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Bringing a Sefer Torah from one area to another for the sake of Kerias Hatorah:

A. The general law:[1]

Bringing it to a private Minyan:[2] It is forbidden to remove a Sefer Torah from a Shul for the sake of reading from it in another area [unless certain conditions are fulfilled, as will be explained in Halacha’s B-C]. [This prohibition applies even if one carries the Sefer Torah together with its Aron.[3] This prohibition applies even if one wraps the Sefer Torah in a Tallis and escorts it with ten people.[4]]

From one Shul to another Shul: The Zohar states that it is a severe prohibition to be lenient in this matter of moving a Sefer Torah, even to move it from one Shul to another Shul.[5] However, some Poskim[6] rule that it is permitted to bring a Sefer Torah from one Shul to another Shul so long as there are ten people escorting it in a form of respect. Practically, we are stringent in this matter.[7] However, if a set Shul Minyan is stuck without a Sefer Torah for whatever reason [i.e. their only Sefer Torah was found to be Pasul, or they lost the key to the Aron Kodesh[8]] then it is permitted to have a Sefer Torah brought to them, even if it is possible for them to move the Minyan to another Shul.[9] [However, if they still have one Kosher Sefer Torah available, it is forbidden to bring another Sefer Torah to the Shul even for the sake of Maftir.[10] Furthermore, this allowance only applies to a set Minyan in an established Shul. However, a breakaway Minyan which has decided to hold services in a different area than the local Shul is prohibited from carrying the Sefer Torah on Shabbos even for the sake of their Minyan and rather they must go to the main Shul for Kerias Hatorah.[11] If, however, they set up an Aron before Shabbos and have the Sefer Torah remain there for a few days, then from the letter of the law it may be done, as explained in B. See Q&A regarding moving from one room to another within the same Shul, and regarding if the Shul does not contain a safe.]

A private Sefer Torah:[12] A privately owned Sefer Torah [which is kept in one’s private home] is permitted to be moved from place to place, such as during travel, and the like. [If, however, the Sefer Torah is kept in the Shul and used by the public, then it follows the same laws and restrictions as a Shul’s Sefer Torah.[13] Likewise, some Poskim[14] rule that the Sefer Torah must be written with this intent, that it be used for travel.]

 

B. Cases of exception and allowance-If one cannot attend Shul, for the sake of a Gadol:

*In all the below cases of allowance, the Torah scroll may even be brought to the Minyan at the time of Kerias Hatorah and be returned immediately after the reading, unless stated otherwise. Nonetheless, initially, it is best for the Sefer Torah to be set up in an Aron from the day before and remain there for one to two days, as explained in Halacha’s C, and be transported in the ways explained in Halacha D.[15]

For the sake of one who cannot attend Kerias Hatorah:[16] One may not bring a Sefer Torah even on behalf of people who are incarcerated [or sick[17] and the like and are hence unable to make it to Kerias Hatorah]. This applies even on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.[18] [See footnote regarding Parshas Zachar/Parah![19] This, however, only applies to a case that there is less than a Minyan of people that need the Sefer Torah.[20] If, however, there is a Minyan of people who are unable to make it to Kerias Hatorah due to reasons beyond their control, then a Sefer Torah may be brought to that Minyan.[21] If, however, the Minyan is able to make it to Shul, then a Sefer Torah may not be brought to them unless certain conditions are fulfilled, as will be explained in C. Thus, practically, one may bring a Sefer Torah on behalf of a group of ten patients who are stuck in a hospital, or ten prisoners, or ten soldiers stuck in an army base without permission to leave, and all cases of the like where a group of ten people cannot make it to Shul. However, one may not bring a Sefer Torah on behalf of a private Minyan or break away Minyan, since they are physically able to make it to the Shul if they desired.]

For the sake of a Gadol Betorah or Leader:[22] [Another exception to the above prohibition is as follows:] If the person who requires the Sefer Torah to be brought to him is a Chashuv person [i.e. Gadol Betorah[23], or a G-d fearing community leader[24]], then it is permitted to be brought in all cases. [This applies even if he is the only person that requires the reading, and even if an area was not prepared for the Sefer Torah.[25] Likewise, the Sefer Torah can be brought there just for the reading and then immediately returned.[26] Some Poskim[27] rule that this law applies even if the Adam Chashuv is not sick and can make it to Shul. However, other Poskim[28] rule that this law does not apply if the Adam Chashuv is not sick and is able to make it to Shul. Practically, if he is able to make it to Shul, then an Aron is to be set up by his house to allow the Torah scroll to be brought according to all opinions.[29] Thus, when a Gadol Betorah comes to a city and it is common for the people of the city to gather by his home and make a Minyan, the Sefer Torah may be brought to his home for the Minyan.[30]]

For the sake of a congregation that is stuck without a Sefer Torah: See above and in Halacha A regarding moving from one Shul to another! See Q&A regarding if the Shul does not contain a safe.

 

C. If the Sefer Torah will remain in a set up Aron for a few days:[31]

The above prohibition only applies if the Torah scroll is being brought to the Minyan at the time of Kerias Hatorah [and is being returned after the reading], however if [an ark[32] is prepared for the Torah scroll[33] and] it remains there for a day or two[34] then it is permitted to be brought. [This allowance applies whether it will remain a day or two prior to the reading or after the reading.[35] This allowance only applies if the Torah scroll will be placed in an actual ark or closet, and not if it will simply be left on a table or in a corner.[36] This allowance applies even if the people are able to come to Shul but they have a justified reason for desiring to make their own Minyan.[37] However, this allowance is not to be used for unjustified reasons, such as for the leisure of making a Minyan in ones house when he can simply walk to Shul.[38] In all cases it must be brought before Davening and not simply when they reach Kerias Hatorah.[39]]

Reading three readings in the Sefer Torah: Some Poskim[40] rule that in addition to the above conditions [setting up an ark and leaving it for one to two days] one is not to return the Sefer Torah until it is read on three different occasions. Other Poskim[41], however, rule that there is no need to read from the Sefer Torah on three different occasions, and there is no source for requiring one to do so. Practically, when possible, the widespread custom is to read from the Sefer Torah on three occasions in order to show that the Torah was given a set place in the area.[42]

For the sake of a Beis Hachashan, or Beis Ha’avel: See Q&A!

D. How to carry and travel with the Sefer Torah:[43]

*Transporting the Sefer Torah in the below mentioned manner is only to be done if one of the allowances stated above are applicable, otherwise it is forbidden to carry the Sefer Torah from one place to another even if it is wrapped in a Tallis and escorted by ten people.[44]

Cover with Tallis: When bringing a Sefer Torah from one place to another [in the permitted cases explained above] it is an old age custom to cover it with a Tallis if it will pass through a street or other public area.[45] [However, if it can be brought in a portable Aron, then it is better to do so.[46]]

Dirty area:[47]  One is to be careful not to walk with the Sefer Torah through areas that contain filth.

Escorted by ten people:[48] It is a Hiddur for ten people to escort the Sefer Torah from behind, to its destination. [However, if one is able to bring it by car, then one is to do so rather than have it brought in the streets with an entourage.[49]]

Summary [Includes details from Q&A]: It is forbidden to bring a Sefer Torah from one area to another unless one of the following exceptions apply: 1.       A Minyan of people cant make it to Shul due to reasons beyond their control: The Sefer Torah may be brought on behalf of ten Jews who are unable to make it to Shul due to reasons beyond their will, such as for ten patients in a hospital, or ten prisoners, or ten soldiers stuck in an army base without permission to leave. If some of the ten Jews are able to make it to a Shul and read it there, then it is forbidden to bring a Sefer Torah to the group, with exception to Parshas Zachar, in which case a Sefer Torah may be read with a Minyan even on behalf of a single Jew who cannot make it to shul. 2.       The Shul’s Sefer Torah is Pasul or Aron is locked: If a set Shul Minyan is stuck without a Sefer Torah, such as their only Sefer Torah was found to be Pasul, or they lost the key to the Aron Kodesh, then it is permitted to have a Sefer Torah brought to them, even if it is possible for them to move the Minyan to another Shul. However, a breakaway Minyan which has decided to hold services in a different area than the local Shul is prohibited from carrying the Sefer Torah. 3.       Gadol Betorah and Adam Chashuv: If the person who requires the Sefer Torah to be brought to him is a Chashuv person [i.e. Gadol Betorah, or a G-d fearing community leader], then it is permitted to have a Sefer Torah brought to him. 4.       The Sefer Torah is set up beforehand for 1-2 days: If the Sefer Torah is set up in an ark some time prior to the Keriah and remains there for one to two days, [and one reads from the Torah at least on three different occasions] then it is permitted to have the Sefer Torah brought to the area. 5.       A private Sefer Torah: A privately owned Sefer Torah [which is kept in one’s private home] is permitted to be moved from place to place, such as during travel, and the like.   Q&A on moving a Sefer Torah from one area to another May a Sefer Torah be brought from one room to another within the same Shul?[50] Some Poskim[51] rule it is permitted to carry a Sefer Torah from one room to another within the same house. Thus, one may carry the Torah from the Heichal of the Shul to a side room in which a Minyan is taking place [i.e. Ezras Nashim, Cheder Sheiyni, Shtiebel Minyanim rooms]. Other Poskim[52], however, rule that it is forbidden to carry a Sefer Torah even from one room to the next, or from upstairs to downstairs, or vice versa. Practically, initially all Shuls are to arrange to have an Aron Kodesh with a Sefer Torah in each room that Minyanim take place in order to avoid the need to carry the Sefer Torah from one place to another.[53] However, in the event that this cannot be done, and the Minyan can’t move to the room with the Heichal for Kerias Hatorah[54], then one may be lenient to bring the Sefer Torah from one room to another.[55] This especially applies if the two rooms are connected and one can go straight from the room with the Heichal to the next room without needing to go into the hallway.[56] Bringing Sefer Torah to courtyard or Sukkah of Shul/The Kosel: One is certainly to be stringent to avoid bringing a Sefer Torah to a Shul’s courtyard or Sukkah.[57] Nonetheless, in a time of need one may be lenient, as stated above.[58] Thus, by the Kosel Hamaaravi, it is proper not to bring Sifrei Torah to the courtyard and one is rather to go inside the tunnel area to have the Torah read. However, if this is not possible, then one may be lenient, and so is the custom.[59] Bringing Sefer Torah outside for the sake of reaching another room in the building:[60] One is not allowed to carry a Sefer Torah outside for the sake of bringing it to another room, even if the room is in the same building as the Shul [but can only entered from the outside], and the entire allowance above is only in scenarios that the Sefer Torah will not be leaving the property/building at all. Bringing a more Mehudar Sefer Torah, or second Sefer Torah for Maftir:[61] One is not to be lenient to bring a Sefer Torah even from one room to the next if there already is a Sefer Torah in the current room. This applies even if the Sefer Torah in the room is less Mehudar, or of a different script [i.e. Beis Yosef versus Arizal]. This applies even if one desires a second Sefer Torah for Maftir, unless rolling the Sefer Torah to the area of Maftir would involve a great Tircha Detzibura.   Q&A on scenarios of exception May a Sefer Torah be brought to the house of a Chasan during Shabbos Sheva Brachos?[62] It is permitted to have a Sefer Torah brought to the home of a Chasan during Sheva Brachos, if the families are doing their own Minyan, and there is good reason for why they should not merge with the local Shul Minyan [i.e. not enough Aliyos, Shul will lose money, Tircha Detzibura].[63]  In such a case, initially the Sefer Torah is to be brought before Shabbos, and stored in a designated Aron or closet.   May a Sefer Torah be brought to the house of an Avel during Shiva?[64] Some Poskim[65] rule one is not to bring the Sefer Torah to the house of the Avel, and rather after Davening the congregation is to go to Shul for Kerias Hatorah.[66] Other Poskim[67] however rule it is permitted to bring a Sefer Torah to the house of the Avel. Practically, the custom is to bring the Sefer Torah to the house of the Avel for the Shiva prayers.[68] The Sefer Torah must be set up in an ark some time prior to the Keriah and remain there for at least one to two days.[69] [The Rebbe had a Sefer Torah brought to his mother’s home during the Shiva.[70]] Must one read from the Sefer Torah three times? It is not required to read from the Sefer Torah on three different occasions, and hence one is not required to make a Minyan in the Shiva home also on Shabbos for Shacharis or Mincha, in order to have three readings.[71] However, some Poskim[72] are stringent in this matter and accordingly rule that in addition to reading on Mondays and Thursdays, the Shiva home must also arrange a Minyan on Shabbos for the Torah reading.   May a Sefer Torah be brought to a Chabad house Minyan that is established especially for Rosh Hashanah? It may be brought in the following way: An ark is to be set up for the Sefer Torah and the Sefer Torah is to remain there one to two days.   On Rosh Hashanah, may people make a separate Minyan by Kerias Hatorah in a nearby house, bringing the Sefer Torah with them?[73] It was accustomed by some congregations that when the time of Kerias Hatorah arrived on Rosh Hashanah, a Minyan within the congregation would take a Sefer Torah with them to a nearby home and read the Torah there in order so everyone can get an Aliyah. The Poskim[74] negate this practice based on the ruling above. Nevertheless, if the Aliyos will be sold and the charity funds will increase as a result then it is permitted to be done.[75] Nevertheless it is best to set up an Ark for the scroll and leave it there for a day or two.   May one bring the Sefer Torah to another area if one carries it inside a Tallis, or inside a portable Aron?[76] No. The above prohibition against bringing a Sefer Torah from one area to another [without fulfilling the mitigating allowances] is forbidden even if the Torah is wrapped in a Tallis and brought inside of an Aron.   May one move the Aron Kodesh with the Sefer Torah to outside the sanctuary of the Shul for the sake of making room for an event?[77] It is absolutely forbidden to do so. This applies even if the event is a Seudas Mitzvah.   If one does not contain a safe area in the Shul to store the Sefer Torah, may it be brought from its safe area to the Shul for the sake of the reading, and then returned?[78] Yes. In such a case, the Sefer Torah is to be brought that day before Davening, and be returned after Davening. This, however, only applies if one cannot move the Minyan to the area with the Sefer Torah, or if one is in the same property as the Sefer Torah, and is merely moving it from one room to another. Q&A on Simchas Torah May one bring Sifrei Torah from other Shul’s on Simchas Torah for the sake of performing Hakafos?[79] One is not to bring Sifrei Torah from one Shul to another even if they do not have any Sifrei Torah, unless one fulfills the conditions required for moving a Sefer Torah throughout the year.[80] However, some Poskim[81] are lenient to permit doing so on Simchas Torah, especially if the other Shul will not have Minyan to dance with the Sefer Torah. Likewise, some Poskim[82] are lenient to permit many Shuls to gather for Hakafos in one large Shul and to bring with them all their Sifrei Torah.   May one bring Sifrei Torah from other Shul’s on Simchas Torah for the sake of everyone getting an Aliyah?[83] The custom is to be lenient to bring Sifrei Torah from one Shul to another for the sake of reading from it in order so all the congregants receive an Aliyah. The Torah is to be wrapped in a Tallis and escorted from behind by ten men, from the Shul that it is taken from.   May one on Simchas Torah take the Sifrei Torah outside the Shul, to the street, to dance with?[84] Yes. This may especially be done if there is not enough space to dance with the Sefer Torah inside the Shul.

 

E. How to travel with a Sefer Torah from one city to another:[85]

Unsewing the Sefer Torah:[86] When sending a Sefer Torah from one city to another, many are accustomed to invalidating the Sefer Torah by removing the stitching of one of the parchments, and it is then resewn in the new destination. [Practically, this is to only be done when sending the Sefer Torah through the mail system, or as luggage on a plane, train, or ship. If, however, a Jew will be escorting the Sefer Torah on its journey, such if it will be with him in the car, or as carry-on luggage on an airplane flight or ship, then the Sefer Torah does not need to be unsewn.[87] In the event that one cannot personally escort the Sefer Torah throughout the journey, and must send it through mail, or under the plane/bus, then the five Chumashim are to be unsewn and well packaged, and it may then be sent.[88]]

How to package it when sending by mail or as luggage: When sending the Sefer Torah through mail, or as luggage, the Sefer Torah is to be well packaged with a number of coverings[89], and have a rain covering to protect it from getting wet.

How to travel with it as carry on luggage: The whole Sefer Torah may be placed in a suitcase if the person will be with it the entire time. If one is taking a flight, it must be brought in as hand luggage, and remain next to the person, or on top of the person by the overhead luggage compartment, and not on the floor. It is not to be placed together with all the other luggage on the bottom of the plane. The same applies when traveling by bus. In the event that one cannot personally escort the Sefer Torah throughout the journey, and must send it through mail, or under the plane/bus, then the above directives are to be followed.

Treating the package with respect:[90] Even when the Sefer Torah is unsewn and packaged in several wrappings inside of a suitcase or box, it should nevertheless be treated with respect, and not as a normal package or luggage.

Summary: Escorting to destination: One who is escorting a Sefer Torah from one city to another is to package it well with a number of coverings, and have it by his side during the travel. It may be placed by the overhead compartment of a plane, but should not be placed under one’s seat or with all the other luggage in the main luggage compartment. Sending by mail: One who sends a Sefer Torah through the mail is to undo the sewing of the five Chumashim and package it well for its journey.

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[1] Michaber 135:14; 584:3; Yerushalmi Yuma 7:1, brought in Beis Yosef 135 “In all places we say one must go to the Sefer Torah and not have the Sefer Torah come to him”; Mordechai Rosh Hashanah 710; Maharam Merothenberg 23; See Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:23-29

[2] Michaber ibid; Poskim ibid; Zohar Vol. 1 Parshas Vayechi p. 225; Vol. 3 Parshas Acharei Mos p. 71

[3] See Q&A

[4] See next regarding going from Shul to Shul and Halacha C!

[5] Zohar Vol. 1 Parshas Vayechi p. 225; Vol. 3 Parshas Acharei Mos p. 71; Kaf Hachaim 135:74

[6] Rikanti 43; Emes Leyaakov Hotzas Sefer Torah 12; Ledavid Emes 3:12; Kaf Hachaim ibid that so is the custom of some

[7] So is evident from all Poskim who discuss whether one may bring a Sefer Torah from one Shul to another on Simchas Torah: See Ledavid Emes 4:17; Kuntrus Achron on 4; Machazik Bracha 669:9; M”B 669:9; Kaf Hachaim 669:28

[8] See Poskim in next footnote; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135 footnote 176

[9] Shut Ramatz 16; Zera Emes 1:57; Eretz Tzevi 1:38 based on Rashba 115; Nishmas Avraham 135 in name of Rav SZ”A; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:27

The reason: As the honor of a Minyan/community and Tircha Detzibura is greater than the impediment against carrying a Sefer Torah from one place to another. This allowance is similar to the allowance to bring a Sefer Torah to a private home for the sake of an Adam Chashuv, as brought in B. [Poskim ibid]

[10] Piskeiy Teshuvos 135 footnote 176

[11] Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:27 that so is implied from all Poskim ibid and from Biur Halacha 135:14 “Ein” who only permits bringing a Sefer Torah for a Minyan if they are Annussim!

[12] Yuma 70a regarding that people would bring their private Sifrei Torah from their homes to the Beis Hamikdash on Yom Kippur, and read from it to show people its beauty; Pnei Aaron 14, brought in Pischeiy Teshuvah 135; Chikreiy Leiv Y.D. Hashmatos 2:6; Torah Lishma O.C. 58; Darkei Chaim Veshalom 212 that so was custom of Rebbe of Munktach; Kaf Hachaim 135:82, 178, 180; Har Tzevi 71; Tzitz Eliezer 18:6; Vayivarech David 26; See Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:24

[13] Vayivarech David 26; Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid

[14] Kaf Hachaim 135:178

[15] Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:27; See Tzitz Eliezer 17:12; Yabia Omer 7:56

[16] Michaber 135:14; 584:3; Yerushalmi Yuma 7:1, brought in Beis Yosef 135 “In all places we say one must go to the Sefer Torah and not have the Sefer Torah come to him”; Mordechai Rosh Hashanah 710; Maharam Merothenberg 23; See Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:26

Other opinions: Some Poskim rule that if one cannot make it to Shul for reasons against his will [such as he is sick] then he may have a Sefer Torah brought to him and have it read if a Minyan will be present. [Darkei Moshe 135; M”A 135:23 in name of Or Zarua] Practically, one may be lenient by Parshas Zachar. [M”A ibid; M”B ibid]

[17] M”A 135:23; Elya Raba 135:17; Shaareiy Efraim 9:43; M”B 135:46; Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid

[18] Michaber ibid

The reason: Although one desires to read the Torah with ten people on behalf of the prisoners or other people that are unable to hear the reading, and hence merit them with the Mitzvah, nevertheless one may not bring them the Sefer Torah as it is considered a belittlement to the Torah to bring it to others. Rather they are to come to the Torah. [M”B 135:47]

[19] Parshas Zachar and Parah: If an individual is physically unable to come to Shul for the Torah reading, such as if he is sick or is incarcerated in a prison, then if there will be a Minyan present for the reading, it is permitted to bring him a Sefer Torah to hear Parshas Zachor or Parshas Para. [M”A 135:23 based on Oar Zarua [regarding Zachor]; M”B 135:46 [adds even Parah]; See Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:26] Some Poskim extend this allowance also for the other Parshiyos. [Aruch Hashulchan 135:31]

[20] M”B 135:47; Biur Halacha  “Ein Mavin”

The reason: As in such a case they are exempt from Kerias Hatorah, as an individual is not obligated to read the Torah. [Biur Halacha ibid]

[21] Elya Raba 135:17; M”B 135:47; Biur Halacha  “Ein Mavin”; See Kaf Hachaim 135:73 and 81

The reason: As a Minyan is obligated in hearing the Torah and since they are unable to make it to Shul due to reasons beyond their will, then there is no belittlement involved in bringing them a Torah scroll. [Biur Halacha ibid]

Other opinions: Some Poskim rule that even if there are ten people who cannot make it to Shul for Kerias Hatorah, one may not bring the Torah on their behalf. [Kitzur SHU”A 23:30; Kaf Hachaim 135:73 in his understanding of M”A 135:21]

[22] Rama 135:14; Darkei Moshe 135:10; Hagahos Ashri Brachos 7; Or Zarua Kerias Shema 9

[23] M”B 135:50 in name of Gr”a

[24] Shaareiy Rachamim 9:23; Peri Hasadeh 4:15; See Biur Halacha 135:14; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:26

[25] M”B 135:51

[26] See Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:26 footnote 168

[27] M”A 135:23 and Darkei Moshe 135 in name of Or Zarua; Ledavid Emes 4:10; Implication of Gr”a 135; Shemen Lamaor; Opinion in M”B 135:50; Kaf Hachaim 135:84

[28] Implication of Michaber 135:14, as understands Eidus Behosef 44 and Kaf Hachaim 135:84; M”A 135:23 in name of Hagahos Ashri; Elya Raba 135:19; Opinion in M”B 135:50; Shaareiy Efraim 9:44 concludes that if he is slightly sick, or is a temporary guest in the city, then one may bring him a Sefer Torah.

[29] M”B 135:50

[30] Shaareiy Efraim 9:44 and Pischei Shearim ibid

[31] Rama 135:14; Darkei Moshe 135:10; Maharam Padvah 88; See Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:25

[32] Any closet suffices to serve as an ark so long as it is respectful and clean of any other items. It does not have to specifically be an ark used for a Torah scroll. [See P”M 135 A”A 22; Kaf Hachaim 135:83; Vayivarech David 1:26; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:25]

[33] M”A 135:22 “The main point is that the Torah has a Makom Kavua”; M”B 135:49 in name of Achronim

[34] This means that initially it is to be set up for two days, although in a time of need one may be lenient to have it there for one day. [Ashel Avraham Butchach 135; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:25] Some, however, say it means 24 hours. [Imrei Emes Likkutim Mishpatim]

Other opinions: Some Poskim rule that it suffices to return it to its original area even that same day, after it was returned to the Aron of its temporary location. [Elya Raba 135:18; P”M 135 M”Z 12 based on Taz 135:12 who questions the source of Rama; Daas Torah 135 in name of Perisha C.M. 1; See Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid footnote 149]

[35] M”B 135:49 in name of Achronim

[36] See M”A 135:22; M”B 135:49; P”M 135 A”A 22; Kaf Hachaim 135:83; Vayivarech David 1:26; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:25

If one will be reading from the Torah for three readings: Some Poskim suggest that if one will read from the Sefer Torah for three readings, then it does not need to have a closet which it rests in. [Toras Chaim Sofer 135] Practically, we do not rule like this opinion. [Yalkut Avraham, brought in Piskeiy Teshuvos 135 footnote 161]

[37] See Kaf Hachaim 135:74 in name of Zohar; Tzedaka Umishpat 16 footnote 20 that perhaps according to Zohar this Heter of Rama does not apply; Yeshuas Moshe 2:85; Yabia Omer 7:56; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:25 and 27

The following matters are considered justified reasons: One is sick; incarcerated; old and unable to walk; an Avel; a Minyan that Davens another Nussach etc. [See Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid]

[38] See Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:25 and 27 that perhaps according to the Zohar transporting a Sefer Torah in the above method offered by Rama is forbidden, and hence it is to only be used in a time of need. Vetzaruch Iyun as to his sources for such an understanding in the Zohar!

[39] Yad Aaron on Tur 136 in name of Eidus Biyehosef; Emes Leyaakov 1:11; Poskim in Kaf Hachaim 584:26; Tzitz Eliezer 13:16; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:25

[40] Aruch Hashulchan 135:32; Toras Chaim Sofer 135:16; Siach Yitzchak 1:77 that so was custom in Preshburg; Menuchas Moshe 16 that so is custom; Toras Yekusiel Tinyana 87; Igros Moshe 5:2-13; Pnei Baruch 10:24 that so is custom; See Poskim in Nitei Gavriel 97:2 footnote 5; See Shulchan Menachem 5:153 footnote 17 for different accounts of the Rebbe regarding Aveilus and that the Rebbe gave an option of how to circumvent the issue of the three readings; In Toras Menachem 1988 1:349 this custom of reading the Sefer Torah on three occasions is mentioned, however not with regards to Beis Havel; See Chikrei Minhagim 4:120

[41] Yalkut Avraham 135; Shaareiy Rachamim on Shaar Ephraim 9:22; Kinyan Torah 4:18; Nitei Gavriel 97:2 that from the letter of the law it is not required; There is no source in the Poskim [earlier than the Poskim mentioned in next footnote] that require reading from the Sefer Torah on three different occasions-Shaareiy Rachamim 9:24; Halichos Shlomo 12:38 in name of Rav SZ”A

[42] Aruch Hashulchan ibid; Rivivos Efraim 3:95 in name of Igros Moshe; Mara Deshamsa 46; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:25

[43] See Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:25

[44] See Halacha A and Igros Moshe Y.D. 2:91; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:23 and 25!

[45] Tzedaka Umishpat 16 footnote 3; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:25; There is no known source for this custom, but as is evident it has been done for many generations

[46] Yeshuos Moshe 1:28

[47] Beis Shlomo 34

[48] See Rikanti 43; Emes Leyaakov Hotzas Sefer Torah 12; Ledavid Emes 3:12; Ikarei Hadaat 34:13; Ashel Avraham Butchach 135; Kaf Hachaim 135:74

[49] Yabia Omer 7:56 based on Michtam Ledavid 16

[50] See Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:23

[51] Mateh Yehuda 584:3; Ramatz 16; Beis Shlomo 34; Har Tzevi 71; Ashel Avraham Butchach 135 that so is the custom, and so he rules in Daas Kedoshim 282; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:23 footnote 139

The reason: As when it is all within the same building there is no belittlement to the Torah scroll when it is maneuvered.

[52] Maaseh Rav 129 “He would go to the room of the Sefer Torah and would not have it carried to another room, and certainly not to another house.”; Mor Uketzia 135 based on Zohar ibid; Darkei Chaim in name of the Divrei Chaim of Tzanz, that one time they Davened in a side room due to the fierce cold, and the lack of heat in the Beis Midrash, and he did not allow the Sefer Torah to be brought from the Heichal to their room, even though it was in the same building. Rather, the Minyan went to the Heichal and rea the Torah there despite the extreme cold; Nehar Afarsamon 29 regarding bringing from downstairs to upstairs; Salmas Chaim 146; See Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid footnote 136

[53] Kinyan Torah 4:16; Teshuvos Vehanhagos 2:7; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:23

[54] See Salmas Chaim 146 that it is proper for the Minyan to wait until they can read the Torah in the room with the Heichal. If, however, one will need to wait a long time and it will be Tircha Detzibura, then it is permitted. [Eretz Tzevi 1:38]

[55] Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid

[56] See Ashel Avraham Butchach 135; Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid

[57] See Ikarei Hadaat 34:13; Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid

[58] So rules Mateh Yehuda ibid

[59] Tzitz Eliezer 11:16

[60] See Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid

[61] Kinyan Torah 4:16; Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid; See Maharsham 6:3; Yabia Omer 4:15

[62] Meishiv Halacha 2:178; Igros Moshe 1:34; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:27

Other opinions: Some Poskim rule that it is forbidden to bring a Sefer to a Chasan Minyan. [See Imreiy Yosher 2:197] However, see Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid footnote 171 for an explanation of his ruling

[63] The reason: As a Chasan is considered like a king and hence falls under the Heter of an Adam Chashuv, as rules Tashbeitz, brought in Biur Halacha 135:14. [Igros Moshe ibid]

[64] See Chikrei Minhagim 4:120 for a lengthy discussion on this subject; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:27

[65] Mor Uketzia 135 based on Michaber Y.D. 344:18 “The entire city is to Daven in the home of the Avel, both during the week and on Shabbos, with exception to Kerias Hatorah of Monday’s, Thursday’s and Shabbos, which is read in Shul.”; Machazik Bracha 135:6; Kaf Hachaim 135:75; Orchos Chaim 135 in name of Meorei Or

[66] The reason: As people do not treat the Sefer Torah properly, and the Michaber ibid rules that even when a Nasi passes away one is to go to Shul for Kerias Hatorah. [ibid] See however Poskim in next footnote who deflect the arguments of the Mor Uketzia.

[67] Mor Uketzia ibid that so is custom despite his disapproval; Toras Chaim Sofer 135:16; Magen Giborim 135; Binyan Shel Simcha 5; Even Yaakov 54; Dudaei Hasadeh 47; Kitzur SHU”A 207:5; Yagel Yaakov 14; Binyan Shel Simcha 5; Igros Moshe Y.D. 1:61-13; Yeshuos Moshe 1:28; Kinyan Torah 4:18; Pnei Baruch 10:24; Nitei Gavriel 97:1; Yalkut Yosef Kerias Hatorah 135”12

[68] Poskim in previous footnote; Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid; Pnei Baruch 10:24; Nitei Gavriel 97:1; Yalkut Yosef Kerias Hatorah 135”12

[69] Rama 135:14; Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid

[70] See Toras Menachem Tziyon 1:97; Shulchan Menachem 5:153 footnote 17

[71] Yalkut Avraham 135; Shaareiy Rachamim on Shaar Ephraim 9:22; Kinyan Torah 4:18; Nitei Gavriel 97:2 that from the letter of the law it is not required; There is no source in the Poskim [earlier than the Poskim mentioned in next footnote] that require reading from the Sefer Torah on three different occasions

[72] Aruch Hashulchan 135:32; Toras Chaim Sofer 135:16; Siach Yitzchak 1:77 that so was custom in Preshburg; Menuchas Moshe 16 that so is custom; Toras Yekusiel Tinyana 87; Igros Moshe 5:2-13; Pnei Baruch 10:24 that so is custom; See Poskim in Nitei Gavriel 97:2 footnote 5; See Shulchan Menachem 5:153 footnote 17 for different accounts of the Rebbe regarding Aveilus and that the Rebbe gave an option of how to circumvent the issue of the three readings; In Toras Menachem 1988 1:349 this custom of reading the Sefer Torah on three occasions is mentioned, however not with regards to Beis Havel. See Chikrei Minhagim ibid

[73] M”B 135:48

[74] Elya Raba brought in M”B ibid; Aruch Hashulchan 135:32 “Although they do so to receive an Aliyah, nevertheless by doing so they are transgressing an Aveira, and of all days on the High Holidays. Therefore, it is proper to protest their actions and decree against them doing so.”

[75] M”B ibid; not mentioned in Aruch Hashulchan ibid

[76] Igros Moshe Y.D. 2:91; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:23

[77] Igros Moshe Y.D. 2:91; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:23

[78] See Yad Aaron on Tur 136 in name of Eidus Biyehosef; Emes Leyaakov 1:11; Tzitz Eliezer 13:16; See Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:23; 28

[79] Ledavid Emes 4:17; Kuntrus Achron on 4; Machazik Bracha 669:9; M”B 669:9; Kaf Hachaim 669:28; See Piskeiy Teshuvos 135 footnote 138

[80] The reason: As it is forbidden to bring a Torah scroll for temporary residence. See our corresponding Sefer “The Laws of Rosh Hashanah” Chapter 1 Halacha 12 for the required conditions

[81] Opinion in Chida ibid, M”B ibid, and Poskim ibid; Mor Uketzia 135; Shaareiy Efraim 9:46; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:28

[82] Yaskil Avdi 6 Hashmatos

[83] Chida in Ledavid Emes 4:17; Maharikash; Emes Leyaakov Hakamas Sefer Torah 17; Mishnas Avraham 40:6; Kaf Hachaim 135:80; Igros Moshe 1:34; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:27

[84] Yabia Omer 7:56; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:28

[85] See Betzel Hachochma 4:142; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:29; Nitei Gavriel Hachnasas Sefer Torah chapter 28

[86] Chikreiy Lev Y.D. 2:6; Pesach Havdvir 135:11; Lev Chaim 2:22; Kaf Hachaim 135:74; Chelkas Yaakov 1:45 [See there regarding a time of need it can be well packaged and sent through the mail and does not need to have its sewing undone]; Tzedaka Umishpat 16 footnote 9; Piskeiy Teshuvos 135:29; See Imrei Yosher 2:71 who questions this custom, as it demotes the Sefer Torah from its holiness; See Nitei Gavriel Hachnasas Sefer Torah chapter 28 for full details [although omits the idea of undoing the sewing]. Vetzaruch Iyun!! See Igros Kodesh 12:407, printed in Shulchan Menachem 5:132, that “the custom is to send the Sefer Torah in a disassembled state, thus making its carrying much more lenient.”

[87] See Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid; Nitei Gavriel ibid

[88] Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid; See Chelkas Yaakov 1:45 that in a time of need one can send the Sefer Torah as is, and does not need to undo the sewing, so long as it is well packaged and can be trusted to be treated properly and with care; See Nitei Gavriel ibid who omits the requirement to un-sew the pages

[89] See Betzel Hachochmah ibid and Igros Kodesh ibid that it is to have at least two coverings.

[90] See Igros Kodesh ibid in a reply to an individual who treated the package with the Sefer Torah as a regular package that while from the letter of the law it may be treated like regular luggage and packages, nevertheless as a Hiddur one is not to do so, and if he did so is to make an atonement for the act. The Rebbe suggested that the person donate a new Meil and covering for this Sefer Torah and fast Taanis Bahab until midday and give charity.

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