Until what time may the morning Shema be recited-Understanding the Luach of Sof Zman Kerias Shema? It is a Biblical command for men[1] to recite Kerias Shema every morning.[2] The morning Kerias Shema may [Biblically[3]] be recited up until the passing of three hours into the day.[4] Thus, one must […]
One who forgot to light Shabbos candles before Shekia-Asking a gentile to light-Part 2
Having a gentile light on one’s behalf:[1] If a woman [or man[2]] [Chas Veshalom[3]] forgot to light candles before Bein Hashmashos [i.e. sunset] and remembered during the period of Bein Hashmashos [i.e. before nightfall, Tzeis Hakochavim], then one may permit her [or him] to ask a gentile to light the […]
Using someone’s item without permission with intent to return-Part 1
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 and then return it.[3] It is thus forbidden for one to visit his friend’s […]
How to pronounce Hashems name in the words “Elokim Acheirim”-with a Kuf or Hei?
How to say Hashem’s name when in reference to other gods, such as in the words “Elokim Acheirim”: From the letter of the law, it is permitted to recite the actual name “Elohim” when in reference to deities and not to Hashem, such as in the words “Elohim Acheirim.”[1] Furthermore, […]
May one do Melacha after Shabbos before saying Havdala over wine or Melaveh Malka?
May one do Melacha after Shabbos before saying Havdala over wine or Melaveh Malka? Introduction: Shabbos ends when three small stars can be seen at night.[1] One must delay doing Melacha until he sees three small stars consecutively in one line. It does not suffice with three small stars which […]
One who forgot to light candles before Shekia-Part 1
One who forgot to light candles before Shekia/sunset: The General law: Initially, one is to light candles at the set time written in the calendar for one’s location, which is commonly at least 18 minutes before sunset.[1] If one did not do so, then they may light the candles up […]
The Mitzvah to testify in Beis Din and the prohibition against giving or publicizing testimony that cannot be corroborated in court
The Mitzvah to testify in Beis Din and the prohibition against giving or publicizing testimony that cannot be corroborated in court: It is a [Biblical] command for one who witnessed a certain matter that can be of benefit to another person in Beis Din, for him to testify on this […]
In doubt as to whether a certain vessel is dairy or meaty or Pareve
If one is in doubt as to whether a certain vessel is dairy, meat, or Pareve, what is the law? If one is unsure as to a vessel’s dairy or meat status, and 12 months have not passed since its last use, then it is required to be Koshered if […]
Until when during the day may one recite Birchas Hashachar?
Until when during the day may one recite Birchas Hashachar? Initially, one is to recite Birchas Hashachar early in the morning, in close proximity to awakening.[1] If one did not do so, the blessings may be said throughout the entire day [up until sunset].[2] Furthermore, some Poskim[3] rule it may […]
The law of an Esrog that contains a colored spot [i.e. white; black; green; etc]
The law of an Esrog that contains a colored spot [i.e. white; black; green; etc]:[1] An Esrog must look beautiful, otherwise known as Hadar. This is not just a subjective form of beauty, but a beauty that carries Halachic definition and invalidations. Due to the obligation of Hadar, an Esrog […]