How to Interview a Rabbi: Questions and Checklist

ריהל_ראליJudah Halevi public domain

What to ask and what not to ask

There’s a lot to consider when hiring a rabbi. Good thing we know a thing or two about this sort of thing! Use our checklist of interview questions to help make your search easier.

Ready to dive in? Get started with our comprehensive list of nanny interview questions.

Background questions:

  • How long have you been rabbi?
  • What is your favorite element of being a rabbi and why?
  • Do you have other work or life experience as a rabbi that you can bring that will help you do this job (life cycle event) well?

Job questions:

  • What were some of the best things about your being the officiant at previous events?
  • What were the worst things?

Good fit questions:

You also want to make sure the rabbi you hire is comfortable with who you are as a Jewish family. There are some topics you can be upfront about with your candidates that are specific to your family, to avoid potential problems later. For instance:

  • Are there any activities or responsibilities that you won’t do?
  • Follows certain religious or cultural practices

You can probably tell by the rabbi’s reaction if he or she is a good fit for your family.

Add your own questions: Customize your checklist with other concerns important to your family.

 

Your rabbi is one of the biggest influences on life cycle event — aside from you and your fasmily, of course. It is vital that you pick the right rabbi for your family, but with so many fantastic candidates available in your area, asking direct questions is how will you know which rabbi is the best match for your family.
 

 

 

 

 

 

Disclaimer

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