*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Recent Q&A
Chassidus/Kaballah/Philosophy:[1] It is forbidden for a Gentile to study or be taught Kabbalah or Chassidus, the inner dimensions of the Torah, just as it is forbidden to teach them the revealed aspects of the Torah.[2] However, he may learn and be taught matters that relate to the seven Noahide laws as elucidated in Toras Hachassidus, such as Emuna in Hashem, Achdus Hashem, Hashgacha Peratis and matters of the like.[3] Hence, one may study [the sections relevant to these subjects from] Shaar Hayichud Viemuna in Tanya with a Gentile.[4]
[1] Sheva Mitzvos Hashem p. 69 footnote 114; Rav Moshe Weiner in written correspondence
[2] The Reason: As Kabbalah is also part of Torah study, and fulfills the Mitzvah of Talmud Torah. [See Admur Hilchos Talmud Torah 2:1 who states “The wisdom of Kabalah is included in the 1/3 of Talmud”; See Likkutei Torah Vayikra 5c; Likkutei Sichos 30:173 who makes the distinction between in depth learning of Kabalah which is like Talmud, and superficial learning which is like Mikra; See also Igros Kodesh 11:277]
[3] See Igros Kodesh 23 p. 4 [That Chassidus has connection also to gentile nations with regards to the seven Noahide laws]; Toras Menachem 5748 Vol. 4 p. 267 footnote 54 [that even gentiles can understand matters of the teachings of Chassidus according to their level, as certainly they are not capable of coming to a level of understanding of God’s unity as a Jew is capable of understanding. To note, that in Russian the Rebbe Rayatz once explained a deep matter of Chassidus to a gentile professor.]; Toras Menachem 5750 Vol. 1 p. 419 [that Chassidus was printed also in English in order so they also study matters of belief in God and divine Providence.]
[4] Toras Menachem vol. 54 p. 241 “It is possible to explain and teach even a non-Jew Shaar HaYichud VeHaEmunah (this is one of the reasons for the printing of the Shaar HaYichud VeHaEmunah in English) — not only according to the opinion that the children of Noah are warned concerning partnership in idolatry, and thus they need to learn matters of faith unity, but even according to the opinion that they are not warned concerning Shituf — nevertheless, this does not mean that they are commanded to believe in Shituf, but rather that they are simply not commanded in it, although certainly it is better that they believe in Hashems unity.”
Yes.
Siddur Yaavetz; Daas Torah 551; Piskeiy Teshuvos 551:54; Toras Hayoledes 48 footnote 15
Shehechiyanu during Sefira on new fruits and other occasions
Chassidus Articles
Halacha Articles
Other Articles
✍️ From the Rav’s Desk: Carrying in a Shared Courtyard with Gentile Neighbors
Post Views: 17 Question: I currently live in a small four‑unit condominium (similar to a townhouse structure), with a single shared outdoor courtyard that is fully enclosed by a gate. Of the four tenants, three are non‑Jewish, and I am the only Jewish resident. Am I required to make an
✍️ From the Rav’s Desk: The Validity of a Pledge of a Now‑Deceased Man
Post Views: 47 Question Dear Rabbi, A very wealthy individual, with whom both my friend and I were well acquainted and on very good terms, told us on several occasions—while we were visiting him in his home—that after he passes away, we may take several items that belong to him.
✍️ From the Rav’s Desk: Tevilat Keilim While Wearing a Glove
Post Views: 40 Question: It is very cold outside, and I would like to know if it is permitted to immerse (toivel) utensils in the mikvah while wearing a glove. Is this allowed? Answer: Yes, there is no issue with immersing utensils while wearing a glove. However, one must ensure
✍️ From the Rav’s Desk: Permissibility of Plucking Fruit and Herbs from Plants Growing in a Cemetery
Post Views: 76 ✍️ From the Rav’s Desk: Permissibility of Plucking Fruit and Herbs from Plants Growing in a Cemetery Question: Dear Rabbi, I was recently visiting a very beautiful and well‑kept Jewish cemetery. Inside the cemetery grounds there were fig trees bearing fruit, as well as numerous rosemary
✍️ From the Rav’s Desk: Permissibility of Torah Study and Prayer in the Presence of a Woman’s Perfume
Post Views: 120 Question: Dear Rabbi, I would like to ask about a situation I recently encountered. I was traveling on the subway and seated across from a woman who was dressed in a manner that was not modest. At the time, I was learning from the daily learning packet
✍️ From the Rav’s Desk: Giving a Child a Haircut During Sefirah
Post Views: 79 Question We have an upcoming wedding of a family member after Lag Baomer, and my child’s hair is in desperate need of a haircut to look representable at the wedding. We are Chabad and generally observe the mourning customs of Sefirah until ערב שבועות and hence avoid
Leave A Comment?
You must be logged in to post a comment.