A database for comparative study
Question
What should be the proper procedure regarding b’rit milah during the COVID-19 pandemic?
(submitted by Rabbi Julie Pelc Adler, Director, Brit Milah Program of Reform Judaism)
Response
In the midst of the current pandemic, it is understandable that parents and mohalim/ot are confused and frightened. … Read the rest
The Forward (www.forward.com), April 13
Among the Jewish tradition’s most cherished values is the sanctity of human life. With a few notable exceptions, one must not endanger their life in order to fulfill a religious obligation. And one must violate even the most significant commandments in order to save another person’s life.… Read the rest
From exercising regularly, sticking with spiritual disciplines, and eating healthfully, to enjoying hobbies, reading for pleasure, getting enough sleep, and spending time with those we love, caring for ourselves is hardest precisely when we most need to do it. Throw in the limitations of physical distancing and changes in work and family rhythms, and self-care becomes even more of a challenge.… Read the rest
Freehof Institute of Progressive Halakhah:
[April 11 2020]… Read the rest
Dear Supporter Ji,
Despite the uncertain times we are now living in, I wanted to reach out at the close of this week and wish a very happy Vaisakhi to you, your family, and your loved ones.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect all aspects of our daily lives, including by forcing the cancellation of Vaisakhi events at our gurdwaras.… Read the rest
Question:
Knowing that a stay-at-home order has been imposed in most U.S. states for two weeks, with the possibility of an unknown extension, is it permissible for us to buy food, cleaning products, and essential medical supplies in bulk, that will last a month or more, for the family, while knowing that such bulk purchases are in excess of daily need and reduce the market inventory (in some stores depleting it completely), which prevents others from purchasing what they need?… Read the rest
Question:
Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, many tenants are having difficulty paying their rent due to a reduction in their incomes or because of having lost their jobs/businesses altogether. To what extent is it permissible for a landlord to forgive their tenant’s unpaid rent and count that forgiven amount against the Zakat money owed by the landlord?… Read the rest
Question:
Is it permissible for a healthy person who lacks a valid excuse that would warrant them to break their fast in the days of Ramadan, to not fast Ramadan this year so they can drink plenty of water in order to protect themselves from COVID-19?… Read the rest
The Fiqh Council is praying with the Muslim Community that we all reach Ramadan in safety and with health. The blessing that the answered prayers during Ramadan bring could not come at a more needed time with the challenges we are facing with Covid-19.… Read the rest
