Question
Dear Rabbi, I was watching the funeral of a fallen Israeli soldier the other day at the military cemetery at Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. It was sad and I’m sure mine were not the only dry eyes. While watching, I remember hearing a custom for anyone who visits a grave to place a small stone on the headstone. What is the reason for this practice? Thanks, Rabbi!

Question
The broken glass at a wedding ceremony as it pertains to the destruction of the Temple. Is the fact that a Jew breaks it, a way to take ownership for the destruction of the Temple?

Question
The prayer of Birkat HaChodesh includes an announcement of when Rosh Chodesh will be. But, originally, the determination of which day Rosh Chodesh would fall out on would depend on the court's declaration. Even though Chazal knew when Rosh Chodesh should fall out, there was no guarantee that there would be witnesses to allow for the declaration to be made on that specific day. It therefore seems that the announcement of when Rosh Chodesh will fall out in the upcoming week is inappropriate.

Question
I read of a custom to bless one’s children on Friday night. Would you please tell me a little more about this practice? Thank you!

Question
Dear Rabbi, My son is marrying, God willing, in November, and we have heard of a pre-marriage ceremony called "The Breaking of the Plate." Would you be so kind as to share the significance of this ceremony as well as the actual performance (ritual)? Thank you.

Question
Dear Rabbi, why is there a custom that some people say to others, “May you live until 120”? Why that number? Thanks!

Question
Dear Rabbi, every Friday I make Challah for Shabbat. But I have no idea why I braid the Challahs I make, other than that’s what everyone else does! Is there any significance to braiding Challah?

Question
Rabbi, when I prayer in front of the Shabbos lights on Friday evening, I pray for the welfare of all my children and parents, etc. Do I mention their names using their mother's name or do I mention their father's name? Thank you.