Is Chanukah a Rabbinical or Biblical holiday? There are opinions[1] which rule that all holidays instituted to commemorate a miracle of G-d have Biblical status, and hence they rule that the commemoration of Chanukah and Purim are of Biblical origin. Nevertheless even according to this opinion the form of how […]
Why 8 days?
The date:[1] On the twenty fifth of Kislev begins the eight days of Chanukah. What it commemorates:[2] Chanukah commemorates the miracles that occurred during the reign of the Syrian Empire in times of the second Temple. They made decrees against Jews, preventing them from following Torah and Mitzvos. Their money […]
10th of Teves
10th of Teves:[1] The 10th of Teves is a public fast day. One is required to fast on this day due to the tragedies that occurred during this time.[2] [This fast is mentioned explicitly in scripture [Zecharia 8] as the “Tenth fast”. The Tenth fast refers to the fast of […]
Tu Beshvat
The Laws and Customs of Tu Beshvat Introduction: The day of Tu Beshvat is a Halachic date that affects the laws of Kashrus of fruits. Due to this it has become known as Rosh Hashanah Leilanos.[1] Throughout the generations other customs have become attributed to this day, such as the […]
Purim attire & doing Melacha
What attire is to be worn on Purim? A. Wearing Shabbos clothing:[1] One should wear Shabbos clothing throughout the day of Purim [starting from the previous night[2]]. Maaseh Shehaya Importance of wearing Shabbos clothing on Purim:[3] The Tzaddik of Zichlin, Reb Shmuel Aba, was extremely particular that people in his community […]
Traveling to Jerusalem
To browse the Purim database, click here A. Lives in a city of 14th and traveled to a city that celebrates on the 15th [i.e. Jerusalem]:[1] Plans to leave the city which celebrates on the 15th before Alos of the 15th: One who lives in a city that celebrates on the 14th […]
Seudas Purim
Purim Seuda: It is a Mitzvah to eat a lavish and festive meal on Purim. This Mitzvah is a Biblical command, as rejoicing on Purim is from the words of Scripture which has the same power as the words of Torah. One fulfills his obligation […]
Matanos Laevyonim
Matanos Laevyonim: The Mitzvah: Every Jew is obligated to give at least two presents to two paupers, [one present to each pauper]. Who is obligated? Both men and women are obligated in the Mitzvah of Matanos Laevyonim. Married women are to be stringent to give Matanos Laevyonim on behalf […]
Mishloach Manos
The reason behind sending Mishloach Manos:[1] The reason why the Sages instituted sending gifts on Purim is disputed amongst Poskim. The following are the opinions and practical ramifications. Opinion of Manos Levi[2]-Increase friendship: Some Poskim[3] rule the purpose of Mishloach Manos […]
Megillah reading
Megillah Reading Who is obligated in the Megillah reading? Every Jew is obligated in the Megillah reading. This obligation includes women. Children [boys and girls, who have reached the age of Chinuch], are educated to hear the Megillah once by night and once by day. When is it read? One […]
