Best podcasts about mishna berura

Latest podcast episodes about mishna berura

Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

People mistakenly believe that the concept of modest dress is relevant only to women, whereas men can dress in any way they like. This is incorrect. There are certain restrictions on dress that apply to men. The basic principle is that one must realize that he is constantly in the presence of G-d. Even when a person is in the privacy of his home, and even alone in his bedroom, he must be cognizant of the fact that Hashem fills the earth and accompanies him at all times. King Shaul was praised for his high standards of modesty, as he went into a dark cave to perform his bodily functions, and even inside the cave, he exposed himself only as needed, out of an awareness of G-d's presence. Accordingly, the Shulhan Aruch rules that a person must put something on before getting out of the bed in the morning. Long ago, people would sleep under their blankets unclothed, and the Shulhan Aruch writes that before a person steps out of bed, he should put his garment on under his blankets so he will not be exposed upon leaving his bed. This applies even if the room is dark, as Hashem can see even in the dark. The Poskim debate the question of whether the Shulhan Aruch intended this instruction as an actual Halachic requirement, or only as an admirable practice, a measure of piety that is recommended for the sake of demonstrating one's awareness of G-d's omnipresence. Rav Moshe Feinstein (1895-1986) maintained that there is no strict halachic obligation for a man to avoid being exposed in private, and the Shulhan Aruch's ruling was written only as a recommended practice, a proper mode of behavior for a G-d-fearing individual. By contrast, the Mishneh Halachot (Rav Menashe Klein, 1923-2011) maintained that this law constitutes an outright Halachic obligation, as the straightforward reading of the Shulhan Aruch and other sources suggests. Likewise, the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) writes that according to some Rishonim, these laws are required on the level of Torah law, and so they should be strictly observed. Nowadays, of course, people generally wear pajamas or undergarments when sleeping, so the Shulhan Aruch's instructions would apply in our time to changing one's clothes under the blanket, so that his private parts are not exposed. Many people would naturally find this difficult. Hacham David Yosef, in Halacha Berura, accepts Rav Moshe Feinstein's lenient position, that these guidelines were not presented as actual Halachic requirements, and so he rules that they may be suspended if they would cause considerable discomfort. Thus, if somebody finds it very difficult to get dressed under the blanket, this is not necessary. Hacham David writes that this was the position taken by his father, Hacham Ovadia Yosef. In fact, Rav Moshe himself ruled leniently if dressing under the blanket would take too much time, or if one cannot dress neatly in this fashion. Nevertheless, Rav Haim Kanievsky (1928-2022) taught that one who ensures not to expose his private parts while getting changed is worthy of special blessing. Rav Moshe adds that when walking about, a man must dress in a manner in which he would not feel ashamed appearing before ordinary people. When it comes to Tefila, one must dress in a way he would when greeting a prominent figure. At all other times, Rav Moshe writes, it suffices to dress in a manner that is not embarrassing. One's private parts, however, must of course always remain covered. Rav Haim Kanievsky took a more stringent position, writing that one must ensure not to expose his arms above the elbows, or his legs above his knees. Hacham Bension Abba Shaul (Jerusalem, 1924-1998) wrote that since people in modern society do not walk about barefoot, one should refrain from doing so even in his home. In fact, the Mishna Berura writes that since the feet are normally covered, it is proper to put one's socks on before getting out of bed in order not to expose his feet. The Piskeh Teshubot concluded that one may walk about barefoot in his home under hot weather conditions, when covering the feet is uncomfortable. However, even the Mishna Berura conceded that in Mediterranean countries, where many people walk about barefoot, it is permissible to do so. It thus stands to reason that the guiding principle is the accepted practice in any given locale. In communities where it is not deemed acceptable to walk about with exposed feet, or in short sleeves or shorts, one should abide by the community's standards. In places where these modes of dress are acceptable, then they are allowed. Indeed, Hacham Ovadia Yosef ruled that one is allowed even to pray wearing very short sleeves or short pants if this mode of dress is accepted in his community (though he added that a person dressed this way should not serve as Hazan). Likewise, despite the Mishna Berura's aforementioned ruling that one should put on his socks before getting out of bed, numerous later Poskim – including the Hazon Ish, the Steipler Gaon, and Hacham Ovadia Yosef – ruled leniently in this regard. This is likely due to the fact that it has become more acceptable to walk about with sandals without socks, and thus exposing one's feet is no longer considered undignified. By the same token, a man may take off his shirt when swimming in a pool or at the beach, as this is the accepted mode of dress in these areas. However, some Poskim ruled that if one is not swimming at the beach, but is playing ball or walking, he should wear a shirt. A man who goes to the Mikveh should not walk about the Mikveh unclothed, and should instead cover himself with a towel or robe on his way to and from the water. Some Poskim allow one to be unclothed in a restroom that has a bath or shower, as such a room has the status of a Bet Ha'merhatz (bathhouse), where it is permissible to be unclothed. Others, however, rule that this is not allowed unless one is planning to bathe. Summary: Men, like women, must adhere to appropriate standards of modest dress. The basic rule is that one must dress in a manner that is deemed respectable and dignified in the place where he is. In some communities, it is inappropriate to walk about in shorts, whereas in others this is allowed. At the beach or swimming pool, a man may remove his shirt. Nowadays it is generally deemed acceptable in most communities to wear sandals without socks, so this is permitted. When one needs to expose himself – such as when dressing, when bathing, when using the restroom, or in a Mikveh – one should expose himself only to the extent necessary, remaining cognizant of G-d's presence.

Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 640: Seif 1-4A - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 16:25


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 640: Seif 1-4A  סימן תר"מ סעיף א-ד Hilchos Succos - מי הם הפטורים מישיבת סוכה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 639: Seif 7-8 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2026 13:03


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 639: Seif 7-8  סימן תרל"ט סעיף ה-ו Hilchos Succos - דיני ישיבת סוכה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 639: Seif 5-6 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2026 12:19


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 639: Seif 5-6  סימן תרל"ט סעיף ה-ו Hilchos Succos - דיני ישיבת סוכה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 48- Siman 253-254

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2026 28:07


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 639: Seif 3-4 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2026 11:02


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 639: Seif 3-4  סימן תרל"ט סעיף ג-ד Hilchos Succos - דיני ישיבת סוכה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 639: Seif 2 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2026 13:20


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 639: Seif 2  סימן תרל"ט סעיף ב Hilchos Succos - דיני ישיבת סוכה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 639: Seif 1 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2026 9:43


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 639: Seif 1  סימן תרל"ט סעיף א Hilchos Succos - דיני ישיבת סוכה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 638: Seif 1-2 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 19:42


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 638: Seif 1-2  סימן תרל"ז סעיף ג Hilchos Succos - סוכה ונויה אסורין כל שבעה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 637: Seif 3 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2026 14:20


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 637: Seif 3  סימן תרל"ז סעיף ג Hilchos Succos - דין סוכה שאולה וגזולה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 636: Seif 1 - Siman 637: Seif 2 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 11:17


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 636: Seif 1 - Siman 637: Seif 2  סימן תרל"ו סעיף א - סימן תרל"ז סעיף ב Hilchos Succos - דין סוכה ישנה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 634: Seif 1 - Siman 635: Seif 1 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 17:46


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 634: Seif 1 - Siman 635: Seif 1  סימן תרל"ד סעיף א - סימן תרל"ה סעיף א Hilchos Succos - שלא תהיה פחות מן שבעה על שבעה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 47- Siman 253

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 34:07


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 633: Seif 5-10 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 14:27


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 633: Seif 5-10  סימן תרל"ג סעיף ה-י Hilchos Succos - דין גובה הסוכה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 633: Seif 1-4 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 16:02


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 633: Seif 1-4  סימן תרל"ג סעיף א-ד Hilchos Succos - דין גובה הסוכה Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 632: Seif 2-4 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2026 13:50


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 632: Seif 2-4  סימן תרל"ב סעיף ב-ד Hilchos Succos - דברים הפוסלים בסכך Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 631: Seif 10 - Siman 632: Seif 1 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 20:01


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 631: Seif 10 - Siman 632: Seif 1  סימן תרל"א סעיף י - סימן תרל"ב סעיף א Hilchos Succos - סוכה שחמתה מרובה מצלתה ויתר דיני הסכך Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 46- Siman 253

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 38:09


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 631: Seif 6-9 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 15:42


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 631: Seif 6-9  סימן תרל"א סעיף ו-ט Hilchos Succos - סוכה שחמתה מרובה מצלתה ויתר דיני הסכך Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 631: Seif 1-5 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 16:04


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 631: Seif 1-5  סימן תרל"א סעיף א-ה Hilchos Succos - סוכה שחמתה מרובה מצלתה ויתר דיני הסכך Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 45- Siman 253

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 30:19


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 630: Seif 9-13 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 16:39


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 630: Seif 9-13  סימן תר"ל סעיף ט-יג Hilchos Succos - ממה צריך להיות הסכך Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 630: Seif 7-8 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 13:31


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 630: Seif 7-8  סימן תר"ל סעיף ז-ח Hilchos Succos - ממה צריך להיות הסכך Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 630: Seif 4-6 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2026 15:10


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 630: Seif 4-6  סימן תר"ל סעיף ד-ו Hilchos Succos - ממה צריך להיות הסכך Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 630: Seif 1-3 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2026 19:07


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 630: Seif 1-3  סימן תר"ל סעיף א-ג Hilchos Succos - ממה צריך להיות הסכך Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

Is it permissible to recite the Korbanot section – which discusses the various sacrifices – very early in the morning, before sunrise? On Shabuot morning, for example, when it is customary to pray early such that the Amida is recited right at sunrise, the Korbanot section is recited earlier, before sunrise. And sometimes, especially in the winter, it happens that a person needs to leave before sunrise for a meeting, or to catch a flight. May the Korbanot be recited before sunrise, when it is still dark? One potential issue is the Kabbalistic practice to refrain from reading or studying Tanach at night. According to the teachings of Kabbalah, verses from the Tanach should not be read at night, and the night is the time for the study only of Torah She'be'al Peh (the oral tradition), such as Gemara, Halacha, and so on. Secondly, since we read the section of Korbanot in lieu of the offering of these sacrifices in the Bet Ha'mikdash, and sacrifices could be offered only during the daytime hours, perhaps one must wait until sunrise before reciting the Tamid. The Halacha is that one must recite the Korbanot no earlier than Alot Ha'shahar – daybreak, the moment when the sun's rays first appear on the eastern sky – which occurs 72 Halachic minutes before sunrise (the moment when the sun itself appears on the eastern sky). Since it was after Alot Ha'shahar that the service began in the Bet Ha'mikdash, the Korbanot may be recited at this time – even before sunrise – but no earlier. This is the ruling of the Shulhan Aruch, and in Bet Yosef, he brings as the source of this Halacha a comment by the Rosh (Rabbenu Asher Ben Yehiel, Germany-Spain, 1250-1327) that the section of the Tamid should be recited no earlier than Alot Ha'shahar. The Bet Yosef deduced that all the Korbanot, too, must be recited only after Alot Ha'shahar, as the sacrifices could not be offered any earlier than that point. However, the Peri Megadim (Rav Yosef Teomim, 1727-1792) writes that if one is unable to recite the Korbanot section after Alot Ha'shahar, he may do so even earlier. This is based on a ruling of the Tebuot Shor (Rav Alexander Sender Shor, Poland, 1673-1737), who added that in such a case, the person should not recite the customary prayer asking G-d to consider the recitation as the actual offering of the sacrifice. Since sacrifices may not be brought during the night, one cannot ask that his recitation be deemed the equivalent of the actual offering of the Korbanot when he recites this section at night. The Hida (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806) writes that although it is preferable to recite the Korbanot section after daybreak, it is acceptable when necessary to recite them earlier, even though the Korbanot cannot be brought during the night. He notes that we are credited with having offered the sacrifices by reciting and studying these portions of the Torah even though we are not in the Bet Ha'mikdash, and it is obviously forbidden to bring sacrifices anywhere besides the Bet Ha'mikdash. By the same token, it is acceptable to recite these sections even at times when sacrifices cannot be brought. The Leb Haim (Rav Haim Palachi, Turkey, 1788-1868) writes that one who cannot recite the Korbanot after Alot Ha'shahar may do earlier, but this would be considered simply as reading from the Torah, and not as the actual offering of the sacrifices. By contrast, the Mishna Berura rules that the Korbanot section may not be recited before Alot Ha'shahar. Those who cannot recite the Korbanot at the proper time may rely on the opinion that Alot Ha'shahar occurs 90 minutes before sunrise, rather than 72 minutes, giving them an additional 18 minutes. Summary: The Korbanot section of the morning prayer service must be recited no earlier than Alot Ha'shahar (daybreak), which occurs 72 Halachic minutes before sunrise. When necessary, one may follow the position that Alot Ha'shahar occurs 90 minutes before sunrise, and recite Korbanot at that time. If one cannot recite Korbanot even at that point, then according to some Poskim, he may recite it earlier.

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 44- Siman 253

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2026 28:25


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Mishnah Berurah Yomi
Mishna Berura - Siman 629: Seif 18-19 - Hilchos Succos

Mishnah Berurah Yomi

Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2026 12:17


Mishnah Berurah - Siman 629: Seif 18-19  סימן תרכ"ט סעיף יח-יט Hilchos Succos - ממה צריך להיות הסכך Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura  סימן תקצ"ב סעיף א-ד Hilchos Rosh Hashana - תפלת מוסף בקול רם וסדר התקיעות Rabbi Mordechai Fishman   Purchase  The Laws and Customs of Krias HaTorah, by Rabbi Mordechai Fishman here: www.kriashatorah.com   www.orachchaim.com For sponsorship opportunities contact: www.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com #mishna berura

customs seif siman succos krias hatorah mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 43- Siman 253

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2026 27:28


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 42- Siman 253

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2026 34:04


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 41- Siman 253

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2026 26:09


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
Reciting the Verse “Ve'shahat Oto Al Yerech Ha'mizbe'ah”

Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2026


The custom among Sepharadim is to recite immediately following the section of Akedat Yishak a verse from Parashat Vayikra (1:11): "Ve'shahat Oto Al Yerech Ha'mizbe'ah Safona Lifneh Hashem…" This verse describes the procedure for the offering of a sheep as an Ola sacrifice – such as the daily Tamid offering, which consisted of a sheep brought each morning and another sheep brought each afternoon. The connection between this verse and the story of Akedat Yishak is indicated by the Midrash which states that whenever this verse is read, Hashem remembers the great merit of the Akeda. A different passage in the Midrash, cited by the Bet Yosef, teaches that it was at the time of Akedat Yishak that G-d instituted the Misva of the daily Tamid that would later be observed in the Bet Ha'mikdash. The word "Safona" in this verse – which literally means "north," and requires slaughtering the sacrifice on the north side of the altar – alludes to the "ashes" of Yishak Abinu which are "hidden" and stored away as an eternal reminder of the merit of Akeidat Yishak. After this verse, we recite a special prayer – which is printed in standard editions of the Siddur – beseeching Hashem to remember the merit of Akedat Yishak and compassionately annul any harsh decrees that may have been issued against us. This custom is mentioned by the Hida (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806), in his work Kesher Godel. Interestingly, neither the verse "Ve'shahat Oto" nor this prayer appears in the Siddur of the Rashash (Rav Shalom Sharabi, Yemen-Jerusalem, 1720-1777). Nevertheless, the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) writes in his Od Yosef Hai that it was customary in the communities of Baghdad to recite these passages, and this is, indeed, our custom today. We recite the verse "Ve'shahat Oto" also a second time – just before the section of "Ezehu Mekoman," which is comprised of the Mishnayot from the fifth chapter of Masechet Zebahim, and goes through the procedure for the offering of the various kinds of sacrifices. The Shulhan Aruch rules somewhat ambiguously that this verse should be recited along with the Korbanot – the section which speaks of the sacrifices – without specifying at which point exactly it should be recited. Some Poskim understood that it should be recited before the Korbanot section, which is the custom we follow. Indeed, it would seem reasonable to recite first a verse from the Torah before reciting the Mishnayot discussing the sacrifices. (Incidentally, it should be noted that the practice of Maran, author of the Shulhan Aruch, was not to recite the Mishnayot of "Eizehu Mekoman," and to recite instead the verses from the Torah dealing with each kind of sacrifice.) By contrast, the Peri Megadim (Rav Yosef Teomim, 1727-1792), cited by the Mishna Berura, writes that after the Akeda, one should recite the verses of the Torah discussing the Tamid sacrifice, following by the verse "Ve'shahat Oto." The rationale for reciting it only after the Tamid is that the recitation of this verse is considered like the actual offering of a sacrifice, and no sacrifice may be offered in the morning before the Tamid was brought. Hence, according to the Peri Megadim, this verse cannot be recited until after the recitation of the Tamid. This is the practice of the Ashkenazim. Sepharadim, however, as mentioned, recite this verse immediately after Akedat Yishak, before reciting the section of the Tamid. The explanation might be that this verse is recited not in lieu of the offering of a sacrifice, but rather to supplement the recitation of Akedat Yishak, asking Hashem to remember the merit of that act of sacrifice. In any event, we recite this verse twice – immediately after Akedat Yishak, and just before the Mishnayot of "Eizehu Mekoman."

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 40- Siman 253

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2026 31:26


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

The Mishna Berura cites the Hida (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806) as instructing that one should include works of Mussar as part of his daily Torah learning schedule. The term "Mussar" refers to materials aimed at enhancing one's Yir'at Shamayim (fear of G-d) and inspiring and helping a person to grow in his ethical conduct and his religious commitment. Every person has a Yeser Ha'ra (evil inclination) and faces spiritual challenges each day. This is true of all people, regardless of their level of religious commitment. In fact, the more a person grows spiritually, the more the Yeser Ha'ra tries to lead him to sin. Therefore, a person must counter these efforts by studying works of Mussar that remind him of his religious obligations and of how Hashem watches him at all times and holds him to account for everything he does. For this reason, most yeshivot include an official Seder (session) for the learning of Mussar as part of the daily schedule. In some yeshivot, this Seder takes place toward the end of the day. In Yeshivat Porat Yosef, however, Mussar is learned in the morning, before the students begin their regular studies. This seems more reasonable, as the students thereby gain inspiration right at the beginning of the day, setting the tone for the day's learning. Rav Yisrael Salanter (1809-1883) taught that when learning Mussar, one should say the words with his mouth, rather than read silently, as the words have a stronger impact when they are verbalized.

Jewish History Soundbites
[RERELEASE] The Life of the Chofetz Chaim: Personalities & Publications (replay)

Jewish History Soundbites

Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2026 41:25


The Chafetz Chaim influenced the Jewish People in many ways, among them through his Yeshiva in Radin and through the many popular books which he authored. Through his Yeshiva he influenced generations of students, while hiring a staff of Roshei Yeshiva par excellence. Rav Moshe Londinski, Rav Naftali Trop, Rav Yerucham Levovitz, the Chafetz Chaim's own sons in law Rav Hirsh Levinson and Rav Mendel Zaks, to mention a few. Though the Yeshiva experience a bit of downturn with passing of the old generation, the name lived on in other Yeshivas founded to carry his memory. The Mishna Berura was the Chafetz Chaim's famous work, which had an impact on halacha across the Jewish world and increased in influence over time. The impetus of his writing was to fill a need and reflected on the great responsibility he felt towards his people. Such was his work Machaneh Yisrael geared towards Jewish soldiers in the Czar's army. Nidchei Yisroel was a companion for the Jewish immigrant, while other pamphlets were geared towards Jewish women. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at yehuda@yehudageberer.com

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 39- Siman 252

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 22:21


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

Rav Haim Palachi (Turkey, 1788-1868), in his Ruah Haim, lists several behaviors that helps a person live a long life, one of which is waking early, before dawn, every morning. He even mentions a certain British diplomat who wrote about the health benefits of waking early, how this contributes to one's physical wellbeing, promotes longevity, and even enhances his intellectual capabilities. A number of sources speak about the value of spending the "transition" moments at the beginning and end of each day involved in Torah learning or prayer. This means learning or praying early in the morning, when night transitions to morning, and at the end of day, from sunset until nightfall. This is mentioned by the Mishna Berura and by the Ben Ish Hai, and earlier by the Magen Abraham (Rav Abraham Gomibiner, Poland, d. 1682), based on the writings of the Shela Ha'kadosh (Rav Yeshaya Horowitz, d. 1630). Some Poskim propose that learning Torah during these transitional periods fulfills the command "Ve'hagita Bo Yomam Va'layla" – to learn Torah day and night. The vast majority of people, of course, cannot fulfill this command in the literal sense, by learning Torah constantly by day and by night. It is possible, however, to fulfill this Misva by "connecting" day and night with Torah learning, studying during the period when night turns to day and day turns to night. For this reason, too, there is value in waking early, just before dawn, so one can pray and learn Torah as the new day begins.

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 38- Siman 252

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2026 26:58


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 37- Siman 252

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026 24:48


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 36 – Siman 252

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2026 24:24


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

The Hafetz Haim, toward the beginning of his Bi'ur Halacha, references the comments written by the author of the anonymous Sefer Ha'hinuch, in the introduction to that work. There the author lists the six "Misvot Temidiyot" – "constant" Misvot, which one can always fulfilled at any moment of any day simply by thinking certain things. These Misvot apply at all times, and involve certain thoughts, giving us the opportunity to earn credit for Misvot at any time. Elsewhere in his writings – in his Shemirat Ha'lashon – the Hafetz Haim advises us to fulfill these Misvot after the morning Shaharit prayer, before eating breakfast. These six Misvot are: The belief in Hashem's existence, that there is a Creator. The belief that there is no other deity besides the Almighty. The belief that G-d is one, a singular entity, and does not consist of multiple parts. Ahabat Hashem – love of G-d. The Rambam writes that one arrives at genuine love of Hashem by contemplating the vastness and intricacy of the natural world, the majesty of creation, how everything is perfectly designed. Additionally, one can arrive at Ahabat Hashem by thinking of Hashem's kindness, of how much Hashem has given him and continues giving him each and every moment of every day, despite his unworthiness. Twice each day, we recite Shema, in which we make reference to this Misva – "Ve'ahabta Et Hashem Elokecha" ("You shall love Hashem your G-d"). Now the Gemara (Berachot 14b) teaches that one who recites Shema without wearing Tefillin is considered giving "false testimony," as though he does not believe the words he speaks, because the text of Shema contains the command to wear Tefillin. The Sefer Haredim (Rav Elazar Ezkari, Safed, 1533-1600) writes that by the same token, if one does not work to fulfill the Misva of Ahabat Hashem, then he is guilty of giving "false testimony" each time he recites Shema and mentions this obligation. Fear of G-d. This Misva incorporates two different levels of fear. The first and more basic level is the fear of retribution, recognizing that we are held accountable for our conduct and Hashem punishes those who disobey Him. The higher level of fear, known as "Yir'at Ha'romemut," refers to what we might call reverence, feelings of awe as we recognize Hashem's infinite power and greatness. The final of the six "constant" Misvot is the command of "Ve'lo Taturu Ahareh Lebabchem Ve'ahareh Enechem," which forbids harboring illicit thoughts and looking at inappropriate sights. Many people mistakenly disregard the severity of this prohibition, figuring that without acting upon their lustful thoughts, and just by looking at inappropriate sights, they are not doing anything wrong. This is wrong. The Torah forbids even looking at forbidden sights because the process of sin begins when a person sees something alluring, which then arouses temptation in the heart that can likely lead to illicit behavior. And the Rambam, in Moreh Nebuchim, writes that in a sense, thinking sinful thoughts is even worse than sinful action, because sinful thoughts corrupt the mind, the loftiest and most important part of the human being. Moreover, a sinful act is finite, occurring over the course of several brief moments, whereas sinful thoughts can remain in one's mind for lengthy periods of time. The Hafetz Haim warned that if one does not guard his eyes during his lifetime, his soul will experience blindness in the next world. This notion is developed further by the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909), who writes that the soul has eyes just as the body does. After a person's soul departs, the soul will experience the ultimate pleasure – beholding the glory of the Shechina (divine presence). However, in order to experience this pleasure, the soul needs good "vision," and the quality of the soul's vision depends on whether the individual had properly guarded his physical eyes against forbidden sights during his lifetime. Of course, guarding the eyes has become an especially difficult challenge in our generation. A person may not, however, simply give up. One must make every effort he can to guard his eyes, and, at very least, must avoid places where the challenge becomes even greater. One must also recognize that every successful avoidance of forbidden sights is exceedingly valuable, and cherished by the Almighty. And, even if one has failed repeatedly in this regard, he must believe in Hashem's compassion and recognize the power of Teshuba. Hashem lovingly welcomes and accepts our efforts to improve, regardless of our failures in the past. Returning to the Hafetz Haim's comments in Bi'ur Halacha, he writes there that consciously observing these six Mivot – thinking about the required beliefs about Hashem, feeling love and fear, and avoiding improper thoughts and sights – is a way to fulfill the verse, "Shiviti Hashem Le'negdi Tamid" – "I have placed G-d opposite me, constantly" (Tehillim 16:8). One can have G-d on his mind at all times by making an effort to fulfill these Misvot whenever he can over the course of the day. Incidentally, there is a custom observed by many to have a Sofer (scribe) prepare for them a special piece of parchment with this verse – "Shiviti Hashem…" – written on top, and beneath it an image of a Menorah with Kabbalistic text. This is kept in the Siddur, with the top protruding from the Siddur, so the individual always sees this verse during the prayer service and thus remains focused on Hashem. Others have similar texts written with certain Names of G-d, for the same reason. The Mishna Berura warns, though, that one must ensure to properly care for these pieces of parchment and to see to it that they do not fall to the floor. Many congregations have the custom of prominently featuring the verse of "Shiviti Hashem" in large letters on the wall of the synagogue.

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 35 – Siman 252

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2026 26:30


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 34 – Siman 252

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2026 19:45


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 33 – Siman 251-252

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 19:31


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 32 – Siman 251

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 26:56


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 31 – Siman 250

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2026 23:18


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 30 – Siman 250

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2026 26:02


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
Counting a Non-Observant Jew Toward a Minyan

Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026


The Gemara posits the principle that "Yisrael Af Al Pi She'hata Yisrael Hu" – a Jew does not lose his status as a Jew even after he sins. As a general rule, then, a Jew who violates Torah law is nevertheless considered a full-fledged Jew in all respects. There are, however, a number of exceptions. One is a person who commits sins 'Le'ha'ch'is" – with the specific intention to anger G-d. If a person not only transgresses the Torah, but has decided to spitefully reject G-d, and he thus commits Torah transgressions out of anger and resentment – and not due to convenience, for money, or due a lack of self-discipline – then he forfeits his status as a Jew. Such a person, therefore, cannot be counted toward a Minyan. (A fascinating story is told of Rav Levi Yishak of Berditchev, who once saw a Jewish fellow whom he knew eating pork, and he wished him, "Bon Appetit," that he should enjoy it. He explained to his students that this individual suffered from a certain condition that resulted in pain in his stomach when he ate pork, but he nevertheless ate it out of hostility toward religion. Rav Levi Yishak extended to him the wish that he should eat it for the pleasure that it brings, and not out of resentment, so that he would at least retain his status as a Jew.) Another exception – which is far more common – is Shabbat desecration. Since Shabbat desecration is equated with idol-worship, a public Shabbat desecrator is, in certain respects, considered not Jewish. The Hafetz Haim explained this Halacha by way of an analogy to a person who walks by a store which is currently closed. If the sign is still up, then the person will likely assume that the store is still in business, and has closed only temporarily. Once, however, the sign has been taken down, the person will conclude that the store has closed permanently. The Torah refers to Shabbat as an "Ot," a "sign." As long as a person observes Shabbat, he demonstrates that he's "open for business," that he's still "in the game," as it were, even if in other ways he might falter. Therefore, a public Shabbat violator – in principle – is not considered a Jew with respect to certain Halachot, such as being counted toward a Minyan. This applies to public Shabbat violators regardless of the reason why they desecrate Shabbat – whether it's for ideological reasons, out of anger toward G-d, or because of convenience or an unwillingness to make the sacrifices that Shabbat observance requires. The Poskim dispute the question of how often one must publicly violate Shabbat to be disqualified from counting toward a Minyan. Some maintain that this disqualification applies only to habitual Shabbat violators, but others contend that even if a person publicly violated Shabbat just once, he cannot be counted toward a Minyan. This is the view accepted by Hacham Ovadia Yosef. It goes without saying that once a person has performed Teshuba and committed to Shabbat observance, he regains his status as a full-fledged Jew and may be counted. Hacham Ovadia Yosef ruled that one becomes disqualified only by publicly committing an act that is forbidden on Shabbat by force of Torah law. This includes driving, cooking, writing, and carrying in a public domain. If, however, a person publicly commits acts which are forbidden on Shabbat only by force of Rabbinic enactment, he may be counted toward a Minyan. The act of Shabbat desecration must be committed publicly – meaning, in the presence of ten men, the violator included. The Mishna Berura ruled that the act does not need to have been committed publicly, as even if it becomes known to ten people, this qualifies as a "public" act. Hacham Ovadia, however, disagrees, and rules that a person is not considered a public Shabbat violator unless he committed a forbidden act that was seen by ten men at the same time. (Incidentally, these conditions apply also with regard to the prohibition against drinking wine handled by a public Shabbat violator (unless the wine has been previously boiled). This applies only to somebody who committed an act of Shabbat desecration in the presence of ten men.) Hacham Ovadia made a very significant exception to this Halacha, addressing the situation of generally G-d-fearing Jews who work on Shabbat. It was quite common in certain periods that Jews would come to the synagogue, recite Kiddush and eat a Shabbat meal, but then go to work, succumbing to the anxiety of otherwise being unable to support their families. Hacham Ovadia ruled that although such people act incorrectly, nevertheless, since in their eyes, they violate Shabbat under duress, they are not considered intentional Shabbat violators. Hence, they may be counted toward a Minyan (and wine which they handled remains permissible). Additionally, the Mishna Berura writes that if a person violates Shabbat in public, but is too embarrassed to do so in the presence of a Rabbi, then he is not considered a public Shabbat violator with respect to this Halacha. The fact that he still experiences shame shows that he recognizes the sanctity of Shabbat, and so he does not attain the status of a flagrant desecrator who may not be counted toward a Minyan. However, Hacham Ovadia clarified that this applies only if we are certain that this individual would not desecrate Shabbat in view of his Rabbi. Much has been written about whether and how these Halachot apply in our generation. In the case of a person who was raised without a religious education, there is a general consensus that we apply the rule of "Tinok She'nishba" (literally, "an infant who was taken captive"), which excuses from liability a sinner who was never taught about Halachic observance. If someone was not taught to observe Shabbat as Halacha requires, then he is not held accountable for his failure to do so. As such, he does not have the status of a flagrant Shabbat desecrator. Some extend this rule further, asserting that even if a person learned about Shabbat, he cannot be considered a Shabbat desecrator if he was not made aware of the severity of Shabbat. There are people who received some level of Jewish education but their training was not grounded in Halacha, and they were thus never taught about the various Shabbat prohibitions and how they constitute capital offenses. These people, too, might not be considered flagrant Shabbat desecrators. An even more drastic view was advanced by the Hazon Ish (Rav Avraham Yeshaya Karelitz, 1878-1952). He contended that a person does not attain the status of a public Shabbat desecrator unless he was reprimanded for violating Shabbat and then ignored the rebuke he received. Effective criticism is a difficult art, a skill which the vast majority of people do not have in our time. As such, the Hazon Ish wrote, violators can be assumed to not have ever received proper rebuke for their acts of desecration, and they therefore do not have the status of public Shabbat desecrators. This novel ruling of the Hazon Ish should seemingly allow any Shabbat violator to be counted toward a Minyan nowadays, given the assumption that proper rebuke was never administered. However, Rav Yisrael Bitan noted that one might question this conclusion, in light of the fact that technology has made knowledge about Torah law readily available to all, and, moreover, there are many Jews who were raised in Torah homes and received a proper religious education, and then decided to abandon halachic observance. It seems difficult to exclude such people from the category of intentional Shabbat desecrators. Rabbi Bitan therefore concludes that every community Rabbi must determine the policy for his congregation, given the different opinions that exist and different realities in each community. It must be emphasized that we speak here only of being counted toward the minimum quorum of ten men. By no means does Halacha disallow a Shabbat violator from entering a synagogue and participating in the Minyan. Personally, I went into the rabbinate specifically for such Jews, to help Jews grow in their observance, each on their level and in a way that suits them, irrespective of one's current level of commitment. Those who do not properly observe Shabbat should be at least as welcome in the synagogue as fully-observant Jews, if not more so. I am reminded of a story told by Hacham Baruch Ben-Haim of a person who once came to pray in Congregation Shaare Zion and was given an Aliya, and afterward, somebody else approached Hacham Baruch to object. He said that he knew for a fact that this individual who was given an Aliya regularly shaved with a razor – a strict Torah violation – and thus should not be given the honor of being called to the Torah. "Let me tell you a story," Hacham Baruch replied. "Many years ago, there was somebody who came to shul who was not at all serious about Halachic observance. We welcomed him very warmly, and gave him an Aliya. There were those who objected and were angry at me. But gradually, this fellow became more involved, attending prayers and classes, and building a relationship with me and other Rabbis. He ended up raising a fully observant home, and all his children are strictly observant. "As it so happens," the Hacham continued, "that man was your father. You would not be in the synagogue today if I had followed the policy you are advocating." This should be our attitude toward our fellow Jews who are not as observant as we would want. While there is some question about whether or not they may be counted toward the minimum required amount of ten men, and, as we saw, different opinions exist, there is no question about whether they should be warmly welcomed in our synagogues. Our institutions must be inviting for all Jews, regardless of their level of observance, so everyone can grow in a way and at a pace that is appropriate for them.

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross
Mishna Berura Hilchos Shabbos 29 – Siman 249

Rabbi Dovid A. Gross

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 24:01


siman hilchos shabbos mishna berura
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
The Proper Pronunciation of the First Two Words of Kaddish

Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026


April 21 first The custom among many Ashkenazim is to pronounce the first two words of Kaddish as "Yitgadel Ve'yitkadesh." This follows the ruling of the Mishna Berura, who maintained that these words are Hebrew, not Aramaic, such that they should be pronounced "Yitgadel Ve'yitkadesh," with the Sereh vowel underneath the Dalet in both words. However, Rav Meir Mazuz (1945-2025) noted that in ancient sources, these words appear in the Aramaic form – "Yitgadal Ve'yitkadash," with a Patah vowel, and so this is the proper pronunciation. This is, indeed, the custom among Sepharadim. When reciting the word "Yitgadal," one must ensure to pronounce the Gimmel properly, and not as a Kuf, as though reciting "Yitkadal," a word that means something very different from "Yitgadal." Furthermore, one must make a point to pronounce the Dalet properly, so the word does not sound like "Yitkatal," with a Tav.