Deck 1

Question 1

Sanctity of Life in Jewish Ethics

Answer 1

Jewish law places immense value on human life, influencing medical ethics, end-of-life care, and abortion debates.

Question 2

Jewish Views on the Afterlife

Answer 2

Diverse perspectives within Judaism on concepts of the afterlife, including Gan Eden (Paradise), Gehinnom (Purgatory), and the World to Come.

Question 3

Shmita and Jubilee Years

Answer 3

Shmita (Sabbatical year) focuses on agricultural rest and debt relief every seventh year; Jubilee (Yovel) occurs every 50th year, emphasizing freedom and land restoration.

Question 4

The Ethical Treatment of Animals (Tza’ar Ba’alei Chayim)

Answer 4

Jewish laws and values advocating for the humane treatment of animals, influencing dietary laws and animal welfare.

Question 5

Lashon Hara (Evil Speech)

Answer 5

The prohibition against speaking negatively about others, even if true, underscoring the importance of ethical speech.

Question 6

The Principle of Lifnei Iver

Answer 6

The prohibition against placing a stumbling block before the blind, extended metaphorically to causing another to sin or make harmful decisions.

Question 7

Jewish Meditation and Mindfulness Practices

Answer 7

Incorporates traditional and contemporary practices to enhance spiritual connection, focus, and inner peace.

Question 8

Biblical Criticism and Jewish Scholarship

Answer 8

The academic study and critical examination of biblical texts, incorporating historical, literary, and archaeological perspectives.

Question 9

Niddah and Taharat Hamishpacha (Family Purity)

Answer 9

Laws concerning menstruation and family purity, including the use of the mikveh (ritual bath).

Question 10

Conversion to Judaism: Gerut

Answer 10

The complex process of becoming a Jew, involving study, circumcision (for males), mikveh, and commitment to Jewish life.

Question 11

Jewish Renewal Movement

Answer 11

A movement aiming to reinvigorate modern Judaism with mystical, musical, and meditative practices drawn from Hasidic and Kabbalistic traditions.

Question 12

Sefirot in Kabbalah

Answer 12

The ten attributes/emanations through which the Infinite reveals itself and continuously creates both the physical realm and the chain of higher metaphysical realms.

Question 13

The Role of the Messiah in Judaism

Answer 13

Varying interpretations of the Messiah and Messianic Age, ranging from a future spiritual leader to an era of peace and divine presence.

Question 14

Jewish Law and Modern Technology

Answer 14

Addressing contemporary challenges and ethical questions arising from advances in technology, including genetics, AI, and digital privacy.

Question 15

The Eruv

Answer 15

A symbolic boundary that allows observant Jews to carry objects within its perimeters on the Sabbath, addressing prohibitions against carrying in public domains.

Question 16

Chavruta (Study Partnership)

Answer 16

A traditional rabbinic approach to Talmudic study involving pairs of students analyzing, questioning, and debating texts.

Question 17

The Three Weeks and Nine Days

Answer 17

A period of mourning commemorating the destruction of the First and Second Temples, marked by increasingly intense observances.

Question 18

Jewish Contributions to Philosophy

Answer 18

Jewish thinkers, from medieval philosophers like Maimonides to modern figures, have contributed significantly to ethical, religious, and political philosophy.

Question 19

The Challenge of Assimilation

Answer 19

Navigating the balance between integrating into broader society and preserving Jewish identity, traditions, and community.

Question 20

Oral Torah and Written Torah

Answer 20

The relationship and interplay between the Written Torah (Pentateuch) and the Oral Torah (Mishnah, Talmud), highlighting the dynamic nature of Jewish law and tradition.