Should I decline to lead or read Torah or have an aliyah knowing that it is being broadcast? Have a question about Jewish law you’d like answered on the show? Send an email to halakhah@hadar.org

Jan 27, 2021

The rollout of a vaccine involves trying to answer impossible questions about prioritizing one life over another. What Jewish values are in play when thinking about this? What is my personal responsibility once the vaccine was offered to me, even if I don’t think it’s strictly necessary for me to take it? Tune in to […] The post I’ve Been Offered the Covid Vaccine—Now What? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jan 10, 2021

This week on Responsa Radio: Can the essence of obligation to visit the sick and comfort mourners really be fulfilled over Zoom? How are we to fulfill our (interpersonal) obligations while keeping ourselves safe and without making this pandemic worse? Tune in to learn from Rabbi Ethan Tucker and Rabbi Avi Killip as they dive […] The post Can the essence of obligation to visit the sick and comfort mourners really be fulfilled over Zoom? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Oct 27, 2020

Do I need to take my kippah off in a restaurant? More broadly, does there need to be full religious integrity/consistency around everything someone does at a certain moment for it to be valid? Listen as the Rabbis dive into and consider these questions. Have a question about Jewish law you’d like answered on the show? Send an email to halakhah@hadar.org

Oct 21, 2020

Ever wanted to know the answer to some deep and challenging questions in halakhah (Jewish Law)? Join Rabbis Ethan Tucker, Avi Killip, with questions sent in by you on all sorts of details of Jewish law. This is a joint project between the Center for Jewish Law and Values and Jewish Public Media. In This […] The post Responsa Radio #71: Can I staff a suicide hotline on Shabbat? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Sep 8, 2020

This special Hikhot High Holidays edition of Responsa Radio was recorded live with Rabbi Ethan Tucker, Rabbi Avi Killip, and Rabbi Aviva Richman in advance of an unprecedented High Holiday season. Have a question about Jewish law you’d like answered on the show? Send an email to halakhah@hadar.org

May 21, 2020

Can I read about Corona Virus on Shabbat? The post Responsa Radio #69: Can I read about Corona Virus on Shabbat? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Dec 19, 2019

This week on Responsa Radio: Why do rabbis “turn converts away three times”? As a non-rabbi, and in our day and age, what can and should I do as I interact with non-Jews who are deepening their interest in Judaism? Tune in to learn from Rabbi Ethan Tucker and Rabbi Avi Killip. The post Why Don’t Jews Proselytize? …Can They? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Dec 5, 2019

This week on Responsa Radio: I’m learning Hebrew, and loving it. But I’m stuck when it comes to praying from the siddur–it takes forever! Which is more important: reading the prayers in their original language, or reading them in a language I actually understand? Tune in to learn from Rabbi Avi Killip and Rabbi Ethan […] The post If I can pronounce the Hebrew, do I need to understand it? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Nov 20, 2019

What to Do with Grandma’s Treyf China? Tune in to find out more from Rabbi Avi Killip and Rabbi Ethan Tucker. The post What to Do with Grandma’s Treyf China appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Aug 15, 2019

We’re back with more from Responsa Radio, this time asking the question: How do we use space during Yom Kippur services? Tune in to find out more from Rabbi Avi Killip and Rabbi Ethan Tucker. The post How Do We Use Space During Yom Kippur Services? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Aug 8, 2019

The post Can I extinguish my gas burner on Yom Tov? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jul 25, 2019

The post Can I attend the theatre on Shabbat? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jul 11, 2019

The post Can Kohanim attend funerals? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jun 27, 2019

We’re back with more from Responsa Radio, this time asking the question: Can non-Jews observe mitzvot? Tune in to find out more from Rabbi Avi Killip and Rabbi Ethan Tucker. The post Are non-Jews allowed to take on mitzvot? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jun 13, 2019

Can I See My Therapist on Shabbat? Tune in to find out more from Rabbi Avi Killip and Rabbi Ethan Tucker. The post Can I See My Therapist on Shabbat? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jun 7, 2018

Can I bow down to the elders during my Karate class? Does Jewish law treat all bowing and salutes - whether part of a traditional class ceremony or directed toward a civic leader - the same? The post Can I bow down during karate class? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

May 3, 2018

Can I prepare non-Kosher food for a soup kitchen? Does it matter if I look identifiably Jewish? The post Responsa Radio: Can I Prepare Non-Kosher Food for a Soup Kitchen? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Apr 19, 2018

What's the problem with getting a tattoo? The post Responsa Radio: What’s the problem with getting a tattoo? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Mar 27, 2018

Why can't Europeans eat beans? Can you start the Seder early? How fancy are Rabbi Tucker's knives? These and other questions answered. The post Responsa Radio: Passover Special Edition! (Re-release) appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Mar 15, 2018

Is protest a Shabbat-appropriate activity? The post Responsa Radio #56: Is Protest Prayer? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jul 21, 2017

Who gets to decide that a minyan has been reached? The post Responsa Radio #55: How to Count to Ten appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jul 14, 2017

And how much should they pay for it? The post Responsa Radio #54: Can the Government Seize My Property? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jul 6, 2017

You're supposed to open up a mezuzah every few years. But why? The post Responsa Radio #53: Whatever Could Be Wrong With My Mezuzah? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

May 4, 2017

Recorded live at Limmud UK. The post Responsa Radio #52: Online Communities & Other Questions appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Apr 27, 2017

Recorded live at Limmud UK The post Responsa Radio #51: Pervasive Electricity & Other Questions appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Apr 21, 2017

And what about interfaith prayer spaces? The post Responsa Radio #50: Can I pray next to people of other faiths? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Apr 13, 2017

Can I talk to it? The post Responsa Radio #49: Can I keep an Amazon Echo active on Shabbat? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Apr 6, 2017

Is it allowed? Is it appropriate? The post Responsa Radio #48: Can I Take An Oath of Office? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Mar 30, 2017

The post Responsa Radio: What is the “Ben Yomo” rule and does it make sense? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Mar 23, 2017

Is this prohibition meaningful? Is it even prohibited? The post Responsa Radio: Why No Shabbat Bicycles? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Mar 16, 2017

Does the Jewish legal discussion have a distinct take on car morality? The post Responsa Radio: Self Driving Car Ethics—What’s the Halakhah? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Nov 3, 2016

When can you say, "It's just business?" The post Responsa Radio: Should a person’s Judaism dictate workplace behavior? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Oct 21, 2016

The post Responsa Radio: Can I Benefit from a Shabbat Violation after Shabbat is Over? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Sep 29, 2016

Is it about risk, or just distance travelled? The post Responsa Radio: Do modern vehicles change the rules for Tefillat HaDerekh, the Traveller’s Prayer? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Sep 23, 2016

How do the laws of teshuvah work in the real world? The post Responsa Radio: After a bad breakup, must I ask forgiveness from my ex? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Sep 15, 2016

And if yes, how does that work? The post Responsa Radio: Can You Hire People to Work on Shabbat? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Sep 9, 2016

And what if they want to donate their body to science? The post Responsa Radio: What if a relative insists on being cremated? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jun 16, 2016

Does the source of the money matter? What if the donor's lifestyle conflicts with your morals? The post Responsa Radio: Can nonprofits accept money from crooks? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jun 2, 2016

Can you say Hallel at night if your minyan doesn't meet during the day? The post Responsa Radio: Can you bend the rules for the sake of community? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Mar 10, 2016

When is it ethical OK to take without asking? The post Responsa Radio: Can I “Borrow” Office Supplies? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Mar 3, 2016

And do I need to respect my community's custom? The post Responsa Radio: Do I Need to Stand for Kaddish? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Feb 5, 2016

Our most meta episode so far. The post Can I Listen to This Podcast During a Workout? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jan 28, 2016

Also: Can I "write off" any expenses for tzedakah purposes? The post Should Campaign Contributions Be Considered Charity? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jan 21, 2016

It's a thorny question. The post Can I Convert to Judaism Because I Love Someone? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Jan 7, 2016

Can chronic pain prevent you from leading prayers? The post Praying While In Physical Pain appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Dec 31, 2015

If not, why not? The post Can I Open My Mail on Shabbat? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Dec 28, 2015

Is mountain climbing kosher? How about cigarettes? The post Can I Live Dangerously? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Dec 17, 2015

The post Can non-Jews lead parts of synagogue services? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Sep 4, 2015

French Press? Automatic? What can I use? The post How Do I Make Coffee on Shabbat? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Aug 20, 2015

When should my kid start keeping kosher? Also: bar/bat mitzvah is more complicated than you think. The post When should my kid start keeping kosher? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Aug 13, 2015

Do forbidden acts become OK if you do them weirdly enough? An explanation for some odd behavior you might have seen. The post Do forbidden acts become OK if you do them weirdly enough? appeared first on Jewish Public Media .

Aug 6, 2015

The post How To Name A Baby Girl appeared first on Jewish Public Media .