Question
Hi, I was wondering if I do a mitzvah without fully believing in God, does it mean anything? Or is it meaningless, or maybe even hypocrisy? I am considering beginning to say the “Grace after Meals” blessings in Hebrew or English, but I’m not sure if it’s worthwhile since I don’t observe and believe everything at the moment. Thanks

Question
Dear Rabbi, People make fun of my weight (I admit I am overweight). A friend suggested hypnotherapy for weight loss. Since I am beginning to be religiously observant, my question for the Rabbi is: Does Judaism permit hypnotherapy? Thank you!

Question
In what situation can you do a mitzva and then something happens and you have to do the mitzva again in a few weeks and the first one doesn't even count?

Question
Hi Rabbi! I hope you are doing well. And I hope you don’t think my question is strange or out of line. My grandfather passed away recently and it was in his will that I should inherit his tefillin. I grew up secular with no religious education, and do not know what to make of this. What are tefillin and how important is it for me to keep them? Thanks!

Question
Hi Rabbi, according to Judaism may I now affix on my doorpost a mezuzah that was once on the home of my deceased parents? Thanks.

Question
Can I affix the mezuzah of a dead parent to my doorpost?

Question
Hi Rabbi, May a person with a tattoo be buried in a Jewish cemetery? I am asking for a friend. Thank you.

Question
A relative of mine who is not observant recently took an overseas trip. She brought me back as a souvenir an idol that is worshipped by the people of the land where she traveled. In her eyes, it is nothing more than an interesting tchotchke. She wants to give it to me the next time I see her. She also bought one for herself that she plans to display in her living room. What is the appropriate way to deal with this? Should I take this gift from her or refuse it? Or take it and destroy it myself? And since she has one in her house now, is it a problem going over there?