As December marches on towards the end of the year, I’ve noticed an interesting phenomenon. All sorts of companies are producing “Year in Review” e-mails to remind me of my […]
Judaism 101
Your go-to Jewish beginner’s guide: explore mitzvot, customs, and Jewish life basics—clearly and accessibly.
My son is soon turning three. What do I need to prepare for his first haircut? In order to properly prepare for your son’s Chalakah/Upsherin ceremony, be sure to: Read […]
Read Upsherin Part 7: A Jewish Boy’s Introduction To Torah and Upsherin Part 9: The Upsherin Preparation Checklist By Rabbi Mayer Smith Upsherin Part 8 Sources: 1 Even Hasapir volume […]
Many Jewish parents have the custom of bringing their young “Upsherin boys” to a Rebbi (Jewish Teacher) to begin the study of Torah.1 The Rebbi introduces the young boy to […]
While parents prepare for their children’s Upsherin, they may find themselves somewhat confused. They may be wondering, “Yes, my child is of age to enjoy the excitement of a birthday […]
In Mishlei, King Solomon tells us, “Daaga b’lev ish, yashchena;” If a person has worry in his heart, he should quash it. The Gemara1 teaches that R’ Ami and R’ […]
Light Up Your Chanukah! While you’re enjoying the lights of your menorah and the delicious tastes of crispy hot latkes and jelly donuts, add something extra special to the Yom […]
My friend took their three-year-old boy to their rabbi on the day of his Upsherin for a blessing. Should I do that too? This is a beautiful thing to do […]
These halachic guidelines are relevant for the Upsherin or any other haircut. (See illustrated guide here) One should not be ashamed of his pe’ot, rather he should carry them with […]
What is the most appropriate age for the Upsherin haircut? In most communities, the Upsherin (haircut) is done on the son’s third birthday. Like A Tree We find a source […]