Question: [Tuesday, 19th Adar 2, 5782] I have a vacation rental home which I rent out throughout the year and would like to know if there’s any issue with me renting it to a non–religious Jew during Pesach, being that he very likely will enter Chametz into the room. Is […]
Likkutei Sichos Introduction & Historical Background- Part 2
Donate Introduction & Historical Background Part 2 The dates of the publication: The compiled Sichos of Likkutei Sichos were first published and distributed on a weekly basis, as a pamphlet known as a Likut, in correspondence to that week’s Parsha. It was only later that these published pamphlets were […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Following your conscience to determine right versus wrong
Donate Question: [Monday 18th Adar 2, 5782] Is there any truth to the statement that one’s conscience can mystically determine right from wrong and direct a person who is facing a fork in the road, as to whether he should choose one way or the other? I have heard stated […]
Introduction & Historical Background on Likkutei Sichos-Part 1
Donate Introduction & Historical Background on Likkutei Sichos The uniqueness of Likkutei Sichos-The Rebbe’s organized edited work: Likkutei Sichos is the most authoritative and significant published work of the Rebbe’s talks and teachings which were said throughout the years of the Rebbe’s leadership. The Rebbe publicly spoke on thousands of […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Who should wash the hands of the Kohen by Nesias Kapayim?
Question: [Sunday, 17th Adar 2, 5782] If there is no Levi in Shul, who should wash the hands of the Kohanim prior to them performing Nesias Kapayim? Answer: If there is no Levi available to wash the hands of the Kohanim, then Admur and the Poskim rule that a Bechor […]
How many verses must be read in the Haftorah
How many verses are to be read during the Haftorah:[1] Shabbos:[2] On Shabbos, the person who reads the Maftir from the Navi is to read no less than 21 verses.[3] Nonetheless, if the entire subject of the chosen Parsha in Navi contains less than 21 verses, such as the Parsha […]
Summary Hilchos Purim-Part 9- 1) Purim in Jerusalem and Sfaek cities; 2) Traveling to and from Jerusalem; 3) Shushan Purim 4) Laws relevant to Friday for Jerusalem and Safek residence
1. The Date of Purim All cities known today celebrate Purim on the 14th with exception to Jerusalem which celebrates on the 15th. Cities of doubt: Due to doubt, the following cities celebrate Purim also on the 15th: Akko; Gaza; Bagdad; Beiriy; Beis Shean; Damascus; Gush Chalav; Haifa; Hebron; Eiyn […]
From the Rav’s Desk: May one do laundry on Purim?
Donate Question: [Tuesday, 12th Adar 2, 5782] I usually always do laundry on Thursday on behalf of Shabbos. Am I allowed to do so this Thursday even though it will be Purim? Answer: In my opinion, this may not be done. All laundry should be done before Purim, or […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Megillah written with words far from the Sirtut
Donate Question: [Sunday, 10th Adar 2, 5782] I had purchased a very large and expensive megillah from an individual and showed it to a friend of mine who is a Sofer, and he was very impressed by the writing and its beautiful script. However, he said that he thinks that […]
Likkutei Sichos-Parshas Vayikra-The Asham Taloiy & Discovering your hidden evil
Donate Parshas Vayikra Knowing ones hidden evil Compiled from the following sources: Likkutei Sichos Vol. 3 p. 201 Parshas Vayikra is the first of a long set of Parshiyos which discuss the bringing of the sacrifices to the altar. There are various types of sacrifices that can be […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Using a rubber hot water bottle on Shabbos to relieve pain
Question: [Thursday, 7th Adar 2, 5782] I am suffering from stomach pains and the only thing that seems to relieve the pain is a hot water heating bag. My question is regarding if I may use this on Shabbos, and if yes, may I fill it up with hot water […]
Summary Hilchos Purim-Part 4-Megillah reading laws 2
Donate Summary of laws-Megillah reading-Part 4: Refraining from talking during the reading: Once the blessing has been recited, it is forbidden to speak from that point and on until the reading is completed, and the final blessing is recited. This applies for both the reader and the listener. One who […]
From the Rav’s Desk: A father reciting Kaddish for a child who passed away r”l
Question: [Tuesday, 5th Adar 2, 5782] One of our older children unfortunately passed away r”l? Should/May I be saying Kaddish for him, for my child? Answer: If the child did not leave any male offspring, then this matter depends on the status of your parents [i.e. if alive, or […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Removing damaging weeds from a potted plant during Shemita
Question: [Monday 4th Adar 2, 5782] I live in Eretz Yisrael and have a potted plant on my windowsill which is growing a type of wild flower that is very damaging to the plant. May I remove it? Answer: Yes, you may. It is best to kill the weed […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Saying Shalom in the changing room of a Mikveh
Question: [Sunday, 3rd Adar 2, 5782] May I greet my friend with the word Shalom inside of the changing area of the Mikveh? Does it make a difference if there are people there who are undressed or not? I did so this morning and someone told me that its forbidden. […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Does one say a blessing upon tasting salt?
Question: [Thursday, 30th Adar 1, 5782] If I taste or eat salt, am I to say a blessing? Answer: Yes, if you plan to swallow it and you receive some measure of benefit from eating or tasting it, then the blessing of Shehakol is recited. If, however you receive […]
The dilemma of the date of the 30th of Adar 1 and how one can commemorate a birthday/Yartzite
The dilemma of the date of the 30th of Adar 1 and how one can commemorate a birthday/Yartzite: A. What is one to do if he was born on the 30th of Adar I and in the current year there is only one Adar of 29 days?[1] If one was […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Hashavas Aveida if found a $100 bill in front of Shul and the law of Maaser
Question: [Wednesday, 29th Adar 1, 5782] Yesterday, when I was walking into shul I found a folded $100 bill on the floor by the entrance area of the Shul. I of course wanted to return it to whoever lost it and did some investigation and returned it to a member […]
Giving a Hesped-Chabad custom and custom of other communities not to eulogize
Giving a Hesped-Chabad custom and custom of other communities not to eulogize:[1] The Chabad custom is not to give any eulogies[2] and so is the custom of other communities.[3] One is to prevent eulogies from taking place for a deceased who belonged to a community who follows the above custom.[4] […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Must one separate Maaser from charity monies that he receives?
Question: [Tuesday, 28th Adar 1, 5782] I recently had a charity campaign done on my behalf for a specific personal cause. I wanted to know if I am obligated to separate Maaser from the charity money that I received? Answer: If the charity campaign was for a specific cause, […]
Eulogy/Hesped-Should it be done, How and why-Part 1
Eulogy/Hesped-Should it be done, How and why:[1] A. The general law: It is a great Mitzvah to properly eulogize the deceased.[2] Whoever cries upon the death of a Kosher Jew, Hashem counts the tears and places the tears in his supernal treasure chest. Whoever is lax in eulogizing a Kosher […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Men trimming eyebrows
Question: [Monday 21st Tamuz, 5780] May a man trim his eyebrows, or does doing so transgress Lo Yilbash? Basically, my eyebrows are really wide and go out of their intended “perimeter” and I would like to know if I can trim or shave them in that area. Answer: It […]
Which child is obligated in Pidyon Haben-Part 2-Son of Kohen, Levi, Gentile
Which child is obligated in Pidyon Haben-Part 2: A. The son of a Levi-Leviyah/Kohen-Kohenes:[1] Kohanim and Levites are exempt from Pidyon Haben.[2] Even a Kohenes or Leviyah who is married to a Yisrael, her son is not obligated in Pidyon Haben.[3] [This applies even today when we no longer have […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Fixing two letters which are found touching by the Parshiyos of Tefillin
Question: [Sunday, 26th Adar 1, 5782] I sent my Rashi pair of Tefillin to be checked by a sofer for the first time after my Bar Mitzvah and the Sofer said that they are invalid, being that he found two letters which were touching each other [the tip of one […]
The order when two Torah scrolls are removed
The order when two Torah scrolls are removed:[1] It is forbidden to roll a Sefer Torah in front of the congregation due to respect for the congregation.[2] Accordingly, whenever two different sections of the Torah need to be read, such as by every Yom Tov[3], Shabbos Rosh Chodesh[4], Shabbos Chanukah[5], […]
May one play chess on Shabbos?
May one play chess on Shabbos? Letter of the law:[1] It is permitted to play a game using [pre-designated[2]] bones[3] so long as one is not doing so for gambling purposes. [Some[4] explain that this bone game refers to chess. Others[5] explain this to refer to “five stones” or “Kugalach”. […]
May one answer Baruch Uvaruch Shemo in middle of Davening?
May one answer Baruch Uvaruch Shemo in middle of Davening?[1] One who is in an area of Davening in which it is forbidden to make an interval, which is from Baruch Sheamar in Pesukei Dezimra until after Shemoneh Esrei, then he may not answer Baruch Hu Uvrach Shemo to a […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Are teenagers held liable for sins
Question: [Tuesday, 21st Adar 1, 5782] I have heard many times that a person is not held liable for his sins and does not receive punishment until the age of 20? This would basically mean that all teenagers are not held liable for their actions. Is this true and how […]
Which child is obligated in Pidyon Haben-Part 1-Mother versus father, miscarriages, c-section
Which child is obligated in Pidyon Haben? Part 1 A. Firstborn son versus firstborn daughter: Only a firstborn son is obligated in being redeemed and not a firstborn daughter.[1] Likewise, only if the son was the firstborn child is he obligated in being redeemed. Thus, if a daughter was born […]
Drinking during Davening if thirsty
Drinking during Davening:[1] Once one has begun Baruch Sheamar, it is forbidden to drink until after Shemoneh Esrei [and Tachanun[2]].[3] This prohibition applies even between the paragraphs [i.e. Bein Haperakim]. However, prior to Baruch Sheamar, and after Shemoneh Esrei [and Tachanun], it is permitted to recite a blessing over a […]
From the Rav’s Desk: May the father of the child be the Sandek?
Question: [Sunday, 19th Adar 1, 5782] Is it permitted for the father of the child to be the Sandek for his own child rather than honor another individual? Is it praiseworthy for him to do so? Answer: Yes. It is both permitted, and praiseworthy and even customary, for a […]
Parshas Ki Sisa-Summary of the Parsha
This article is an excerpt from our Sefer Buy now on Amazon.com Parshas Ki Sisa Pesukim: 139 [Siman: חננאל] Haftorah: Melachim 1 18:20[1]-39 Number of Mitzvos: There are Nine Mitzvos in Parshas Ki Sisa. Four positive commands and five negative command. A. Positive commands: 1. Mitzvah 105/Positive 44: […]
Parshas Ki Sisa-Likkutei Sichos: An analysis on the sin of the Golden Calf and how it was not true idolatry
Parshas Ki Sisa An analysis on the sin of the Golden Calf and how it was not true idolatry (Likkutei Sichos Vol.11 Sicha 1) In Parshas Ki Sisa, the infamous sin of the golden calf is relayed. This story of the golden calf aggravates many critical and wondrous questions at […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Warming fish with gravy on Shabbos
Question: [Thursday, 16th Adar 1, 5782] Is it permitted for me to warm a pan of fish with congealed gravy, on top of a pot that is on the Blech on Shabbos morning? The fish is fully cooked, but the gravy is congealed and will melt with the heat, but […]
Making a mark on the Challah before Hamotzi on Shabbos
Making a mark on the Challah before Hamotzi on Shabbos:[1] Background: The Mitzvah of having a whole loaf by Hamotzi: It is a Mitzvah Min Hamuvchar [even during the week] for the blessing of Hamotzi to be recited over a whole loaf of bread, and not to first cut it […]
Saying Aleinu Leshabeiach together with the congregation
Saying Aleinu Leshabeiach together with the congregation:[1] When the congregation recites Aleinu Leshabeiach, one is to say it together with them.[2] This applies even if one has already Davened, and just happened to walk into Shul at the time the congregation is reciting Aleinu.[3] It likewise applies if he was […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Kashrus of wheat straw plates for Pesach
Question: [Wednesday, 15th Adar 1, 5782] I would like to purchase wheat straw plates for during the year and Passover? Is there any Kashrus issue with using such plates on Pesach? Answer: There is no issue with using it, neither during the year, nor on Pesach, and hence you […]
From the Rav’s Desk: The size of the Choshen-Like the palm of the hand
Question: [Tuesday, 14th Adar 1, 5782] On Shabbos, someone told me that the size of the Choshen was actually really small, as small as the palm of one’s hand, and that the pictures which depict it as being very large are all inaccurate. Is this true? Answer: This is […]
Where is Mordechai and Esther buried?
This article is an excerpt from our Sefer Buy me on Amazon.com Where is Mordechai and Esther buried? Mordechai is buried in the city of Shushan.[1] The tomb of Mordechai can be found in the city of Hamadan, Iran. Esther is buried in a Northern Galilean town called Baram.[2] She was buried […]
Hearing at least 10 Kaddeishim daily
Hearing at least 10 Kaddeishim daily: A. The law and custom:[1] The obligatory seven daily Kadeishim upon the Minyan:[2] The Sages instituted to recite at least seven Kadeishim per day, corresponding to the verse[3], “Sheva Bayom Hilalticha/seven in a day I will praise you.” These seven Kadeishim are an actual […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Saying Shehakol on drinks after Kiddush in Shul
Question: [Sunday, 5th Adar 1, 5782] After kiddush is said in Shul by Shabbos day, most people, myself included, do not usually drink from the kiddush wine and simply begin eating afterwards. I understand that drinking from the kiddush wine is not an obligation so that is not my question. […]
Parshas Tetzaveh-Summary of the Parsha
This article is an excerpt from our Sefer Buy now on Amazon.com Parshas Tetzaveh Pesukim: 101 [Siman: מיכאל] Haftorah: Yechezkal 43:10-27 Number of Mitzvos: There are Seven Mitzvos in Parshas Tetzaveh. Four positive commands and three negative command. A. Positive commands: 1. Mitzvah 98/Positive 40: To have candles […]
Likkutei Sichos-Parshas Tetzaveh: When running away from sin there is no place for political correctness
Parshas Tetzaveh When running away from sin there is no place for political correctness (Likkutei Sichos Vol. 16 Sicha 2) In Parshas Tetzaveh, we learn of the garments of the priests. A regular priest had four priestly garments which he would wear during his temple service while the high priest […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Giving counseling sessions on Erev Shabbos in afternoon
Question: [Thursday, 9th Adar 1, 5782] I work as a therapist, and I would like to know if I may schedule counseling sessions for Friday afternoon. I am asking because I understood that ideally you are not supposed to work on Friday afternoon. Is this type of work also included […]
Calling up someone for Maftir if he does not know how to read the Haftorah
Calling up someone for Maftir if he does not know how to read the Haftorah:[1] The dispute in Poskim: Some Poskim[2] rule that it is permitted to call up for Maftir an individual who does not know to read the Haftorah, and then have another individual read the Haftorah [with […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Must one pay for the elevator condo fee [i.e. Vaad Bayit] if he always uses the stairs or lives by the ground floor
Question: [Wednesday, 8th Adar 1, 5782] We have a year’s long dispute in our apartment building with the building management regarding if those who live by the entrance or who only use the stairs need to contribute towards payment for the elevator maintenance and monthly electricity bill. He of course […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Source and meaning behind child being taught Torah in his mother’s womb
Question: [Tuesday, 7th Adar 1, 5782] There is a known saying that while in the mother’s womb, the baby is taught the entire Torah, and prior to birth he is flicked under the nose by his angelic teacher which causes him to forget all the Torah and causes him to […]
Moshe’s birthday and Yartzite
Moshe’s birthday and Yartzite: Moshe Rabbeinu was born and passed away on Zayin Adar.[1] One is to increase in joy on this day.[2] Some are accustomed to fast.[3] This is not the Chabad custom.[4] However one should increase in charity on this day in exchange for the fast.[5] Some do not […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Pas Yisrael and Hafrashas Challah when purchasing frozen dough from Gentile
Question: [Monday 6th Adar 1, 5782] We are on Shlichus and do not have any kosher bakery available near us and are not able to bake bread all the time for all of our guests and ourselves throughout the week. I would like to know if we can purchase frozen […]
Nefilas Apayim in an area without a Sefer Torah-Part 2
Nefilas Apayim in an area without a Sefer Torah-Part 2[1] The custom is not to perform Nefilas Apayim unless there is a Sefer Torah present in the area, with exception to some Sephardic communities and Jerusalem Jewry who are accustomed to perform Nefilas Apayim even if a Sefer Torah is […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Must women Daven Shacharis within Zeman Tefila?
Question: [Sunday, 5th Adar 1, 5782] I am a little confused regarding the subject of Zeman Tefila for women. On the one hand, I do not see it emphasized that women need to be careful in this and I see many of my friends who Daven Shacharis even after Chatzos. […]
Nefilas Apayim in an area without a Sefer Torah
Nefilas Apayim in an area without a Sefer Torah:[1] A. The general law:[2] Some[3] [i.e. Ashkenazim[4], and some Sephardim[5]] are accustomed to only perform Nefilas Apayim [i.e. the resting of one’s face towards one’s arm] in an area that contains a Torah scroll.[6] [If the area contains a Torah scroll, […]
Parshas Terumah-Summary of the Parsha
This article is an excerpt from our Sefer Buy now on Amazon.com Parshas Terumah Pesukim: 96 [Siman: יעיו] Haftorah: Melachim 1 5:26-6:13 Number of Mitzvos: There are Three Mitzvos in Parshas Terumah. Two positive commands and One negative command. A. Positive commands: 1. Mitzvah 95/Positive 38: To build […]
Likkutei Sichos-Parshas Teruma-Building a Temple for G-d in your community and home
Parshas Teruma Building a Temple for G-d in your community and home (Likkutei Sichos Vol. 36 Sicha 1) In Parshas Teruma, we are commanded with the great Mitzvah of building a Temple for G-d. At first this command was fulfilled in the desert through building the Mishkan, tabernacle, in the […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Taking a Covid test on Shabbos
Question: [Thursday, 2nd Adar 1, 5782] Am I allowed to take a home Covid test on Shabbos to see if I am sick and to determine as to whether I can go out or need to be in isolation? The test involves placing a Q-tip into my mouth and nostril, […]
Breast feeding on Shabbos-Part 3-May a woman pump milk to bottle feed her baby if she can’t breast-feed him
May a woman pump milk to bottle feed her baby if she can’t breast-feed him?[1] If a child is unable to breast-feed, such as if he is a preemie and cannot nurse, or if the child is sick or weak, or cannot nurse any other reason, and during the week […]
From the Rav’s Desk: How long does it take to get a verdict from a Beis Din?
Question: [Wednesday, 1st Adar 1, 5782] I have a monetary claim against my employer, and he is refusing to comply with my claims, and says that he is more than willing to go with me to a Beis Din and have them decide. I would like to know how long […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Migdal versus Magdil in Bentching of Rosh Chodesh
Question: [Tuesday, 23rd Shevat 5782] On Rosh Chodesh, is one to recite Magdil or Migdal in Bentching? I would appreciate if you can elaborate also on the meaning behind this change of wording and why it is done on specific days? Answer: When reciting Birchas Hamazon on Rosh Chodesh, one […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Do coffee beans need to have a Hashgacha?
Question: [Monday 29th Shevat 5782] Do coffee beans need to have a Hashgacha? I found an online coffee company that ships coffee beans, and I would like to know if I can order them even though it does not have a Hashgacha. They are unflavored, regular coffee beans. Answer: […]
Mayim Shenisgalu-May one drink liquids that were left uncovered overnight
* This article is an excerpt from the above Sefer Check out our Amazon Sefarim Shop Like this Article? Check out our Amazon Sefarim store. Over 64 Titles *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. WhatsApp Telegram Facebook Twitter Sponsor an Article Mayim Shenisgalu-Liquids that were left uncovered:[1] […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Sleeping on backpack with Tefillin inside while camping
Question: [Sunday, 28th Shevat, 5782] We recently went on a camping trip and had to sleep in tents. We used our backpacks as a pillow to rest our heads on while sleeping in our sleeping bags on the ground, and I wanted to know if there’s an issue with doing […]
Avel/Mourner receiving an Aliyah during Shiva
Avel/Mourner receiving an Aliyah during Shiva:[1] During the weekdays: It is forbidden for an Avel to receive an Aliyah throughout Shiva.[2] This applies even if the Avel is a Kohen and there is no other Kohen available in the Minyan. [Rather a Yisrael is to be called up in his […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Accidentally skipped Nishmas-Making up between Yishtabach and Yotzer Or
Question: [Thursday, 25th Shevat 5782] On Shabbos, towards the end of the blessing of Yishtabach, I realized that I forgot to say Nishmas [I went straight to Yishtabach after finishing Az Yashir]. May I make it up now and read between Yishtabach and the blessing of Yotzer Or? Answer: […]
Snow in Halacha
Snow in Halacha: A. Netilas Yadayim with snow:[1] If there is no water available for one to wash his hands in the morning, or for the sake of eating bread, then if one crushes and melts the snow, then one may wash with it from a vessel, or even dip […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Deducting from Maaser a free or discounted service or product that one gives to a poor person or Mosad
Question: [Wednesday, 24th Shevat, 5782] I work as a website technician and do some website volunteer work for a charity organization. May I deduct the amount of income that I could charge for such work from my Maaser obligations. For example, if I put in 10 hours a month for […]
How many people are needed to answer for Chazaras Hashatz-Part 2
How many people are needed to answer for Chazaras Hashatz-Part 2 If a person begins Shemoneh Esrei together with the Chazan by Chazaras Hashatz, can he be considered as one of the nine answers, and therefore only eight answers are required? Some Poskim[1] rule that a person who begins Shemoneh […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Domestic violence: The Torah’s view, and reaching out for proper guidance
Question: [Tuesday, 23rd Shevat 5782] Unfortunately, I am in an abusive relationship with my husband. While the abuse does not happen every day, it is not uncommon, and I do live in fear of him getting angry and losing his temper when things are not done according to his will […]
How many people are needed to answer for Chazaras Hashatz-Part 1
How many people are needed to answer for Chazaras Hashatz?[1] A. Introduction: A Davar Shebekedusha, which includes the saying of Kaddish, Kedusha, Barchu, requires a Minyan of ten adult men in the room for it to be allowed to be said.[2] In addition to the requirement of having a minyan, […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Pledging charity in one’s mind
Question: [Monday 22nd Shevat 5782] I made a pledge in my mind to give a certain amount of charity to a certain cause. I have since rethought of whether I should give this pledge. Must I do so, or since I did not verbalize the pledge, it is not considered […]
Giving presents to a gentile-Part 1
Giving presents to a gentile: A. May one give a present to a gentile?[1] It is forbidden to give a free present to a gentile who one is not acquainted with.[2] This applies even if the gentile is not an idolater, such as a Muslim.[3] If, however, one is acquainted […]
From the Rav’s Desk: What to do if one recited the blessing of Hanosein Lasechvi Bina before daybreak
Question: [Sunday, 21st Shevat, 5782] I woke up at about 3 o’clock in the morning and recited all the morning blessings. I then realized that it was still before Alos, and I should not have said the blessing of Hanosein Lasechvi Bina being that I did not hear a rooster […]
Not to talk in a bathroom
Not to talk in a bathroom:[1] One may not speak in a bathroom [while using it for urinating or a bowel movement[2]] as doing so is immodest.[3] If it is not possible to [lock or] close the door of the bathroom, then if someone approaches him, he should grunt to […]
Parshas Yisro-Summary of the Parsha
This article is an excerpt from our Sefer Buy now on Amazon.com Parshas Yisro Pesukim: 72 [Siman:יונדב] Haftorah: Yeshayahu 6:1-13[1] Number of Mitzvos: There are a total of Seventeen Mitzvos in Parshas Yisro. Three positive commands and Fourteen negative commands. A. Positive commands: 1. Mitzvah 25/Positive 12: To […]
Likkutei Sichos Parshas Yisro-True Freedom is “Slavery”
Parshas Yisro The pleasure in submission-The novelty of Matan Torah & our complete surrender to G-d (Likkutei Sichos Vol. 36 Sicha 2[1]) In Parshas Yisro, the most important and momentous event in world history in general, and Jewish history in particular, is retold. In this Parsha we are told of […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Pounding a whole lemon to create more juice for squeezing into salad on Shabbos
Question: [Thursday, 18th Shevat 5782] Is it permitted for one to pound, punch, and roll a whole lemon for the sake of creating more juice for the sake of then squeezing/placing it into a salad? Answer: It is permitted for you to do so, however, it is best to only […]
Laws relating to breastfeeding and breast milk on Shabbos-Part 2 -Squeezing out the milk on Shabbos
Laws relating to breastfeeding and breast milk on Shabbos-Part 2-Q&A Summary of Part 1: Is forbidden for a woman to squeeze breast milk into a vessel due to the Biblical detaching prohibition. However, it is permitted for a woman to squeeze out some milk and have it trickle down her […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Real estate agent headaches-Does a renter have the status of a Bar Metzra?
Question: [Wednesday, 17th Shevat, 5782] I am a real estate agent and I’m working for a certain individual who owns a rental property to help sell his home. I found a buyer who is willing to pay the price that the owner is asking for and we began negotiations. However, […]
Laws relating to breastfeeding and breast milk on Shabbos-Part 1
Laws relating to breastfeeding and breast milk on Shabbos:[1] It is permitted without restriction for a woman to breast-feed a child on Shabbos, even if the child does not need to breast-feed such as if he is already satiated, or has formula or other foods available. Thus, a woman may […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Father married stepdaughter, the status of the children-Mamzeirus
Question: [Tuesday, 16th Shevat 5782] I have a relative originally from Israel who years ago married his stepdaughter, and had children with her. To be clear, he first married a Jewish woman who had a daughter from a previous union, he then divorced his wife and later ended up marrying […]
Miscellaneous Q&A relating to Tu Beshvat Fruits
Check out our Amazon Sefarim Shop WhatsApp Telegram Facebook Twitter Sponsor an Article Miscellaneous Q&A relating to Tu Beshvat Fruits What blessing is one to say on Esrog jelly?[1] Borei Peri Haeitz.[2] Is the blessing of Shehechiyanu to be recited upon eating Esrog jelly?[3] No.[4] Is the blessing […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Beginning a letter to a woman with the word Shalom
Question: [Sunday, 14th Shevat, 5782] I am accustomed whenever I write a formal letter or email to begin with the words Shalom Ubracha as did the Rebbe. My question is regarding if there is any issue in writing this when the letter is intended to a woman. [I am a […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Warming one’s hands near the flames of Shabbos candles
Question: [Thursday, 11th Shevat 5782] In the winter, when I come back from Shul on Friday night my hands are freezing. May I warm them by placing them near the Shabbos candles? Answer: Yes. There is no halachic issue to warm dry hands near the Shabbos candles on Shabbos. […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Loving one’s Rebbe
Question: [Wednesday, 10th Shevat, 5782] One of the questions I’ve always had on Chasidim [and I guess today also against some in the Litvish world who have today adapted to this position regarding their own rabbis and leaders], is what seems to be obsessive feelings and emotions that they have […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Placing tefillin on top of Sefarim
Question: [Tuesday, 9th Shevat 5782] Is there any issue with resting Tefillin on top of a Sefer? Is there any difference between the actual Tefillin themselves, versus the tefillin while they are in the bag, and versus the tefillin cases? Answer: It is best not to rest Tefillin on […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Eating fish with Pareve food that was baked in oven simultaneously with meat
Question: [Monday 8th Shevat 5782] I baked potatoes in my oven together at the same time that I was baking chicken. Both were uncovered when they were baking. May I eat these potatoes together with fish? Answer: No, the potatoes are considered meaty and are not to be eaten […]
Having a Kos Shel Bracha while Bentching-Part 2-The final ruling
Having a cup of wine [i.e. Kos Shel Bracha] while Bentching:[1] A. The dispute: See Yesterdays daily halacha. B. The final ruling: There is no final Halachic arbitration regarding whether we rule like the opinion which holds that it is an obligation to Bentch over a cup of wine or […]
Having a Kos Shel Bracha while Bentching-Part 1-The Various opinions
Having a cup of wine [i.e. Kos Shel Bracha] while Bentching:[1] There is a dispute recorded regarding the obligation of having a cup of wine, otherwise known as a Kos Shel Bracha, present while reciting Birchas Hamazon, and then having a blessing of Hagafen recited over it at the conclusion […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Sinew of Bayis of tefillin came out of its groove
Question: [Sunday, 7th Shevat, 5782] I had recently sent my tefillin to be checked and when they returned with a kosher verification from the Sofer I noticed that one of the corner sinews which tie the Bayis was loose and came out of its groove and is now resting on […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Pouring the Kiddush wine into a second cup, and drinking from the second cup
Question: [Thursday, 4th Shevat 5781] I am accustomed when I make Kiddush to pour out some of the wine into another cup prior to drinking from it, as brought down in the Alter Rebbe in order to avoid the issue of Pagum for the listeners who will be drinking from my […]
Disowning the Shemita produce of one’s land-Part 2
Disowning the Shemita produce of one’s land-Part 2:[1] Summary: Every person who grows produce which is defined as a Kedushas Shevi’is in his field must disown the product and give entrance for all people to be able to come and partake from the food. How to be Mafkir the produce:[2] […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Assisting in the cremation of a Gentile corpse
Question: [Wednesday, 3rd Shevat, 5782] We are a family of converts, and have a Gentile relative who recently passed away and asked in his will to be cremated. We are his closest available relatives to arrange for the cremation to take place, and my question is from a Halachic perspective […]
Disowning the Shemita produce of one’s land-Part 1
Disowning the Shemita produce of one’s land-Part 1:[1] A. The mitzvah:[2] It is a positive command of the Torah for one [whether a man or woman[3]] to disown all the produce[4] that grows on his land during the seventh year. [Accordingly, one must give all Jews[5] access to collect the […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Pouring non-Mevushal wine into the cup of a Gentile or nonreligious Jew
Question: [Tuesday, 2nd Shevat 5782] Is there any issue with pouring non-Mevushal wine into the cup of a nonreligious Jew or Gentile and does it affect the rest of the one in the bottle? Answer: It is permitted for one to pour Kosher non-Mevushal wine into the cup of […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Spending time with your spouse-how much and how often?
Question: [Monday 1st Shevat 5782] Is there any Torah or Halachic obligation for a husband to spend time with his wife? Obviously, couples must spend time with each other in order so the relationship grow and stay healthy. However, how often is the suggested practice? Every once in a while, […]
Reciting Hallel together with the Minyan
Reciting Hallel together with the Minyan:[1] It is a Mitzvah Min Hamuvchar to read Hallel together with the congregation immediately after [Shemoneh Esrei of] the Shacharis prayer.[2] Reading Hallel with the congregation prior to Shacharis?[3] If one came to Shul after the congregation completed the Shacharis prayer [of Shemoneh Esrei] […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Chitas and Pushka-A Segula to prevent car accidents
Question: [Sunday, 29th Teves, 5782] I have seen many times Lubavitchers placing a Pushka and/or Chitas in their car as a Segula against car accidents? Did the Rebbe ever speak of this matter? Answer: Placing a Siddur, Tehillim, and Tanya [i.e. Chitas], and also a Tzedaka Pushka, inside the […]
Standing for Mizmor Lesoda
Standing for Mizmor Lesoda:[1] One is required to stand for the recital of Mizmor Lesoda.[2] [Some Poskim[3], however, rule that according to the final ruling of Admur, one is not required to stand. Furthermore, some[4] rule one is specifically to recite Mizmor Lesoda in a sitting position. Practically, the Chabad […]
Likkutei Sichos-Every Jew will leave the exile
Parshas Vaeira No Jew will be left behind-is this really true? (Likkutei Sichos Vol. 11 Sicha 1) Parshas Vaeira begins in the middle of the confrontation between Moshe and G-d regarding the redemption of the Jewish people. In the previous Parsha of Shemos G-d instructs Moshe to tell the Jewish […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Talking while washing hands
Question: [Thursday, 26th Teves 5781] Last Shabbos I was talking to someone while washing hands and was told by an individual that it’s forbidden to talk while washing. I was kind of surprised, as while I always knew you can’t talk after washing until the blessing of Hamotzi is recited, […]
What should one eat for Shalosh Seudos-The menu requirements for the third meal
What should one eat for Shalosh Seudos-The menu requirements for the third meal: A. Introduction: Every person, whether man or woman[1], is [rabbinically[2]] obligated to eat three meals on Shabbos.[3] The source behind the Shabbos meals:[4] [Although the eating of the Shabbos meals is Rabbinical in origin], it is hinted […]

