“Vanachnu Lo Neida” Standing at the end of Tachanun: In the paragraph of “Vanachnu Lo Neida” said in the end of Tachanun, some Poskim[1] rule it is proper to recite the words “Vanachnu Lo Neida” while sitting and then stand and recite the continuation from “Mah Naaseh”. Other Poskim[2] however […]

Reading another person’s mail or emails:[1] The famous Ashkenazi leader of the early middle ages, Rabbeinu Gershon Maor Hagoleh, instituted a Cherem [excommunication] against anyone who reads the mail of another person without permission. [This Cherem spread to all sects of Jewry, Sefaradim and Ashkenazim, and does not have a […]

The law of blood found in an egg:[1] The Torah prohibits one to eat blood of a creature. The Talmud and Poskim discuss whether this prohibition applies also to blood found in an egg. In other words, is the blood in an egg considered the blood of a creature or […]

Does placing a hand on one’s head suffice in place of a Yarmulke? It is forbidden for men to sit, walk[1] or say a blessing[2] without a head covering. The following will discuss whether placing a hand on one’s hand is considered a valid head covering in a situation that […]

May a man and a group of women be alone together?[1] *Important note: There are several circumstances that can break a Yichud prohibition between a man and women, such as a Shomer, child, wife/husband in area. Pesach Pasuach to public, etc. The following law does not come to negate any […]

May a child be trusted to immerse a vessel?[1] A child [who is below Bar/Bas Mitzvah] may not be trusted [alone] to immerse a vessel in the Mikveh.[2] However, if the child immerses the vessel in the presence [and under the supervision] of an adult [male or female above Bar/Bas […]

Are children obligated to recite the Shema?[1] Below age of Chinuch:[2] A child who is below the age of Chinuch is exempt from reciting Keiras Shema [by night and day].[3] Above age of Chinuch: A son who has reached the age of Chinuch is obligated in Shema [of both morning […]

Which blessing is said first-Shehechiyanu or the blessing over the fruit?[1] One who eats a new fruit which requires the recital of Shehechiyanu, is to first say the blessing of Shehechiyanu and only afterwards recite the blessing of Haeitz or Hadama.[2] [However, if one forgot and first said the blessing […]

Simcha-Rejoicing the Kallah:[1] A. The obligation of Simcha: The laws of Simcha refer to the obligation of the Chasan to rejoice his wife after the marriage takes place. This Mitzvah of rejoicing one’s wife includes spending time with her in festive meals, and not doing Melacha or going to one’s […]

Must one immerse electric appliances?[1] Electrical appliances which are used to cook food, and come in direct contact with food, are obligated in immersion in a Mikveh with a blessing. This includes toasters[2], sandwich makers, water urns and the like.  How to immerse and avoid damage: One is to immerse […]