About the Book

Born out of years of answering questions for NCSY and Jew in the City, Ask Rabbi Jack compiles Rabbi Abramowitz’s most popular writings alongside significant new material. Whether you’re exploring Jewish identity, grappling with moral dilemmas, or just curious about traditions, this book has something for everyone.

Main Sections of the Book

1. Jews and Judaism: Covers fundamental topics like “What is Judaism?”, “Is Being Chosen Offensive?”, and “Defining Orthodoxy.”
2. Judaism in Contemporary Society: Examines issues like gun rights, marijuana, welfare, and anti-Semitism.
3. Jewish History: Unravels mysteries such as “The Golden Calf,” “The Lost Tribes of Israel,” and “Who Wrote the Zohar?”
4. Men, Women, and Deportment: Discusses tattoos, modesty, beards, and living in an immodest society.
5. Jewish Holidays: Explains traditions and customs for Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Succos, and more.
6. Spiritual Matters: Explores kosher benefits, miracles, and the balance of predetermination versus free will.
7. Science Fiction and Fantasy: Engages with topics like Harry Potter, life on other planets, and parallel worlds.
8. Moshiach and the Messianic Era: Delves into prophecies about peace in the Middle East, the Messianic age, and the role of Jesus.
9. Troubling Questions: Tackles sensitive issues like suicide, animal sacrifices, and God’s fairness.
10. COVID-19: Provides a Halachic perspective on navigating the pandemic.

Contributors and Influences

Rabbi Jack incorporates wisdom from classical Jewish and modern thinkers, including:

• Rashi – Foundational commentary on the Torah.
• Maimonides (Rambam) – Philosophical and Halachic insights.
• Nachmanides (Ramban) – Mystical and textual analysis.
• Rabbi Akiva – A Talmudic giant whose views inspire many answers.
• Marie Kondo – Contemporary influence on Jewish discussions about tidiness and values.

Why Read This Book?

• Gain fresh perspectives on Jewish texts, philosophy, and ethics.
• Find answers to questions about Jewish law, culture, and tradition.
• Explore contemporary issues through the lens of timeless Jewish values.

Whether you’re a student, educator, or someone simply curious about Judaism, Ask Rabbi Jack is an indispensable guide. Rabbi Abramowitz combines intellectual depth with a lighthearted touch, making this book both enlightening and enjoyable.

Rabbi Abramowitz is a Judaic treasure and I know that you will love his new book of Jewish answers to questions we all have.- Rabbi Steven Burg, CEO, Aish HaTorah

Not every single question out there has an answer that we can grasp, but if the answer is out there, Rabbi Abramowitz likely will have it.- Allison Josephs, Founder, Jew in the City

Rabbi Jack Abramowitz is a virtuoso of Torah teaching. He conveys Torah concepts that require years to master in language that is understandable and enjoyable. - Rabbi Gil Student, Editor-in-Chief, Torahmusings.com

For two decades, Rabbi Jack Abramowitz has been the answer man for a number of Jewish organizations. Now, some of his substantive yet down-to-earth Q&A are collected in print for the first time.

Ask Rabbi Jack includes material from the Jew in the City website along with several never-before-seen exchanges. Topics include Tanach, mitzvot, halacha, Jewish philosophy and much more, including timely questions regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.