Bintel Brief
I fed my guests non-kosher food. Do I have to tell them?
It was an accident, but I didn’t want to ruin the meal with new friends so I kept my mouths shut.
I’m not Jewish, but can I still throw a ‘cat mitzvah’ for my pet?
I don’t want to offend anyone, but my cat is turning 13 and I want to celebrate.
I’m angry at my dad for supporting Trump. Do I need to forgive him for Yom Kippur?
Yom Kippur doesn’t offer a magical reset button where forgiveness can be granted and harm removed. You’re upset, and you’re allowed to be.
His mother died and I never called. Can I fix this?
I was overjoyed to run into my friend at Rosh Hashanah — until I remembered.
Legacy Bintel: I love traditional services, but my wife wants Rosh Hashanah in mixed seating. Where do we pray?
Not unlike 2020, a man in 1975 might have to make do with High Holidays that just don’t quite feel like the real deal.
My wife rejects our faith around her family. Can I make her stop?
Even though she was the one who wanted to be Orthodox, now she tells her mom our community is sexist and racist.
My candlesticks are beautiful, but can I get rid of them?
I adore them, but they remind me of my divorce.
Legacy Bintel: Should I bring my wife over from Russia if I’m in love with another woman?
A young man in 1906 struggles with that soap opera staple - the love triangle.
I don’t observe Yom Kippur. Can I still take off class?
It seems dishonest, but also an intriguing opportunity.
Should I drop out of school to help with my siblings?
In 1930 and today, working parents have struggled to balance childcare and housework with professional obligations.