Rabbi Ari Z. Zivotofsky

JEWISH CULTURE

What’s the Truth about . . . Relocating a Sefer Torah?

Misconception: In order to temporarily relocate a sefer Torah, such as to a shivah house, halachah requires that it be read three times in its new location. 

JEWISH THOUGHT

What’s the Truth about . . . Rashi Script?

Misconception:1 Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki [1040–1105 CE]) wrote his famed commentary using “Rashi script.” Fact: “Rashi script,” a script based on an earlier Sephardic cursive script, was used by the…

MARRIAGE

What’s the Truth about . . . a Chatan and Kallah Not Seeing Each Other Before the Wedding?

Misconception: A bride and groom may not see each other during the week preceding their wedding. Fact: This is a widespread Ashkenazic practice with little basis in traditional sources. Background: In Ashkenazic1…

JEWISH LAW

What’s the Truth About . . . The Age to Study Kabbalah

Misconception: One may not study kabbalah before reaching age forty. Fact: The appropriate time to commence study of the esoteric dimension of Torah is largely determined by one’s level of…

JEWISH LAW

What’s the Truth about . . . Duchening?

Misconception: During duchening (when the Kohanim bless the congregation), one should not look at the Kohanim mainly because it can lead to losing one’s vision. Ways to avoid this include…