A page a day (amud yomi) of Mishnah Berurah explained and clarified following (roughly) the cycle of the Dirshu program for mastery of the laws of daily Jewish living. Master the text in under 30 minutes a day. For individual application of the laws you should consult with your local Orthodox Rabbi. Please subscribe to this podcast - you will be notified when each new session is uploaded and you will maximise your daily learning. For feedback or questions you can reach me on mztorahlearning@gmail.com.
In this episode, we explore the laws surrounding carrying children on Shabbat, especially in public or semi-public spaces without an eruv. We examine key distinctions between assisting a child in walking versus carrying, the rabbinic principles behind carrying people, and common scenarios like shoulder-carrying and children with bags. The episode also touches on playing with balls on Shabbat and related concerns about movement and domain boundaries.
This episode explores nuanced laws of muktzeh on Shabbos, focusing on waste-related items and situations where leniencies apply—such as moving a waste pot due to odor or risk of loss. It also discusses handling earth brought indoors for permitted use, and early considerations around animal handling, including pets, on Shabbos.
A practical deep dive into the laws of muktzah on Shabbos, focusing on when raw meat, fish, and inedible or repulsive items may be moved. The episode also explores the status of ineffective amulets, handling filth in living areas, and how object usability and human dignity affect halachic rulings
This episode explores the laws of muktzeh on Shabbat, focusing on food remnants such as peels, shells, crumbs, and bones. We examine when these items may or may not be moved, distinctions based on their status before and during the meal, and factors like animal edibility, quantity, and cleanliness. Practical applications include handling table waste, using indirect methods to remove items, and considerations around feeding animals.
This episode continues our exploration of the laws of muktzah on Shabbat, focusing on when and how ordinarily restricted items like stones, palm branches, or wood chips may become permitted through designation or use. We discuss practical applications involving covering barrels, closing doors, and repurposing items like combed flax or animal hides, and highlight key differences between permanent and temporary designations.
In this episode, we explore the laws concerning moving different types of ladders on Shabbat, based on their use and size, as well as the rules for handling palm branches and stones designated for firewood or seating. We delve into the principles of muktzeh and when an item's status can change through thought or action before Shabbat.
In this episode, we continue discussing the laws of muktzeh on Shabbat, focusing on handling wet garments, drying implements, and items with prohibited uses. We explore when sticks or tools can be moved, the status of broken furniture, and the use of construction materials like bricks and thorns on Shabbos.
This episode explores the laws of moving items on Shabbat, focusing on remnants of rugs, worn cloths, and broken sandals. We discuss when an object retains usefulness and can still be moved, and when it becomes unusable and prohibited. Key principles such as the status of thrown-away items, differences between rich and poor regarding item importance, and practical cases like moving a shoe mold and handling a broken sandal are examined.
In this episode, we delve into the laws surrounding the movement and replacement of doors and covers on Shabbat, particularly focusing on distinctions between movable items and those attached to the ground. We explore how concepts of building and destroying apply, the role of preparation before Shabbat, and when certain objects—like a chicken coop door or a needle—can be handled.
In this episode, we explore the detailed laws of muktzeh on Shabbat, particularly focusing on items that have become broken or have unclear utility. We discuss when such items can or cannot be moved, based on their functional designation before Shabbat and whether they were discarded. The discussion covers practical cases like broken earthenware, stones, candle wicks, and detached doors, highlighting key principles from traditional sources.
In this episode, we continue exploring the laws surrounding moving objects on Shabbat. We delve into different categories of items, when and why they may or may not be moved — including utensils used for permitted or prohibited purposes, books, food, cutlery, clothing, tefillin, and even broken objects. Practical scenarios and rabbinic opinions are discussed to clarify distinctions and applications.
In this episode, we continue exploring the laws related to moving items on Shabbat. We delve into the definition of a "usable item," how its size or weight affects its status, and when certain tools can be moved despite their primary use being for prohibited activities. Practical examples and key distinctions between different categories of items are discussed, helping clarify common real-life scenarios.
We begin learning Siman 308:1 in Shulchan Aruch with the Mishnah Berurah, focusing on the halachat of muktzeh. What items are prohibited to move on Shabbat—and why? We explore cases like a scribe's knife, a merchant's mallet, and how intent and usage affect status. A clear and practical intro to one of Shabbat's core areas.
In this episode, we explore the halachic principles regarding permissible and prohibited discussions and actions on Shabbat, with a focus on protecting property from damage due to floods, fires, or other losses. We delve into the rules governing assistance from non-Jews, including indirect hints and explicit requests, and the distinctions between biblical and rabbinic prohibitions. Join us as we analyze these complex laws and prepare to transition into the study of Muktzeh in upcoming episodes.
Join us as we continue our discussion on what is permissible to read on Shabbat. We explore the halachic perspectives on reading captions, secular literature, war stories, and newspapers, and how these rulings reflect broader concerns about maintaining the sanctity of the day. Delving into the implications of reading romantic or provocative content, we also touch on the significance of language in halacha and its impact on what may be allowed. Tune in for an insightful analysis of these nuanced topics and their relevance to modern-day practice.
In this episode, we continue our exploration of the restrictions on reading certain documents on Shabbat. We delve into the concerns about engaging in commercial matters and the risk of erasing inconvenient information. We discuss guest lists, menus, and legal documents, examining why even glancing at some of these items is prohibited. Additionally, we touch on the nuances of reading personal letters on Shabbat and the implications of receiving mail. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of these halachic principles and their practical applications.
In this episode, we continue exploring the laws of speech related to commerce and Shabbat, focusing on permissible and prohibited actions regarding business activities, calculations, and preparations for post-Shabbat activities. We discuss the nuances of waiting at city boundaries for work, borrowing and lending terminology, and the implications of recognizable weekday actions on Shabbat. Join us for an in-depth discussion on these key principles and their practical applications.
In this episode, we explore the nuanced relationship between thought, speech, and commerce on Shabbat. Delving into practical halachic discussions, we examine when mental calculations and conversations about business matters cross the line into prohibited territory. What speech is permitted, and how can one hint at future activities without violating Shabbat laws? Join us as we unpack these intricate laws and their implications for maintaining the sanctity of the day.
Join us as we continue our discussion on the halachic intricacies of appropriate speech on Shabbat, particularly regarding commercial matters. In this episode, we explore the permissibility of financial transactions involving non-Jews, the nuances of hiring labor, and the broader implications of benefiting from actions performed on Shabbat. Drawing from classical sources, we break down key rulings and practical applications for modern observance. Tune in for an insightful and detailed analysis!
In this episode, we explore the laws of speech on Shabbat, focusing on what types of conversations are permitted and which should be avoided. Delving into classical sources, we discuss the prohibition against discussing weekday activities, the nuances of speaking about mitzvot, and whether discussing post-Yom Kippur meals is acceptable. Additionally, we examine the halachic perspective on speaking about financial matters and indirect requests to non-Jews. Tune in for a deep dive into how our words shape the sanctity of Shabbat.
In this episode, we conclude our discussion on activities indirectly related to Shabbat prohibitions, focusing on the critical question: Can Shabbat laws be broken to rescue a kidnapped individual? We explore halachic sources addressing whether one can transgress prohibitions such as travel restrictions and other Shabbat laws to save a life, especially when religious identity is at risk. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of these complex principles and their broader implications.
In this episode, we continue exploring the topic of permitted speech on Shabbat, focusing on commercial matters, communal concerns, and specific cases like announcing lost items or nullifying excommunications. We discuss whether these actions align with Shabbat observance and when exceptions are made for community needs. Join us as we break down the halachic perspectives on these important issues.
In this episode, we explore the concept of thinking about work on Shabbat. While Jewish law permits contemplating business matters, it's discouraged to maintain the spirit of rest and delight. We discuss sources that emphasize viewing one's work as completed to avoid anxiety. We also delve into the halachic nuances of engaging non-Jews for tasks on Shabbat, the permissibility of acquiring land in Israel on Shabbat, and related rulings on transactions. Tune in for an insightful discussion on maintaining a true day of rest.
In this episode, we continue exploring the halachos of commerce and financial matters on Shabbos, focusing on hiring teachers, pledging tzedakah, and auctioning mitzvos. We also delve into the complexities of transactions initiated before Shabbos, the permissibility of measuring for mitzvah purposes, and the nuances of healing on Shabbos. Join us for an insightful discussion on these fascinating topics from the Shulchan Aruch and Mishnah Berurah.
In this episode, we continue our discussion on permissible and prohibited work-related activities on Shabbos, focusing on hiring workers and payments. We explore the concept of *Havla'ah*—when wages for Shabbos are subsumed within a larger payment structure—and how it applies to employment contracts, renting, and even interest on loans. We also examine the permissibility of paying cantors for leading prayers on Shabbos and the nuances of discussing financial matters related to mitzvah observance. Join us as we delve into these complex halachic principles and their practical implications.
In this episode, we continue our discussion on discussing carrying out activities prohibited on Shabbos, focusing on calling animals that have strayed beyond the Shabbos boundary and handling mitzvah-related preparations. We explore the nuances of discussing financial matters for mitzvah needs, the distinction between commerce and permitted arrangements, and the issue of hiring workers over Shabbos. Join us as we delve into these intricate halachic principles and their practical implications. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights into Hilchos Shabbos!
In this episode, we conclude our discussion on preventing animals from working on Shabbos, exploring when it is permitted to hand over an animal to a non-Jew and the necessary conditions for doing so. We also introduce a new topic: what types of speech and thoughts are restricted on Shabbos, including discussions about work and future plans. Join us as we dive into the details of these laws and their practical applications. Don't forget to subscribe to stay updated on our ongoing journey through Hilchos Shabbos!
Join us as we continue our exploration of *Hilchot Shabbat*, focusing on the laws surrounding animals. In this episode, we discuss the prohibition of milking on Shabbat, the reasoning behind it, and the permissibility of asking a non-Jew to do so to prevent animal suffering. We also examine the complexities of force-feeding geese, using milking machinery, and handling milk obtained on Shabbat. Tune in for an insightful discussion on balancing *Shabbat* laws with animal welfare.
In this episode we discuss the prohibition of riding or making direct use of animals on Shabbos, the reasoning behind these restrictions, and exceptions in cases of animal suffering. We also touch on practical scenarios, such as helping an animal stuck in water while avoiding other Shabbos prohibitions. Tune in for a detailed halachic discussion.
Continuing our discussion on whether animals can wear or carry certain items into the public domain on Shabbat. From collars and name tags to protective gear and restraints, we examine the principles behind what is permitted and what is prohibited. Plus, we touch on the reasoning behind these rulings, including concerns of carrying and the well-being of the animals. Tune in for a deep dive into these fascinating halachic details!
In this episode, we continue our discussion on the rules of animal clothing on Shabbat. We explore which coverings are permitted for protection versus those considered burdens, examining cases like blankets for donkeys, saddles, feeding bags, and even decorative items. Join us as we break down the practical and halachic implications of these rulings, offering insight into the balance between caring for animals and maintaining Shabbat laws. Tune in for a deep dive into this fascinating topic!
In this episode, we continue our discussion on animals and Shabbat laws, focusing on what they can wear or carry. We examine different types of restraints, saddles, and protective coverings, determining what is considered a burden versus a necessary safeguard. Can a donkey wear a saddle for warmth? What about a leash for dogs? We break down the practical implications and halachic reasoning behind these rulings. Tune in for an insightful exploration of these Shabbat laws!
In this episode, we begin a new section discussing the laws of animals on Shabbat—specifically, what they may wear or carry without violating the prohibition of work. We explore the difference between necessary guarding items and excessive burdens, examining various animals and their needs. Join us as we dive into the details of these laws and their practical applications.
In this episode, we explore the halachic discussion on the status of a non-Jewish servant owned by a Jew and their obligations regarding Shabbat observance. While these laws are not practical today, we examine the principles behind them and their relevance to broader halachic concepts. Join us as we conclude this section and prepare to delve into the laws of animals on Shabbat next time. Don't forget to subscribe for more in-depth Torah learning!
In this episode, we begin a new section discussing the laws regarding non-Jewish servants in Jewish households. We explore three categories of such servants and their varying obligations, particularly in relation to Shabbat observance. We also examine the responsibilities of Jewish masters in ensuring their servants' compliance with these laws. Join us as we delve into these complex halachic distinctions and their implications. Don't forget to subscribe for more in-depth discussions!
In this episode, we wrap up our discussion on jewelry and ornaments on Shabbat and shift focus to makeup and hair care. We explore the halachic perspectives on applying makeup, including rouge, eye paint, and powders, as well as the use of nail polish. We also discuss the prohibition of braiding and unbraiding hair, the nuances of parting and combing, and the concerns around hair removal. Tune in for an in-depth look at these important Shabbat laws, and don't forget to subscribe for more!
In this episode, we continue our discussion on carrying on Shabbos, focusing on specific cases related to clothing, jewelry, and accessories. We explore whether a girl can go out with a placeholder in a pierced ear, the permissibility of using colored threads, and how historical methods of fastening clothing relate to the laws of carrying. We also touch on the use of certain stones believed to prevent miscarriage and the conditions under which they may be worn. Tune in for a deep dive into these fascinating halachic details!
In this episode, we continue exploring the laws of carrying on Shabbos, focusing on whether women may wear jewelry in areas without an eruv. We examine three halachic opinions on this issue and their practical implications today. The discussion covers historical and contemporary perspectives on wigs, jewelry, and head coverings, considering both modesty and practicality. Join us as we navigate this complex topic and its relevance in modern times.
In this episode, we continue exploring the laws of carrying on Shabbos, focusing on what items are considered clothing or jewellery and what may not be worn in the public domain. We discuss specific cases, such as carrying small items in the mouth, wearing leggings with ties, and concerns about carrying keys attached to a belt. Join us as we delve into the details and interpretations of these halachos. Don't forget to subscribe to stay updated on our journey through Hilchos Shabbos!
In this episode, we continue exploring the laws of carrying on Shabbat, specifically focusing on jewelry and accessories. We discuss the restrictions on wearing signet rings, concerns about removing and carrying items in public, and how changing customs influence halachic rulings. We also cover the permissibility of wearing decorative fasteners, hairpieces, and functional items like ear and shoe pads, as well as considerations for new or damaged shoes. Join us as we navigate these nuanced halachot and their practical applications.
In this episode, we continue exploring the laws of carrying on Shabbos, focusing on jewelry and accessories that women may wear in places without an eruv. We discuss which items are considered clothing or adornments and which are prohibited due to the risk of carrying. Topics include head coverings, decorative jewelry like the "City of Gold," pins, and nose rings—analyzing their status based on rabbinic sources. Tune in to deepen your understanding of Hilchos Shabbos and practical applications for contemporary observance.
In this episode, we explore the laws of carrying on Shabbos, focusing on the permissibility of wearing jewelry and accessories. While certain items like clothing and jewelry typically worn by men or women are allowed, concerns arise when items might need to be removed and carried in a public domain. We discuss specific cases, including hair accessories, woven or braided threads, and chokers, examining their halachic implications. Tune in as we delve deeper into these details and their practical applications.
In this episode, we complete our discussion on practical laws of handling wet garments and drying objects on Shabbat. We explore concerns around squeezing out water, using different types of cloths, and the implications for hand drying and cleaning. Additionally, we touch on the permissibility of using mirrors on Shabbat and the considerations for men looking into mirrors. Join us as we wrap up *Siman Shin Bet* and preview our next topic—carrying jewelry on Shabbat. Don't forget to subscribe for future episodes!
Join us as we continue our deep dive into the laws of laundering on Shabbat. This episode explores key distinctions in applying water to garments, when it constitutes laundering, and the concerns around squeezing out water. We discuss practical applications, such as drying hands on towels, handling wet clothing, and even dealing with spilled liquids or soiled garments. Tune in for insights into these halachic principles and their real-world implications. Don't forget to subscribe for more!
In this episode, the discussion focuses on the laws of laundering (kibus) and cleaning clothing, particularly regarding the work prohibited on Shabbos. The podcast explores the various opinions on what constitutes laundering, including the act of soaking clothes, squeezing out water, and the distinction between different materials like leather and synthetic fabrics. It also addresses practical concerns like using water to remove dirt or oil from garments, and the issue of talcum powder to absorb oil. Opinions on synthetic materials, such as nylon, are also explored, with some authorities treating them like leather due to their water-resistant properties.
In this episode, the discussion continues on the laws of cleaning on Shabbat, focusing on the prohibition of cleaning clothes, particularly removing dirt from garments. Key points include the differentiation between moist and dry dirt, with dry dirt being prohibited to remove due to the potential of grinding it. The episode covers the handling of different fabrics, the use of nails or tools for cleaning, and the distinction between cleaning for appearance versus necessity. Additionally, it addresses the permissibility of non-Jews performing certain tasks on Shabbat and the complexities of scraping dirt from boots without violating prohibitions.
In this episode, the discussion focuses on the laws of cleaning clothes on Shabbat. It addresses the use of household versus professional clothes presses, with specific rules about loosening or removing clothes from them. It also covers the prohibition of softening certain materials, like scarves or linen, which could be viewed as "cleaning" rather than just softening. The episode touches on the issue of scraping mud off shoes, with guidance on whether it's permitted to do so on different surfaces like walls or beams.
In this episode, the discussion focuses on clothing-related tasks and prohibitions on Shabbos, particularly concerning the removal of threads from garments, folding clothes, and handling various types of fabric. The concept of "Macah bapattish," the final hammer blow indicating the completion of work, is explored in relation to removing threads or altering clothing. There's a distinction between doing so intentionally to beautify an item or merely as a casual act. The episode also covers when it's permissible to fold clothing on Shabbos, such as when it's necessary for wearing on the same day, and how this applies to specific garments like talis or trousers. Guidance is given on the folding of napkins, paper, and restoring hats, with a focus on avoiding the completion of a work process. The importance of seeking local rabbinic advice is emphasized throughout.
In today's episode, we discuss the halachic issues surrounding the cleaning and folding of clothes on Shabbat, focusing on the prohibition of laundering and shaking off dust or dew. We explore various scenarios, including the treatment of new black clothing, and the conditions under which shaking off water or dust may be permitted. Special attention is given to the difference between new and older garments, and the distinction between black and lighter-colored clothes. We also delve into rabbinic opinions on whether vigorous shaking is akin to laundering and whether certain practices may violate Shabbat laws.
In this episode, the discussion focuses on the laws surrounding carrying wet items, particularly towels, on Shabbat. We explore the scenario of carrying a towel after drying oneself, highlighting concerns about potentially wringing it out. We also delve into different halachic perspectives regarding wet towels, such as whether it's permissible to bring a towel home after use in a bathhouse and the significance of the towel's absorption of water. The episode further touches on the concept of carrying items like bandages or cloths related to wounds on Shabbat, emphasizing that they are treated as clothing rather than burdens. The podcast concludes with a preview of the next episode, which will cover the rules of cleaning and folding clothing on Shabbat.
In this episode, we discuss the laws surrounding wet clothing on Shabbat, particularly regarding drying and handling clothes soaked with water. We explore various scenarios, such as wet garments from rain or immersion in water, and address concerns about drying clothes in public or private settings, including near a heat source or in an oven. The episode also delves into the concept of "Mara'it Ayin" (appearance of wrongdoing) and the prohibition of laundering on Shabbat. We conclude with insights on handling wet clothing, particularly diapers, and the importance of not squeezing out water, even in private spaces.