Ok,

So...this may seem odd, but here goes.

I was raised Jewish (reform) and converted to Paganism about 15 years ago. I’m pretty happy and very active in the Pagan community. I also still consider myself Jewish culturally and many of my rituals and activities are rooted in that culture. Incidentally to this tribe, I have several tattoos, including an atom/star of david incorporated into a water elemental on my ankle.

So, someone very dear (a friend) has come back into my life after a long absence. She has recently converted to Orthodox Judaism. Her e-mails are full of lots of Jewish code words that I’m just so....at a loss on. Mostly because I was never Orthodox to begin with so a lot of the Jewish rituals she refers to I have no idea what she’s talking about, but I want to make sure that I don’t inadvertently say the wrong thing or make some horribly offensive comment that sends her running for the hills.

So...are there any landmines that I should know about (particularly about the role of women would be helpful) regarding Orthodox Judaism?

Thank you for any help you can give!