What is the law if a Tzitzis string tore within the braid [i.e. Gdil], or beneath the braid [Gdil] by the hole?[1] If even one string tore from its root, it is invalid.[2] This means that if even one string tore near the hole, within the area that precedes the […]
Staring at another person-The prohibition and potential damage
May one stare at his friend?[1] It is forbidden to look into another person’s property [even if they are not present there] if there is possibility that the evil eye can damage their property. Thus, for example, one may stand over the field of his friend to stare at it […]
May women wear pants?
May women wear pants?[1] It is forbidden for women to wear pants. This applies even towards women pants that are made specifically for women and are not worn by men.[2] In the latter case it is disputed as to whether this prohibition is due to Lo Silbash or only due […]
Until what age may girls be present in the men’s side of the shul?
Until what age may girls be present in the men’s side of the shul? Some[1] write that one is to abstain girls from being present in the men’s section beginning from age three and onwards, even if they are dressed modestly. The Rebbe however writes that the prevalent custom [Maaseh […]
May one pay for an Aliyah, or other Kibud, using Maaser money?
May one pay for an Aliyah, or other Kibud, using Maaser money:[1] It is permitted to use Maaser money to pay for a Kibbud [i.e. Aliya, Pesicha, Hagba, etc] that was purchased in Shul, if one had intent to do so upon purchasing it.[2] If, however one did not have […]
With which foot is one to take three steps back after Shemoneh Esrei?
With which foot is one to take three steps back after Shemoneh Esrei?[1] When one takes three steps back after Shemoneh Esrei, he is to begin with his left foot.[2] A lefty:[3] One who his is left footed[4] is to begin with his right foot when he takes three steps […]
May one eat or drink after candle lighting?
May one eat or drink after candle lighting? Some Poskim[1] rule it is permitted to eat or drink after candle lighting until Tzeis Hakochavim. Other Poskim[2] rule it is forbidden to eat or drink anything after candle lighting. Nonetheless, if one is very thirsty, and is afraid to delay lighting […]
May a man listen to the recording of a woman singing, such as on a music player or radio?
May a man listen to the recording of a woman singing, such as on a music player or radio?[1] Some Poskim[2] rule it is permitted to hear a woman sing through a radio or recording if he does not know what she looks like.[3] Other Poskim[4] rule it is permitted […]
Understanding the words of Birchas Hamazon & the preferred language it is be said in
Understanding the words of Birchas Hamazon & the preferred language it is be said in:[1] Birchas Hamazon may be recited in any language [that he understands, as will be explained].[2] However, if one does not know the meaning of the words that he is saying in Birchas Hamazon, such as […]
Must a divorcee, or widow cover her hair?
Must a divorcee, or widow cover her hair? It is forbidden for a woman who was once married, such as a widow or divorcee, to walk in public with uncovered hair, just as is the law regarding a married woman.[1] [Some Poskim[2] rule that this obligation for a widow or […]