Davening Maariv with a Minyan during Pelag Hamincha versus Davening in private after nightfall?[1] One who normally Davens Maariv after nightfall who is present by a Minyan that Davens Maariv after Pelag Hamincha, is to Daven with them [if a Minyan will not be available later on[2]], and then repeat […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Davening out loud-the Chabad custom
Question: [Motzei Shabbos, 26th Teves 5781] According to Chabad custom is it proper to pray out loud? I am not referring to the prayer of Shemoneh Esrei which I understand is forbidden to be said out loud, but rather to the rest of the prayer, such as Pesukei Dezimra, Birchos […]
How to distribute the Kiddush wine to the listeners and how to “fix” it prior to the distribution-Part 2
How to distribute the Kiddush wine to the listeners and how to “fix” it prior to the distribution:[1] A. Introduction: While there is no obligation for the listeners to drink from the Kiddush wine in order to fulfill their obligation of Kiddush[2], nonetheless, it is a Mitzvah Min Hamuvchar for […]
From the Rav’s Desk: 1) Sweeping leaves on Shabbos 2) Using sticky notes as placeholders on Shabbos
Question: [Thursday, 23rd Teves 5781] Is it permitted to sweep leaves that have fallen onto my patio on Shabbos and does it make a difference if they fell before Shabbos or on Shabbos? Answer: It is permitted to sweep leaves from a tiled floor on Shabbos, such as the […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Blessing on French Toast
Question: [Wednesday, 22nd Teves 5781] What is the proper blessing to say over French toast. I’ve heard some people say that it’s Mezonos and I wanted to know if this is true. Answer: Slices of French toast that are a Kezayis or more in size receive the blessing of […]
Lending money to a person who has no means of paying back
Lending money to a person who has no means of paying back:[1] If the lender knows that the borrower does not have the means to pay back the loan, and does not plan to invest the money in a business which will bring profit, but rather wants to use it […]
From the Rav’s Desk: 1) Separating Maaser money from pocket money from parents 2) dressing modestly even when on vacation
Question: [Tuesday, 21st Teves 5781] Rabbi, I learn in Yeshiva and receive a monthly stipend from my parents to use as spending money. My question is whether I’m obligated to take off 10% for Maaser from this money or perhaps I’m even not allowed to do so as my parents […]
Shemira for the chasan and Kallah before the wedding
Shemira before wedding:[1] The Chasan and Kallah are not to go out alone for several days[2] prior to the wedding.[3] [Practically, many are accustomed to follow this practice one week before the wedding. Others begin to follow it the Shabbos before the wedding, and others from when they arrive in […]
From the Rav’s Desk: Response: The Rebbe’s custom of approximating the Gartel to the Sefer Torah
Question: [Sunday, 19th Teves 5781] In a previous question and answer you wondered about the custom of approximating the Gartel to the Sefer Torah prior to the half Kaddish. I wanted to inform you that indeed this was seen done by the Rebbe himself and hence this is itself the […]
Being buried in Eretz Yisrael
Burying in Eretz Yisrael:[1] It is a great Mitzvah and merit to be buried in Eretz Yisrael.[2] It is even permitted to unbury the remains of a person in the Diaspora for the sake of reburying him in Eretz Yisrael[3], and certainly one may initially bring the deceased from the […]
