Podcasts about mishnah berurah

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 320, 19-20 and 321, 1-2 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 321, 6-7 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 321, 3-5 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 320, 14-17 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 320, 18 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

In this episode, we explore the halachic principles behind tying and untying knots on Shabbat, focusing on the two key conditions discussed in classical sources: permanence and professional craftsmanship. We compare opinions from the Shulchan Aruch, Rambam, Rashi, and the Mishnah Berurah, and address when a knot may be permitted for mitzvah purposes or in cases of discomfort. Clear guidelines and practical examples—like tying a bucket rope or measuring a mikvah—help clarify when a knot constitutes a biblical or rabbinic concern.

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 320, 5-7 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 320, 8-12 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

This episode explores the halachic permissibility of killing or trapping animals on Shabbat, especially when they pose a danger. We focus on distinctions between life-threatening and non-lethal threats, and how intention affects the rulings. The discussion includes sources from the Shulchan Aruch, Mishnah Berurah, and views of the Rambam and other Rishonim. We also touch on related topics like treading on insects and handling spit on the ground during Shabbat.

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 320, 1 Part 2 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 320, 2-4 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 319, 15-17 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 320, 1 (Part 1) by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 319, 10-11 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 319, 12-14 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 319, 7-9 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 319, 3 (Part 2) by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 319, 4-6 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

The Halacha below was derived from multiple classes orated by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the dates below to hear the original audio files, which are the sources for today's Halacha below. 05/14/25 ; 05/19/25 What Is the Requirement to Maintain Awareness While Wearing Tefillin—And Is It a Torah Obligation? The Tefillin are not just a physical Misva—they represent a spiritual bond between a Jew and Hashem. Because of this, Halacha includes laws about how we wear them and even how we think about them. Is there a Torah requirement to be aware of the Tefillin at all times while they are being worn? What level of mindfulness is expected, and what happens if one becomes distracted? Is There a Torah Obligation to Maintain Awareness of Tefillin? The Torah says, "Ukeshartam le'ot al yadecha"—"Bind them as a sign on your arm." The Misva is to place the Tefillin on the body, not necessarily to be constantly thinking about them. Therefore, according to many Rishonim, including the Rambam, the main obligation is the wearing of the Tefillin, not the awareness. However, the Gemara (Menahot 36a) mentions that one must not act lightheaded while wearing Tefillin—such as joking, sleeping, or entering a bathroom. These behaviors are prohibited because of the Kedusha of the Tefillin, not because of a Torah command to actively concentrate on them at all times. What Is 'Heseh HaDa'at' and Why Does It Matter? The term 'Heseh HaDa'at' means a lapse of awareness. In the context of Tefillin, this means forgetting that one is wearing them. While not sinful in itself, such forgetfulness may lead to disrespectful behavior. For example, one may lean back or act in a light manner—something that is forbidden while Tefillin are worn. According to the Mishnah Berurah, even though there is no Torah obligation to maintain constant focus, one must still be cautious not to behave in a way that shows a lack of reverence. That is why many people avoid doing work or even walking in a public place while wearing Tefillin if they know their mind will wander completely. Do I Have to Be Focused the Entire Time I Wear Tefillin? No. One does not need to meditate on the Tefillin throughout the entire Shaharit. It is expected that during Keri'at Shema and the Amida, a person will have proper Kavana (intent). Outside those moments, the level of focus may decrease, but one should avoid completely forgetting that the Tefillin are on. This is especially important for the Shel Rosh, which contains Hashem's Name in its inner scrolls. The Kedusha of the Tefillin Shel Rosh demands that one maintain a general awareness and respectful behavior the entire time it is worn. Can One Speak, Think, or Walk Around While Wearing Tefillin? Yes, it is permissible to talk, walk, and go about regular activities while wearing Tefillin—so long as one avoids behavior that is silly, disrespectful, or inappropriate. The Halacha only prohibits things like sleeping, joking, or entering a bathroom while wearing Tefillin. Hacham Ovadia Yosef writes that working, learning Torah, or even walking down the street while wearing Tefillin is allowed, as long as one remembers they are on and treats them with dignity. Summary - There is no Torah obligation to actively focus on the Tefillin at all times. - One must avoid forgetting about them entirely and behave respectfully. - The concept of Heseh HaDa'at is important for maintaining proper conduct. - Sleeping, joking, and entering inappropriate places are forbidden while wearing them. - Speaking or walking is allowed, so long as one behaves with Kedusha and awareness.

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 319, 1-2 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 319, 3 (Part 1) by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 19 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

In this episode, we explore the halachic parameters of constructing tent-like structures on Shabbat, focusing on cases like stacking books, spreading tablecloths, and sloped canopies. Learn when such acts are permitted, rabbinically prohibited, or biblically problematic based on the Mishnah Berurah and classic opinions like the Rema, Rif, Rambam, Rashi, and others

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 17-18 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 16 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

This episode explores key halachic principles regarding the prohibition of building or dismantling tent-like structures on Shabbat. Topics include spreading sheets over beds, using folding chairs and wall-attached beds, and the intricacies of applying the lavud principle. The discussion also covers the halachic nuances of stacking barrels in a way that may resemble a tent structure. Practical applications and rulings from major halachic authorities, including the Mishnah Berurah, are reviewed with clarity for everyday Shabbat observance.

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 13-15 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 11-12 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 9-10 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 5 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 6-8 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 4 (Part 1) by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 4 (Part 2) by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 4 (Part 3) by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

This episode examines the halachic framework for creating spouts and openings in containers on Shabbat—using wine barrels, reeds, and makeshift taps as classical examples. We explore how these principles inform modern applications, such as opening juice boxes, inserting straws, using spigots in beverage dispensers, and even managing wine casks in hospitality settings. Drawing from the Shulchan Aruch, Rema, and Mishnah Berurah, we uncover the fine line between permitted use and prohibited melacha based on intent, permanence, and tool use. Join us as we connect centuries-old rulings to present-day Sabbath observance.

A deep dive into the complex halachic principles surrounding opening packaging on Shabbat. We explore the classic sources—Shulchan Aruch, Mishnah Berurah, and major Poskim—regarding creating or widening holes in containers, with real-world examples such as milk cartons and barrels. Includes practical guidance on handling packaging when pre-opening isn't possible.

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 2-3 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 318, 1 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 317, 1 Part 2 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 317, 2-3 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 317, 4-7 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 317, 1 Part 1 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 316, 10-11 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

This episode explores the halachic intricacies of doors, hinges, and barriers on Shabbat, focusing on Siman 313. We examine when placing or locking a door is considered building, the status of reed mats, thorn panels, and single-plank closures, and how constant use or prior attachment affects permissibility. A detailed look at common and less common cases, all through the lens of Shulchan Aruch and Mishnah Berurah

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 316, 5-6 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 316, 7-8 (Part 1) by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 316, 9 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 316, 3-4 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 316, 2 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky

Mishnah Berurah Yomi: 316, 1 by Rabbi Avi Zakutinsky