Podcasts about halachic

Birkot Ha'shahar – the series of blessings that we recite each morning – appear to fall under the category of "Misvot Aseh She'ha'zman Gerama," meaning, Misvot that apply only at certain times. After all, although different views exist as to precisely by when these Berachot must be recited, there is a clear consensus that they must be recited specifically during the day. One view requires reciting Birkot Ha'shahar by the end of the fourth Halachic hour of the day, another view maintains that they must be recited by Hasot (Halachic midday), and the generally accepted opinion is that they must be recited before sundown. Either way, this requirement is limited to a specific time-frame. As such, we should, seemingly, apply the rule exempting women from "Misvot Aseh She'ha'zman Gerama," such that women should be exempt from the Birkot Ha'shahar obligation. Indeed, the Mishna Berura writes that women are exempt from this requirement, but he adds that Ashkenazic women may recite these Berachot voluntarily. Ashkenazic practice follows the opinion of Rabbenu Tam (France, 1100-1171) allowing those exempt from a Misva to recite the Beracha over the Misva if they wish to perform the Misva. Thus, for example, an Ashkenazic woman who wishes to take the four species on Sukkot, even though she is exempt, may recite the Beracha of "Al Netilat Lulab" over this Misva. By the same token, the Mishna Berura writes, Ashkenazic women may recite Birkot Ha'shahar if they so desire. According to this line of reasoning, Sephardic women should not recite the morning blessings. Sephardic practice does not allow the recitation of a Beracha when one voluntarily performs a Misva from which he or she is exempt. Perhaps, then, we should conclude that Sephardic women may not recite Birkot Ha'shahar. However, Hacham Bension Abba Shaul (Jerusalem, 1924-1998) ruled that women may, in fact, recite Birkot Ha'shahar, distinguishing between these Berachot and Berachot recited over a Misva which one performs voluntarily. The text of Berachot recited over the performance of a Misva thanks Hashem who "has commanded us" ("Ve'sivanu") to perform the given Misva. Sephardic custom does not allow reciting this Beracha when performing a Misva voluntarily for the simple reason that the individual cannot say "Ve'sivanu" about a Misva that he or she was not commanded to observe. The morning blessings, by contrast, praise and express gratitude to Hashem for the gifts He has granted us, such as the restoration of our souls in the morning, the ability to see, the ability to walk, and so on. These blessings, of course, are no less relevant to women than to men, and so there is no reason why a woman should not be allowed to recite these Berachot. Hacham Ovadia Yosef concurred with this ruling, but for a different reason – noting the minority opinion among the Poskim that one may recite Birkot Ha'shahar even after sundown, in the evening. This was the view of the Vilna Gaon (1720-1797) and a small number of other Halachic authorities. According to this opinion, there is no time when the Birkot Ha'shahar obligation does not apply, and thus it does not fall under the category of time-bound Misvot. Hence, women are included in the obligation. (This rationale requires further clarification, because Hacham Ovadia himself does not follow the minority opinion of the Vilna Gaon allowing the recitation of Birkot Ha'shahar after sundown. This question was posed by Rav Moshe Ha'levi, in his work Birkat Hashem.) Regardless, the accepted view is that women are required to recite Birkot Ha'shahar. Of course, they do not recite the Beracha "She'lo Asani Isha," which men recite to thank Hashem for not creating them as a woman. As men are bound by more Misvot than women, and they thus have more opportunities for serving Hashem, they are required each morning to recite this Beracha and thank Hashem for these additional opportunities. The Shulhan Aruch writes that women recite instead "Baruch She'asani Ki'rsono" – "Blessed is He who made me according to His will." This Beracha should be recited without "Hashem Elokenu Melech Ha'olam." In reciting this blessing, the woman gives thanks for her special nature, that Hashem created her as an especially refined being who does not require the same number of Misvot as men need in order to perfect herself and live a spiritually meaningful and accomplished life. Summary: Women are required to recite Birkot Ha'shahar each morning. Instead of the Beracha "She'lo Asani Isha," they recite, "Baruch She'asa Li Kol Sorki," without "Hashem Elokenu Melech Ha'olam."

Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Sinensky shares with us the scholarship of Rabbi Dr. Norman Lamm, who was a leading figure in Modern Orthodoxy known for his ability to bridge traditional Jewish law with contemporary thought. R. Dr. Sinensky highlights a particularly challenging case that he addressed: whether a kohanim who did not observe Shabbos could duchen (perform the priestly blessing). R. Dr. Lamm's ruling represents a hallmark of his nuanced approach. Through this lens we better understand his commitment to a compassionate and pragmatic application of Jewish law, even in the face of broader communal complexities.  

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. 

The Berachot we recite each day can easily become a rote exercise, a text that we recite mindlessly, mechanically, to discharge our duty, without concentration and without emotion. The Misvot and Berachot that are required on rare occasions generally tend to generate a great deal of excitement, whereas those which apply each day receive far less attention and don't arouse much enthusiasm, because they are part of our regular routine. But the truth is that the daily Berachot are especially important – and it is specifically because of their unique importance that they are required each and every day. There is a Halachic principle of "Tadir Ve'she'eno Tadir, Tadir Kodem" – Misvot which apply more frequently are to precede Misvot which are observed less frequently. This shows us that the more frequent Misvot are generally more important, and thus deserve greater attention, not less. Birkot Ha'shahar, the blessings we recite each morning, pose a particularly difficult challenge by virtue of the fact that they are recited not only each day, but also early in the morning, before we are fully awake. Many people, unfortunately, fail to give these Berachot the focus and emotion that ought to accompany their recitation, and do not say them with Kavana (concentration). Rav Eliezer Papo (1785-1828), in his work Hesed La'alafim, discusses the importance of the morning blessings and why is it especially important to recite them with proper Kavana (concentration). He implores us to pause before we begin reciting these Berachot, and to contemplate the fact that Hashem, who is infinitely great and powerful, has chosen us lowly human beings, and has given us the permission to come before Him, to give Him praise, and to serve Him. We must never take for granted the extraordinary privilege we have to serve Him. Out of the billions of people in the world, Hashem chose us and invited us to be His servants. We must appreciate how blessed we are to have the ability to serve the Creator of the universe. Before we begin reciting the morning Berachot, Rav Papo writes, it is worth taking a moment to reflect on this privilege we have been given. He also writes that before we begin reciting the Berachot, we should resolve in our minds that we will recite them slowly, and enunciate each letter properly, as though we were speaking to a king. We should recite the words with both fear and love, patiently and thoughtfully. This is especially important when reciting the Birkot Ha'shahar, Rav Papo writes, because this recitation sets the tone for the rest of the day. If we recite the first Berachot of the day with feeling and concentration, then this will impact all the other Berachot and prayers that we recite throughout the rest of the day. It is important to "get on the Kavana train" right from the outset, to set the momentum for the day. Rav Papo here urges us to use a Siddur when reciting the daily Berachot, even if we already know them by heart. One of the most effective strategies for Kavana is to pray from a Siddur. Some find an allusion to this concept in the verse in Megilat Ester (9:28), "Amar Im Ha'sefer Yashub Mahashabto Ha'ra'a," which may be read to mean that the way to eliminate distracting thoughts ("Yashub Mahashabto Ha'ra'a") is to read "Im Ha'sefer" – with the book, meaning, from a Siddur. When we look at the words as we recite them, we are far less likely to be distracted, and have a better chance of praying with Kavana. Rav Papo also recommends writing for oneself a note with the concepts discussed in this passage – the gratitude we must feel for the privilege of serving Hashem, the importance of setting the momentum for the entire day etc. – and placing this note inside one's Siddur. This way, as soon as a person picks up his Siddur to begin reciting the Berachot, he will be reminded of these concepts, and this will enhance his Kavana. Not infrequently, we find ourselves wondering whether or not we forgot to recite Birkot Ha'shahar. Never are we uncertain whether or not we ate breakfast, but we sometimes cannot remember whether or not we recited the morning blessings. This shows us that, unfortunately, we do not value these Berachot to the extent that we should. Let us try to be mindful of the great importance of these daily Berachot, and to concentrate as best we can each time we recite them.

We are to begin our day, each day of our lives, by expressing our gratitude to Hashem for all the blessings He has granted us. Immediately upon awakening, we recite "Modeh Ani," thanking Hashem for restoring our souls, and we are then required to recite a series of Berachot known as "Birkot Ha'shahar" – the morning blessings. These Berachot thank Hashem for our ability to open our eyes to see, the ability to get out of bed and walk, and other basic functions of the body. They also thank Hashem for spiritual blessings, such as His having chosen us and given us the Torah. As parents, we know how much it means when a child expresses gratitude. The more our children acknowledge what we do for them and thank us, the more we want to do for them. But when children act ungratefully, and do not thank their parents, the parents will be less inclined to give them what they want. We are Hashem's children, and we owe Him an enormous debt of gratitude for the countless blessings He gives us each day, starting with life itself. The more we thank Him for the blessings we have received, the more He will continue blessing us. We therefore thank Hashem each morning for some of the precious gifts that He has given us. Rav Natrunai Gaon (9 th century, Babylonia) traces the origins of the Birkot Ha'shahar to the obligation to recite one hundred Berachot each day. This obligation was taught as a "Halacha Le'Moshe Mi'Sinai" – a law that Moshe heard at Mount Sinai and has since been transmitted orally from one generation to the next. In ancient times, there were no fixed Berachot, and everyone was expected to recite Berachot on his own, until reaching a total of one hundred each day. However, without a fixed text of Berachot, and without specific Berachot required at certain times and on certain occasions, people became lax, and failed to recite the obligatory one hundred Berachot. In fact, the Midrash relates that when a devastating plague ravaged the Jewish Nation during the time of King David, killing one hundred people a day, King David determined that this was caused by the people's failure to fulfill this obligation of reciting one hundred Berachot every day. He therefore issued an edict to ensure that people recite the required number of Berachot, and the plague suddenly stopped. Still, this obligation was not always fulfilled. Therefore, the Ansheh Kenesset Ha'gedola (Men of the Great Assembly), a group of scholars and prophets that was formed at the beginning of the Second Commonwealth, established fixed Berachot that we are required to recite every day, thus ensuring that we recite one hundred blessings over the course of the day. Included in these Berachot are the eighteen Birkot Ha'shahar that we must recite each morning. Indeed, the Shulhan Aruch discusses the Birkot Ha'shahar in the same Siman (chapter) in which he mentions the obligation to recite one hundred Berachot each day – indicating that, as Rav Natrunai Gaon explained, the Birkot Ha'shahar are related to this obligation. They were instituted to help ensure that a person recites the required amount of Berachot every day. As mentioned earlier, underlying the requirement of Birkot Ha'shahar is our debt of gratitude to Hashem. Not surprisingly, we find a close connection between the obligation to recite one hundred Berachot each day and the concept of gratitude. First, the 100 th chapter of Tehillim is the chapter "Mizmor Le'toda" – the song which was sung to express gratitude to Hashem, thus establishing an association between the number 100 and gratitude. And, the first two letters of the word "Modim" ("We thank") are Mem and Vav, which together in Gematria equal 46 – the Siman in the Shulhan Aruch that speaks of the obligation of one hundred Berachot. We might wonder, why is it necessary to recite these Berachot each and every day? Why does it not suffice for us to occasionally praise and thank Hashem for all He gives us and does for us? An important answer to this question is offered by the Rashba (Rav Shlomo Ben Aderet, Barcelona, Spain, 1235-1310). He writes that every morning, we must see ourselves as born anew. As the verse says (Echa 3:23), "Hadashim La'bekarim, Rabba Emunatecha" – G-d performs great kindnesses for us each and every morning by restoring our consciousness, by giving us a new day, showing us His trust in our capacity to achieve and accomplish. Yesterday's blessings do not suffice today, because today we have been created anew, and so we must express gratitude to G-d anew. The Berachot that comprise Birkot Ha'shahar thank Hashem for many things – such as our vision, our ability to stand up straight and walk, our clothing, our having been chosen by Hashem – but does not appear to be exhaustive. Rav Haim Palachi (Turkey, 1788-1868) raised the question of why the Sages did not institute a Beracha thanking Hashem for the ability to speak. It goes without saying that the faculty of speech is one of the human being's most important capabilities. In fact, the Torah says that when G-d created Adam, He infused within Him "Nishmat Haim" – "a living soul" (Bereshit 2:7), and Targum Onkelos translates this expression to mean "Ru'ah Memalela" – "a spirit that speaks." The power of speech can be said to be our defining characteristic, the quality that distinguishes the human being from other creatures in the animal kingdom. Why, then, do we not have a special blessing thanking Hashem for this most precious gift? An answer to this question appears in the work Petah Ha'debir by Rav Binyamin Pontremoli (Turkey, d. 1784). He notes the aforementioned verse, and Onkelos' translation, which teaches us that the faculty of speech is a function of the Neshama, the human soul. Now the Sages instituted as one of the Birkot Ha'shahar a special Beracha thanking Hashem for the soul which He has given us – the blessing of "Elokai Neshama." Hence, as the ability to speak stems from the Neshama, this Beracha which thanks Hashem for giving us our soul also thanks Hashem for the power of speech. (It would thus seem that if parents have a child who, G-d forbid, is not developing the ability to speak, or struggles with speech issues, they should have special intention when reciting the Beracha of "Elokai Neshama," and have in mind the child's soul through which they wish that he develop the faculty of speech.) Moreover, Rav David Abudarham (Spain, 14 th century), in explaining the Beracha of "Elokai Neshama," cites the verse in Tehillim (115:17), "Lo Ha'metim Yehalelu Y-ah" – "It is not the dead that will praise G-d." Once a person's soul is taken, he is no longer able to express Hashem's praises. Rav Abudarham notes the implication of this verse that the primary purpose of speech is to praise G-d. (This is indicated in the text of "Elokai Neshama," in which we say, "As long as the soul is within me, I give thanks before You…") Accordingly, it stands to reason that when we recite "Elokai Neshama" and give thanks to Hashem for giving us a soul, this includes an expression of gratitude for our ability to speak. A second answer to this question was offered by Rav Shmuel Alexander Unsdorfer (1920-2002), who explained that we express gratitude for the faculty of speech by reciting Birkat Ha'Torah – the blessing over Torah learning. The Misva of learning Torah includes the obligation to speak words of Torah and to transmit them to others, and so when we thank Hashem for this precious Misva, we automatically thank Him also for the gift of speech. A different question was asked regarding the omission of the faculty of hearing from the Birkot Ha'shahar. Clearly, our hearing is exceedingly important. In fact, if somebody injured another person and caused him to lose his hearing, he must pay compensation for the damages. Why, then, is this capability not included in our morning blessings? One answer given is that the ability to hear is included in the Beracha of "Ha'noten La'sechvi Bina Le'havhin Ben Yom U'ben Layla" – thanking Hashem for granting the rooster the knowledge to crow in the morning, thus waking people up. Of course, the rooster's crow is effective in waking people only because of the ability to hear, and so this Beracha implicitly expresses gratitude for the sense of hearing. Another answer is that the morning blessings thank Hashem only for those abilities which we lost, as it were, during the night when we slept, and were restored in the morning. Thus, for example, we thank Hashem for restoring our vision after our eyes were closed throughout the night, and for allowing us to get out of bed, stand upright and walk, after we spent the night lying down. Our sense of hearing, however, is unaffected by sleep; we can still hear while sleeping, and so this capability is not included in Birkot Ha'shahar. (Interestingly, the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909), in his work Mi'kavse'el, cites a Rabbi who wanted to apply this theory to explain why we do not recite a Beracha over the ability to speak. This Rabbi noted that some people talk in their sleep, and so this capability is not technically "lost" at night, such that we should give thanks for it when we wake up in the morning. The Ben Ish Hai dismissed this answer, noting that some people sleepwalk, and yet we still recite each morning the Beracha of "Ha'mechin Mis'adeh Gaber," thanking Hashem for the ability to walk. One might, however, distinguish between talking in one's sleep and sleepwalking, as a person who sleepwalks is not actually sleeping as he walks, whereas those who talk in their sleep really are still asleep and have not woken up to talk.) The Sefer Hasidim (Rabbenu Yehuda Ha'hasid, Germany, 1150-1217) writes that he once met an exceptionally pious individual who recited additional blessings each morning, thanking Hashem for each and every part of the body, and the Sefer Hasidim expressed great admiration for this practice. He noted the verse in Tehillim (84:3), "Libi U'bsari Yeranenu El Kel Hai" – "My heart and my flesh shall sing praise to the living G-d" – implying that each and every part of the body which functions properly is a sufficient reason to give praise to Hashem. A different verse in Tehillim (35:10) states, "Kol Asmotai Tomarna, Hashem Mi Kamocha" – "All my bones shall declare: G-d, who is like you?" Indeed, it is worthwhile to express our gratitude to the Almighty for each and every limb and organ in the body. The Hida (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806), in his commentary to Sefer Hasidim, asserts that this righteous man could not have actually recited additional Berachot, for a Beracha that was not instituted by the Sages constitutes a Beracha Le'batala – a Beracha recited in vain, which is forbidden. Undoubtedly, this man expressed his gratitude to Hashem for all his working body parts without reciting formal Berachot. By contrast, Rav Meir Mazuz (1945-2025) suggested that this righteous man followed the opinion that one is permitted to create his own Beracha to give praise to Hashem. In any event, the truth is that we do not need additional Berachot – formal or informal – to express our gratitude to Hashem for everything in our body that works properly. The Tur (Rabbenu Yaakov Ben Asher, Spain, 1270-1340) notes that in the Beracha of "Asher Yasar," which one recites after using the restroom, we say that Hashem created "Halulim Halulim" (hollow spaces in the body). The Gematria of the word "Halulim," the Tur observes, is 124, and we recite this word twice, for a total of 248 – the number of limbs and organs in a person's body. This expression, then, alludes to all our body parts. Thus, when we recite "Asher Yasar," we give thanks to Hashem not only for the wondrous ability to eliminate the waste from our body, but also for each and every body part. The Rishonim (Medieval scholars) debate the question of whether a person recites a Beracha that is not applicable to him, because he unfortunately does not have the ability for which that Beracha gives thanks. For example, does a blind person recite the Beracha of "Poke'ah Ivrim," in which we thank Hashem for the gift of vision? The Rambam (Hilchot Tefila 7:7-8) writes explicitly that a person recites each of these Berachot only after performing the action referred to by that Beracha. For example, after standing upright, one recites the Beracha of "Zokef Kefufim" ("Who makes the bent upright"), and after getting dressed, one recites the Beracha of "Malbish Arumim" ("Who clothes the naked"). The Rambam writes that if, for whatever reason, a person did not experience that which a given Beracha speaks of, then he does not recite that Beracha. In the Rambam's opinion, the Birkot Ha'shahar resemble the Berachot recited over food, which one recites only when eating. By the same token, one recites each of the morning blessings only after receiving the benefit for which each blessing gives praise. The Shulhan Aruch follows this opinion. By contrast, the Kolbo (anonymous work from the period of the Rishonim), citing several of the Geonim, writes that every person recites all the Birkot Ha'shahar, regardless of whether or not he personally experiences these phenomena. According to this opinion, the morning blessings express gratitude not for one's personal experience, but rather for the general phenomena mentioned by these Berachot. Even if one is not, Heaven forbid, able to see, for example, he still recites the Beracha of "Poke'ah Ivrim" to praise Hashem for the phenomenon of vision. Common practice follows this view of the Kolbo. One of the interesting questions asked regarding the Birkot Ha'shahar relates to the Halachic principle that applies in situations of a "Beracha Semucha La'haveratah" – a Beracha which is recited immediately following another Beracha. Normally, when a Beracha is recited right after another Beracha, it does not begin with the word "Baruch." Thus, for example, the text of Birkat Ha'mazon consists of four Berachot recited in immediate succession of one another, and thus only the first Beracha begins with "Baruch." The three subsequent Berachot are covered, so-to-speak, by the "Baruch" which begins the first Beracha, and so they do not require the introductory word "Baruch." In the Amida prayer, too, only the first Beracha begins with the word "Baruch," whereas all the subsequent Berachot do not, because they are recited immediately after the first Beracha. When it comes to Birkot Ha'shahar, however, the blessings all begin with the word "Baruch," despite the fact that they are recited as a series of Berachot, one right after the other. Tosafot in Masechet Berachot (46) offer two answers. First, they explain, unlike the blessings of Birkat Ha'mazon and the Amida, the blessings of Birkot Ha'shahar were not instituted as a series of Berachot. The Sages did not require reciting them together in a particular sequence. As we saw, the Rambam maintained that one recites each Beracha as he experiences the phenomenon referred to by each Beracha, and the Rambam writes explicitly that there is no set order for these Berachot. The rule of "Beracha Semucha La'haveratah," Tosafot write, applies only to a series of Berachot which were instituted to be recited together in a particular order, and so it does not apply to Birkot Ha'shahar. Secondly, Tosafot suggest, this rule applies only to relatively lengthy Berachot, such as the Berachot of Birkat Ha'mazon and the Amida. The Birkot Ha'shahar, however, are very brief, and thus they require the introduction of "Baruch Ata Hashem." A person should not unnecessarily get involved in other matters before reciting the Birkot Ha'shahar. Ideally, the Hesed La'alafim (Rav Eliezer Papo, 1785-1827) writes, the first words that come out of a person's mouth in the morning should be words of praise and gratitude to Hashem. One should not write text messages, make phone calls and the like before reciting the morning blessings. The Kaf Ha'haim (Rav Yaakov Haim Sofer, Baghdad-Jerusalem, 1870-1939) warns that according to the Kabbalah, unnecessarily delaying the recitation of Birkot Ha'shahar has the effect of allowing the Kelipot (negative spiritual energies) access to the person's soul, which can cause great harm. One should not be doing anything else while reciting a Beracha. This applies not only to Birkot Ha'shahar, but to all blessings that we recite. The Ben Ish Hai writes that "Lo Tiheyeh Ka'zot Be'Yisrael" – it should never happen that a Jew recites a Beracha while being involved in some other activity. And the Ben Ish Hai laments the fact that many people make this mistake. One common example is Netilat Yadayim – many people mistakenly recite the Beracha while drying their hands. One must ensure not to begin reciting the Beracha of "Al Netilat Yadayim" until after he finished drying his hands. Another common mistake is people reciting Birkot Ha'shahar while rushing to get to shul. This is improper. One should recite a Beracha while standing in place and doing nothing else, focusing his attention fully on the Beracha. The Taz (Rav David Ha'levi Segal, Poland, 1586-1667) writes that one who recites a Beracha while performing other activities is included in the Torah's harsh warnings against serving Hashem "Be'keri" – in a casual, haphazard manner, without focus and attentiveness. Rav Chaim Brim (1922-2002) tells that he once went to visit Rav Moshe Yehoshua Landau in the middle of the night. Rav Landau was in the restroom when he arrived, and so he waited. When Rav Landau came out, he recited the Beracha of "Asher Yasar" without realizing that he was being watched. Rav Brim said that at 2am, without realizing that anyone was around, Rav Landau recited "Asher Yasar" with greater concentration and emotion than most people have while reciting Ne'ila in the synagogue on Yom Kippur. We start our day by thanking Hashem for all the great blessings He has granted us. I had the occasion during my trips to Israel to visit Israeli soldiers who, unfortunately, sustained injuries that necessitated the amputation of limbs. They do not have the ability that the rest of having to easily get out of bed and move about. We need to appreciate these great blessings that Hashem gives us anew each morning, and try, as much as possible, to recite the Berachot with thought and concentration, truly appreciating all that Hashem does for us.

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.

In this episode Rabbi Shalom Rosner discusses the Halachot of Medicine on Shabbat. Follow along using Tzurba Volume 21Tzurba is a revolutionary Halacha sefer guiding the learner through the Halachic process from the Talmudic source through modern day halachic application. Each volume contains clear and concise color-coded sections with a modern English translation alongside the original Hebrew text.The Tzurba Hilchot Shabbat Program is a 2 year cycle in which one can master all of Hilchot Shabbat by learning weekly with Tzurba's signature seforim and style.Tzurba seforim are all available on Amazon worldwide (for those in Israel you can purchase on our website)Have a question for Rabbi Rosner? Want to sponsor a shiur? Contact us at neil@tzurbaolami.com or WhatsAppFollow us on social media for more content:WhatsAppInstagramTwitterYouTubeLearn more about The Lax Family Tzurba M'Rabanan Series

Although it is customary to refrain from meat and wine during the Nine Days, this restriction applies only on weekdays. On Shabbat, one may eat as much meat and wine as he wishes, without any restrictions. One may partake of meat during Se'uda Shelishit even the meal extends after sundown. And when Tisha B'Ab falls on Shabbat, and the fast is thus postponed until Sunday, there are no restrictions regarding the foods allowed during the final meal before the fast on Shabbat afternoon. One may have as lavish a meal as he wants, including meat and wine. Whereas generally several restrictions apply to the final meal eaten before Tisha B'Ab, these restrictions do not apply when Tisha B'Ab begins on Mosa'eh Shabbat. The question arises as to whether one may taste on Ereb Shabbat during the Nine Days a meat dish that is being prepared for Shabbat. Generally, it is proper to taste the Shabbat foods before Shabbat to ensure that they are flavorful. Rav Haim Vital (1542-1620) writes that this is a very important Misva, for just as cooks preparing food for a king must taste the food before it is served, this must be done for the honor of Shabbat, as well. It has been explained that this is the deep meaning of the passage in the Musaf prayer recited on Shabbat, "To'ameha Haim Zachu" – "Those who taste it have earned life." Is this permissible on Ereb Shabbat during the Nine Days, when partaking of meat is forbidden? Hacham Ovadia ruled that this is allowed, for two reasons. Firstly, he notes the Shulhan Aruch's ruling in a different context that if one tastes a small morsel of food to check its flavor, he does not recite a Beracha. This shows that tasting food does not qualify as an act of Halachic eating, and thus tasting a meat dish is allowed during the Nine Days. Secondly, Hacham Ovadia writes, the great value and importance of tasting the Shabbat foods overrides the custom to refrain from meat during the Nine Days. Some poskim ruled that one who tastes the meat dish on Ereb Shabbat must then remove it from his mouth without swallowing, but Hacham Ovadia maintained that the food may be swallowed, because of the two reasons mentioned above. Rav Yisrael Bitan writes that in conversation with Hacham Ovadia, the Hacham made it clear that this leniency applies only after Hasot (Halachic midday) on Friday, and that one may taste only an amount less than a Rebi'it of the meat dish. If meat was prepared for Shabbat during the Nine Days, and some of the meat is left over after Shabbat, Hacham Ovadia permits eating the leftovers, particularly if one eats the leftovers for Se'uda Rebi'it (the meal eaten after Shabbat, also known as "Melaveh Malka"), and especially if one normally eats meat during the Se'uda Rebi'it. Although meat is forbidden on weekdays during the Nine Days, nevertheless, meat left over from Shabbat is allowed. One may not intentionally cook more than he deems necessary for Shabbat so that he will have leftover meat for after Shabbat, but if he cooked food for Shabbat and some meat is left over, it may be eaten after Shabbat. There are several reasons given for this leniency. The Hida (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806) bases this Halacha on the Gemara's discussion regarding meat that Beneh Yisrael brought with them into Eretz Yisrael from the desert. During the forty years Beneh Yisrael spent in the desert, Shehita (slaughtering) was not required; they were allowed to kill an animal through any means and then partake of its meat. Once they crossed into Eretz Yisrael, this became forbidden, as Shehita was then required for meat to be permitted. The Gemara writes that if some leftover meat which was produced without Shehita was brought into Eretz Yisrael, then "Ho'il Ve'ishteri Ishteri" – since it was permissible, it remained permissible, even though meat produced this way was no longer allowed. Similarly, the Hida writes, since meat prepared for Shabbat was allowed on Shabbat, it remains permissible even after Shabbat. Although there is some discussion as to whether we may indeed permit food on the basis of the concept of "Ho'il Ve'ishteri Ishteri," when it comes to meat during the Nine Days, which is forbidden only by force of custom, there is room for leniency. Others explain that since this food was prepared for the purpose of a Misva, it is considered special and there is a Misva to eat it. Yet another explanation is the concern of "Bal Tash'hit" (wasting), as the food would otherwise have to be discarded. In one of Hacham Ovadia's earlier works (Kol Sinai), he wrote that we should not object to those who rely on this leniency and eat during the Nine Days meat that was left over from Shabbat – implying that this is not the optimal practice. However, Rav Yisrael Bitan notes that in his later works Hacham Ovadia writes that this is indeed permissible, and thus one may eat leftover meat after Shabbat without any reservations. Summary: Although we refrain from meat and wine during the Nine Days, there are no restrictions on what one may eat on Shabbat during the Nine Days; one may enjoy as much meat and wine as he wishes on Shabbat during the Nine Days. Before Shabbat, it is permissible – and in fact proper – to taste the Shabbat foods to ensure they are flavorful, even the meat dishes, but this should be done after midday on Friday, and only very small amounts may be tasted. If there is leftover meat from Shabbat, it may be eaten after Shabbat, preferably as part of the Se'uda Rebi'it meal after Shabbat. However, one may not intentionally prepare more meat than is needed for Shabbat so that he will have leftovers.

The Mishna in Masechet Ta'anit (26b) states that one may not eat meat or drink wine during the final meal before Tisha B'Ab. This is the only restriction on the consumption of meat mentioned by the Mishna or Gemara. On the level of strict Halacha, one is permitted to eat meat during the days preceding Tisha B'Ab, and even on the day before Tisha B'Ab, except during the last meal before the fast. However, customs were accepted among many Jewish communities to abstain from meat already earlier. The Shulhan Aruch (Orah Haim 551:9) brings three customs. Some refrain from eating meat already from after Shabbat Hazon (the Shabbat immediately preceding Tisha B'Ab); others observe this restriction throughout the Nine Days; and others follow the practice not to eat meat throughout the entire three-week from Shiba Asar Be'Tammuz through Tisha B'Ab. The Shulhan Aruch writes that everyone should follow his community's custom. Of course, this prohibition applies only on weekdays. According to all customs, one may eat meat on Shabbat, even the Shabbat before Tisha B'Ab. These customs developed for two reasons: 1) as part of our obligation to reduce our joy during this period when we are to reflect upon the destruction of the Bet Ha'mikdash; 2) the destruction of the Bet Ha'mikdash resulted in the discontinuation of the offering of sacrifices, such that G-d no longer has meat, as it were, so we, too, should not enjoy meat. The Gemara (Baba Batra 60b) states that there were those who, after the destruction of the Bet Ha'mikdash, decided to abstain from meat and wine, since there were no longer animal sacrifices or wine libations offered to G-d. However, they were told that by this logic, they should also refrain from grain products, because flour offerings (Menahot) could no longer be offered, and even from water, because the water libations (Nisuch Ha'mayim) were no longer offered. Quite obviously, we cannot live this way, and so we are not required to abstain from those products which were offered in the Bet Ha'mikdash. Nevertheless, as part of our effort to focus our attention on the tragedy of the Hurban (destruction) in the period leading to Tisha B'Ab, the custom developed to refrain from meat. Notably, not all communities accepted these restrictions. The Maggid Mishneh (Rav Vidal of Tolosa, Spain, late 14 th century) writes that in his area, the custom was to permit meat except on Ereb Tisha B'Ab. The Meiri (Provence, 1249-1315) writes that there was a practice among the exceptionally pious to refrain from meat on Ereb Tisha B'Ab, but even they did not refrain from meat before that day. Regardless, the Shulhan Aruch emphasizes that people whose communities observe the custom to refrain from meat during this period must adhere to the custom. Those who violate this practice are included in King Shlomo's stern warning in Kohelet (10:8), "U'foretz Geder Yishechehu Nahash" – "He who breaches a fence, a snake shall bite him." Even if a restriction that applies on the level of custom, and not as strict Halacha, is binding and must be obeyed. Nevertheless, since refraining from meat is required only by force of custom, there is greater room for leniency than there is when dealing with strict Halachic prohibitions. Thus, it has become accepted to permit meat when a Siyum celebration is held, and one should not ridicule those who rely on this leniency. In fact, it is told that Rav Moshe Feinstein (1895-1986) would conduct a Siyum every night during the Nine Days in the place where he would spend his summers, so that the people could eat meat. Since the prohibition to begin with is observed by force of custom, and not on the level of strict Halacha, the leniency of a Siyum is perfectly legitimate. In practice, when should we begin abstaining from meat? The accepted custom in our Syrian community is to begin refraining from eating meat from the second day of Ab. Although different opinions exist regarding the consumption of meat on Rosh Hodesh Ab, our custom follows the view of the Hida (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806) permitting the consumption of meat on this day. This was also the custom in Baghdad, as mentioned by the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909), and this is the generally accepted custom among Sepharadim. One who does not know his family's custom can follow this practice and begin refraining from meat on the second day of Ab. The Kaf Ha'haim (Rav Yaakov Haim Sofer, Baghdad-Jerusalem, 1870-1939) cites an earlier source (Seder Ha'yom) as ruling that Torah scholars should follow the stringent practice of abstaining from meat already from Shiba Asar Be'Tammuz. However, recent Poskim – including Hacham Ovadia Yosef – ruled that since nowadays people are frailer than in the past, and Torah scholars need strength to continue their studies and their teaching, they should not observe this stringency. They should instead follow the more common custom to refrain from meat only after Rosh Hodesh Ab. One who wishes to eat a meat meal late in the day on Rosh Hodesh Ab should ensure not to recite Arbit early, before sundown. Once he recites Arbit, he in effect ends Rosh Hodesh, and begins the second day of Ab when eating meat is forbidden. One who wishes to recite Arbit early on Rosh Hodesh Ab must ensure to finish eating meat beforehand. The custom among the Yemenite Jewish community was to follow the Mishna's ruling, and permit eating meat except during the final meal before Tisha B'Ab. However, Hacham Ovadia Yosef ruled that once the Yemenites emigrated to Eretz Yisrael, they should follow the rulings of the Shulhan Aruch, and abstain from meat during the Nine Days. This prohibition applies even to meat that is not fresh, such as it if was canned or frozen. The Nehar Misrayim (Rav Aharon Ben Shimon, 1847-1928) records the custom among the Jewish community in Egypt to permit eating chicken during the Nine Days. As mentioned earlier, one of the reasons for the practice to refrain from meat is that we commemorate the loss of sacrificial meat in the Bet Ha'mikdash. Accordingly, Egyptian Jews permitted eating chicken, as chickens were not brought as sacrifices. This is the custom among Jews of Egyptian background even today. The Shulhan Aruch (551:10), however, explicitly includes chicken in his formulation of the custom to refrain from meat during the Nine Days. The Mishna Berura writes that one who is unable to eat dairy products (such as if he suffers from a milk allergy), and thus has limited options for food during the Nine Days, may eat chicken. If one needs to eat meat for health reasons, he should preferably eat chicken instead of beef, as there is greater room for leniency when it comes to chicken. Hacham Ovadia Yosef writes that if one removed the meat from a dish that consisted also of other food – such as if the meatballs were removed from the spaghetti – then, strictly speaking, the remaining food is permissible. Nevertheless, it is customary to be stringent in this regard and refrain from eating food which had been cooked together with meat. If parve food was prepared in a meat pot, the food may be eaten during the Nine Days, since it does not have meat in it. Even if the pot had been used with meat less than 24 hours before it was used to cook the parve food, the parve food may be eaten. This food contains the taste of meat, but not actual meat, and it is thus entirely permissible during the Nine Days. (In fact, according to the ruling of the Shulhan Aruch, this parve food may be eaten together with milk or yoghurt. The meat taste in this food has the status of "Noten Ta'am Bar Noten Ta'am" – a "second degree" taste, as the pot absorbed the taste of the meat, and the parve food then absorbed the taste from the pot. At this point, the taste does not forbid the food from being eaten with milk.) Hacham Ovadia Yosef allowed eating soup from bouillon cubes or bouillon powder during the Nine Days. It is permissible to eat fish during the Nine Days, though some have the custom not to eat fish during the final meal before Tisha B'Ab. One is allowed to eat synthetic meat during the Nine Days. Although one might have thought that this should be avoided due to the concern of Mar'it Ha'ayin – meaning, a person eating synthetic meat might be suspected of eating actual meat – we do not have the authority nowadays to enact new prohibitions out of this concern. If a person forgot that it was the Nine Days, or forgot about the restriction against eating meat, and he recited a Beracha over meat but then remembered that it is forbidden, he should take a bite of the meat, because otherwise his Beracha will have been recited in vain, in violation of the severe prohibition of Beracha Le'batala (reciting a blessing in vain). This is a far more grievous transgression than partaking of meat during the Nine Days – which, as we explained, is forbidden only by force of custom – and it is therefore preferable to take a bite of the meat so that the blessing will not have been recited in vain. (This resembles the case of a person who prepared to eat a dairy food within six hours of eating meat, and remembered after reciting the Beracha that he may not eat the dairy food. In that case, too, he should take a bite of the dairy food so the Beracha will not have been recited in vain. This applies also to someone who recited a Beracha to eat before praying in the morning, and then remembered that he may not eat because he had yet to pray. Even on fast days – except Yom Kippur, when eating is forbidden on the level of Torah law – if someone recited a Beracha over food and then remembered that eating is forbidden, he should take a small bite of the food.) If a person owns a meat restaurant, he is permitted to operate the restaurant during Nine Days, even in a Jewish community, where most or all of his customers are Jews. Given the leniencies that apply, such as permitting meat at a Siyum, and when necessary for health reasons, it is not for certain that the people coming to eat will be violating the custom to refrain from meat. As such, operating the restaurant does not violate the prohibition against causing people to sin. However, it is proper for the restaurant owner to place a visible sign at the entrance to the restaurant informing people of the widely-accepted custom to refrain from eating meat during the Nine Days. Just as many observe the custom to refrain from meat during the Nine Days, it is also customary to refrain from wine during this period. Although the practice in Jerusalem was to be lenient in this regard, and drink wine during the Nine Days, the practice among other Sephardic communities is to refrain from wine. This was also the custom in Arab Soba (Aleppo), as documented in the work Derech Eretz, and this is the practice in our community. There are two reasons for this custom. First, wine brings a feeling of joy, and during the month of Ab, until Tisha B'Ab, we are to reduce our joy and reflect on the destruction of the Bet Ha'mikdash. Secondly, we refrain from wine because we can no longer pour wine libations on the altar. Of course, wine – like meat – is permissible on Shabbat during the Nine Days. The restriction applies only on weekdays. It is permissible to drink other alcoholic beverages during the Nine Days, such as beer and whiskey. Cognac, however, is a type of wine, and is therefore forbidden. One should not drink grape juice during the Nine Days, but grape soda is allowed. Cakes that are baked with grape juice instead of water are allowed during the Nine Days unless the taste of grape juice is discernible, in which case one should refrain from these cakes. Vinegar made from wine is permitted for consumption during the Nine Days, because it has an acidic taste and does not bring enjoyment. Similarly, juice extracted from unripe, prematurely-harvested grapes is permissible. The Shulhan Aruch allows drinking wine at Habdala on Mosa'eh Shabbat during the Nine Days. The Rama (Rav Moshe Isserles, Cracow, 1530-1572), however, writes that according to Ashkenazic custom, the Habdala wine is given to a child to drink. The Shulhan Aruch also writes that one may drink during the Nine Days the cup of wine over which Birkat Ha'mazon is recited. When three or more men ate together, and they recite Birkat Ha'mazon with the introductory Zimun, it is customary for the one who leads the Zimun to hold a cup of wine during Birkat Ha'mazon which he then drinks after Birkat Ha'mazon, and according to the Shulhan Aruch, this cup may be drunk during the Nine Days. However, Hacham Ovadia Yosef rules that since nowadays people generally do not make a point of reciting Birkat Ha'mazon over a cup of wine, this is not permitted during the Nine Days.

In this episode Rabbi Shalom Rosner discusses the Halachot of Medicine on Shabbat. Follow along using Tzurba Volume 21Tzurba is a revolutionary Halacha sefer guiding the learner through the Halachic process from the Talmudic source through modern day halachic application. Each volume contains clear and concise color-coded sections with a modern English translation alongside the original Hebrew text.The Tzurba Hilchot Shabbat Program is a 2 year cycle in which one can master all of Hilchot Shabbat by learning weekly with Tzurba's signature seforim and style.Tzurba seforim are all available on Amazon worldwide (for those in Israel you can purchase on our website)Have a question for Rabbi Rosner? Want to sponsor a shiur? Contact us at neil@tzurbaolami.com or WhatsAppFollow us on social media for more content:WhatsAppInstagramTwitterYouTubeLearn more about The Lax Family Tzurba M'Rabanan Series

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.

The Midrash Shoher Tob (Tehillim 91) speaks about a dangerous "demon" called "Keteb Meriri" that is covered with scales and hair, has eyeballs all over its body, and sees from the eye situated on its chest. It generally resides in areas that are partly sunny and partly shady, and moves by rolling like a ball. Anyone who comes near this demon, the Midrash comments, exposes himself to great danger. The Midrash in fact relates that there were schoolchildren who suffered harm as a result of "Keteb Meriri." It is specifically during the three weeks of between Shiba Asar Be'Tamuz and Tisha B'Ab, the Midrash teaches, that this harmful spirit surfaces and poses danger. It is very uncharacteristic for the Shulhan Aruch, which was written as a strictly Halachic code, to include Kabbalistic concepts in presenting Halachic guidelines. Yet, the Shulhan Aruch indeed writes that during the three weeks one should not go outdoors to partially shady areas between the fourth and ninth hours (referring to Halachic hours) of the day, when this demon is most threatening. He adds that during this period, parents should make a point not to hit their children, and teachers should likewise refrain from smacking students, in order to avoid risks. The Midrash tells the story of Rabbi Abahu who saw a teacher with a branch ready to hit an unruly student. Rabbi Abahu sharply condemned the teacher, noting that "Keteb Meriri" was standing right behind him with an iron rod, ready to strike. This story shows the dangers of administering any type of corporal punishment during this period, when we are exposed to the dangers of "Keteb Meriri." The Aruch Ha'shulhan (work by Rabbi Yehiel Michel Epstein, Byelorussia, 1829-1908) cites authorities who limit this Halacha to uninhabited areas, such as forests and the like. Inside a city, however, the presence of many people, as well as the presence of Mezuzot on the doorposts, offers a degree of protection from this harmful spirit. On one level, this restriction essentially renders this Halacha practically irrelevant nowadays, when we usually spend our time in towns, cities and other inhabited areas. Nevertheless, this Halacha demonstrates the importance of avoiding danger during this three-week period and keeping a "low profile," as this period is particularly suited for mishaps and calamity, Heaven forbid. It is therefore advisable to remain in safe, secure quarters during the three weeks, especially between the fourth and ninth hours of the day. Summary: It is advisable to avoid desolate, outdoor areas between the fourth and ninth hours of the day (as defined by Halacha) during the three weeks between Shiba Asar Be'Tamuz and Tisha B'Ab. More generally, it is proper to avoid all dangerous situations during this period, which is a particularly inauspicious time for the Jewish people.

One of the customs which we observe during the Nine Days – from Rosh Hodesh Ab through Tisha B'Ab – is to refrain from meat. The Mishna establishes that eating meat is forbidden only during the Se'uda Mafseket – the final meal before Tisha B'Ab – but the custom was accepted to refrain from meat throughout the period of the Nine Days (except, of course, on Shabbat). A number of companies today sell synthetic meat – products made from soy or other ingredients but resemble meat, and are eaten as meat substitutes. Are such products permissible for consumption during the Nine Days? Hacham Bension Abba Shaul (Jerusalem, 1924-1998) writes that although the concept of Mar'it Ha'ayin – avoiding actions which appear as Halachic violations – forbids eating something which appears prohibited, this rule does not apply to something which is forbidden only by force of Minhag (accepted custom). When something is forbidden by the strict Halacha, then we must be concerned about Mar'it Ha'ayin, but not when it is forbidden only on the level of Minhag. Therefore, Hacham Bension writes, it is permissible during the Nine Days to eat vegetarian products which resemble meat, but during the Se'uda Mafseket, when meat is forbidden on the level of strict Halacha, it may be eaten only privately, but not in public view. Summary: Synthetic meat products – meaning, products which resemble meat but are made from soy or other ingredients – may be eaten during the Nine Days. However, during the Se'uda Mafseket right before Tisha B'Ab, such products may be eaten only in private, but not in a public setting.

The Rebbe sends blessings in connection with 12–13 Tammuz and responds to previous letters. He acknowledges receipt of Le'or HaHalachah with thanks and brief notes, discusses assisting someone in need, and shares concise halachic insights on warfare, sale of chametz, and the debate between Beit Shammai and Beit Hillel. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/011/5604

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. 

The Halacha below was generated by AI based on multiple classes given by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the dates below to hear the original audio file. This write-up has been reviewed, but if any errors remain , we welcome corrections. 06-17-25 ; 06-18-25 The Three Weeks—also known as Ben HaMesarim —represent a time of national mourning over the destruction of the Bet HaMikdash . While many of the customs during this period are observed passively (such as refraining from music or haircuts), Tikun Hatzot is an active custom that allows a person to express sadness over the Hurban (destruction of the Bet HaMikdash ) in a personal, heartfelt way. In this Halacha, we will explore what Tikun Hatzot is, why it is especially appropriate during the Three Weeks, and how and when it should be said. What Is Tikun Hatzot ? Tikun Hatzot refers to a set of prayers recited around midnight to mourn the Hurban and the exile of the Shechina . The Zohar and many Mekubalim praise it as one of the highest spiritual practices, particularly during this period. Rav Haim Vital writes that the Arizal himself would say Tikun Hatzot regularly, and especially during the Three Weeks. The Tikun is traditionally divided into two parts: Tikun Rahel : Emphasizes mourning and sorrow over the destruction. Tikun Leah : Focuses more on hope, rebuilding, and longing for redemption. During the Three Weeks, especially at night, it is fitting to recite both parts, though some only recite Tikun Rahel if they are pressed for time or emotionally unable to complete both. Why Is Tikun Hatzot So Powerful During This Time? The Three Weeks are designated as a time to feel the loss of the Bet HaMikdash and yearn for Geula. Tikun Hatzot allows us to turn that feeling into prayer. The Arizal taught that crying during Tikun Hatzot at this time carries immeasurable value. The act of waking up at night, sitting on the floor, and expressing pain over the exile of the Shechina is considered a personal partnership in the national mourning of Am Yisrael. As the Midrash says, "Whoever mourns the Hurban will merit seeing the rebuilding." How and When Is Tikun Hatzot Recited? Tikun Hatzot is ideally recited at Halachic midnight ( Chatzot Halayla ), which varies depending on the season. It typically falls around 12:30 a.m. in the summer months. The person should sit on the floor or a low stool, remove leather shoes, dim the lights, and recite the Tikun slowly and tearfully. If one cannot stay up until midnight, it may still be recited later in the night, and some authorities permit it slightly before Chatzot . If one is unable to recite the entire Tikun, he should at least say a portion or even sit in silence contemplating the loss of the Bet HaMikdash . The sincerity is more important than the length. Can Tikun Hatzot Be Said on Shabbat or Friday Night? No. Tikun Hatzot is not recited on Shabbat or Yom Tob, including Friday night, as it is a time of joy. Mourning rituals are suspended on these days, just like we don't say Tahanun or observe other mourning customs. Is This Custom for Everyone—Or Only the Very Pious? While Tikun Hatzot is classically associated with Mekubalim and very pious individuals, during the Three Weeks it becomes a powerful tool available to all. Even one who does not say it year-round should consider adding it during this time. One does not need to be a scholar or mystic to sit on the floor and say Tehillim or express longing for the Bet HaMikdash . The emotion and sincerity are what matter most. Summary Tikun Hatzot is a midnight prayer of mourning the Hurban, highly appropriate during the Three Weeks. It consists of Tikun Rahel and Tikun Leah; both are ideal, but even saying part has value. It is best said at Halachic midnight, but later or earlier is allowed in some cases. Not recited on Shabbat or Yom Tob. Open to everyone—not just scholars—and especially encouraged during Ben HaMesarim .

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.

The Halacha below was generated by AI based on multiple classes given by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the dates below to hear the original audio file. This write-up has been reviewed, but if any errors remain , we welcome corrections. 06-09-25 ; 06-10-25 ; 06-11-25 ; 06-12-25 The Question What happens to the obligation of Tefillin if a person crosses the International Dateline? Should he wear Tefillin twice if he repeats a day? Should he skip Tefillin if he loses a day? This question affects travelers going to or from places like Japan, Australia, Hawaii, or America. Understanding the Issue When one crosses the dateline, he might experience the same calendar day twice or skip a day altogether. For example: • Flying from America to Australia on a Thursday evening can result in arriving on Saturday morning , skipping Friday entirely. • Flying from Australia to America can cause one to repeat Friday twice. This brings up a Halachic dilemma: Do I wear Tefillin both times I experience Friday? Or do I wear Tefillin on a day I missed ? Obligation Based on Personal Count According to many Poskim , Tefillin should be worn based on your personal count of days —not the calendar date printed in the location. If you have experienced six consecutive days with Tefillin, and the next is your seventh, you do not wear Tefillin, as it is your Shabbat . If you have not yet reached your Shabbat (because you skipped a day due to travel), you do wear Tefillin on the local Shabbat, as it is your sixth day . This concept is based on the Gemara's case of a person lost in the desert , who forgets what day it is. He wears Tefillin for six days and rests on the seventh. The Misva follows his personal sequence. Local Calendar vs. Personal Reality While some argue to follow the local calendar—since the place is observing Shabbat or Yom Tob—many authorities rule that your obligation to wear Tefillin follows your own timeline . This means: • If you fly and miss Friday: On the local Shabbat, you wear Tefillin. • If you fly and repeat Friday: You wear Tefillin both days, since for you they are two different days. Beracha or Not ? Some suggest wearing Tefillin without a Beracha in cases of uncertainty—such as when repeating a day or wearing Tefillin on the local Shabbat. • If you're unsure, don Tefillin without saying the Beracha. • If possible, listen to someone else's Beracha and respond Amen. Tefillin vs. Tefila This discussion is about Tefillin , not Tefila . The prayers of the day must follow the local calendar . If the community is praying Shabbat prayers, you follow them. But for Tefillin, the obligation follows your own count of six days of labor. Summary • The obligation to wear Tefillin follows your personal six-day cycle , not the local calendar. • If you skipped a day via travel, wear Tefillin on the local Shabbat. • If you repeat a day, wear Tefillin both times. • When in doubt, wear Tefillin without a Beracha . • Tefila (prayer) follows the local calendar, while Tefillin follows your own timeline.

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 Rabbi Shalom Rosner discusses the Halachot of Koseiv. Follow along using Tzurba Volume 21Tzurba is a revolutionary Halacha sefer guiding the learner through the Halachic process from the Talmudic source through modern day halachic application. Each volume contains clear and concise color-coded sections with a modern English translation alongside the original Hebrew text.The Tzurba Hilchot Shabbat Program is a 2 year cycle in which one can master all of Hilchot Shabbat by learning weekly with Tzurba's signature seforim and style.Tzurba seforim are all available on Amazon worldwide (for those in Israel you can purchase on our website)Have a question for Rabbi Rosner? Want to sponsor a shiur? Contact us at neil@tzurbaolami.com or WhatsAppFollow us on social media for more content:WhatsAppInstagramTwitterYouTubeLearn more about The Lax Family Tzurba M'Rabanan Series

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.

The Halacha below was derived from multiple classes orated by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the dates below to hear the original audio files, which are the sources for today's Halacha below. 04/22/25 ; 05/01/25 ; 05/15/25 ; 05/18/25 Should the Tefillin Be Covered During Prayer—And What About Wearing Two Sets or a Hat Over Them? When wearing Tefillin during prayer, one often notices different customs regarding whether the boxes are visible or covered. Some keep the Tefillin Shel Rosh exposed; others wear a hat or Talet over it. There are also questions about whether one may wear both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin at the same time and how that impacts covering. This Halacha explores the classic sources, Kabbalistic teachings, and practical customs surrounding this issue. Should the Tefillin Shel Rosh Be Covered or Left Visible? According to the Shulhan Aruch (Orah Haim 27:11), the Tefillin Shel Rosh should be exposed and visible, as it says, "Ve-ra'u kol ame ha'aretz ki shem Hashem nikra alecha"—"All the nations will see the Name of Hashem upon you." This refers to the Shel Rosh, which is placed between the eyes and visibly bears the holy Name of Hashem through the Shin on the box. The Ben Ish Hai (Parashat Vayera, Halacha 14) and others agree that, according to Halacha, the Tefillin Shel Rosh should not be covered, and doing so is contrary to the verse. Therefore, the simple Halachic practice is to leave the head Tefillin visible during Tefila. What Did the Arizal Teach About Covering the Tefillin? Despite the Halachic preference for visibility, the Arizal taught that the Tefillin—both Shel Yad and Shel Rosh—should be covered, especially during prayer. According to Kabbala, holiness is something internal and concealed, not meant for open display. The spiritual power of the Tefillin is most potent when it is shielded from the outside world, not flaunted. As such, many Kabbalistically inclined communities, especially in Eres Yisrael, cover their Tefillin with a hat, scarf, or even the corner of the Talet. How Does Hacham Ovadia Rule on This Matter? Hacham Ovadia Yosef ruled that the Tefillin Shel Rosh should ideally remain uncovered, in accordance with the Shulhan Aruch. However, he acknowledged that those who follow the Arizal's Kabbalistic teachings may cover the Tefillin, especially if they were raised in such a tradition. He emphasized that this is not a strict Halachic requirement, and each community should follow its minhag. In particular, those who grew up keeping their Tefillin uncovered should not switch to covering them, unless they are entirely immersed in a Kabbalistic path. May One Cover the Tefillin with a Hat or Scarf? Yes. If one follows the custom to cover the Tefillin, it is permissible to use a hat, scarf, or the corner of a Talet. However, the covering must not press down on the box or distort its position. The Tefillin must sit firmly and properly at the hairline, centered between the eyes, even when something rests on top of it. Therefore, tight hats or heavy fabric should be avoided, as they might push the Bayit out of its Halachic placement. What If a Hat Accidentally Covers the Tefillin? If someone does not intend to cover the Tefillin but wears a wide-brimmed hat, fedora, or cap that slightly touches or shades the Tefillin Shel Rosh, there is no problem. As long as the Tefillin is not squeezed or hidden from view, one need not remove the hat. In fact, many authorities say that this does not constitute "covering" in the Halachic or Kabbalistic sense. Only when the Bayit is fully obscured or deliberately covered does it fall into the category discussed by the Arizal. May One Wear Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin at the Same Time? According to Kabbala, it is proper to wear both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin—but not at the same time. Instead, the correct practice is to wear Rashi Tefillin during the full Amida and Shema, and then put on Rabbenu Tam afterward. However, some Chassidic groups wear both sets simultaneously, placing one behind the other or slightly to the side. This practice is not followed among Sepharadim, and is discouraged by Hacham Ovadia and Maran. If a Person Wears Both Tefillin, Should They Be Covered? Yes. If a person wears both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin at the same time, they must cover the Tefillin with a Talet or scarf. This avoids the appearance of adding to the Misva or causing confusion. The double set should be aligned in such a way that each box is in a Halachically valid position, but this is extremely difficult to do properly. Therefore, unless one is following a specific and reliable custom, it is better to wear the Tefillin separately. Summary - According to Halacha, the Tefillin Shel Rosh should remain uncovered, to fulfill the verse "all nations will see…" - According to the Arizal, Tefillin should be covered during prayer for Kabbalistic reasons. - A hat, scarf, or Talet may be used to cover, provided it does not push or move the box. - Hacham Ovadia recommends keeping the Shel Rosh visible, unless one's community follows the Arizal. - If a person wears both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin at the same time, they must cover the Tefillin. - The general Sephardic custom is to wear Rashi during prayer and Rabbenu Tam afterward, not simultaneously.

This morning we discuss the importance of creating your Digital Directive, alongside your estate will (and Halachic will), and your advance medical directive. To do this you must authorize a person you trust, like your executor, and give that person access to all your passwords, devices, apps, bills you pay online, etc. All of this planning will hopefully remove or reduce the chance of arguments and disharmony among your heirs, which often leads to families breaking up, God forbid. Michael Whitman is the senior rabbi of ADATH Congregation in Hampstead, Quebec, and an adjunct professor at McGill University Faculty of Law. ADATH is a modern orthodox synagogue community in suburban Montreal, providing Judaism for the next generation. We take great pleasure in welcoming everyone with a warm smile, while sharing inspiration through prayer, study, and friendship. Rabbi Whitman shares his thoughts and inspirations through online lectures and shiurim, which are available on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5FLcsC6xz5TmkirT1qObkA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adathmichael/ Podcast - Mining the Riches of the Parsha: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/mining-the-riches-of-the-parsha/id1479615142?fbclid=IwAR1c6YygRR6pvAKFvEmMGCcs0Y6hpmK8tXzPinbum8drqw2zLIo7c9SR-jc Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3hWYhCG5GR8zygw4ZNsSmO Please contact Rabbi Whitman (rabbi@adath.ca) with any questions or feedback, or to receive a daily email, "Study with Rabbi Whitman Today," with current and past insights for that day, video, and audio, all in one short email sent directly to your inbox.

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

The Halacha below was derived from multiple classes orated by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the dates below to hear the original audio files, which are the sources for today's Halacha below. 04/07/25 ; 04/08/25 ; 04/09/25 ; 05/06/25 ; 05/08/25 May Another Person Help Put Tefillin On You—And Who Qualifies to Do So? The act of putting on Tefillin is a personal Misva that requires intention, precision, and sanctity. But what happens when a person cannot do it themselves? May another person assist? And are there restrictions on who is allowed to help—such as a woman, child, or even a non-Jew? This Halacha explores the boundaries of assistance, the impact on kavana and the Beracha, and the situations where help becomes a necessity. Is a Person Allowed to Receive Help Putting On Tefillin? Yes. A person may receive help putting on Tefillin, especially when needed due to age, injury, or inexperience. Ideally, a man should put on his own Tefillin to perform the Misva personally, but Halacha allows for assistance when necessary. The Misva lies in the placement and binding of the Tefillin onto the body. As long as the wearer has the proper intention (kavana) and recites the Beracha, the Misva is fulfilled—even if another person places or wraps the Tefillin. This applies both to the Shel Yad (on the arm) and the Shel Rosh (on the head). Help may be given with positioning, adjusting, or tightening—especially if the wearer cannot reach, does not know how, or is worried about doing it incorrectly. Does the One Assisting Need to Have Kavana? No. The kavana that matters is that of the person wearing the Tefillin, not the one providing assistance. The helper does not need to have in mind that a Misva is being done. The individual receiving the Tefillin is the one performing the commandment, even if someone else does the physical action. Therefore, one can fulfill the Misva even if the helper is not religious, does not know the laws, or is not thinking about the Misva. Can a Woman Help Someone Put On Tefillin? Yes. A woman may assist someone with putting on Tefillin. Since the woman is not fulfilling the Misva for herself, but simply helping position the Tefillin on another, there is no issue. This applies to mothers helping sons, nurses helping patients, or even a bystander helping a man with limited mobility. As long as the person wearing the Tefillin recites the Beracha and intends to perform the Misva, the placement by a woman is Halachically acceptable. Some might wonder whether the woman should wear gloves or avoid contact, but Halacha does not require this. Modesty and appropriateness should always be observed, but the assistance itself is permitted. Can a Child Assist an Adult? If the child is old enough to understand how to properly place the Tefillin, and is respectful and calm, he may help. However, ideally, the Tefillin should be placed by an adult, since a child may lack the strength, precision, or awareness needed. Still, in the absence of alternatives—for example, if a young son is helping his elderly father—it is acceptable. May a Non-Jew Help Someone Put On Tefillin? Surprisingly, yes. A non-Jew may assist in the physical placement of the Tefillin—provided that: - The person wearing the Tefillin recites the Beracha - The non-Jew does not interfere with kavana or Beracha - The Tefillin are placed correctly and securely This is relevant in cases of hospital care, where nurses or aides who are not Jewish help position the straps or box. The non-Jew is not fulfilling the Misva, and the Halachic responsibility lies entirely with the person wearing them. However, it is crucial to ensure the Tefillin are not handled disrespectfully, and that the placement is correct. If the non-Jew does not know how to handle them properly, one should avoid asking for help unless truly necessary. What If the Wearer Cannot Wrap the Strap Themselves? If a person cannot wrap the retzuot due to paralysis, amputation, weakness, or other physical limitation, another person may wrap the Tefillin for them. As long as the Bayit is placed properly and the intention and Beracha are performed by the wearer, the Misva is fulfilled. It is best for the wearer to be involved to the extent they can—such as holding the box in place, tightening the strap, or reciting the Beracha before assistance begins. If none of that is possible—for example, a fully paralyzed individual—the helper may do everything, and the person fulfills the Misva mentally, with kavana in the heart. Can the Helper Speak or Interrupt During the Process? While helping another person put on Tefillin, it is best not to speak during the process—from the time of the Beracha on the Shel Yad until after the Shel Rosh is secured. Just like when putting on one's own Tefillin, interruptions are discouraged, unless for a Misva or necessary communication. The helper should be mindful and respectful, preserving the sanctity of the moment. Summary - A person may receive help putting on Tefillin if needed. - The Beracha and kavana must come from the person wearing the Tefillin—not the helper. - A woman, child, or non-Jew may assist if done respectfully and correctly. - The helper does not need to have kavana to fulfill the Misva. - The wearer should be involved as much as possible, even minimally. - Speaking or interrupting during the process should be avoided unless necessary.

The Halacha below was derived from multiple classes orated by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the dates below to hear the original audio files, which are the sources for today's Halacha below. 04/08/25 ; 04/09/25 ; 05/05/25 ; 05/06/25 Should the Yud of the Tefillin Shel Yad Be Touching the Bayit—And How Critical Is Its Placement? The Tefillin Shel Yad is wrapped around the arm and tied with a knot shaped like the Hebrew letter Yud, positioned near the Bayit (box). This Yud is not merely decorative; it carries both Halachic and Kabbalistic importance. But how close must it be to the box? Does its position affect the validity of the Misva? And what happens if it slips out of place during prayer? What Is the Yud on the Tefillin Shel Yad? The Torah uses the phrase "Totafot"—frontlets—when referring to Tefillin. The Halacha teaches that this word alludes to four Parashiot (Torah passages) placed in the Shel Rosh, but also connects to the name of Hashem. The Name of Hashem, as reflected in the Tefillin, appears through the knot of the Shel Yad shaped like a Yud, the shape of the knot of the Shel Rosh (a Dalet), and the Shin embossed on the Shel Rosh. Together, these letters spell out "Shaddai," one of the sacred Names of Hashem. According to Kabbala, this structure must be complete and properly aligned, or it interrupts the spiritual flow the Tefillin are meant to draw. But aside from the Kabbalistic implications, there are real Halachic consequences if the Yud is not properly positioned. Must the Yud Be Touching the Bayit? Yes. The Yud must rest against the Bayit, and the knot should be snug and stable. The Shulhan Aruch (Orah Haim 27:2) rules that the Yud must not be separated from the box, even by a small space. The Yud is part of the Halachic identity of the Tefillin. According to the Hida (Birkei Yosef), if the Yud is not close to the Bayit—if it slips down the strap or hangs loosely—the Tefillin may be considered Pasul (invalid), especially during the Beracha. To fulfill the Misva properly, one must ensure at the time of the Beracha and binding that the Yud is tight and resting directly against the base of the box. Does It Invalidate the Tefillin If the Yud Moves During Tefila? If the Yud is touching the Bayit when the Beracha is recited and the Tefillin are put on, but it later shifts slightly during prayer, this does not invalidate the Misva. The critical moment is the initial placement and blessing. However, if a person notices that the Yud has slipped or become completely separated during prayer, it is appropriate to adjust it immediately and discreetly. There's no need to repeat the Beracha unless it was clearly never positioned properly to begin with. In fact, it is a good practice to check the Yud each morning before putting on the Tefillin. Make sure the loop is tight and that the knot is secure. If the knot is loose or keeps sliding, it may need to be retied by someone knowledgeable in Tefillin construction. Can the Yud Be Placed Under or Behind the Bayit? The Yud should rest alongside the Bayit, not behind it and not underneath. If it is placed underneath the base—wedged between the box and the arm—it may cause the Bayit to sit at an angle, or lift it slightly, which is improper. The Bayit must sit flat against the bicep, not propped up or tilted. The Yud should hug the corner of the Bayit—visible and aligned, not tucked away or hidden. Some people mistakenly wrap the strap in a way that presses the Yud underneath or squeezes it behind the box. This not only distorts the alignment, but also reduces the visibility and symbolic meaning of the Yud. What If the Yud Is Missing or Not Formed Properly? If the Yud is missing altogether—or if the strap is tied in a way that does not resemble the letter Yud—then the Tefillin Shel Yad is invalid. The form of the knot must clearly resemble a Yud. This is why it's important that the knot is tied by a qualified sofer or expert, and not altered by someone unfamiliar with the laws. Even well-meaning adjustments can result in a shape that does not fulfill the Halachic requirement. Also, over time, straps wear out. The corner may fray or stretch, and the Yud shape may become unclear. A person should periodically inspect the Tefillin or bring them to a sofer for checking. How Tight Should the Knot Be? The strap and knot should be tight enough to keep the Yud securely in place, but not so tight that it pulls or deforms the shape of the Bayit. There is a balance between tightness and comfort. One should feel the firmness, but also be able to move the arm normally. Excessive tightness is unnecessary—and even harmful to the Tefillin and to circulation. Summary - The Yud must be placed directly next to the Bayit of the Tefillin Shel Yad. - This position is Halachically required, not just symbolic or aesthetic. - If the Yud slips after the Beracha, the Misva remains valid, but it should be adjusted. - The Yud should be visible and rest on the side of the Bayit, not under or behind it. - A missing or malformed Yud invalidates the Tefillin Shel Yad. - The strap should be tight enough to hold the Yud in place, but not overly tight.

The Halacha below was derived from multiple classes orated by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the dates below to hear the original audio files, which are the sources for today's Halacha below. 04/15/25 ; 04/16/25 ; 04/23/25 ; 04/24/25 ; 05/13/25 Does Hair, Dirt, or Clothing Count as a Barrier (Hatssitsa) Between the Tefillin and the Body? The Misva of wearing Tefillin requires the box (Bayit) of the Tefillin Shel Yad to be placed directly upon the skin. The Halacha introduces the concept of Hatssitsa—a barrier that interferes between the Tefillin and the arm. This Halacha explores what is considered a Hatssitsa, what kinds of materials invalidate the Misva, and how one should prepare the arm and head before wearing Tefillin to ensure full compliance. Does the Tefillin Shel Yad Need to Touch the Skin Directly? Yes. The Shulhan Aruch (Orah Haim 27:4) states clearly that the Bayit of the Tefillin Shel Yad must rest directly on the skin, without any chatitsa (interruption) beneath it. This includes shirts, undershirts, sleeves, or even sweatbands. The retzuot (straps) may wrap over clothing, but the Bayit itself must not. If the Bayit is on top of a sleeve or bandage, the person has not fulfilled the Misva at all. It is as if the Tefillin were never worn. Is Hair Considered a Barrier? Hair is part of the body and is not considered a Hatssitsa. The Poskim clarify that normal arm or head hair does not interfere with the Misva. Even a full head of hair—curly, thick, or long—is not inherently problematic. However, the issue arises when the hair is matted down with gel, spray, or dirt. If a person uses strong hair gel that forms a hard crust, or if sweat causes the hair to stick together like a shield, then some Poskim consider that a potential barrier. The Halachic principle is: if the material is foreign and not naturally part of the body, and if it is something people would normally remove (like crusted gel or thick mud), then it could be considered a Hatssitsa. What About Hair Gel, Sweat, or Oil? This is a common question. Light gel that keeps hair in place but does not form a crust is generally permitted. If the gel is soft and pliable and does not act as a thick layer between the Bayit and the scalp, then one may place the Tefillin Shel Rosh over it. But if the gel hardens into a shell-like layer that creates a clear separation between the scalp and the Tefillin, that can be a problem. Similarly, sweat is not a problem unless it is mixed with something foreign—such as dried mud or blood. If the skin is sweaty or slightly oily, that is still considered skin. To avoid questions, it's best to wash or wipe the forehead before wearing Tefillin Shel Rosh, especially if a person has oily skin, applied lotion, or used hair products. What About Bandages, Gauze, or Wounds? If there is a bandage on the arm or forehead, that does count as a Hatssitsa. In such cases, the person must try to remove the bandage or find a way to position the Bayit on clean, uncovered skin. If there is a wound, and removing the bandage would cause pain or bleeding, and there is no area to place the Tefillin properly, then one is exempt from the Misva of the Tefillin Shel Yad for that day. However, he should still wear the Tefillin Shel Rosh, assuming the head is unaffected. If only part of the bicep is covered, and there is still enough exposed skin to place the Bayit, then he may proceed and fulfill the Misva. Can a Sleeve Be Pulled Over the Arm After Tefillin Is Put On? Yes, after the Tefillin Shel Yad is in place and the Beracha has been recited, one may pull a sleeve over the arm to keep warm or to keep the Tefillin hidden. However, this is not ideal. Many have the custom to leave the Tefillin exposed, at least partially, as a sign of pride and public sanctification. But if a person is cold or concerned for safety (such as walking in public), it is permissible to cover the Tefillin after the fact. Just make sure the Tefillin was placed directly on the skin to begin with. What If the Retzuah Is Twisted or Touches Clothing? The strap (retzuah) may touch clothing or twist slightly along the arm. This is not a problem. The requirement for direct skin contact applies only to the Bayit—not the strap. However, if the knot of the Tefillin is wrapped in a way that causes the Bayit to be lifted off the skin or sit at an angle, that can be a problem. The Tefillin must sit flush with the arm or head. Summary - The Bayit of the Tefillin Shel Yad must rest directly on the skin, with no barrier. - Hair is not a problem unless hardened by thick gel or dirt that creates a crust. - Sweat or light oil does not invalidate the Misva. - Bandages are a Hatssitsa and must be removed, unless medically necessary. - A person may cover the Tefillin with clothing after they are properly placed. - The strap may touch clothing; only the Bayit requires direct contact with the skin.

The Halacha below was derived from multiple classes orated by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the recording dates below to hear the original audio files, which are the sources for today's Halacha below. 04/03/25 ; 04/06/25 ; 04/10/25 ; 04/28/25 ; 05/07/25 What Is the Exact Placement of Tefillin Shel Yad—and How Precise Must It Be? The Torah instructs us to bind Tefillin "al zero'ekha"—on your arm. But where exactly is that? This Halacha explores the required placement of the Tefillin Shel Yad according to Halacha and Kabbala, how precise we must be with its position, and how to properly wear both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin on the arm at the same time. What Is the Required Area for the Tefillin Shel Yad? The Torah uses the phrase "al zero'ekha" — upon your arm — and the Gemara clarifies that this refers to the bicep, specifically the upper part of the arm between the shoulder and the elbow. The Shulhan Aruch (Orah Haim 27:1) rules that the Tefillin must be placed on the inner part of the bicep, facing the heart. This physical location expresses the idea of subjugating the heart to Hashem. The Tefillin Shel Yad represents control over the heart — the source of our emotions and desires — directing our inner feelings toward Avodat Hashem. There are two key placement criteria: 1. The Tefillin must be entirely above the elbow joint — even partially below the joint renders it Pasul. 2. The Tefillin must be placed on the fleshy part of the bicep — not too high where it sits on the shoulder bone, and not too low where it might encroach on the elbow itself. How Precise Does the Placement Need to Be? According to the Shulhan Aruch and Poskim, the correct position is between the midpoint of the bicep and the elbow, but slightly closer to the elbow than the shoulder. That is the ideal range. The Tefillin should not be too high — even one fingerbreadth above the permitted area can be a problem. Likewise, if the Bayit is touching or resting on the elbow joint itself, the Tefillin may be invalid. To help people keep within the boundaries, I recommend that the bottom of the Bayit should rest just above the elbow bone — close, but clearly above it. This guarantees the placement is kosher and within the Halachic zone. Some Poskim, like the Vilna Gaon, insist on precise mid-bicep placement. Others, like the Ben Ish Hai, suggest placing the Tefillin slightly lower — closer to the elbow — so long as it stays well above the joint. Our practice, based on the view of Maran and the Mekubalim, is to angle the Tefillin slightly downward, toward the elbow and heart. This not only fulfills the physical requirement, but also expresses the spiritual symbolism. Can It Be Placed Too Far Inward or Too Far Outward? Absolutely. The Tefillin Shel Yad must be placed on the inner side of the bicep, the part that faces the heart when the arm is resting down by the side. If it's wrapped too far around to the outer arm — or angled too far behind the bicep — it can be invalid. Some people make the mistake of pulling the strap too tightly, causing the Bayit to slide or rotate inward, pressing into the side of the arm. That may look secure, but it can distort the shape or angle of the Bayit. The Tefillin should rest flat, facing straight ahead, and not be forced inward or outward by pressure from the strap. How Should One Wear Both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin on the Same Arm? Many Sepharadim, especially those following the teachings of the Arizal and Ben Ish Hai, wear both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin during Shahrit. The Halacha permits wearing both Shel Yad Tefillin at the same time — but only if both boxes are positioned vertically, one above the other, within the Halachic zone. Typically, the Rashi is placed first, closer to the elbow, and the Rabbenu Tam slightly above it. This stacking is valid as long as both remain within the required area. However, one must never place the two boxes side by side (horizontally across the arm). That is Pasul. The Halacha demands the Tefillin be placed "on your arm," not "around your arm." Horizontally-spaced boxes do not fulfill the Misva at all. What If a Person Has a Smaller Arm and Can't Fit Both Tefillin? In many cases — especially with younger boys or people with thinner arms — there may not be enough room to fit both Tefillin one above the other. In that case, it is better to wear Rashi first, remove it, and then wear Rabbenu Tam afterward. There is no need to force both on at once. It's more important that each Tefillin is worn correctly and within the Halachic boundaries. Halacha never requires a person to compromise proper placement just to fulfill both customs simultaneously. If there is room, both can be worn together. If not, one after the other is perfectly acceptable and often preferred. Summary - The Tefillin Shel Yad must be worn on the inner bicep, above the elbow, angled toward the heart. - It must be entirely within the zone between the elbow and the shoulder, not sitting too high on the shoulder bone and not touching the elbow joint. - The Bayit should sit flat and upright — not twisted, not rotated inward, and not pushed outward by the strap. - When wearing both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin, they must be placed vertically, one above the other — never side by side. - If the arm is too small to fit both boxes properly, one should wear them separately, rather than compromising on Halachic placement.

The Halacha below was derived from multiple classes orated by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the recording dates below to hear the original audio files, which are the sources for today's Halacha below. 04/02/25 ; 04/03/25 ; 04/07/25 ; 04/09/25 ; 05/04/25 Which Arm Should a Person Use for Tefillin—And What If He Is Left-Handed, Ambidextrous, or Disabled? The Torah commands us to bind Tefillin "on your arm." But which arm? That question is settled by our Sages: the arm referred to is the weaker arm. So for a right-handed person, Tefillin go on the left arm, and for a left-handed person, they go on the right. This Halacha examines how the decision is made, and how the Halacha applies to left-handed people, those who are ambidextrous, and individuals with limited use of one arm due to injury, paralysis, or amputation. What Is the Halachic Rule for Determining Which Arm to Use? The verse says, "Ukeshartam le'ot al yadekha" — "You shall bind them as a sign upon your arm." The Sages explain that this means the hand opposite the writing hand. That's the basic rule. If you write with your right hand, the Tefillin go on your left arm. If you write with your left hand, they go on your right. This is how the Shulhan Aruch rules in Orah Haim 27:6. The Mishnah Berura follows the same position. The weaker hand is used for Tefillin, because the act of binding represents control and submission of our actions to Hashem — and this symbolism applies specifically to the hand that is not dominant. What If a Person Writes with One Hand but Does Most Tasks with the Other? This comes up a lot. Let's say someone writes with his left hand but eats, throws, and does everything else with his right. Which is his dominant hand? The general rule is that writing is the primary indicator of dominance. If a person writes with his left hand, he is considered left-handed for Halachic purposes — and he should wear Tefillin on his right arm. Even if he does many other things with his right hand, the fact that he writes with his left gives it priority in Halacha. That said, if there's real uncertainty — someone is truly mixed or doesn't feel natural with either — he should speak to a Rav. But in most cases, the writing hand decides the matter. What If a Person Is Ambidextrous? In a rare case where someone uses both hands equally and writes comfortably with both, the Halacha treats him like a righty, meaning the Tefillin should be worn on the left arm. That's the ruling in most Poskim. In cases of doubt, we follow rov — the majority — and most people are right-handed. What If a Person Loses Use of His Dominant Hand? If a person becomes permanently unable to use his dominant hand — due to stroke, nerve damage, or any other reason — and now functions primarily with the opposite hand, the Halachic ruling may change. That person is now treated as if his non-dominant hand has become dominant, and the Tefillin should be worn on the new weaker arm. I once had a case where a man lost full use of his right arm. He was born right-handed, but after an injury, he could no longer write, eat, or function with that arm. He was now doing everything with his left. In that case, we ruled that he was now a lefty and should put Tefillin on his right arm. If the condition is temporary, such as post-surgery or while recovering from an injury, the ruling stays as-is. But if the condition is permanent and the person's habits have shifted accordingly, the Halacha adapts. What If One Arm Has Been Amputated? If someone is missing one of his arms, this too affects how Tefillin is worn. - If a right-handed person has had his left arm amputated, then the usual placement of the Tefillin Shel Yad is impossible. - If there remains some muscle or upper-arm area, and the strap can be wrapped around it, the Tefillin may be placed there. - If nothing usable remains, the Tefillin Shel Yad cannot be worn — but the person should still wear the Tefillin Shel Rosh. This is a rare case, but one that arises. The general rule is that Tefillin must be placed on the upper arm in a specific position. If there's no limb, the Misva simply doesn't apply in that case — but one still fulfills the Misva of the Shel Rosh. Does This Apply Equally to Tefillin of Rabbenu Tam? Absolutely. Whether one is wearing Tefillin of Rashi, Rabbenu Tam, or both, the choice of arm follows the exact same rule. We don't differentiate based on which Tefillin you're wearing. The arm is chosen based on your dominant hand — period. Summary - Tefillin are worn on the weaker arm: left for righties, right for lefties. - The writing hand determines which arm is considered dominant. - Ambidextrous people are generally treated as right-handed and wear Tefillin on the left arm. - If a person permanently loses use of their dominant hand, the Halacha may shift and reclassify their status. - In cases of amputation, Tefillin are worn if possible on remaining muscle. If not, the Shel Rosh should be worn without the Shel Yad. - This applies equally to both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin.

In this episode Rabbi Shalom Rosner discusses the Halachot of Medicine on Shabbat. Follow along using Tzurba Volume 21Tzurba is a revolutionary Halacha sefer guiding the learner through the Halachic process from the Talmudic source through modern day halachic application. Each volume contains clear and concise color-coded sections with a modern English translation alongside the original Hebrew text.The Tzurba Hilchot Shabbat Program is a 2 year cycle in which one can master all of Hilchot Shabbat by learning weekly with Tzurba's signature seforim and style.Tzurba seforim are all available on Amazon worldwide (for those in Israel you can purchase on our website)Have a question for Rabbi Rosner? Want to sponsor a shiur? Contact us at neil@tzurbaolami.com or WhatsAppFollow us on social media for more content:WhatsAppInstagramTwitterYouTubeLearn more about The Lax Family Tzurba M'Rabanan Series

In this episode Rabbi Shalom Rosner discusses the Halachot of Kosheir and Matir. Follow along using Tzurba Volume 21Tzurba is a revolutionary Halacha sefer guiding the learner through the Halachic process from the Talmudic source through modern day halachic application. Each volume contains clear and concise color-coded sections with a modern English translation alongside the original Hebrew text.The Tzurba Hilchot Shabbat Program is a 2 year cycle in which one can master all of Hilchot Shabbat by learning weekly with Tzurba's signature seforim and style.Tzurba seforim are all available on Amazon worldwide (for those in Israel you can purchase on our website)Have a question for Rabbi Rosner? Want to sponsor a shiur? Contact us at neil@tzurbaolami.com or WhatsAppFollow us on social media for more content:WhatsAppInstagramTwitterYouTubeLearn more about The Lax Family Tzurba M'Rabanan Series

In this episode Rabbi Shalom Rosner discusses the Halachot of Medicine on Shabbat. Follow along using Tzurba Volume 21Tzurba is a revolutionary Halacha sefer guiding the learner through the Halachic process from the Talmudic source through modern day halachic application. Each volume contains clear and concise color-coded sections with a modern English translation alongside the original Hebrew text.The Tzurba Hilchot Shabbat Program is a 2 year cycle in which one can master all of Hilchot Shabbat by learning weekly with Tzurba's signature seforim and style.Tzurba seforim are all available on Amazon worldwide (for those in Israel you can purchase on our website)Have a question for Rabbi Rosner? Want to sponsor a shiur? Contact us at neil@tzurbaolami.com or WhatsAppFollow us on social media for more content:WhatsAppInstagramTwitterYouTubeLearn more about The Lax Family Tzurba M'Rabanan Series

Is it prohibited to go to Minyan when the “Home Front Command” and Chief Rabbis say not to go? Can you carry a phone on Shabbos to hear the warnings of incoming missiles? Can you leave on the news (radio, TV, Internet) on Shabbos to hear what's going on? Should we say Hamapil before sleep, since we may need to immediately head to the bomb shelter? Do you need to wash Netilas Yadayim before heading to a bomb shelter in the middle of the night? Does the IDF need to be concerned that the bombing of nuclear reactors could cause “collateral damage” to millions of Iranian citizens? What's life like right now living in Israel with regular Iranian missile attacks? Host: Ari Wasserman, author of the newly published, revised and expanded book Making it Work, on workplace challenges and Halachic Q & A on the Job You can order "Halachic Q & A on the Job” at https://mosaicapress.com/product/halachic-q-a-on-the-job/ with Rabbi Dr. Yitzchak Breitowitz – posek, Rav and Senior Lecturer at Yeshivas Ohr Somayach – 18:42 with Rabbi Dovid Ostroff – posek and teacher at many seminaries in Yerushalayim – 45:06 with Mrs. Sivan Rahav-Meir - media personality, prolific author and lecturer – 1:02:58 with Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Brody – Executive Director of Ematai, author of “Ethics of Our Fighters” – 1:16:04 Conclusions and takeaways – 1:37:00 מראי מקומות   

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.

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.

In this episode Rabbi Shalom Rosner discusses the Halachot of Kosheir and Matir. Follow along using Tzurba Volume 21Tzurba is a revolutionary Halacha sefer guiding the learner through the Halachic process from the Talmudic source through modern day halachic application. Each volume contains clear and concise color-coded sections with a modern English translation alongside the original Hebrew text.The Tzurba Hilchot Shabbat Program is a 2 year cycle in which one can master all of Hilchot Shabbat by learning weekly with Tzurba's signature seforim and style.Tzurba seforim are all available on Amazon worldwide (for those in Israel you can purchase on our website)Have a question for Rabbi Rosner? Want to sponsor a shiur? Contact us at neil@tzurbaolami.com or WhatsAppFollow us on social media for more content:WhatsAppInstagramTwitterYouTubeLearn more about The Lax Family Tzurba M'Rabanan Series

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

The Mishna Berura (Rav Yisrael Meir Kagan of Radin, 1839-1933), in Siman 4, writes (citing the Seder Olam) that upon awakening in the morning, one should not touch his garments before washing Netilat Yadayim. One should immediately proceed to Netilat Yadayim after waking, before taking off his pajamas or getting his shirt, pants, or other garments. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Jerusalem, 1910-1995), in Isheh Yisrael (1:23), writes that an exception may be made regarding the Kippa. Many people wear their Kippa when they go to bed, and indeed the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) writes that this is a proper practice. Of course, by the time one wakes up his Kippa is no longer on his head, and Rav Shlomo Zalman noted that the prevalent custom is to allow putting one's Kippa on his head before Netilat Yadayim in the morning. The Magen Abraham (Rav Abraham Gombiner, Poland, 1635-1682) in any event wrote that from the Gemara it appears that one may touch his clothing before washing hands, and so although we generally do not follow this view, when it comes to the Kippa we may rely on the Magen Abraham and put it one before washing.

Maran writes in Shulhan Aruch (Orah Haim 4) that one must ensure not to touch a vat of beer in the morning before washing Netilat Yadayim, as doing so could cause one to lose the beer. The Mishna Berura (Rav Yisrael Meir Kagan, 1839-1933) explains that since there is Tum'a (impurity) on one's hands when he wakes up in the morning, touching food can cause it to become Tameh, which can have detrimental effects. One must therefore avoid touching food before washing his hands in the morning. The Halachic authorities write that if one did touch food before washing his hands in the morning, he should put it under water three times, and then it may be eaten. This applies even to vegetables that one normally peels, like cucumbers. Despite the fact that one touched only the peel, which in any event will be removed, the vegetable must be rinsed three times before it is eaten. Some writers raised the question of why this method of eliminating Tum'a does not work in the case of garlic that was left without its peel overnight. The garlic in this case should not be eaten, as it contracts Tum'a overnight, and the Poskim do not offer the solution of rinsing the garlic the three times. The work Arsot Haim explains that one cannot compare different forms of Tum'a and evil spirits. A method that is effective for eliminating one kind of Tum'a is not necessarily effective with regard to a different kind, and thus although a food that has been touched before Netilat Yadayim may be rinsed and eaten, this solution cannot be used in the case of garlic that had been left overnight without its peel. The Mishna Berura writes that one should also refrain from smelling tobacco snuff before washing Netilat Yadayim in the morning, for two reasons: 1) he causes the snuff to become Tameh by touching it; 2) smelling snuff involves touching the nostril, and it is forbidden to touch the openings of one's body before washing Netilat Yadayim. Summary: One should ensure not to touch any food or drink before washing his hands in the morning. If he did touch food before washing his hands, he should wash it three times and it may then be eaten.

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It is customary to remain awake throughout the first night of Shabuot and study the special "Tikkun" text that appears in the book "Keri'eh Mo'ed." Most synagogues serve food and drinks, such as tea and coffee, during the night to help people remain awake and focused on their learning. The question arises as to whether or not one should recite a Beracha each time he drinks during Shabuot night. For example, if a person drinks a cup of coffee and then returns to his learning, and an hour and a half later he decides to have another drink, should he recite a new Beracha of "She'hakol"? Or, does the Beracha one recites when he drinks the first time cover all subsequent drinks that he has throughout the night? This issue is subject to a debate among the Halachic authorities. Hacham Ben Sion Abba Shaul (Israel, 1923-1998) maintained that each time one drinks on Shabuot night, he should have in mind for his Beracha to cover only the cup he drinks at that point. Thus, when he decides to drink again later, he must recite a new Beracha. Hacham Ovadia Yosef, however, disagrees. Based upon the ruling of the Maharash Alafandri, Hacham Ovadia writes that to the contrary, one should have in mind when he drinks the first time on Shabuot night that the Beracha he recites should cover all his drinks throughout the night. Then, he does not have to recite any other Berachot over drinks that night, even if there is a lengthy break between drinks. Once a person has in mind that his first Beracha should cover all his drinks throughout the night, then even if he drinks in long intervals of seventy-two minutes or more, he does not recite any Berachot. Our custom is to recite Birkat Ha'Torah on Shabuot morning, after Alot Ha'shahar (daybreak), even if one has not slept at all during the night. Some Ashkenazim have the practice not to recite Birkat Ha'Torah in a case where one had remained awake all night, but our practice follows the view that one recites Birkat Ha'Torah even in such a case. Regarding Netilat Yadayim, the Shulhan Aruch records a debate among the authorities as to whether one must wash his hands in the morning if he had not slept at all during the night, and our custom is therefore to wash Netilat Yadayim but without reciting a Beracha. Of course, one who uses the restroom recites the Beracha of "Asher Yasar" as usual. Summary: On Shabuot night, when we remain awake throughout the night, one should have in mind when he drinks for the first time that his Beracha should cover all his drinks throughout the night. He then does not recite a Beracha when he drinks later, even if there was a lengthy break in between drinks. Our custom is to recite Birkat Ha'Torah even if one did not sleep at all during the night, and to wash Netilat Yadayim without a Beracha.

The holiday of Shabuot is included among the three "Regalim" ("pilgrimage festivals"), when there is an obligation of Simha – to rejoice and be festive. The Gemara says that according to all views among the Sages, there is an obligation to enjoy oneself on Shabuot. Beyond the spiritual enjoyment that we experience by studying Torah, there is also a Halachic obligation to rejoice through physical enjoyment. The Sages teach that for men, this means indulging in meat and wine. Although there is a widespread custom to eat some dairy meals on Shabuot, one should make a point of eating meat on Shabuot, as well. One can fulfill this obligation with red meat, which resembles the meat of the sacrifices that were brought in the Bet Ha'mikdash on the holidays, or even with poultry, if that is what he enjoys, even though it does not technically qualify as "meat." If a person does not enjoy meat and wine, then he should eat whatever foods and drinks he enjoys. There is certainly no Misva on Yom Tob to eat foods that one does not enjoy. One is also obligated to make his children happy on Yom Tob. The Rambam (Rabbi Moshe Maimonides, Spain-Egypt, 1135-1204) writes that this is done by giving them treats, candies and the like. The Misva also requires making one's wife joyous, and the Rambam writes that one should purchase new clothing or jewelry for his wife before the festival. If one's wife does not need new clothing or jewelry, then he should buy her other gifts, even fine foods and the like. It is proper to immerse in a Mikveh on Ereb Shabuot to purify oneself in honor of the festival and in honor of the commemoration of Matan Torah.

Unsung HeroinesA businesswoman saves thousands from the Inquisition and rebuilds Jewish life across the Mediterranean, and a female Torah scholar shapes Halachic discourse while raising a family, feeding students, and caring for the sick—see the secret ways women shaped Jewish history.

It is standard medical procedure for expectant mothers to undergo periodic ultrasound examinations, during which the physicians see the fetus so it can be carefully examined to ensure it is developing properly. During this examination, the doctor can easily identify the fetus' gender, and doctors generally pass on this information to the parents. The question arises whether it is proper, from a Torah perspective, for the parents to learn the fetus' gender during pregnancy. The Torah commands, "Tamim Tiheyeh Im Hashem Elokecha" ("You shall be innocent with Hashem your G-d" – Debarim 18:13), which is understood as an obligation not to concern ourselves with the future, to conduct ourselves the way we see fit, placing our trust in Hashem, without trying to access information about the future. Does finding out a fetus' gender violate this principle? We do not find any clear-cut basis in Halachic literature to forbid such a practice, and it would appear that learning a fetus' gender does not indicate a lack of faith in G-d or an inappropriate attempt to access information about the future. There is, however, one interesting passage in the Midrash which perhaps leads us to discourage this practice. The Midrash (Kohelet Rabba) lists several pieces of information which G-d withheld from human beings. For example, nobody knows when he will leave this world, and, quite obviously, G-d arranged this intentionally so that we will always conduct ourselves properly, rather than wait and repent shortly before we die. As we do not know when we will leave this world, we have no choice but to approach every day as potentially our last, and conduct ourselves accordingly. The Midrash also includes in this list the thoughts of other people. G-d does not empower us to read other people's minds, because if people could access each other's thoughts, the world would be overrun by animosity. The Midrash lists a fetus' gender as one of the pieces of information which G-d withholds from us. No reason is given, but we can reasonably assume that if the Midrash includes a fetus' gender in this list, there must be a valuable reason for this information to be denied to us. Perhaps, if the mother was hoping for one gender, then knowing that the infant is the other gender could cause her distress, which might be detrimental to the child. Or, perhaps to the contrary, knowing the gender during pregnancy diminishes from the excitement when the baby is born. In any event, the Midrash clearly indicates that it is for our benefit that G-d conceals from parents their child's gender during pregnancy. While this Midrash certainly does not suffice to establish a Halachic prohibition against finding out a fetus' gender, it would seem that this is something which should be discouraged, unless there is a particular reason to obtain this information. In some situations, the parents need to know ahead of time whether a Berit Mila must be arranged, and there might be circumstances where for purposes of Shalom Bayit (harmony between husband and wife) this information is valuable. When such a need arises, it is certainly acceptable to be told the gender, as this does not violate any Halachic prohibition. We should add that if the father is a Kohen, there might actually be value in the parents' finding out the fetus' gender. The Mishna Berura (Rav Yisrael Meir Kagan of Radin, 1839-1933) addresses the question of whether a woman who is married to a Kohen may come in contact with Tum'at Met (the impurity generated by a human corpse) during pregnancy, such as by visiting a cemetery or entering a home where a corpse is present. All male Kohanim, including infants, are included in the prohibition which forbids Kohanim from coming in contact with Tum'at Met, and the question thus arises as to whether a pregnant wife of a Kohen should avoid Tum'at Met, in case she gives birth. The Mishna Berura rules that this is permissible, because it is a situation of "Sefek Sefeka" – where two uncertainties are involved. First, it is uncertain whether the fetus is a boy, who is forbidden from coming in contact with Tum'at Met, or a girl, who is not forbidden. Second, it is possible that the infant will be stillborn, Heaven forbid, in which case, of course, there is no prohibition. On this basis, the Mishna Berura permits the pregnant wife of a Kohen to go to a place where there is a human corpse. However, in a situation where Halacha permits something because of a "Sefek Sefeka," if it becomes possible to resolve one of the uncertainties, there is an obligation to do. Therefore, in the case of a wife of a Kohen who is pregnant, there is value in determining the gender in order to resolve the first uncertainty. Then, if she is carrying a boy, she would be required to avoid exposure to Tum'at Met, and if it is a girl, this would not be necessary. It should be noted that the Magen Abraham (Rav Abraham Gombiner, 1633-1683) maintained that the pregnant woman in any event would be permitted to go to a place where there is Tum'at Met, because the prohibition does not apply in such a case. Therefore, in consideration of this opinion, we would not go so far as to require a Kohen's pregnant wife to determine the child's gender. (Parenthetically, we should note that a Kohen's wife is certainly allowed to go to a hospital to deliver the child, despite the high probability that there is a human corpse in the hospital, because this is a situation of Pikua'h Nefesh – a potentially life-threatening circumstance. Additionally, the spread of Tum'a from one room to another and one floor to another in the hospital likely occurs only Mi'de'rabbanan (on the level of Rabbinic enactment), such that there is greater room for leniency.) Summary: There is no Halachic prohibition against finding out a fetus' gender during pregnancy, though it is preferable not to, unless there is a particular need, or if not knowing could compromise Shalom Bayit. If the father is a Kohen, it might, according to some opinions, be preferable to find out the gender, so that the mother will avoid places of Tum'at Met if it's a boy, and will not have to avoid such places if it is a girl. If the couple does not know the gender, the woman is nevertheless allowed to visit places where there is Tum'at Met.

Our Sages in several contexts emphasized the importance and value of the Misva of Hachnasat Orehim – welcoming guests. The Gemara comments that Hachnasat Orehim is even greater than "Kabbalat Peneh Shechina" (greeting the Shechina). Elsewhere, the Talmud teaches that a place where guests are not welcome will be destroyed, just as happened to the sinful city of Sedom, where hospitality was not allowed. Furthermore, the Mishna in Pe'a includes Hachnasat Orehim in its list of Misvot for which one is rewarded both in this world and the next. And other sources mention many Berachot that are earned through this Misva, including children, rain in its proper time, longevity, and others. Among the Halachic issues that arise when hosting guests is whether the hostess is permitted to pour wine or other alcoholic beverages for a male guest. We know that when a wife is a Nidda, she is not allowed to pour wine or other alcoholic beverages for her husband, unless she does so in an abnormal manner (such as by pouring with her left hand if she normally pours with her right). According to some Halachic authorities, this applies also to a married woman serving a man other than her husband, and thus a hostess should not pour for her male guests in the interest of modesty. By contrast, the work Ezer Mi'siyon writes that this restriction applies only to a married couple when the wife is a Nidda, and a hostess is permitted to pour alcoholic drinks for her guests. In practice, Rav Shayo, in his work Petah Ha'ohel (p. 87; listen to audio recording for precise citation), rules that generally a hostess should not pour wine for a male guest, and if she does, the guest should ensure not to look at her as she pours. However, if the hostess is hosting a large meal, with many guests around, then according to some Halachic authorities it is permissible for the hostess to pour for her guests. Summary: Generally speaking, a hostess should not pour wine or other alcoholic beverages for a male guest, unless she is serving a large meal and there are several other people at the table with them.

Is it permissible according to Halacha for a man to shake a woman's hand? The Ben Ish Hai (Rabbi Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) addresses this question in his work Od Yosef Hai (Parashat Shofetim, 22; listen to audio for precise citation). He records there the practice that had become customary in Europe for guests to tightly grasp the hands of the host and hostess upon arriving in the home. The Ben Ish Hai writes that since a handshake serves to express mutual feelings of friendship and affection, it falls under the Halachic category of "Derech Hiba" – affectionate contact with a member of the opposite gender – and is forbidden. In this context the Ben Ish Hai cites a comment of Rabbi Yehuda Ha'Hasid (Germany, late 12th-early 13th century), in his Sefer Hasidim (1090), forbidding shaking hands with a gentile woman, even if the woman's hand is covered with a glove. The Ben Ish Hai explained that although the Sefer Hasidim speaks here specifically of gentile women, it did not intend to permit shaking hands with Jewish women. Rather, the Sefer Hasidim seeks to dispel the possible misconception that one would be allowed to shake a gentile woman's hand in order to avoid the ridicule that might result from refusing to shake her hand. The Sefer Hasidim thus emphasized that a man may not shake hands even with a gentile, but it goes without saying that shaking hands with a Jewish woman is forbidden. Thus, it is strictly forbidden for a man to shake a woman's hand, regardless of whether or not she is Jewish; this prohibition applies even in professional contexts, where the accepted protocol is to shake hands even with members of the opposite gender.

A situation recently arose concerning a family in Montreal who lost a relative, Heaven forbid, living in Miami. The family in Montreal did not to travel to join the other relatives at the funeral, which was held two days later, and they therefore faced the question of when to begin Aveilut (mourning). Does the period of Aveilut begin only after the funeral, in which they case they should call the relatives in Miami to find out when the funeral concluded and then begin Aveilut, or should they begin immediately? Although generally mourning observances begin only after the funeral, perhaps in this case, when the relatives are not attending the funeral, they should begin observing Aveilut immediately upon hearing of the unfortunate news. This issue is subject to a debate among the Halachic authorities. Many authorities, including the Sedei Chemed (Rabbi Chayim Chizkiya Halevi, Israel, 1832-1904) and Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Israel, 1910-1995), ruled stringently, and held that the period of Aveilut cannot begin until after the funeral. Others, however, including Rabbi Moshe Feinstein (Russia-New York, 1895-1986), in his Iggerot Moshe (Yoreh Dei'a, vol. 1, 253), held that relatives who do not travel to the funeral begin observing Aveilut immediately upon learning of the passing. This is the view taken by Rabbi Shemuel Wosner (contemporary, Israel), in his work Shevet Ha'levi. Rabbi Shemuel Pinchasi, in his work Chayim Va'chesed (3:13), cites both opinions. Chacham Ovadia Yosef (ibid) ruled that in situations where Yom Tov begins after the person's death but before the funeral, relatives who do not travel for the funeral may follow the lenient position and begin the Aveilut immediately. In such a case, following the stringent view would require delaying Aveilut until after Yom Tov, which might cause considerable difficulty. A person in this situation may therefore follow the lenient position and begin Aveilut immediately upon hearing of the relative's passing, such that the onset of Yom Tov will cancel the rest of Aveilut. In all other situations, however, Chacham Ovadia requires delaying Aveilut until after the funeral. As for the final Halacha, from my consultation with several leading Rabbis in our community it emerges that we follow the lenient view, and allow mourners who are in a different city and are staying there, to begin observing Aveilut immediately. This applies to all cases of a person who does not attend a relative's funeral when in a distant location. Summary: If a person loses a family member, Heaven forbid, in a distant location, and he does not travel to the funeral, some authorities maintain that he may begin Aveilut immediately, whereas others require that he delay Aveilut until after the funeral. The general practice in our community is to allow the individual to begin Aveilut immediately.