What is the meaning of the word "Rabbi" in Hebrew?
Q: What is the meaning of the word "Rabbi" in Hebrew?
A: In Hebrew, "Rabbi" can mean "professor, master" or literally "grand". The word derives from the Hebrew root "Rav", which signifies “grand” or “respected” (in knowledge).
Q: What is the primary role of a rabbi?
A: The primary role of a rabbi is to teach Torah. In addition, rabbis often act as the religious leader of a Jewish community.
Q: Is it necessary for a rabbi to be present at life cycle events in Judaism?
A: No, it is not required for a rabbi to be present at life cycle events in Judaism. Nevertheless, rabbis still normally preside over life cycle events in order to ensure that it is done according to Halakha.
Q: Are women allowed to become rabbis?
A: Yes, most non-Orthodox Jews allow women to become rabbis. However, this is not true in Orthodox Judaism where only men are allowed to become rabbis.
Q: What does a beit din do when there is a legal conflict between two Jews?
A: A beit din (rabbinic court) judges the legal conflict based on halakha when there is one between two Jews. It can also be formed for somebody who wants to convert to Judaism.
Q: How do we know if food has been prepared according to kosher standards?
A: Rabbis are sometimes asked to supervise food preparation and make sure it meets kosher standards. When packaged food has been supervised by them, it will usually have a hechsher symbol on its packaging which indicates that its content is kosher.
