Dirshu Mishnah Berurah

In this episode, we explore the detailed halachic principles surrounding the performance of Bris Milah (circumcision) on Shabbat. We discuss the sequence of procedures—cutting, folding back, and blood removal—along with permissible healing practices, and how these are integrated into Shabbat observance. Key topics include the handling of remaining skin strands, performing Bris on children born prematurely, and the parameters for children born during twilight or via Cesarean section. Medical, historical, and rabbinic perspectives are considered to clarify when and how the mitzvah may be performed while balancing Shabbat restrictions.

In this episode, we conclude Siman Shin Lamed, exploring the halachos of childbirth on Shabbos. The discussion reviews the historical distinction between seventh- and eighth-month births and how modern medical advances have changed their halachic implications. The Mishnah Berurah and related commentaries guide us through practical rulings: handling a newborn, expressing milk for a mother's relief, straightening an infant's limbs, and swaddling. We also examine cases of spinal and joint realignment, dental retainers, and the repositioning of a newborn's epiglottis — clarifying what is permitted on Shabbos for the wellbeing of mother and child.

This episode continues the study of the laws of childbirth on Shabbos, focusing on how far we may go to assist a woman after delivery and care for the newborn. Based on Mishnah Berurah 330:6–7, the discussion covers heating and comfort for the mother during the 30 days after birth, distinctions between actions permitted for danger versus discomfort, and how modern medical understanding affects these halachic rulings. It also explores the permissibility of actions like cutting the umbilical cord, washing, salting, and caring for the newborn—even when these involve potential Shabbos transgressions. The episode concludes with the halachic treatment of premature infants and how advances in neonatal care redefine viability today.

Detailed study of Mishnah Berurah 330:4–5 on the halachos of a woman in childbirth and Shabbos desecration. Learn when childbirth is deemed life-threatening, how long leniencies extend post-birth, and how halacha balances pikuach nefesh with Shabbos observance. Includes analysis of counting days, medical input, and emergency scenarios.

In this episode, we begin Siman 330 of the Mishnah Berurah, exploring the halachos of childbirth on Shabbos. A woman in labor is considered to be in life-threatening danger (choleh sheyesh bo sakana), permitting Shabbos desecration to ensure her safety. We examine what actions are allowed for her, her helpers, and medical staff—including lighting candles, calling a midwife from afar, and making changes (shinui) when possible. The shiur discusses the balance between speed and modification, when urgency overrides the need for a shinui, and the reasoning behind lighting candles even for a blind woman for her peace of mind.We also delve into the halachic parameters for assisting non-Jewish women in childbirth on Shabbos—when concern for animosity (eivah) may permit limited assistance, and how modern-day poskim apply this to Jewish doctors treating non-Jewish patients. Finally, we define when a woman attains the halachic status of a yoledes—at the onset of labor, when her waters break, or when she can no longer walk unaided—triggering the full leniencies of pikuach nefesh on Shabbos.

In this episode, we continue exploring Hilchos Pikuach Nefesh—the laws of saving life on Shabbos—from Siman 329:4–9. The discussion covers halachic rulings on rescuing someone trapped under rubble, determining signs of life, and applying modern medical realities to these laws. We then examine when Shabbos may be desecrated to protect against hostile attacks—whether defending lives, property, or border towns—and how these principles adapt to contemporary threats. The episode concludes with guidance on risking one's own safety to save others and the halachic permission to return with weapons after a defensive mission on Shabbos.Topic: Pikuach Nefesh – Saving lives on ShabbosSiman/Seif: MB 329.4–329.9Halachic Themes:Rescuing people trapped under debrisDetermining life or death by breathing and heartbeatModern medical intervention and Shabbos desecrationDefense of Jewish towns and property on ShabbosDifferentiating between threats to life vs. propertyAssessing personal risk when saving othersReturning with weapons after life-saving missions

This episode opens a new discussion in Siman 329 of the Mishnah Berurah, focusing on the laws of saving life on Shabbos. The shiur explores how the principle of pikuach nefesh—preserving life—overrides Shabbos prohibitions, including cases like extinguishing a fire or rescuing individuals from danger. The Mishnah Berurah analyzes when it is preferable to extinguish a fire versus carrying people to safety, weighing Torah-level versus rabbinic prohibitions and practical modern concerns such as urban housing and fire spread.The discussion continues with classic halachic principles applied to doubtful life-threatening situations (safek pikuach nefesh): when a group includes both Jews and non-Jews, when rubble collapses and it's uncertain who is trapped, and when or if one may violate Shabbos to save. The episode also examines complex cases of moral status—such as saving a willful transgressor or a pursuer (rodef)—and when saving them is halachically prohibited.A thought-provoking and text-based journey through Mishnah Berurah 329:1–3, highlighting practical, ethical, and halachic reasoning in real-life emergencies on Shabbos.

In this episode, we conclude the Mishnah Berurah's discussion of the halachos of healing and medical treatment on Shabbos. The focus is on the prohibitions of tzove'a (dyeing), chovel (causing a wound), and related issues such as dressing wounds, extracting blood, and administering enemas. We explore when these actions are biblically or rabbinically prohibited, distinctions between intentional and inevitable outcomes, and when leniencies apply for the sick or in cases of indirect action. Also discussed: the difference between dyeing with blood versus dyeing with colorants, washing wounds, and the halachic principles governing modern parallels such as blood tests and medical procedures performed by non-Jews on Shabbos.

In this episode, we continue exploring Hilchos Shabbos focusing on the intersection between bathing, therapeutic practices, and healing. The discussion covers when one may bathe in mineral or saline waters on Shabbos, the distinction between ordinary bathing and healing immersion, and how intention affects permissibility. We review the halachos of bathing in natural springs, saline or murky waters, and the use of mud baths for health purposes.Additional topics include:Cooling oneself versus therapeutic bathingThe permissibility of charming snakes or scorpions to prevent harmApplying cold compresses or ice for swelling on ShabbosAdjusting or setting a dislocated bone and the limits of medical interventionThis shiur delves into practical and nuanced applications of refuah (healing) on Shabbos, balancing halachic prohibitions with human comfort and safety.

In this episode, we continue exploring the halachos of medicine and healing on Shabbos. The discussion examines when taking or performing medical treatments is considered prohibited due to refuah (healing) and the concern of grinding herbs—a biblical melachah. We review cases including swallowing raw eggs for the voice, inducing vomiting, using hot cups or compresses for stomach pain, anointing with oil and salt after drinking, and exercising or massaging for health. The Mishnah Berurah clarifies distinctions between actions of comfort and acts of healing, highlighting when non-medicinal practices are permitted, and when they fall under the rabbinic decree. Practical guidance includes the permissibility of using hot water bottles, light self-care, and avoiding vigorous or medicinally motivated actions on Shabbos.Keywords: Shabbos medicine laws, refuah on Shabbos, hot water bottle on Shabbos, exercise and massage on Shabbos, inducing vomiting halacha, healing prohibitions, Chazal's gezeira on refuah

This episode explores the halachic discussions in Mishnah Berurah on health and medication on Shabbos. Topics include expressing milk for infants, distinctions between medical and non-medical uses of substances, oral hygiene practices, eating foods with healing properties, the permissibility of vitamins, and the use of sleeping tablets. The shiur clarifies when food and medicine may be taken by healthy individuals versus those experiencing discomfort or illness, and how rabbinic prohibitions interact with real pain or need.

This episode continues the discussion of the halachos of healing on Shabbos. Topics include when wine may be used to stop bleeding, distinctions between ordinary wounds and those considered life-threatening, and the use of vinegar, schnapps, or brandy. We explore the halachos of dislocated joints, removing hanging nails or skin, and the connection to melachos such as shearing. The shiur also covers toothaches, sore throats, and the use of vinegar or oil, including when non-Jews may assist. Finally, we examine the unique case of one in pain suckling milk directly from an animal, and the halachos of expressing milk for a child or to relieve pain.

In this episode, we explore the halachos of applying and reapplying bandages with medicinal creams on Shabbos, including when they may be replaced if they fall, the role of a non-Jew in assisting with medical care, and the distinctions between biblical and rabbinic prohibitions. We also discuss handling boils, extracting pus versus blood, and related concerns of causing wounds. Practical guidance is given on wound dressings, avoiding permanent knots, changing soiled cloths for dignity and health, and preparing before Shabbos to minimize issues.

This episode explores the halachos of caring for the sick on Shabbos when life is not at risk. We discuss when food may be cooked by a non-Jew and the implications of bishul akum, the status of utensils used in such cooking, and distinctions for what remains after Shabbos. We then shift to the broader rabbinic decrees against healing practices on Shabbos, such as applying wine, spit, or medicinal lotions to the eyes, dressing wounds with oil, water, cloths, or leaves, and when these actions are permitted or restricted. Practical applications, distinctions between healing and general comfort, and the role of preparation before Shabbos are all clarified.

This episode examines the halachos of treating a sick person on Shabbos when there is no life-threatening danger. We explore distinctions between general illness, limb-threatening conditions, and minor ailments. The discussion covers what a Jew may do, what requires a shinui (change in the normal manner of doing the action), and when one must rely on a non-Jew. The Mishnah Berurah clarifies how far rabbinic prohibitions may be set aside, the status of aiding a non-Jew's action, and practical applications such as preparing food for a sick person or child. The normative halacha follows the view that rabbinic prohibitions may be done with a shinui when no limb is in danger, and without change if a limb is endangered.

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.