NEW! Ask the Rabbi — Any Jewish Question with Rabbi Shmuel Greenwald

Ever wondered about something in Judaism? Curious about a Torah idea, Jewish tradition, holidays, prayer, relationships, or life’s bigger questions?

Now you can ask the Rabbi — anything!  Your question can be completely anonymous, or, if you’d like, we may feature your question (first name optional!) in an upcoming “Ask the Rabbi” post so others can learn along with you.

Have a Jewish question? We’d love to hear it! Submit your question to sgreenwald@aihstl.com

This Week’s Question:  Rabbi, I read in the Torah about a Nazarite. He takes upon himself not to drink wine, take a haircut/shave, or come in contact with the dead. Why would anyone want to become a Nazarite?

Good question! 

A person might choose to become a Nazarite to take on a greater level of holiness and spiritual focus. Here, “holiness” means creating a certain separation from the physical world in order to grow spiritually. Someone may feel the need for greater self-control, discipline, or renewed dedication to their spiritual life — perhaps when things feel a bit out of balance.

The Talmud also teaches that if a person has witnessed something morally degrading, becoming a Nazarite may help elevate and strengthen themselves spiritually.

But here’s something surprising: when the Nazarite period ends, the person must bring a sin offering. Why? Isn’t this a holy act?

The Talmud explains that while spiritual growth is admirable, the Nazarite deprived themselves of pleasures that the Almighty created for us to enjoy. Judaism does not idealize abstinence for its own

sake. Rather, the goal is to enjoy this world in a meaningful, balanced, and elevated way. Temporary restraint can be a tool for growth — but it is not the destination.

The Torah teaches us how to maximize life and appreciate the blessings the Almighty has given us. The goal is not to withdraw from the world, but to engage with it in the best possible way.