Question
Which sin is worse if one had no choice but to commit one of the two: a negiah violation or a Chillul Hashem? In my business life, I routinely cross paths with women who expect a handshake or sometimes a hug (a non-romantic one that is just a social gesture to which they are accustomed). Failing to do so is something they consider highly offensive in their culture. Many of these women I interact with know my language very sparsely, making explaining my religious beliefs to them nearly impossible.

Question
The Hebrew words for blessing (בְּרָכָה) and swimming pool (בְּרֵכָה) have the same root and spelling. How are the two related?

Question
Dear Rabbi, I have been reading about Jewish life recently, trying to understand what it means to be a Jew. One topic that intrigues me is the concept of saying a blessing. What does a blessing mean in Judaism? Thanks!

Question
Hi I would like to know regarding Shabbos. If you wake up Shabbos morning and have black under your eyes from the mascara (make up) which looks dirty. Can you wash it off on Shabbos morning with liquid soap?