Taanis Esther-A Yom Segula: The Kav Hayashar[1] writes that on Taanis Esther the gates of mercy are open, and it is hence an auspicious time for Hashem to accept one’s prayers. On this day one should recite psalm 22, which was recited in reference to Esther[2], and then supplicate […]
Drinking Ad Delo Yada-The obligation and meaning
Lebesumei-Drinking alcohol:[1] Men are obligated[2] to get drunk [on wine[3]] on Purim to the point they cannot differ between “blessed is Mordechai and cursed is Haman”.[4] [This is included within the Mitzvah of Seudas Purim.[5]] Others[6] however rule there is no need to drink alcohol to this point, and […]
The Mishloach Manos Menu
Mishloach Manos-What is one to send-Must one send two different blessings?[1] One needs to send at least two[2] gifts of meat or other foods to one person. [Today the custom is to send sweets as Mishloach Manos.[3] There is no requirement that the gifts be of two different blessings. […]
How much is one to give towards Matanas Laevyonim?
How much must one give for Matanos Laevyonim? Some Poskim[1] rule that the minimum amount for Matanos Laevyonim is a Peruta. Thus, if one gives the equivalent of a peruta worth to each pauper he has fulfilled his obligation. [This is a very minimal amount, being worth today, Adar […]
Kiddush Levana prior to Zayin Sheleimim & Zayin Adar
The Molad of this past month of Adar was on Sunday, the 30th of Shevat at 6:20 AM. Accordingly, this past Motzei Shabbos was not yet seven complete days past the Molad and the question is asked regarding if one may have recited Kiddush Levana last night. Must one […]
The laws of reading Megillah
Summary of the laws of reading Megillah: 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 […]
Missed a word during the reading of Megillah
One who missed a word or part of the reading?[1] The reader must read every word of the Megillah.[2] If he skipped a verse[3], or even one word[4], or even one letter[5], he and the congregation do not fulfill their obligation. The same applies for the listener; if he […]
Marbim Besimcha
Marbim Besimcha:[1] One is to increase in joy throughout the month of Adar.[2] [Hence one is to rejoice himself, his wife and children during this month, similar to the Mitzvah of rejoicing them on Yom Tov.[3] Included in this Mitzvah is increasing in all matters that give one joy.[4] However […]
Must one dry his cup/plate prior to pouring into it from a Keli Rishon?
Using a set Keli Sheiyni-Must one dry his cup/plate prior to pouring into it from a Keli Rishon?[1] Example: One takes a washed clean glass cup from the dish wrack to make himself a coffee on Shabbos. Must one dry his cup prior to pouring into it? What about if […]
Sitting next to opposite gender on bus or plane
May one sit next to the opposite gender on a bus?[1] From the letter of the law, there is no prohibition involved in sitting near a person of the opposite gender. This applies whether on a bus, train or airplane, in which a man may be seated next to a […]
May one use Maaser money for other purposes?
May one use Maaser money for the sake of a Mitzva? Some Poskim[1] rule it is forbidden to use Maaser money for the sake of a Mitzvah, and rather it must be given as charity to paupers.[2] Other Poskim[3] however rule that under certain conditions it is permitted to […]
Repeating words in Davening
May one repeat words in Davening? A. General law: Certain words and sentences of reference to Hashem are forbidden to be repeated in close proximity if it can be viewed that the repetition is for the sake of a second deity, or if it can appear as if he […]
Approximating Yud to Bayis of Tefillin
Approximating the knot of the Yud to the Bayis:[1] One is to beware that the Yud of the knot[2] [of the Tefillin Shel Yad] does not move from the Bayis [of the Shel Yad].[3] [It is thus to be constantly touching the Bayis of the Shel Yad. It is […]
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 […]
Cross-dressing for skits and plays
Crossdressing out of jest and fun/Purim/Chasana:[1] It is accustomed on Purim [and by Chasunas[2]] to allow males to wear the clothing of females and vice versa.[3] [However many Poskim[4] challenge this custom[5] and thus practically one is not to do so. Some write it is to be avoided even […]
How to attach to a Tzaddik?
How to attach to the Talmid Chacham/Rebbe/Sage/:[1] The Sages[2] commanded and said that one is to attach to the dust of their feet and drink their words with thirst. [Women are also commanded to listen to the words of the Sages in order so they learn knowledge of G-d.[3]] […]
Entering food into a bathroom
Entering food into a bathroom May one eat in a bathroom?[1] One may not eat in a bathroom. May one enter food into a bathroom?[2] It is customary to avoid entering food into a bathroom.[3] However in a time of need one may do so if the bathroom is […]
Inviting a non-religious guest for Shabbos meal/prayer if he will drive
May one invite a non-religious guest for Shabbos if he will desecrate Shabbos in order to come to you?[1] Some Poskim[2] rule it is forbidden to invite guests to one’s home for the Shabbos meal if this will cause him to desecrate Shabbos, such as to drive, in order […]
Inheritance of public position by son
Children’s inheritance of communal positions held by father: No custom or contract:[1] A son inherits his father’s position regarding all public matters that the father was empowered with. This however only applies if the son is capable of fulfilling the position. If the son is capable in fulfilling the […]
Jewish Cemeteries
Burying in a Jewish cemetery Burying near a Tzaddik, and near a Rasha and near a non-Frum Jew:[1] One may not bury a Rasha near a Tzaddik [and certainly may not bury a Tzaddik near a Rasha]. Furthermore, one may not even bury a small Rasha near a great […]
The Shulchan Aruch Harav: Background
Shop Now Like this Article? Check out our Amazon Sefarim store. Over 64 Titles *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. WhatsApp Facebook Twitter Telegram Sign up for Daily Distribution Sponsor an Episode https://vimeo.com/200534913 The Shulchan Aruch Harav: Background of why it was written and why we […]
Washing hands for bread/morning if one’s hand is bandaged
May one wash hands for bread with a Band-Aid/bandage?[1] One who has an injury on his hand and a bandage that is covering it, may wash his hands [with a blessing] without removing the bandage[2] if he is unable to remove it due to the pain of the injury.[3] […]
Using someone’s item without permission
Using someone’s item without permission:[1] It is forbidden for one to use an item that belongs to one’s friend without his permission.[2] This applies even if one only plans to use it on a mere occasion.[3] It is thus forbidden for one to visit his friend’s house in order […]
Beged Isha/Ish when no intent to cross-dress
Beged Isha/Ish when no intent to cross-dress You’re out for a walk with your spose or daughter and she is cold. You are wearing a men’s jacket and don’t mind giving it to her to wear. Is it permitted to do so, or does it involve the prohibition of Beged […]
Tznius Stockings-skin color and Denier #
What is defined as Tznius Stockings-skin color and Denier #? Women wearing socks: According to majority of Poskim, and the ruling of Admur, women and girls are required to cover their legs and feet with socks/stockings when out in public or in the presence of other men. Even those who […]
Bayis Malei Sefarim
Bayis Malei Sefarim-Purchasing Torah literature:[1] It is a Mitzvah [and obligation[2]] to publish [and purchase[3]] Chumashim, Mishnah, Gemara and their commentaries.[4] Some Poskim[5] rule that today this Mitzvah is a positive Biblical command, and is in place of the Mitzvah of writing a Sefer Torah.[6] [The purpose of this Mitzvah […]
A Chasan leaving home during first year
Traveling from home during the first year:[1] The Torah[2] states that “When one marries a new wife he is not to go to the warfront or do other matters and is to be available to his house for one year and rejoice his wife that he took.” From here we […]
When may a widow or divorcee remarry
Todays Halacha is an excerpt from our Sefer Buy Here How long must a widow or divorcee wait to remarry? A. Not pregnant and not after birth:[1] All widows and divorcee’s must wait 90 days from after the divorce, or death of the husband, prior to remarrying [Kiddushin/Nissuin].[2] This applies even […]
Stopping a shoplifter-Preventing monetary damage
Preventing monetary damage from occurring to a friend:[1] If one is able to save his friend from a possible monetary loss, he is obligated to exert as much effort possible, with all his bodily strength, to try to prevent the loss.[2] Doing so is a positive command and is included […]
Should Brachos be said out loud for others to answer Amen
Is one to specifically recite blessings out loud in order so others can answer Amen? Some Poskim[1] rule one is to specifically recite blessings aloud in order to have others answer Amen after the blessing. One is to try to have at least two people answer Amen after the blessing.[2] […]
Couples showing affection in public
Public affection: Couples showing affection in public:[1] Some Poskim[2] rule it is forbidden even for a couple to affectionately touch each other in front of other people.[3] [Thus, one may not hold hands, dance, hug, or kiss in public. Practically, so is the final ruling[4], and so is the custom […]
Paying back for items one stole as a child
Child who stole:[1] If a child stole an object, then if the stolen object is still in existence, it is required to be returned to its owner. [This applies only if it is well known that this object of the child is stolen.[2]] If the stolen object is no longer […]
Yichud with Mother/Father in-law with children at home
Yichud with ones mother in-law with children at home It is permitted for one to be in Yichud with the opposite gender if there are children of a certain age [to be explained] present in the area, thus acting as Shomrim. Below we will discuss the age in which […]
Standing up for Torah Scholars
Standing for a Torah scholar:[1] It is a positive command in the Torah to stand up in front of all Sages. The age: The command to stand before a Sage applies even if the Sage is not old but is young [even if he is a child under Bar Mitzvah[2]] […]
Invasion of privacy-Looking into another’s property
May one look into his neighbor’s property?[1] It is forbidden to look into another person’s property to see his actions and dealings, without his permission and knowledge.[2] This law applies even to a backyard and porch and goes without saying that it applies to a house. This applies even the […]
Playing aggressive activities with Parent
Hitting one’s parents:[1] One who hits his father or mother during their lifetime is liable for the death penalty of strangulation. This applies whether to a son or a daughter. However it only applies if blood was drawn through the hit. If however blood was not drawn through the hit, […]
Positions of bed in bedroom
Which direction should one face upon sleeping?[1] From North to South:[2] Just as it is forbidden for one to face East or West when having a bowel movement, similarly it is forbidden to sleep facing East or West with one’s wife together in bed, when one has intention to have […]
May one believe a person who says he converted or is proof required?
If one says he is Jewish because he converted, is he to be believed?[1] Marrying a Jew: If a person who was known to be a gentile claims that he went through conversion and became Jewish, he is not believed to be allowed to marry a Jew unless he supplies […]
Check cashing services and Ribis
Using check cashing services: Using a check cashing service is for all purposes similar to selling a loan to a third party, and follows all the restrictions relevant to it. The difference between cashing a check by a bank and by a check cashing service is that by a bank, […]
Giving a loan without documentation
The requirement to have legal proof of the loan:[1] It is forbidden for a lender to give a loan without receiving a form of legal testimony of its occurrence.[2] This applies even if the borrower is a Torah Scholar ]and is thus a trustworthy person].[3] Thus, one must either have […]
Sending Presents to women
May a man send a present to a woman? One is to avoid sending gifts to a widow or any single woman.[1] Likewise, some Poskim[2] rule one is to avoid sending gifts to a married woman due to Sheilas Shalom.[3] However, when doing so without any intent of affection, such […]
Causing a Parent to bleed
Hitting one’s parents:[1] One who hits his father or mother during their lifetime is liable for the death penalty of strangulation. This applies whether to a son or a daughter. However it only applies if blood was drawn through the hit. If however blood was not drawn through the hit, […]
Taking a Gentile to a secular court
May one take a gentile to a secular court? The Biblical prohibition against going to secular courts applies even against taking a gentile to such a court, and one who transgresses this prohibition has transgressed a negative command.[1] This applies even if the secular courts rule the same way as […]
Where to keep Kesuba
Where is one to keep the Kesuba?[1] Many Poskim[2] rule that the Kesuba is to be kept in the home of the wife’s mother [the husband’s mother in-law] or another trustworthy relative of the wife, or by the Rav or Beis Din.[3] Other Poskim[4] rule it is to be placed […]
Cutting nails on Thursday
Cutting nails on Thursday:[1] Some[2] are particular to not cut the nails on Thursday.[3] [Thus beginning from Wednesday night one should not cut his nails.] Q&A If one will not have time to cut his nails on Friday may he be lenient to do so on Thursday?[4] Yes. […]
Tzaar Baalei Chaim
Is it permitted to cause pain or kill living creatures?[1] It is Biblically forbidden to actively[2] cause pain to any[3] living creature [for no justifiable reason, as will be explained].[4] [It goes without saying that one may not kill a creature for no justifiable reason.[5]] If the creature is a […]
Zecher Lechurban
Leaving out one dish by a meal:[1] The Sages enacted that in commemoration for the destruction, upon making a meal for guests [or any other meal, including even a Seudas Mitzvah[2]] one is required to leave out from the table one of the commonly served dishes of food. One is […]
Relatives Bathing together
Relatives bathing together:[1] The Talmud[2] prohibits one from bathing together with his father or step father[3], or father in-law[4], or sister’s husband [brother in-law].[5] Some Poskim[6] extend this prohibition even against bathing with one’s brother, however other Poskim[7] permit regarding a brother. One was already in the bathhouse when relative […]
Leaving square unpainted
Leaving part of one’s wall unpainted:[1] When the Temple was destroyed the Sages of that generation instituted that one may never build a home that is painted and decorated like the palace of a king, and rather one is to cement the walls and paint the walls of […]
Praying by Gravesite
How to pray by the gravesite: At the grave of a Tzaddik one is to pray to Hashem to answer his prayers in the merit of the Tzaddikim.[1] Likewise one may ask the Tzaddik to intervene on one’s behalf and pray to G-d for the matters which he needs.[2] Some […]
Closing up a window or door
Closing up a window or door:[1] One may not completely [and permanently[2]] close off a window or door, being that demons use openings to enter and exit and hence can lead to danger. Rather one must leave a small hole in the area. [The custom is to place a hollow […]
Alter Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch
Historical background:[1] The Shulchan Aruch Harav, also known as the Alter Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch, or Shulchan Aruch Admur Hazakein; was written by Rav Schneur Zalman of Liadi. Its initiation: The Maggid of Mezritch was encouraged by the heavenly courts to search amongst his students for a proper candidate to compile […]
Practical Halacha
The importance of learning practical Halacha: Ruling of Shulchan Aruch:[1] In the laws of Talmud Torah the following ruling is given: The learning of practical Halacha takes precedence over other fields of Torah study. Only after one is clearly well versed in practical Halacha and knows the detailed laws relevant […]
Entering with Sefarim to a bathroom
* This article is an excerpt from the above book *The article below is an excerpt from the above Sefer *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Donate Buy in Paperback or Kindle Buy on Apple Books Purchase on our website Awaking like a Jew Learning Course + […]
Kavod of Sefarim
Order of Sefarim
Placing sefarim on top of each other:[1] It is permitted to place a Chumash on top of Nevim or Kesuvim. However one may not place a Nevim or Kesuvim on top of a Chumash, and one may not place a Chumash on top of a Sefer Torah.[2] One may place […]
Bayis Malei Sefarim
Bayis Malei Sefarim: It is a Mitzvah to publish [and purchase] Chumashim, Mishnah, Gemara and their commentaries.[1] Some Poskim[2] rule that this Mitzvah is a positive Biblical command, and is in place of the Mitzvah of purchasing a Sefer Torah. [This Mitzvah is fulfilled through writing or purchasing all Torah Sefarim and […]
Mondays & Wednesdays
Starting a new activity on Mondays and Wednesdays:[1] It is accustomed not to begin a new activity on Mondays and Wednesdays.[2] [Some[3] rule that this only applies for mundane matters and not for matters that involve a Mitzvah. Practically so is the custom.[4] One may thus get married on Mondays […]
Moving Houses
Moving houses:[1] One should refrain from moving houses until the 15th of Av if it is possible for one to do so.[2] [1] Igros Kodesh 9/228 [brought in Shulchan Menachem 3 p. 48; Sha’arei Halacha Uminhag 2/225]; Not found in other Poskim. [2] The reason: Seemingly the reason for this […]
Proving G-d
Intellectually Proving G-D- Mamar Veyadata Hayom For the full written review of the Mamar click here
Food left under ones bed part 3
Leaving food under bed Part 3 Q&A on bed that one did not sleep on May one place food under a bed that one is not sleeping on and is the food forbidden if one did so? Some Poskim[1] rule that one may place food or drink under the bed […]
Food left under ones bed part 2
Food that is under the bed-Part 2: A number of limitations to this ruling have been suggested in Poskim: Some Poskim[1] suggest that the prohibition only applies if the food is placed directly on an earth floor, while if it is on top of tiles or a wood floor, it […]
Food left under ones bed part 1
Food that is under the bed:[1] One may not place cooked foods [or other foods[2], even raw[3]] and liquids under a bed.[4] If the food or liquid is covered:[5] One may not place foods or liquids under a bed even if the food/liquid covered with a metal vessel. Bedieved: In […]
Kadima Bebrachos 2
The laws of precedence מזונות Wheat or spelt mixed with another bracha: If its made of wheat or spelt it has precedence over any other brocha even if the other food is more desirable, other than hamotzi. (סידור הל‘ י‘) Barley, oats or rye mixed with another bracha: Mezonos of […]
Challah: Name & Shape
The name Challah: Bread in Hebrew is called Lechem while the separated dough is called Challah. It is customary to call the Shabbos bread Challah in order to serve as a reminder to women to separate Challah from the dough.[1] In previous times it was common in many communities […]
Hafrashas Challah 3
Separating Challah: How much dough is one to separate:[1] One is to separate one Kezayis [approximately 28 grams[2]] of dough. If one separated less than this amount it is nevertheless valid. Saying the blessing? One is to designate an area from the dough that the Challah will be separated from. […]
Hafrashas Challah 2
The amount of dough needed to separate with a blessing: One may only separate Challah with a blessing if he has 1,666.6 grams of flour.[1] If one has less than this amount but more than 1,250 grams[2] he is to separate Challah without a blessing. [1] Shiureiy Torah Chapter […]
Hafrashas Challah 1
Separating Challah:[1] The greatness of the Mitzvah:[2] The Mitzvah of separating Challah is very great. It corresponds in Gematria to all 613 Mitzvos.[3] In merit of this Mitzvah blessing is found in one’s home and livelihood[4] and women are protected during childbirth.[5] In merit of this Mitzvah we were granted […]
Challah in meat oven
May one bake Challahs for Shabbos at the same time he is baking meat or chicken?[1] If the meat or chicken is covered it is allowed to be done if the oven is clean of any meat or chicken residue. If the bread is covered it may be done in […]
Baking Challah
Baking Challahs:[1] It is customary for every household to bake Challahs for Shabbos which are used for Lechem Mishneh and not to buy them at the bakery as is done during the week. This matter of baking one’s own Challah is included in the honoring of Shabbos and Yom Tov […]
Washing after haircut
A haircut:[1] [One who cuts his hair is required to wash his hands one[2] time immediately afterwards.[3] This applies even if he only cut a small amount of hair[4], and applies whether the hair was cut with a scissor or razor.[5]] If one does not wash his hands after cutting […]
When to get a haircut
Getting a haircut-when?[1] If one has long hair it is a Mitzvah to cut it [any day prior to Shabbos] in order so one not enter into Shabbos in disgrace. Furthermore, it is a Mitzvah Min Hamuvchar to cut the hair specifically on Erev Shabbos and not beforehand.[2] If however […]
14 Mitzvos of a haircut
The Kavanos of a Haircut:[1] One is to intend upon getting a haircut that he is removing the powers of severity, and is fulfilling the Mitzvah of having Peiyos, and the Mitzvah of paying a worker for his job on the same day and the Mitzvah of honoring Yom Tov. […]
Trimming mustache
May one trim his mustache? Many Poskim[1] and Kaballists[2] rule that one is obligated to cut the mustache hairs that interfere with ones food.[3] Nevertheless, there are communities that are accustomed not to trim any facial hair, including the mustache hairs that interfere with food.[4] The Rebbe answered that with […]
Cutting Hair and Peiyos
What number haircut may one take in the area of his Peiyos? To how short may the hair in the area of the Peiyos be cut?[1] It is only forbidden to cut the hairs, in the area of the Peiyos, together with a razor.[2] However there are opinions[3] that […]
Customs of 10th
The Customs followed until midday of the tenth of Av Click here Customs of the tenth of Av to read the laws pertinent in todays shiur
Laundering
The laws of Laundering clothing During the Nine days Click here Laundering clothing to read the laws covered in this Shiur.
Bathing
The laws of Bathing during the nine days Click here The laws of Bathing and Showering to read the laws covered in this Shiur
Meat and Wine
Meat, poultry & Wine during the Nine Days Eating meat and poultry Drinking wine
Shabbos Erev Tishe Beav
* The article below is an excerpt from the above Sefer *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Buy in Paperback or Kindle Buy on Apple Books Purchase on our website WhatsApp Telegram Facebook Twitter Email https://vimeo.com/280704584?fl=pl&fe=sh Tisha B’av that falls on Sunday This chapter will mention all […]
Women or sick Fasting on Tishe Beav
Fasting: It is forbidden for an adult man or woman to eat or drink anything on Tisha B’av, with exception to the cases brought below. Sick: One who is sick:[1] A person who is sick and needs to eat, is not required to fast on Tisha B’av.[2] If he […]
Havdalah on wine
Havdalah:[1] When saying Havdalah during the nine days [Motzei Shabbos Chazon] one is to give the wine to drink to a child [whether male or female[2], although some rule only male[3]] which has reached the age of Chinuch [of blessings[4] although some say also Chinuch of Havdalah[5]] but has not […]
Freshly laundered clothing
Wearing freshly laundered clothing:[1] Wearing freshly laundered clothing is forbidden during the nine days. The above applies to any clothing, even if it is not worn on the body, such as towels, tablecloth, or linens for a bed. [Nevertheless those clothing that become overly dirty and sweaty, such as all […]
Tasting meat Erev Shabbos
May one taste a meat dish on Erev Shabbos?[1] One may taste a meat dish to see if it requires any extra spices. However it is forbidden to eat it even in order to fulfill the custom of eating the Shabbos food before Shabbos. Giving children meat on Erev […]
A Cappella Music
May one listen to A cappella music? The widespread custom even amongst G-d fearing Jews is to permit listening to A cappella[1] music.[2] However there are Poskim[3] that are stringent to prohibit listening to music even of such nature. [1] Music that is not accompanied by instruments of any […]
Peruzbal
Summary of the laws of Shemitas Kesafim and a Peruzbal The laws: The Torah commands us that at the end of the seventh year cycle one must annul all loans that he is owed by other Jews. It is thus forbidden for the lender to ask for the loan to […]
Selichos 2
Shabbos Mevarchim Tishrei:[1] No blessing before Musaf:[2] On the Shabbos before Rosh Hashanah we do not bless the coming month despite this being the custom on every Shabbos that precedes Rosh Chodesh.[3] Tehillim:[4] The entire book of Tehillim is recited before Shacharis just as on any other Shabbos Mevarchim. Av […]
Blowing of the Shofar 5
Not to talk of irrelevant matters until after Musaf:[1] One must beware not to talk of irrelevant matters between the Tekios Meyushav [which is the first set of blows that is sounded after Kerias Hatorah] and the Tekios Meumad [which is the second set of blows in Musaf].[2] One is […]
Blowing of the Shofar 4
The listeners: Not to answer Baruch Hu Uvaruch Shemo:[1] The listeners are not to say Baruch Hu Uvarach Shemo upon hearing Hashem’s name said in the blessing.[2] In the event one said Baruch Hu Uvaruch Shemo it is possible that one has not fulfilled his obligation of the blessing.[3] For […]
Blowing of the Shofar 3
The verses recited prior to the blowing:[1] After the above preparation is completed one is then to say the psalm of “Lamnatzeiach Livnei Korach” seven times.[2] [This psalm has the ability to turn the attribute of judgment into mercy.[3]] After the recital of this psalm the Chazan recites a series […]
Blowing of the Shofar 2
The spiritual preparation prior to the blowing:[1] One[2] is to [spiritually] prepare himself prior to blowing Shofar.[3] [This is accomplished by each person thinking of matters that spiritually arouse him, each person on his own level and in accordance to his nature.[4] On a deeper level at this time one […]
Blowing of the Shofar 1
The 15th of Elul-the Founding of Tomchei Temimim: On the fifteenth of Elul 5657 [1897; תרנ׳׳ז] the Tomchei Temimim Yeshiva was founded in Lubavitch. Directives of the Rebbe in connection with this date:[1] One is to add in the learning of Chassidus on this day. This especially applies […]
Women hearing Shofar
Women: Women are not obligated to hear Shofar.[1] Nevertheless if they desire to blow Shofar they may do so[2] with a blessing.[3] Practically women today have accepted the hearing of Shofar as an obligation and hence they must do so due to this custom.[4] May a man blow Shofar for […]
Holes in the Shofar
The job of the Rav:[1] The Rav of the town is responsible for checking prior to R”H that the Shofar is valid without any question or doubts of cracks and chips and the like. A Shofar that was made through welding together pieces of horn:[2] If one glued [or […]
Kashrus of the horn
Which animal horns may be used for blowing Shofar on Rosh Hashanah?[1] Introduction: Only those horns that are defined as a Shofar as opposed to Keren are valid to be used for blowing Shofar. The following will discuss the definition of a Keren and which horns are thus invalid to […]
Introduction to Blowing Shofar
Blowing Shofar according to Halacha Unfortunately, those which are not well versed in Halacha think that all and any form of blowing that resembles the traditional blow is valid. This is incorrect. The blowing has many fine Halachic details involved in it with which lack of doing so can invalidate […]
Sefer Torah in private minyan
Bringing a Sefer Torah to a private Minyan:[1] One may not bring a Sefer Torah to people that are incarcerated [or sick[2] and the like and are hence unable to make it to Kerias Hatorah]. This applies even on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.[3] [This however only applies to a […]
Chazaras Hashatz
Chazaras Hashatz: Standing when the ark is open: From the letter of the law one is not required to stand when the ark is open, however the custom of the world is to stand out of respect.[1] Nevertheless if it is difficult for one to stand he may be seated.[2] […]
Eating before Shofar
If one did not recite Vichein Ten Pachdecha and already concluded “Hamelech Hakadosh” must he repeat Shemoneh Esrei?[1] No. He is to continue with the remainder of Shemoneh Esrei.[2] If he remembered after reciting Hashem’s name in the blessing [Baruch Ata Hashem] he is to conclude the blessing with Hamelech […]
Zachreinu; Oseh Hashalom
Today’s daily Halacha is dedicated in the memory of Simcha Freida Bas Tzemach, whose Yartzite is today. What is the law if one recited Zachreinu or Mi Chamocha in Shemoneh Esrei after Aseres Yimei Teshuvah?[1] One who recited Zachreinu or another of the fours stanzas during Shemoneh Esrei when […]
