Podcasts about kohanim

Zevachim 103 : Marc Chipkin : 2025-12-26 When do Kohanim receive the hide of an offering? They don't get an "olah of hekdesh".

Generally speaking, one should not leave the synagogue until the end of the Tefila. There is a tradition that if a person routinely leaves in the middle of the service, then in the future, after Mashiah comes, he will be told to leave the Bet Ha'mikdash before the end of the prayers. It is especially grievous for a person to leave if he is the tenth man. As we've seen in previous installments, a person who exits during a part of the service that requires a Minyan, leaving behind less than ten men, is subject to the harsh warning of the prophet Yeshayahu, "Ve'ozebeh Hashem Yichlu" – "Those who abandon G-d shall be annihilated" (Yeshayahu 1: 28). Sometimes, however, a person has a pressing need to leave. It goes without saying that in the case of a dire emergency, a person may leave the synagogue during any part of the service even if this results in breaking the Minyan. Thus, for example, it is obvious that if a Hatzalah member gets a call during the Hazara (repetition of the Amida), he should immediately leave and tend to the emergency. However, there are even matters of lesser urgency that allow leaving during the Hazara (or other parts of the service that require a Minyan) even if one is the tenth man. If a person needs to use the restroom, for example, and he cannot restrain himself, then it is permissible for him to leave, even though fewer than ten men will be remaining in the synagogue. If a significant financial loss is at stake – such as if a person must leave early for a vitally important business meeting, or might otherwise lose his job – then according to Rav Shmuel Wosner (1913-1915), one may be lenient and leave to avoid the financial loss. Others disagree. In practice, Rav Yisrael Bitan writes that one may rely on the lenient position if he wishes, but he should preferably remain in the synagogue and trust that "Kol Ha'shome'a Li Eno Mafsid" – one ultimately gains, and does not lose, by obeying Hashem and doing the right thing, and any money lost as a result of remaining in the synagogue will be repaid. There is some discussion among the Poskim regarding a Kohen's hand-washing in preparation for Birkat Kohanim in a situation where only ten men are present in the synagogue. In most synagogues, the Kohanim must exit the sanctuary to access the sink. Should the Kohen do so if only ten men are present, and he would thus leave behind fewer than ten men for a few moments during the Hazara? Some suggested that in such a situation, it is preferable for the Kohen to wash his hands before the Amida in order to avoid the problem. Others, however, disapprove of this solution, as a Kohen ought to wash his hands as close to Birkat Kohanim as possible. Rav Haim Palachi (Turkey, 1788-1868) writes that in such a case, the Hazzan should pause for those few moments when the Kohen is outside the synagogue and only nine men remain. As for the final Halacha, Rav Yisrael Bitan ruled that preferably, water should be brought to the Kohen inside the sanctuary in this situation so he does not need to leave. If this is not feasible, then the Kohen should leave to wash his hands, and the Hazzan should pause, in accordance with Rav Haim Palachi's ruling. If the sink is visible from inside the sanctuary, then the Kohen may leave to wash his hands and rely on the opinion that he counts toward the Minyan since he can still be seen. Whenever one exits the synagogue, it is proper to do slowly, as leaving hurriedly gives the impression that he is eager to finish the prayers and leave.

התוכן הוראה ממ"ש בתחילת רביעי דפ' ויגש, שיעקב, לאחרי שראה את "העגלות אשר שלח יוסף" ‏–‏ את הסימן "במה היו עוסק כשפירש ממנו – בפרשת עגלה ערופה", אמר "עוד יוסף בני חי": שגם בגלות נמצא כל יהודי במצב של "יוסף בני חי" בתורת חיים ומצוותי' עליהם נאמר "וחי בהם", וכפירוש המגיד בזה שע"י שיהודי מקיים מצוה ה"ה מחי' את המצוה! ובפשטות: אפי' תפילין כשירות שיש בהם שם הוי' כו"כ פעמים, והם בקדושתן גם כשמונחות על השולחן וכו', אי"ז מגיע לקדושת וחיות התפילין כאשר יהודי מקיים בהם בפועל מצות תפילין! וזוהי גם ההוראה ממ"ש בסיום השיעור ש"ויבאו מצרימה יעקב וכל זרעו אתו" התאפשר רק לאחר שיוכבד נולדה "בין החומות": אפי' תינוקת קטנה של בנ"י משלימה את המספר "שבעים נפש" כדי שבנ"י יוכלו להיכנס למצרים, כי ברגע שנולדה יורשת את כל התומ"צ, כולל את הכח להיות "יוסף בני חי" גם במצרים, וכבר בכניסה למצרים דאג הקב"ה שתוולד יוכבד שממנה יצאה בתי כהונה לוי ומלכות ("ויתן להם בתים") בזכות זה ש"ותחיין את הילדים" גם במצרים וכו'. משיחת יום ד' פ' ויגש, מוצאי "זאת חנוכה" ה'תשמ"א ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=24-12-2025 Synopsis The beginning of revi'i of parashas Vayigash states that when Yaakov saw the wagons Yosef had sent (an allusion to the eglah arufah, the subject Yaakov and Yosef had last studied together before Yosef's disappearance), he said, “My son Yosef is still alive.” Even in exile, it is true of every Jew that “Yosef my son is alive,” with the Torah of life and its mitzvos, of which it says, “and you shall live by them”; as the Maggid explains, when a Jew does a mitzvah, he makes the mitzvah come alive. For example, even kosher tefillin, which contain Hashem's Name many times and which are holy even when they are lying on the table etc., do not possess the holiness and vitality that tefillin attain when a Jew actually puts them on and does the mitzvah of tefillin with them. This is also the lesson from the conclusion of this aliyah: Yaakov and all his offspring were only able to come to Egypt after Yocheved was born “between the walls.” Meaning, a baby Jewish girl, simply by being born, completes the count of “seventy souls,” making it possible for the Jewish people to enter Egypt, because the moment she is born, she inherits the entire Torah and its mitzvos, including this power that “Yosef my son is alive” even in Egypt. Already at the moment the Jewish people entered Egypt, Hashem ensured the birth of Yocheved, from whom emerged the houses of the Kohanim, Levi'im, and the kings (“He made houses for them”), in the merit of having “kept the boys alive” in Egypt etc.Excerpt from sichah of Wednesday, parashas Vayigash, Motzaei Zos Chanukah 5741 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=24-12-2025

On kohanim who weren't eligible to eat from the sacrificial meats - beginning with a t'vul yom, one who has immersed in the mikveh for purity, but the sun has not yet set, so he isn't pure yet, for the purposes of eating from the offerings. [What's What: Mishmarot] Plus, the question of a "ba'al mum" - the degree to which even the "blemished" kohen is still a kohen in many important and privileged ways. Also, a kohen who is in acute mourning - and therefore cannot serve in the Temple at that time, but still may (or may not?) partake of the foods that were eaten by the kohanim. For example, sacrificial meats. And the Pesach offering in contrast to them... He still has to be purified by the time of eating, but there are stringencies in place with regard to these foods.

Halacha is very critical of people who depart the synagogue in the middle of the prayer service, leaving the others without a Minyan. If there are only ten men present in the synagogue, one should not leave before the end of the Tefilla. Sometimes, however, it happens that, for whatever reason, one or more individuals need to leave, and there is no longer a Minyan present in the synagogue. If this happens during a section of the service requiring a Minyan, that section may be completed without a Minyan. For example, if the Minyan is lost during the Hazara (repetition of the Amida), the Hazan may complete the Hazara even though fewer than ten men are present. As long as at least six men – the majority of a Minyan – remain, that section of the service may be completed, since it began in the presence of a Minyan. This applies even if the Minyan was lost during the first blessing of the repetition of the Amida. Another example is where people begin leaving during the Kaddish toward the end of Arbit, before Alenu. As long as ten men were present when Kaddish began, the Kaddish may be completed after the Minyan is lost, provided that at least six men remain. Importantly, only that section of the service – which began in the presence of a Minyan – may be completed. Other portions of the Tefilla, however, may not be recited, since the Minyan was lost before they began. In the case of the Hazara, if the Minyan was lost at some point during the first three Berachot, before Nakdishach, the congregation may nevertheless recite Nakdishach, because it is considered part of the repetition of the Amida. However, they cannot recite Birkat Kohanim, as Birkat Kohanim is viewed as a separate recitation, and not part of the Hazara. The Hazzan would thus recite "Elokenu V'Elokeh Abotenu" just as he would do if no Kohanim were present. Different customs exist regarding the recitation of the Kaddish Titkabal following the Hazara in such a case. Ashkenazic practice views the Kaddish Titkabal as integrally connected to the repetition of the Amida, because, after all, in this Kaddish we pray that our prayers will be answered, referring to the Amida prayer which had just been recited. Therefore, according to Ashkenazic custom, if the Minyan was lost during the Hazara, the Hazzan completes the Hazara and also recites the Kaddish Titkabal afterward. Sephardic custom, however, views the Kaddish Titkabal as separate and apart from the Amida, and therefore it cannot be recited if the Minyan was lost during the Hazara. This applies also in a case where the Minyan was lost during Selihot. The Selihot service may be completed without a Minyan, but, according to Sephardic practice, the Kaddish Titkabal following Selihot may not be recited. Ashkenazim, however, allow reciting the Kaddish Titkabal after Selihot in this case, because – as with regard to the Kaddish following the Amida – they view the Kaddish as integral to the Selihot service. If the Minyan was lost during the Torah reading – even if this happened during the first Aliya – the entire Torah reading may be completed. Likewise, the Haftara may be completed if the Minyan was lost during the Haftara reading. However, the Kaddish following the Torah reading is not recited if the Minyan was lost during the Torah reading. If ten men were present during the silent Amida, and somebody left before the Hazzan began the repetition of the Amida, the Hazzan may not repeat the Amida, as the repetition is viewed as separate and apart from the silent Amida. Rabbi Akiva Eger (1761-1837) addresses the interesting case of a Minyan which was lost and then restored. If during the Hazara, for example, five of the ten men left, leaving behind only five – which, as mentioned, do no suffice to allow continuing the Hazara – may the Hazara be resumed if one of the five men returns? Instinctively, we might say that since the Hazara began with a Minyan, and six men are now present, the Hazara may be continued. On the other hand, one could argue that once the Minyan was lost, as fewer than six men were present, the Hazara cannot continue on the basis of the original ten men who were present when it began. Rabbi Akiva Eger leaves this question unanswered. A different question arises in the case of a "revolving Minyan" – where there were never fewer than six men present at any point, but six or more of the original ten men left. Let us consider, for example, the case of a Minyan consisting of exactly ten men, four of whom left during the Hazara, after which four other people entered the synagogue. At this point, there are ten men in the synagogue – six members of the original Minyan, and four newcomers, who arrived in the middle of the Hazara. If one or more of the six who remained from the original Minyan would now leave, may the Hazara continue? One might argue that since fewer than six of the original ten members of the Minyan are present, the Hazara cannot continue, as there aren't six people in the synagogue who were present when the Hazara began. In truth, however, Halacha allows the Hazara to continue in this case, since there was never a point when fewer than six men were present. This entire discussion applies only after the fact, if the Minyan was lost. If the people know ahead of time that the Minyan will be lost at a certain point in the service – such as if the tenth man informed the others that he must leave by a certain time – then they may not begin a part of the service that requires a Minyan. Meaning, if, for example, they know that the tenth man will leave during the Hazara, then the Hazzan may not begin the Hazara; if they know that the tenth man will leave during the Torah reading, then they may not begin the Torah reading.

Zevachim 98 : Marc Chipkin : 2025-12-21 Absorptions from all sacrifices sanctify. Interpositions of blood and grease. Kohanim who do not receive a portion of that day's sacrifice.

In this chapter we speak about the "Miluim" - a seven day inauguration of the Mishkan and the Kohanim.And we ask why Channuka is 8 days.

Chanukah is central to our Jewish Calendar and way of life, but there are many unanswered questions: Why celebrate defeat? What was the real role of Kohanim during the Second Temple? Why was this Yomtov chosen to reflect the ultimate ideal ? Tracing the story from Alexander the Great and Shimon HaTzaddik through the corruption of the Second Temple and the rise of Hellenism, the podcast redefines the central idea of Chanukah - the only festival established by the Sages post-prophecy Connecting the ancient clash of civilizations to the battles which echo down through Russia, America and Eretz Yisrael; It defines Who is a Jew.   Timestamps [0:00:00] Introduction to Greek Exile and Historical Context [0:01:07] Podcast Dedication and Welcome [0:02:05] Setting Up the Hanukkah Discussion [0:04:13] Questioning the Purpose of Hanukkah Celebration [0:14:44] Historical Prequel: Alexander the Great and Shimon HaTzadik [0:22:49] Corruption of the Priesthood [0:26:38] Empire Dynamics After Alexander [0:31:05] Jewish Attraction to Greek Culture [0:40:41] The Spiritual Victory of Hanukkah [0:49:26] Comparing Purim and Hanukkah [0:50:44] Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-up

Join us in examining this week's Haftarah: The opening of the final book of Navi-Malachi. Hear the timeless message Malachi gives to the Kohanim (and all of us) about what it means to be a shining example of His Servant, to take responsibility for others, and to show up as our best selves. If you enjoy the Toras Chaim Podcast, please help us spread the word! You can share a link on social media, leave a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform, or best of all, discuss what you've learned at the shabbos table!We love to hear from our listeners. Be it comments, questions or critique. You can send an email to overtimecook@gmail.com or via instagram @OvertimeCook or @Elchonon.

The Ramban that this includes Kodesh Hakodashim.Source Sheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QXe2vLf6F1zIvj8VW3o1e6uMHFCkpuB-/view?usp=share_link

The only place Kohanim used strength, the source of that power. Source Sheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d7k616SvpLZthYUNrcsDINlsnkr9Pf0-/view?usp=share_link

Zevachim 64 : Marc Chipkin : 2025-11-17 Kohanim have to sometimes throw parts of the bird as far as 30 amot. The procedure of melikah, one of the most difficult services in the Temple. The bird olah as opposed to the bird chatat.

Chagigah 16a: Looking at the Hands of Kohanim during Birkas Kohanim and the Geder of The Mitzvah

Zevachim 44 : Marc Chipkin : 2025-10-28 The oil of a metzora. Sources for various offerings eaten by Kohanim. Piggul on the inner chatat offerings.

Daf Yomi Zevachim 24Episode 2104Babble on Talmud with Sruli RappsSlides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1cKPgZw-5ZrPj_OsFj_PMrNhIMi002tIi-0R-TAd6sZU/edit?usp=sharingJoin the chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LMbsU3a5f4Y3b61DxFRsqfSefaria: https://www.sefaria.org.il/Zevachim.24a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/babble_on_talmudFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Babble-on-Talmud-100080258961218/#dafyomi #talmud00:00 Intro01:44 Requirement for Kohanim to stand on the ground13:24 Requirement for kohanim to use their right hand55:59 Conclusion

After the Jews cross over the Jordan and the 2 sets of stones are dealt with, the Kohanim step back into the eastern side and levitate over the water to enter the land.

End of 3 days and the miraculous events of area between poles of Aron containing all the people and the Jordan waters cease allowing people to cross into Eretz Yisrael proper (but Kohanim remain on the east side in the riverbank)

The Gemara teaches that one recites each morning the blessing of "Ozer Yisrael Bi'gbura" – "who girds Israel with strength" – upon putting on an "Abnet." Most commentaries explain this term to mean a belt (like the belt worn by the Kohanim in the Bet Ha'mikdash, which is called "Abnet"), and indeed, the word "Ozer" means "gird," referring to putting on a belt. Others, however, including the Peri Hadash (Rav Hizkiya Da Silva, 1659-1698) and Rav David Abudarham (Spain, 14 th century), explain that this Beracha speaks of putting on pants. According to both understandings, this Beracha thanks Hashem for allowing us to make a separation between the upper body and lower body. On this basis, some explain why we speak in this blessing of our being girded with Gebura – "strength." As the Mishna in Abot (4:1) famously teaches, "Ezehu Gibor, Ha'kobesh Et Yisro" – the truly "strong" person is one who has the strength to restrain his evil inclination. The belt thus signifies our ability to separate between the lower body, which is associated with sinful desires, and the upper body, which is associated with the intellect and conscience. When we recite this Beracha, we praise Hashem for giving us the power of self-restraint, to use our upper body – such as the mind, the eyes, the mouth, etc. – for meaningful, spiritual endeavors, detached from sinful passions associated with the lower body. This ability is a precious gift which Hashem has given us, and so the Sages instituted the recitation of a special Beracha each morning to thank Him for this quality that He has mercifully embedded within us.

This week we learn the laws governing all kinds of leaders: The parsha begins by detailing the laws of judges, the jurisdiction of the Sanhedrin, the Supreme Court, and what happens to rebellious judges; we read about the unique laws related to kings; there are more laws pertaining to the Kohanim; and we find the […]

This week we learn the laws governing all kinds of leaders: The parsha begins by detailing the laws of judges, the jurisdiction of the Sanhedrin, the Supreme Court, and what happens to rebellious judges; we read about the unique laws related to kings; there are more laws pertaining to the Kohanim; and we find the means of vetting professed prophets and what happens to the six kinds of false prophets.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

Learning Weekly at TheFamilyMinyan.com aka the Shtiebel Likutei Moharan 38 6, Rebbe Nachman ben Faiga Simcha clarifies the truth of those that stood at Har Sinai with Teshuva & Healthy Shame. The Nations vs. The Nation of Kohanim aka Priests...Cover Pic

התוכן 1) זירוז אודות עריכת "סיומים" בכל יום מתשעת הימים. ובנוגע לתשעה באב - כדאי לעשות סיום, נוסף על מוצאי ת"ב, גם בת"ב עצמו [אף שזה יהי' בלי סעודה וכו']. 2) ר"ח הוא יום הסתלקות אהרן הכהן שענינו לברך את כל ישראל, ועד"ז זרע אהרן - "הוי מתלמידיו של אהרן.. ומקרבן לתורה". 3) הקשר בין ימים אלו למ"ש בהתחלת מס' תמיד [עליו נערך "סיום"] ומס' מדות: "בשלשה מקומות הכהנים שומרים וכו'" - שלשה השבועות, והלוים בעשרים ואחד מקום וכו'" - כ"א יום מי"ז בתמוז עד ת"ב. 4) הסיום בנתינת הצדקה שמקרבת את הגאולה, ויה"ר שנזכה לגאולה האמיתית והשלימה תיכף ומיד ממש ["ס'שוין לאחרי ר"ח מנחם אב, וואָס הויבט זיך אָן מיט'ן וואָרט "מנחם".. האָט מען גלייך דעם "מנחם שמו", וואָס גייט דאָך אויף משיח צדקנו, האָט מען גלייך "מראה באצבעו ואומר זה" אָט איז מנחם משיח צדקנו, מלך בן דוד, וואָס קומט א בשר ודם.."].ב' חלקים משיחת יום ד' דפ' דברים, ר"ח מנחם-אב ה'תשמ"ט ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=27-07-2025 Synopsis (1) Siyumim should be held every day during the Nine Days, including on the day of Tishah B'Av itself (even though it will be without a meal etc.), in addition to the siyum held on the night after Tishah B'Av. (2) Rosh Chodesh Menachem-Av marks the passing of Aharon HaKohen, whose role was to bless the entire Jewish people, and this is similarly the role of his descendants and of every Jew, as the Mishna says, “Be among the students of Aharon…and draws them close to Torah.” (3) The connection between this time of year and the beginning of Masechta Tamid (on which the siyum was made) and the beginning of Masechta Middos: The Mishna states, “The Kohanim keep watch in three places…,” corresponding to the Three Weeks, “and the Levi'im in twenty-one places,” corresponding to the twenty-one days from 17 Tammuz until 9Av. (4) We conclude with giving tzedakah, which hastens the Redemption. It is already after Rosh Chodesh Menachem-Av, which begins with the word “Menachem” (console); may we merit the coming of the true and complete Redemption literally right now, and to “point with the finger and say, ‘This'” is Moshiach Tzidkeinu – “Menachem is his name.”2 excerpts from sichah of Wednesday, parashas Devarim, Rosh Chodesh Menachem-Av 5749 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=27-07-2025 לע"נ התמים מיכאל ארי' לייב ע"ה בן – יבלחט"א – ר' דובער שי' הכהן ליום היארצייט שלו ביום ב' מנחם-אבתנצב"ה.

BLESSING OF KOHANIM

Can Midrash Determine Halakhah? (6) - "Hazan's Amen to Birkat Kohanim" by Rabbi Avi Harari

1 section- debate Rav/Shmuel if Kohanim erred and how to then explain the conversations in the pesukim and related debate Rav/Levi if testimony of R Yose ben Yoezer was on Matbichaya/Madbichaya

1 section- debate Rav/Shmuel if Kohanim erred and how to then explain the conversations in the pesukim and related debate Rav/Levi if testimony of R Yose ben Yoezer was on Matbichaya/Madbichaya

Why does achieving peace sometimes require violence? Pinchas killed sinners and received a "covenant of peace." The Kohanim - descendants of Aharon the peace-pursuer - executed their own relatives after the Golden Calf. How can aggressive acts create harmony? Discover the hidden mechanics of real shalom - why it's deeper than just "getting along," what makes it the divine vessel for bracha, and why sometimes the most loving thing you can do is remove what's destroying the whole. Through eye-opening insights from Parshas Korach and a compelling restaurant story, uncover what separates fake peace from authentic harmony.

Sefer Bamidbar | Behaalotekha | The Consecration Ceremony of the Leviim, by Rav Ezra Bick What is the difference between the "purification" of the Leviim and the "sanctification" of the Kohanim?

Rabbi Pinchas Allouche, head Rabbi at Congregation Beth Tefillah in Scottsdale, and the host of the Rabbi Allouche podcast, joins Seth for the full hour to talk about this week's Torah portion, coming from the book of Numbers, the giving and receiving of charity, the Kohanim priestly blessing, and more!Hello, I'm Rabbi Pinchas Allouche and welcome to another episode where we will be exploring a different idea from the Torah.  Join me, as we illuminate our modern world with ancient lessons from the Torah. If you enjoy this show, please show your support by subscribing to the podcast, and I hope you'll give us a 5-star rating, as it does so much to help grow this community. I welcome your feedback on this episode or any of the other podcasts at RabbiAllouchePodcast@gmail.com. Also, if you want to learn more, join me on Facebook and Youtube. 

Rabbi Pinchas Allouche, head Rabbi at Congregation Beth Tefillah in Scottsdale, and the host of the Rabbi Allouche podcast, joins Seth for the full hour to talk about this week's Torah portion, coming from the book of Numbers, the giving and receiving of charity, the Kohanim priestly blessing, and more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Remazim and segolut of Birkat kohanim סגולות ברכת כהנים by Rabbi Benjamin Lavian

The day immediately following Pesach, Shavuot or Sukkot is referred to as "Isru Chag" and is observed as a quasi-festival. Some people make a point of wearing their Shabbat clothing and conducting a special festive meal on Isru Chag. Rabbi Chayim Palachi (Turkey, 1788-1868), in his work Mo'ed Le'kol Chai (8:43), writes that Isru Chag Shavuot is a particularly significant day, more so than Isru Chag Pesach and Sukkot, and must therefore be observed with special festivity. He goes so far as to assert that Isru Chag Shavuot is of such importance that in principle it should warrant "Issur Melacha" – a prohibition against work similar to Shabbat and Yom Tov. In practice, of course, Halacha permits Melacha on Isru Chag Shavuot, but it nevertheless should be observed as a festive day, even more so than Isru Chag of the other festivals. There is a debate among the authorities as to when we resume the recitation of Tachanun during Sivan. We of course omit Tachanun on the first of Sivan, in honor of Rosh Chodesh, as well as on the second day of Sivan, which is when God declared that we will become "a kingdom of Kohanim and a sacred nation" (Shemot 19:6). The next three days – the third, fourth and fifth of Sivan – are known as the "Yemei Hagbala," the days of preparation for the giving of the Torah, a festive period in which we omit Tachanun. We do not recite Tachanun on Shavuot – the sixth and seventh of Sivan – or on Isru Chag Shavuot, the eighth of Sivan. During the times of the Mikdash, those who were unable to bring their sacrifices on the day of Shavuot itself – which in Israel is celebrated only on the sixth of Sivan - were allowed to do so during the six days following Shavuot, through the twelfth of Sivan. In commemoration, we omit Tachanun during this period, as well. According to some authorities, however, since in the Diaspora Shavuot is observed on both the sixth and seventh of Sivan, we begin the six-day period on the eighth of Sivan, rather than the seventh, and thus Tachanun is omitted on the thirteenth, as well. For the Syrian Jewish community, this debate bears no practice relevance, as Syrian Jews in any event observe the thirteenth of Sivan as a quasi-festival to celebrate the "Musan" miracle when the Jews of Halab were saved from a planned pogrom. Syrian communities therefore omit Tachanun on the thirteenth of Sivan regardless of the aforementioned debate. Many other communities, however, have the practice to resume the recitation of Tachanun on the thirteenth of Sivan. Later in this chapter in Mo'ed Le'kol Chai (Halacha 48), Rav Chayim Palachi writes that on the fifteenth of Sivan, it is proper for the Chazan to read aloud after the morning service Yaakov's blessing to Yehuda (Bereishit 49:8-12) and Parashat Ve'zot Ha'beracha. Reading these sections on this day, he writes, has the capacity to hasten the arrival of the final redemption. Summary: Isru Chag Shavuot (the day following Shavuot) must be observed as a festive day, even more so that the day following other festivals. Tachanun is omitted from Rosh Chodesh Sivan through the twelfth or thirteenth of Sivan, depending on communal custom. It is proper on the fifteenth of Sivan for the Chazan to read after the morning prayer Yaakov's blessing to Yehuda and Parashat Ve'zot Ha'beracha.

The Torah was given in a pattern of threes —a recurring theme that carries deep meaning. The Talmud teaches: the Torah (which itself has three parts—Torah, Nevi'im, Ketuvim) was given to a people divided into three groups (Kohanim, Levi'im, Yisraelim), through the third child of Amram (Moshe), in the third month (Sivan), on the third day (after three days of preparation). Why so many "threes"? The answer reflects the essence of Torah and mitzvot. The Bnei Yissaschar explains that every mitzvah is made up of three components: Action – physically performing the mitzvah. Speech – reciting a beracha, or saying the source verse. Thought – having kavana (intent) and awareness of why we're doing the mitzvah. This three-part formula also aligns with: The body : lower body (action), chest/lungs (speech), head (thought). The soul : nefesh (action), ruach (speech), neshama (thought). Spiritual development : ibur (embryo—action), yenika (nursing—speech), mochin (intellect—thought). Shabuot also commemorates the three stages of Jewish growth: Yetzias Mitzrayim – physical birth (action). Marah – first exposure to Torah laws (speech). Matan Torah – full spiritual maturity (thought and understanding). Even creation itself reflects Torah's structure. On the third day of creation , two Torah-like principles emerged: The grass obeyed a Torah-style kal vachomer and chose to grow "according to its kind," though not explicitly commanded—showing initiative in following Torah logic. The trees , however, failed to follow a potential hekesh (a Torah logic tool), producing fruit without making their trunks edible as commanded. Because of this, grass is honored in our synagogues on Shabuot with greenery—but trees are not included , as per the Vilna Gaon, who also rejected their use due to Christian associations. And finally, it was Moshe Rabbenu who made the famous hekesh —a Torah principle—on his own, delaying the giving of the Torah from the 6th of Sivan to the 7th so that the three-day preparation would be complete. In the Diaspora, where we keep two days of Yom Tov, the second day of Shabuot actually aligns with the true day of Matan Torah ! Summary: Shabuot celebrates a Torah of "threes"—a reflection of how we must serve Hashem with action, speech, and thought; body, soul, and spirit. From creation to redemption to revelation, the pattern of three teaches us how to elevate our lives and deepen our connection to Torah.

Chof-Zayin Iyar (20:08)

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.

The famous second Mishna of Pirkeh Abot teaches that the world stands on three "pillars": Torah, Aboda (service of G-d), and Gemilut Hasadim (dispensing kindness). These three "pillars" are embodied by our three patriarchs – Abraham, Yishak and Yaakob. Abraham was the paragon of kindness, devoting his life to helping others. Even after undergoing Berit Mila at an advanced age, he sat outside in the scorching heat looking for people who needed hospitality. He spared no efforts in seeking to help any person who required assistance. Yishak, who was placed on an altar and nearly sacrificed, represents the highest standards of "Aboda," serving Hashem, living one's life in complete subservience to the Almighty and being prepared to make whatever sacrifices He demands. Finally, Yaakob Abinu embodies the quality of diligent Torah study, having spent the first decades of his life fully immersed in Torah learning. In light of this parallel, it seems that the Mishna's list of three "pillars" is presented out of order. We would have perhaps expected the Mishna to list the "pillars" in the order of the three Abot (patriarchs) – beginning with Hesed, followed by Aboda, and culminating with Torah, corresponding to the order of the Abot – Abraham, Yishak and Yaakob. The answer, perhaps, is that the Mishna wanted to emphasize that we need to learn Torah in order to achieve the other two pillars. Without Torah knowledge, we will not have the information we need to serve Hashem. A person who does not learn Torah will decide on his own how to pray, and how to perform Misvot. He will just make up his service of Hashem. We need to learn Torah in order to know how to perform "Aboda," how to serve Hashem in the right way. This is true also of Hesed. We might think that Hesed is instinctive and intuitive, that we can figure out on our own when and how to help other people. But this, too, is mistaken. The Torah guides us not only with regard to our service of Hashem, but also with regard to Hesed, explaining to us the right way to help people. We need to learn what our responsibilities and obligations are, when we are supposed to help, and what kind of help we are to offer. We find an example in the beginning of Parashat Emor, where the Torah presents a series of laws relevant to the Kohanim. A Kohen is not permitted to come in contact with a dead body, except in the case of the death of an immediate family member. Of course, we know that tending to the burial of the deceased is a precious Misva. But without learning Torah, we would not have known that for a Kohen, this is actually a sin, unless he is dealing with the remains of a family member. Moreover, a Kohen Gadol is not permitted to come in contact with a dead body even in the case of a deceased family member – but he is allowed, and even required, to tend to the burial of a Met Misva, a body that has nobody else to bury it. This is just one example of how we need the Torah to give us the guidelines of when and how to perform kindness. Torah knowledge is indispensable for living a life of Aboda and of Hesed. The "pillar" of Torah is therefore mentioned by the Mishna first – because without it, we can never reach the other two "pillars."

This parasha speaks of the restrictions for Kohanim (priests of Israel) in terms of the prohibition to come in contact with dead bodies, the prohibitions on marriage with certain women, and the restrictions on which kohanim can perform the Temple Service. There are a lot of restrictions. In this episode we discuss restriction as boundary and why they are so important in our lives.

Parshas Emor contains a staggering 56 mitzvos, nearly all of them relating to either to the Kohanim, the priests, or to the Festivals, and the parsha ends with a very unusual episode that happened at Sinai. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]

Parshas Emor contains a staggering 56 mitzvos, nearly all of them relating to either to the Kohanim, the priests, or to the Festivals, and the parsha ends with a very unusual episode that happened at Sinai.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

The custom of the Sepharadim is to conduct the Birkat Kohanim service during the Shaharit prayer as usual in the house of an Abel (mourner) during the seven days of mourning. However, if the Abel himself is a Kohen, he should not recite Birkat Kohanim. He should instead leave the room at that point in the service, and not participate in the Beracha. If no Kohanim are present in the house of the Abel, or if the community follows the custom not to recite Birkat Kohanim in a house of mourning, then the Hazan recites the passage, "Elokenu V'Elokeh Abotenu Barechenu Ba'beracha Ha'meshuleshet…" in place of Birkat Kohanim. If a mourner who is a Kohen prays in the synagogue on Shabbat during the seven-day mourning period, then he should leave the synagogue at the time of Birkat Kohanim, rather than participate with the other Kohanim. However, if there are no other Kohanim present in the synagogue, then he should recite Birkat Kohanim. In such a case, refraining from reciting Birkat Kohanim would make a public spectacle of the Abel's status of mourning. On Shabbat it is forbidden for a mourner to observe "Abelut Be'farhesya" – public expressions of mourning, and he should therefore recite Birkat Kohanim in the synagogue on Shabbat if no other Kohanim are present. If there are other Kohanim, however, then his non-participation is not readily noticeable, and he should therefore not take part in the Beracha. A Kohen who is a mourner resumes his regular participation in Birkat Kohanim immediately after the seven-day mourning period. No distinction is made in this regard between mourning for parents and mourning for other relatives; in either instance, he resumes his participation in Birkat Kohanim upon the completion of the seven days. Summary: The custom among Sepharadim is to recite Birkat Kohanim in a house of mourning, but if the mourner is a Kohen he should leave the room and not recite Birkat Kohanim. On Shabbat during the seven days of mourning, a mourner who is a Kohen does not recite Birkat Kohanim unless there are no other Kohanim in the synagogue. The mourner resumes his participation in Birkat Kohanim immediately after the seven days.

Ezra makes Aliyah with an entourage of approximately 10,00 people. This group consists of Kohanim (priests), Leviin, Israelites, and Netinim - a non-Jewish group who were adjunct to the Temple. Ezra brings teachers. He brings silver and gild and sacrifices. This is an Aliyah that seeks to boost Jerusalem's central institution, it seeks to bolster Jerusalem numerically, financially, spiritually and to raise the morale of the returnees.

A case of a kohen who eats from a korban olah before the throwing of the blood on the altar... but even kohanim aren't allowed to eat from an olah/burnt-offering. In any case, the inappropriate eating of sacrifices leads to reason for 6 sets of lashes (or maybe 5, which is part of the discussion). Also, more on bikkurim, the first fruits - and what invalidates them as food for the kohen, or perhaps not. Plus, a comparison to mixing flour and oil for the meal-offering.

1)     I've said HaMapil and then realise that I haven't counted Sefirah. What should I do?[1]2)    A non-Shomer Shabbos picked up an open bottle of wine (not mevushal) to check the label. Is the wine Nesech?[2]3)    At Kiddush on one of the last nights of Pesach I said שהחיינו. Having realized my error, may I now drink the Kiddush wine?[3]4)    At Kiddush on the past Motzei Shabbos I realised that I had forgotten to include VaTodieinu in Maariv and I had carried something home from Shul. What now?[4]5)    During the Yomtov meal this past Motzei Shabbos I realized that I hadn't said the brocho Hamavdil at Kiddush. Do I recite it now, with another cup of wine?[5]6)    I have an open Sefer and I need to leave the room for a minute. May I place a mundane paper over the open Sefer?[6]7)    We learn that when praying alone one should omit Piyutim in the blessings flanking the Shema. Does that include the poem E-l Odon said on Shabbos?[7]8)    At specific points during Birchas Kohanim it is customary that the Kohanim sway to the right and the left. Is the main imperative that he sways his hands or he turns his face?[8][1] פסקי תשובות סי' רלט אות גפשיטא לי' שיספור בברכה.[2] בשו"עיו"ד סי' קכד סכ"ה מפורש להיתר, בנאד סתום. ובפתוח – במקום הפסד. וכלשכן במח"ש בזה"ז שיש מקום להקל. [3] שגיאות מי יבין (סי' נוסס"ד) מביא שהגרש"ז אויערבך הורה שרשאי לשתות. ואילו בנט"ג פסחפי"ד ס"ז הצריך לברך שנית.[4] בשוע"ר סי' תצדס"ג מבואר שאם טעם או עשה מלאכה טרם שהבדיל על הכוס, צריך להתפלל שנית. במשנהברורה (ביה"ל שם) מפקפק: א) אם שוה מלאכה לטעימה; ב) הפמ"ג מסופק אםחיוב חזרת התפלה נאמר גם אחרי שכבר הבדיל על הכוס. אבל בשוע"ר – "צריך לחזורולהתפלל ולהבדיל בתפלה וגם על הכוס" - משמע דלא שנא, דאי מיירי שעדיין לאהבדיל על הכוס, מאי קמ"ל? ועוד ועיקר, דמסיים "שאינו יוצא בהבדלה שעלהכוס בלבדה הואיל ואינה כהוגן..." – שבזה אין הבדל אם כבר הבדיל או לא.בביאור הלכה מציין שהדרך החיים אינו מחלק כהפמ"ג.דבריו בסי' לג, סמ"ח. וש"נ לדבריו להלן, היינו לסי' צז ס"ח.הדה"ח מבחין בין עשה מלאכה גמורה לבין הדליק נר, שבזה לא יצטרך לחזור עלהתפלה. הבחנה זו במלאכות מופיע בשוע"ר סי' רצט סי"ח, לענין אי-מחאהבנשים המקילות. אבל "אין דבריהם עיקר". אך מ"מ אולי כדאי לסמוך עלכך שלא ליכנס לחשש ברכה לבטלה. [5]  שוע"רסי' תעג ס"ז.  [6] ביו"ד סי'רעז ס"א מומלץ לפרוש מפה על הספר הפתוח. ט"ז וש"ך על הגליון שם. לאיניח ספר להחזיק מקום (פ"ת יו"ד סו"ס רפב). להבחין בין מפה סתםלבין נייר של דברי חול.[7] מקור הדבריםבשוע"ר סי' סח ס"ב הוא בשו"ת מהר"מ מינץ סי' פז. ושם מייריבפיוטים שנשנו בפלוגתא. ואילו פיוט זה מובא בסדר רב עמרם, ובזהר (ח"ב קלה, ב)הוא מכונה אלפא-ביתא רבתא – בניגוד לאלפא-ביתא זוטא של ימות החול. ונראה להבחיןבין פיוטים הנאמרים חזןקהל לבין שנקבעו שאומרם כל אחד. נ"ל שאנשי כנה"גתיקנו שניתן להאריך כאן, כי לולא כן יש בזה חשש הפסק.[8] באו"ח סי' קכחסמ"ה: "אלו תיבות שהכהנים הופכים בהם לדרום ולצפון", ואילובשוע"ר (שם סנ"ח): "שהופכים בהם פניהם". וכן הבהיר הערוךהשלחן (שם סס"ה), וכן הוא בדרך אגב בפרי חדש בסוף סימן הנ"ל. הפר"חמקדים צפון לדרום. והעירו שכשפני הכהנים למערב, הרי ימינם לצפון ושמאלם לדרום.

3 sections- reading captions on Shabbos and gazing and pictures even on weekday, using lottery system to divide food portions for family vs others and Kohanim with regards to korbanot on Shabbos, series of Aggadita's about the cruelty and end of Nevuchadnezzar

3 sections- reading captions on Shabbat and gazing and pictures even on weekday, using lottery system to divide food portions for family vs others and Kohanim with regards to korbanot on Shabbat, series of Aggadita's about the cruelty and end of Nevuchadnezzar

The sin of Korach (who didn't have a portion in the World to Come)... including a focus (and blame) on the wife of Korach and the wife of On (who names Korach and his followers as holy people, and then entices them). Plus, a discussion of the power of the Leviim and Kohanim, and the famous dispute over techelet on a garment. These interpretations are midrashim that build out the biblical text. Also, a new mishnah about the exile of the 10 Tribes, Rabbi Akiva uncharacteristically maintains that they will never return, and various others disagree with him as to their capacity for return.