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Rabbi

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A rabbi is a leader in the Jewish faith.

They serve as preachers and teachers for their people. To become a rabbi, a person must study very hard. They read many books about Jewish history and laws. These books include the Tanakh and the Talmud. After their studies, another rabbi gives them a special title. This step is called semikhah.

Reb Moshe Feinstein
Reb Moshe Feinstein

The word rabbi means "master" in Hebrew. In the past, the job of a rabbi was different. They spent much time acting as judges. They helped settle fights and answered questions about law. In the 1800s, the role began to change. Many rabbis started to act more like ministers. They began to give sermons to their groups. They also help people with their personal problems. This is sometimes called pastoral counseling.

USAF Jewish Chaplain Insignia
USAF Jewish Chaplain Insignia

Today, different groups of Jewish people have different rules. Some groups have different ways to choose their leaders. Each group has its own ideas about what a rabbi should do.

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🖼️ Images & Media (3)
File:Emil Orlik - Portrait of a Rabbi.jpg
Emil Orlik - Portrait of a Rabbi.jpg
File:USAF Jewish Chaplain Insignia.jpg
USAF Jewish Chaplain Insignia.jpg
File:Reb Moshe Feinstein.jpg
Reb Moshe Feinstein.jpg
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