Official Halacha

What is a “Halacha”?

Halacha is the interpretation and application of certain aspects of Torah that have historically been matters of question, debate or misunderstanding. The halacha is developed by the leadership (Rabbi and Zakens) of each synagogue to provide clarity, accountability, and unity for the members and attendees.

We have G-d’s Word, why do we need man’s opinion?

Throughout scripture (TaNaK, gospels and epistles) some aspects of G-d’s Word are quite clear, other aspects are less clear. For instance, consider the commandment in Deut. 22:12 regarding tzitzit. Clearly tzitzit are important, but how do we make them and how should they be worn? Or the commandment to “remember the Sabbath, to keep it holy.” Again, this is clearly important, but how do we remember and how do we keep it holy? These (and many more) are the types of topics addressed in our halacha.

Is halacha equivalent to Torah?

Torah is G-d’s eternal Word. Halacha is simply a source of answers, explanations, and practical applications of scriptural matters that have, over time, emerged as being worthy of specific discussion and clarification. All Jewish entities – from organizations, to synagogues, to individual families – are guided by halacha. Many points of halacha are common throughout Judaism, and some points are unique to each entity. The purpose of Halacha is to provide clarity and unity within our mishpacha; not to “add to” the Word of HaShem.

Is halacha just window dressing for returning to layers upon layers of Pharisaical legalism?

Not at all. The purpose of halacha is not to force compliance; it is to provide clear and rational explanations for Sar Shalom members and attendees who would like more information and insight on our synagogue’s position on certain scriptural matters. That being said, the purpose of halacha in guiding one’s daily walk of faith is clearly important or halacha wouldn’t exist at all.

Is halacha a backdoor attempt to introduce Jewish traditions?

Again, no. On the other hand, we must be careful not to classify millennia of Jewish understanding and observance purely as “tradition” and discount it (all) solely on that basis. The Jewish faith has loved, studied, and guarded Torah for thousands upon thousands of years. Let’s not be too swift to discount the ancient G-d ordained charge to keep Torah as merely holding onto tradition.

Will everyone agree with every aspect of the halacha?

Probably not. Though it is hoped that careful and prayerful consideration of our halacha, in full scriptural and historical context, will reveal the true heart of Sar Shalom: to walk fully and obediently in Torah every day, and in every way, as a unified mishpacha (family.)

Is there a class on the halacha?

We do not have a class dedicated to the halacha at this time. New attendees to Sar Shalom are encouraged to take part in the HaYesod (foundations) class. This class provides a solid overview of Messianic Judaism and Sar Shalom’s halacha on many fundamental issues.  After attending the HaYesod class, regular attendees are encouraged to take part in the “To Be A Jew” class. This class is a wonderful discovery of Jewish history, culture, and context for combining a Torah observant lifestyle with faith in Messiah.

Please note: Our classes are not intended to be exhaustive courses on every conceivable topic, nor are they open forums for debate. Classes are provided for those genuinely interested in learning more about Messianic Judaism and Sar Shalom in a comfortable, respectful, and non-confrontational environment.

What if I still have questions or concerns about the halacha?

Sar Shalom has invested an enormous amount of time and effort into creating an extremely comprehensive halacha. At over 80 pages (and growing) you will find considerable information and explanation on virtually every topic. Please take time to read the halacha carefully to be sure  your question isn’t already answered.

If after reading the halacha you still have specific questions or concerns, please visit the Contact Us page. Select “Halacha Question” as the subject of your message, and type your question in the message space provided. We will review your message as quickly as possible.

If you simply disagree with the halacha, we commit to respectfully consider your position and reply in the most appropriate way. If your question is covered in the halacha document we will refer you back to the document. (This is not avoiding the question, this is simply a prudent use of everyone’s time.) If your question goes beyond the scope of the halacha, we will provide the best reply we can as quickly as we are able to. Some replies may take longer than others so please be patient.