From: Elizabeth
Subject: Question About Jewish Prayer Practices

Dear Rabbi Joshua,

I’ve noticed that Jews often rock back and forth during prayer. I’m curious about the meaning and origin of this practice. Could you explain why this is done?

Warm regards,
Elizabeth

Exploring the Roots of Shuckling

Dear Elizabeth,

Thank you for reaching out with your thoughtful question. The practice you’re referring to is commonly known in Yiddish as ‘shuckling’, a rhythmic swaying during prayer. This custom is not commanded in the Torah but has become a widespread minhag (custom) among many Jewish communities.

The Purpose of Shuckling

There are several reasons behind this practice. One explanation is that it is a physical expression of the soul’s yearning to connect with the Divine, as if each sway is a bow of humility and fervor. Another reason is rooted in practicality; swaying helps one to concentrate and to keep the body active, thus maintaining alertness during prayer.

Historical and Mystical Perspectives

Historically, some suggest that shuckling began in cold climates, where movement helped to keep warm. However, kabbalistic (Jewish mystical) sources offer deeper insights, comparing the motion to a flame, which naturally flickers as it rises upwards, symbolizing the soul’s ascent to God.

Shuckling in Various Traditions

Different Jewish traditions have distinct approaches to shuckling. Some might sway gently, while others may be more vigorous. It can also vary with the type of prayer being recited. For example, during intense supplication, one might rock more passionately, while at times of quiet contemplation, the movement may be more subdued.

The Impact on Prayer Experience

Shuckling is believed to enhance the prayer experience, engaging the body in the service of prayer and thus integrating physical and spiritual worship. This act is a manifestation of the verse in Psalms (35:10), “כָּל-עַצְמוֹתַי תֹּאמַרְנָה ה’, מִי כָמוֹךָ” – “All my bones shall say, LORD, who is like You?” It is a holistic expression of prayer, utilizing the entire body to praise God.

Elizabeth, I hope this explanation offers you insight into the beautiful tradition of shuckling. It is a physical articulation of a spiritual practice, aiming to create a profound connection between the worshipper and the Almighty.

Shalom and blessings,
Rabbi Joshua

From: Michael Bernstein
Subject: Inquiry about Dietary Laws in Judaism

Dear Rabbi Joshua,

I’ve always been curious about the Jewish dietary laws, particularly the restriction against pork. Could you please explain why Jews do not eat pork?

Thank you for your guidance,
Michael

The Basis of the Prohibition

Dear Michael,

Thank you for your question, which touches upon one of the fundamental aspects of Jewish dietary laws, known as kashrut. The prohibition against eating pork is explicitly mentioned in the Torah, in the book of Vayikra (Leviticus), where it states: “וְאֶת-הַחֲזִיר, כִּי-מַפְרִיס פַּרְסָה הוּא וְשֹׁסַע שֶׂסַע, וְהוּא גֵּרָה לֹא יִגָּר: טָמֵא הוּא לָכֶם” (Leviticus 11:7). This verse explains that the pig, though it has split hooves, does not chew its cud – it is therefore unclean for you.

Understanding Kashrut

The laws of kashrut are divine statutes for which the Torah does not explicitly state a reason. They are considered a type of chukim, laws that transcend human understanding. Observance of these laws is a mark of obedience to God’s will, as expressed in the Torah, and a commitment to spiritual discipline. The separation of certain animals as permissible or forbidden is one of the ways in which the Jewish people maintain their distinct spiritual identity, as per the verse: “לְהַבְדִּיל בֵּין הַטָּמֵא וּבֵין הַטָּהוֹר” – “to distinguish between the unclean and the clean” (Leviticus 11:47).

Health, Morality, and Symbolism

While the Torah does not provide explicit reasons for the prohibition of pork, various commentators have explored potential explanations ranging from health concerns to moral and symbolic interpretations. Maimonides, a preeminent medieval Jewish philosopher, suggested that the forbidden animals were generally considered impure due to their habits. Others have seen in these laws a call to elevate the act of eating from a physical necessity to a spiritual practice, infusing everyday life with holiness.

Contemporary Significance

In today’s world, the observance of kashrut continues to serve as a connection to Jewish tradition and history. It acts as a constant reminder of the Jewish people’s unique relationship with the Divine and the commitment to sanctify life in its most mundane facets. For the observant Jew, following dietary laws is not merely about health or ethics; it is about maintaining a sacred bond with God, community, and tradition.

Michael, I hope this helps to clarify the reasons behind the prohibition of pork in Jewish tradition. It is a multifaceted subject that encompasses obedience, identity, and spirituality. If you have further questions or seek more in-depth study, I am at your service.

Blessings,
Rabbi Joshua

Question from Ethan Shapiro:

Hello Rabbi Joshua,

I’ve noticed something intriguing in Jewish households and even in movies – when entering or leaving a room, Jews often touch and then kiss their fingers to the doorway. I’m curious to learn more about this practice. Could you explain why Jews kiss the door?

The Significance of the Mezuzah

Dear Ethan,

Thank you for your thoughtful inquiry. What you have observed is a deeply rooted practice in Judaism, and it is not exactly the door that Jews are kissing, but rather a mezuzah. A mezuzah is a small piece of parchment, inscribed with specific Hebrew verses from the Torah (Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21). These verses compose the Jewish prayer Shema Yisrael and express the fundamental Jewish belief in the oneness of God.

This parchment is placed inside a decorative case and affixed to the doorpost of Jewish homes. This act is a mitzvah — a commandment — as written in the Torah: “And you shall write them on the doorposts (mezuzot) of your house and on your gates” (Deuteronomy 6:9, 11:20).

Touching and Kissing the Mezuzah

When a Jew touches the mezuzah upon entering or leaving a room or building, it is a physical demonstration of their awareness and reverence for God’s presence. The act of kissing the fingers that touched the mezuzah is a further expression of love and respect for the divine commandments housed within it.

This gesture serves as a reminder of our covenant with God, the mitzvot that guide our daily lives, and God’s protective presence in our homes. It’s a moment of reflection, appreciation, and spiritual connection, a physical manifestation of the verse from Psalms 84:11, “For a sun and shield is the LORD God, grace and glory does He give.”

In Hebrew, the act is often referred to as נשיקת המזוזה (Neshikat HaMezuzah). It is a custom that spans across many Jewish communities, regardless of their level of observance. It is also customary to touch the mezuzah when one is in need of a reminder of God’s proximity or in search of comfort and protection.

Concluding Thoughts

Ethan, I hope this sheds light on the beautiful tradition you have observed. It is one of many that enrich the Jewish faith and the lives of its followers, weaving a tapestry of ritual and spirituality into the fabric of everyday life. May your exploration of Jewish traditions continue to bring you insight and understanding.

Shalom,

Rabbi Joshua