Women and Tefillah

[NOTE: The word “tefilah” here connotes the silent meditative prayer, also called “Shemoneh Esreh” or “Amidah,” that forms the core of all Jewish prayer services.] Shulchan Aruch (Code of Jewish Law), Orach Chayim 106:1: “Women… even though they are exempt from reciting the Sh’ma, are obligated in tefillah, because it is a positive commandment that […]

“I Believe with Perfect Faith…”

Question from a correspondent of mine: “Would you say that all of Maimonides’ Thirteen Principles of Faith are necessary for whatever you’re practicing to be Judaism? I bet #12 (the Coming of the Messiah) and more so #13 (Resuscitation of the Dead) are probably pretty tough for a lot of people…” Our answer: The prophets […]