Dirshu Mishnah Berurah

This episode explores the halachos of caring for the dangerously ill on Shabbos. We learn why it is not only permitted but praiseworthy to act with urgency to save a life, even if unintended melachos are performed. Practical cases include rescuing children in danger, breaking doors, and feeding the sick when kosher food is unavailable. The Mishnah Berurah clarifies whether slaughtering an animal or giving non-kosher food is preferable, and how a patient's refusal to eat can affect halachic decisions. We also examine cooking wine with the help of a non-Jew, the principle of minimizing melacha (such as choosing the smaller cluster of figs), and why extra work beyond what is required should be avoided.ShabbosHilchos ShabbosPikuach NefeshDangerously Ill on ShabbosSaving a LifeMishnah BerurahShulchan AruchRefuah on ShabbosNon-Kosher Food for the SickShabbos and MedicineUrgency in Saving Lives

This episode continues our study of the Mishnah Berurah on the laws of healing on Shabbos. We explore bloodletting, blood clots, and their connection to modern blood pressure, when treatment is life-threatening versus when it can wait. The halachic status of eye conditions is examined, showing why eye disease is treated more seriously than other ailments. We discuss external wounds, the role of doctors versus the patient's own testimony, and principles of pikuach nefesh — prioritizing life even in cases of doubt. Guidance is given on whether treatments should be performed by Jews, non-Jews, or with a shinui, and the balance between urgency and minimizing melachah. The episode concludes with practical insights from contemporary poskim about medicine and emergency care on Shabbos.Shabbos, Shabbat, Mishnah Berurah, halacha, pikuach nefesh, healing, medicine, bloodletting, blood pressure, blood clots, eye conditions, external wounds, Jewish law, emergency care, doctors on Shabbos, patient testimony, shinui, life-saving, antibiotics, hilchos Shabbos, Orthodox Judaism

In this episode, we continue our series on the halachos of Shabbos and medical emergencies, focusing on pikuach nefesh (life-threatening danger). We explore:When it is obligatory to desecrate Shabbos to save or treat a sick person.The difference between internal wounds, external injuries, and fevers, and how halacha views each.Cases of doubt—why even uncertain danger requires immediate action.The role of a doctor's judgment, the patient's own assessment, and when a non-Jew should be asked to perform melacha.The fundamental debate: is Shabbos completely set aside (hutra) in danger to life, or only temporarily suspended (dechuya)?Drawing on the Shulchan Aruch, Mishnah Berurah, and later authorities, we clarify how to act responsibly and decisively in urgent medical situations on Shabbos.If you haven't already, please subscribe so you won't miss the next shiur in this series.

This episode explores the halachic principles surrounding medical treatment on Shabbos, with a focus on internal wounds and toothaches. We examine when pain and illness justify Shabbos desecration, how conditions once deemed life-threatening are approached in light of modern medicine, and whether tooth extractions can be permitted today. Sources from the Shulchan Aruch, Rema, Mishnah Berurah, and later authorities are discussed, highlighting distinctions between minor discomfort, severe pain, and potentially dangerous conditions. Practical guidance emphasizes consulting rabbinic authority for individual cases.

This episode explores the halachic principles surrounding medical care on Shabbos. We discuss the rabbinic decree against taking medicine, the distinction between minor discomfort, more serious illness, and life-threatening danger, and the practical guidelines for when treatment—whether self-administered, assisted by a non-Jew, or even involving melacha—is permitted. We also examine why preserving life is not only allowed but a mitzvah, and why hesitation can be dangerous.Podcast NotesBackground of the decree on medicine and grinding herbsCategories of illness: minor, significant, and life-threateningRole of non-Jews in providing medical helpWhen Shabbos prohibitions may be set aside for healingWhy preservation of life overrides all hesitation

We conclude our journey through the laws of cooking on Shabbos with the final section on Hilchos Shabbos. This episode explores practical scenarios: smearing oil or garlic on hot roasts, using utensils after cooking, handling fats that melt, and the responsibilities of those who contribute to the cooking process. We also discuss the use of kettles, secondary utensils, and the line between permitted and prohibited actions on Shabbos.

In this episode, we continue exploring the laws of cooking on Shabbat, focusing on when it is prohibited to place cold food on a hot kettle, how heat levels affect cooking, and the distinctions between cooked and uncooked foods. We also examine the rules around stirring hot food and why even small actions, like inserting a spoon, can accelerate cooking. The discussion compares food preparation with dyeing wool, highlighting how both processes are impacted by stirring.

In this episode, we explore the halachic principles behind reheating foods that contain congealed fat on Shabbos. We discuss two key issues: whether melting fat counts as “cooking after cooking” for liquids, and whether the change of state raises a concern of nolad (something newly created on Shabbos). Drawing on classic sources, we compare cases like reheating a pastry with fat, melting ice in a drink, and fat dissolving into sauces. We also clarify practical differences between dry and liquid foods, the role of temperature thresholds, and when leniencies apply in cases of need.

In this episode, we continue exploring the halachot of cooking on Shabbat, focusing on the distinctions between primary and secondary vessels, reheating food, and placing containers into hot water. We examine practical applications such as warming a baby's bottle, reheating liquids, and the conditions under which food may be placed near a fire or on a hot plate. The discussion covers opinions on ladles as vessels, the halachic definitions of cooking temperatures, and the permissibility of reheating fully cooked dry foods versus liquids. We also explore how these principles inform common Shabbat practices, including the widespread use of electric hot plates.

In this episode, we continue exploring the laws of cooking on Shabbat, focusing on the halachic status of hot baths, transferring water between vessels, and mixing hot and cold water. We examine distinctions between primary and secondary vessels, when adding cold water is permitted, and the implications of pouring flows. Practical cases are discussed, including handling kettles, mixing large amounts of cold water with hot, and avoiding accidental cooking with hot foods placed on cold items.

We explore the distinction between hearing food a primary container and secondary container and the status of spices, salt, and sugar.

Cooking and heating foods on Shabbat. The distinction between dry foods and foods containing sauce. When it “looks like cooking”.

This episode continues the study of Shabbat cooking laws, focusing on whether food can be cooked after being baked, roasted, or fried. We explore the principles of primary and secondary vessels, the critical temperature threshold, and practical applications such as bread, coffee, onions, and soup. Clear halachic opinions, stringencies, and practical guidance are shared to help listeners navigate everyday Shabbat kitchen scenarios.

In this episode, we conclude the discussion on food preparation on Shabbos, focusing on the halachic principles of cooking through hot water. The shiur explores why soaking or pouring hot water on certain foods may be considered completing their preparation and therefore prohibited. A detailed discussion follows on making tea and coffee on Shabbos: when it constitutes a biblical prohibition, the role of primary and secondary vessels, and practical solutions such as preparing tea essence before Shabbos or handling instant versus ground coffee. The episode highlights differing opinions of the poskim, modern applications such as tea bags and instant coffee, and emphasizes the importance of rabbinic guidance.

This episode continues to explore the essential halachic rules of cooking on Shabbat, including how partially cooked vs. fully cooked foods are treated, the limits of reheating, and the differences between dry and moist foods. We explain the laws of pouring hot water from different vessels, why certain salted fish are unique, and when rinsing food is permitted. Practical insights are given to help listeners avoid common mistakes in Shabbat food preparation.

This episode continues our in-depth exploration of the melacha of cooking on Shabbos, focusing on the core halachic principles that define when cooking occurs and whether further cooking is possible after a food is already cooked. We examine distinctions between dry and moist foods, the significance of yad soledes bo (the heat at which one's hand recoils), and the minimum cooking threshold known as Ma'achal Ben Derusai. The discussion compares the rulings of the Shulchan Aruch and the Rema, exploring scenarios involving primary and secondary vessels, reheating cooled foods, and whether further heat improves or harms the food. Practical applications include placing food near a heat source, immersing in hot water, and the different rules for previously cooked foods.

This episode continues the deep dive into Bishul B'Shabbat (cooking on Shabbat), focusing on cases involving food prepared for the sick, the laws of muktsa, and distinctions between heat sources like fire, fire-heated objects, and the sun. Learn when food prepared for the sick may be eaten by others, when melacha is biblically vs. rabbinically prohibited, and the halachic implications of indirect vs. direct heat. 

In this episode, we delve into the foundational halachic principles surrounding cooking and other prohibited work on Shabbat. We explore the ramifications of actions done intentionally vs. unintentionally, whether one may benefit from the results, and how this applies to cooking, heating, dyeing, and even industrial processes like firing clay or softening metal. Practical rulings, such as using disposable cups with hot liquids, are also addressed.

Explore the nuanced laws of tying and untying on Shabbos. This episode delves into when knots are considered permitted, prohibited, or rabbinically restricted, including practical cases like pails, belts, animal harnesses, shoelaces, and neckties. Learn what makes a knot “permanent” and how intention and usage play key roles in halachic outcomes.

Explore the practical halachic rulings around handling shoes, sandals, belts, and clothing on Shabbat. Learn what's permitted and prohibited when reinserting straps, tying garments, or making temporary fixes — and understand when these acts fall under the category of Makeh B'Patish (completing a vessel) or tying forbidden knots. This episode offers detailed, clear guidance on day-to-day situations like slipping shoe straps, tying belts, or unfastening laundry knots.

In this episode, we explore the halachic principles behind tying and untying knots on Shabbat, focusing on the two key conditions discussed in classical sources: permanence and professional craftsmanship. We compare opinions from the Shulchan Aruch, Rambam, Rashi, and the Mishnah Berurah, and address when a knot may be permitted for mitzvah purposes or in cases of discomfort. Clear guidelines and practical examples—like tying a bucket rope or measuring a mikvah—help clarify when a knot constitutes a biblical or rabbinic concern.

In this episode, we begin exploring Siman 317, focusing on the melacha (forbidden labor) of tying knots on Shabbat. The discussion centers around three halachic categories of knots—biblically prohibited, rabbinically prohibited, and permitted—and analyzes the key distinctions between them. We delve into whether a knot must be permanent or professionally tied to be forbidden, examine classic cases like tying camels or ships, and review disputes among the Rishonim and Acharonim, including the Rif, Rambam, Rashi, and Rema. Practical guidance is offered on when tying is permissible, especially regarding duration and intent to untie. 

In this episode, we explore the halachic complexities surrounding the concept of trapping animals on Shabbat. What defines an animal as domesticated? When does bringing an animal indoors cross into forbidden territory? We discuss key opinions from major halachic sources about handling household pets, birds, and stray animals, and clarify the role of intent, animal behavior, and the size of a home or courtyard in determining permissibility. 

This episode explores the halachic permissibility of killing or trapping animals on Shabbat, especially when they pose a danger. We focus on distinctions between life-threatening and non-lethal threats, and how intention affects the rulings. The discussion includes sources from the Shulchan Aruch, Mishnah Berurah, and views of the Rambam and other Rishonim. We also touch on related topics like treading on insects and handling spit on the ground during Shabbat.

In this episode, we delve into the halachic complexities of dealing with small insects—specifically fleas and lice—on Shabbat. We explore when removing or killing them is permitted, distinguishing between pain-based allowances and general prohibitions. Learn key rulings from classic halachic sources and understand the rabbinic versus biblical distinctions regarding trapping and killing small creatures on Shabbat.

Explore the halachic principles of trapping and wounding animals on Shabbat, focusing on the eight swarming creatures mentioned in Vayikra. This episode unpacks distinctions between animals with valuable skin versus those without, the legal implications of causing bruises or drawing blood, and intent-based exemptions. We also discuss when actions are considered constructive versus destructive, and how modern behavior and location affect halachic status.

In this episode, we explore the complex halachic laws of tzad (trapping) on Shabbat, focusing on practical scenarios like a wild animal, a gazelle entering a home, closing and locking doors, and forming human barriers. We also examine cases involving dangerous animals like snakes, and the distinction between intentional and protective actions. Learn how biblical and rabbinic rulings differ when dealing with melacha, joint actions, and safeguarding human life.

In this episode, we continue exploring the melacha of trapping on Shabbat. We clarify when trapping is biblically versus rabbinically prohibited, focusing on animals that are not usually trapped—like flies. Learn the distinctions between intentional, unintentional, and trapping that will automatically follow (psik reisha), how container size and escape routes impact halachic status, and why purpose matters when dealing with insects. Practical guidance is provided on dealing with bugs in the home, covering beehives, and setting traps.

In this episode, we explore halachic nuances of trapping animals on Shabbat, focusing on cases involving blind, lame, old, or sick animals. We discuss when trapping incurs biblical liability versus when it's only rabbinically prohibited. We also examine the use of dogs in hunting and its moral implications, both on Shabbat and during the week. Join us for practical insights and classical sources that clarify these complex distinctions.

In this episode, we begin a new Siman on the halachic concept of trapping animals on Shabbat. We explore when trapping constitutes a Torah-level prohibition versus a rabbinic one. Topics include the distinction between enclosed but non-restrictive spaces (like a large house) and true confinement, differences in trapping birds, fish, and wild animals, and how intent versus outcome impacts the halachic status. Practical cases, such as closing windows in cold weather, are discussed with nuanced application of the principle of psik reisha.

This episode explores the halachic details of constructing temporary structures on Shabbat, focusing on the prohibition of making an Ohel (tent-like form). We analyze when hanging large curtains, spreading canopies, covering barrels or casks, and replacing drawers or bed covers may violate this melacha

In this episode, we explore the halachic principles surrounding temporary structures on Shabbat—specifically tents, curtains, and bed canopies. The discussion focuses on when it is permitted to erect or dismantle these structures, how elements like cords and a handbreadth-sized "roof" factor into permissibility, and whether everyday items like blankets can pose a halachic issue. Clear guidance is drawn from the Mishna Berura, Shulchan Aruch, and other key sources, offering practical insight into common Shabbat questions.

In this episode, we explore the halachic parameters of constructing tent-like structures on Shabbat, focusing on cases like stacking books, spreading tablecloths, and sloped canopies. Learn when such acts are permitted, rabbinically prohibited, or biblically problematic based on the Mishnah Berurah and classic opinions like the Rema, Rif, Rambam, Rashi, and others

This episode explores key halachic principles regarding the prohibition of building or dismantling tent-like structures on Shabbat. Topics include spreading sheets over beds, using folding chairs and wall-attached beds, and the intricacies of applying the lavud principle. The discussion also covers the halachic nuances of stacking barrels in a way that may resemble a tent structure. Practical applications and rulings from major halachic authorities, including the Mishnah Berurah, are reviewed with clarity for everyday Shabbat observance.

Is assembling IKEA-style furniture on Shabbos allowed? This episode explores halachic principles surrounding building and deconstruction on Shabbos, particularly temporary assembly like beds or tables. We examine distinctions between creating a “tent-like” structure and typical use cases. Also discussed: wide-brimmed hats on Shabbos—are they tents? What about covering chimneys, skylights, or placing a tallis over a hat? 

This episode explores the halachic principles of creating temporary shelters (tents or covers) on Shabbat. We discuss practical scenarios like spreading a canopy over a baby buggy, using umbrellas, or stretching a mat on a ship. Learn when it's permitted to extend or add to a structure and how concepts like tefach (a handbreadth) and lavud (halachic closeness) determine the outcome.

This episode explores the halachic concepts of construction and deconstruction on Shabbos, focusing on temporary structures like tents, roofs, partitions, and curtains. Key topics include umbrellas, sukkahs, privacy dividers, and baby stroller covers—analyzing when these are considered “building” and when they're permitted. Practical guidance is given for common Shabbos scenarios involving modesty, heat protection, and household use.

In this episode, we delve into the halachic issues of building and sealing on Shabbos, including the prohibition of smearing thick substances to block holes, using food items as makeshift plugs, and the nuances of inserting objects like knives into walls. We explore when these acts are considered construction (boneh) or rabbinically prohibited fixes, and address the practical implications for items like wax earplugs and soap. A detailed analysis also touches on intention, subterfuge, and preparation before Shabbos. Essential listening for navigating everyday Shabbos dilemmas.

This episode examines the halachic framework for creating spouts and openings in containers on Shabbat—using wine barrels, reeds, and makeshift taps as classical examples. We explore how these principles inform modern applications, such as opening juice boxes, inserting straws, using spigots in beverage dispensers, and even managing wine casks in hospitality settings. Drawing from the Shulchan Aruch, Rema, and Mishnah Berurah, we uncover the fine line between permitted use and prohibited melacha based on intent, permanence, and tool use. Join us as we connect centuries-old rulings to present-day Sabbath observance.

In this episode, we explore the halachic intricacies of creating openings in objects on Shabbat, focusing on wine barrels. We discuss when it's permissible to insert a spout or remove a lid, and when actions like piercing the side of a barrel or using a myrtle leaf as a makeshift tap are prohibited. Key distinctions are made between actions done intentionally to create a functional opening and those done for broader access, along with concerns about completing a utensil. Practical examples and rulings from classic halachic sources guide this nuanced analysis.

A deep dive into the complex halachic principles surrounding opening packaging on Shabbat. We explore the classic sources—Shulchan Aruch, Mishnah Berurah, and major Poskim—regarding creating or widening holes in containers, with real-world examples such as milk cartons and barrels. Includes practical guidance on handling packaging when pre-opening isn't possible.

In this in-depth episode, we explore the complex halachic questions surrounding the opening of food packaging on Shabbos. Drawing from the Shulchan Aruch, Mishna Berura, Chazon Ish, Rav Moshe Feinstein, and other major poskim, we break down the core prohibitions of Boneh (building), Soser (destruction), and Makeh B'Patish (final hammer blow) as they apply to modern containers.Should you open a cereal box on Shabbos? What about a bottle cap or yogurt lid? What's the difference between disposable and reusable packaging? Learn the practical guidelines, chumras, and leniencies, and understand why opening packaging before Shabbos is strongly advised. A must-listen for anyone seeking to keep Shabbos carefully and confidently in the modern kitchen.

This episode explores complex halachic issues regarding repairing or reassembling household items on Shabbat. We delve into cases such as fixing loose hinges on cabinets, reassembling beds and goblets, and using everyday objects to support structural elements like beams. Practical guidance is provided on when actions constitute prohibited building or the final act of completion (makkeh b'patish), and when leniencies apply for loosely fitted or temporary repairs.

This episode explores the halachic intricacies of doors, hinges, and barriers on Shabbat, focusing on Siman 313. We examine when placing or locking a door is considered building, the status of reed mats, thorn panels, and single-plank closures, and how constant use or prior attachment affects permissibility. A detailed look at common and less common cases, all through the lens of Shulchan Aruch and Mishnah Berurah

In this episode, we explore halachic boundaries between constructive use and prohibited building on Shabbat. Focusing on rods and bolts used for locking doors or windows, we examine key debates between Rashi and Rabbeinu Tam, practical rulings from the Rema and Mishnah Berurah, and distinctions based on whether items are considered functional utensils (kli) before Shabbat. We also dive into how attachment, form, and placement—especially with floor bolts—can determine permissibility. Essential listening for anyone seeking clarity on the nuances of binyan (building) and stirah (dismantling) in home settings on Shabbat.Don't forget to: • Subscribe to get alerts for the next episode • Share with anyone studying Hilchot Shabbat • Leave a review if you're enjoying the series

In this episode, we explore the laws surrounding bodily functions in fields on Shabbat, focusing on concerns of inadvertently performing prohibited labor like leveling or fertilizing the ground. We also cover the permissibility of constructing makeshift seating for this purpose. Later, we examine the halachic nuances of moving and placing items like stoppers, bolts, and shutters on Shabbat—highlighting when such actions may or may not constitute building.

This episode explores the halachic considerations of using various materials—such as stones, grass, and pottery handles—for personal hygiene on Shabbat. We delve into concerns like muktzeh, plucking, and smoothing, and how dignity, intention, and physical safety influence leniencies in these laws.

This episode concludes the discussion on the indirect handling of prohibited items on Shabbat, including accessing buried fruit within muksa materials and clarifying when such movement is permissible. It also explores the use of stones for personal hygiene on Shabbat, touching on principles of preparation, personal dignity, and practical halachic rulings related to modern scenarios like toilet paper.

In this episode, we delve into the concept of indirect movement on Shabbat — when and how it's permissible to move otherwise prohibited items to access permitted ones. We explore practical examples like retrieving buried produce and shifting straw on beds, emphasizing the halachic nuances around intention, location, and method of movement.

This episode explores the halachic considerations of moving a deceased person on Shabbat. We discuss when it is permitted, such as moving the body with permitted items like bread or a child, the role of clothing, indirect movement for permitted needs, and strategies for shading or preserving the deceased. We also examine the limitations on bodily contact, including closing eyes or straightening limbs, and how Kabbalistic customs interact with halachic rulings.

This episode explores the halachic considerations surrounding moving a deceased body on Shabbat. It discusses the balance between honoring the deceased and preserving the dignity of the living, and examines circumstances under which rabbinic prohibitions may be overridden. Topics include transferring the body between domains, the role of accompanying items (like a loaf of bread or a child), and the permissibility of involving non-Jews in such transfers.