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For a 10% discount on Rabbi David Ashear's new book LIVING EMUNAH VOL 8 click the link below https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422644645.html Many people say, "If only I had a lot of money, I would help so many people. I would support yeshivot, fund chesed organizations, and provide for families in need." It's a beautiful sentiment that reflects a generous and noble heart. But often, this thought remains just that—a distant dream. In reality, a person does not need a lot of money to become a true baal tzedakah . If someone has a genuine desire to give, Hashem can open doors and make that desire a reality. A young mother raising several little children had no income. She noticed that many families in her building lacked toys, games, and books for their children. She sent a simple voice note to a group chat asking if anyone had toys in good condition to donate. Within a week, her hallway was filled with donations. She organized them into bins, labeled them, and opened her apartment one day a week for mothers to come and take toys for their children. No budget, no money—just heart and effort. Another young woman noticed that many families in her neighborhood were struggling to afford clothing for Yom Tov. Instead of just feeling bad, she decided to act. She received permission to use a high school gym on a Sunday, made flyers requesting donations of clean, gently used clothing, and organized volunteers to sort and set up. Families came to shop with dignity—free of charge. One man shared how Hashem gave him extraordinary siyata dishmaya to help people in large proportions. A few years ago, he was a bank clerk heading home when he noticed a flyer requesting furniture for a newly established beit midrash . They were seeking tables, chairs, and bookshelves and would appreciate any donation. He didn't think there was any way he could help, but he felt a strong desire to be involved. He tore off one of the tabs at the bottom with the contact number. The very next day, he arrived at work to find a carpenter dismantling his desk. The branch had just opened a month earlier and was furnished with upscale, elegant furniture. But management had decided it was too fancy and were replacing everything. The carpenter turned to him and asked, "Do you know anyone who might want this?" Suddenly, he remembered the flyer. He called the rabbi of the beit midrash and told him there was a huge amount of high-quality furniture available. They arranged a truck and were stunned by the quantity and beauty of the furniture. The beit midrash was now elegantly furnished, and the man was thrilled to have played a role in beautifying a house of Hashem. But that was only the beginning. His name was added to a list in the bank's construction department as someone who knew people and institutions that could use furniture. Just days later, the architect from another department called him: they were closing an entire floor in a Tel Aviv branch and needed someone to take the furniture. He didn't yet know who needed it—but he knew what to do. He called one yeshiva, then another. Two large trucks were dispatched to one yeshiva, and two more to another. Weeks later, another branch in Yerushalayim was closing, and again he arranged for the furniture to go to two more yeshivot. Over time, his number became well known. He helped dozens of institutions and families. Once, a yeshiva contacted him asking for 500 pieces of furniture. He had never dealt with such a quantity before but said he would try. Less than two months later, a carpenter from the bank called him—they were closing two large branches in Netanya and had 500 units of furniture available. He was able to fully furnish one of the larger yeshivot in the country. This man does not have wealth. But his yearning to give made him a shaliach to provide hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of furniture to yeshivot and organizations across the country. Everyone has what they need to be successful in avodat Hashem . The more we yearn to do good, the more siyata dishmaya we receive.
We discuss mentioning Shabbat, Yom Tov, and Rosh Chodesh in the Bracha Achat Me'ein Shalosh.
Lkovod the Auspicious days of יב-יג תמוז – The 12& 13th of Tamuz, we mark the liberation of The Previous Rebbe from prison and exile in 1927. The Previous Rebbe was incarcerated in the shpalerna prison in Leningrad and waslater exiled to Kastrama and finally released on 12-13 Tamuz. This audios series feature / discuss the events of the arrest & liberation of the Previous Rebbe and the Rebbe's Insights on this Yom Tov. This audio is comprised of 12 installments, which were originally posted in our “Zichronos ofthe Rebbe” whatsapp group. Listening time is about 1 ½ hours. Due to its length, you may need to download it to a computer.*A Guten Yom Tov!*
The Rebbe instructs that the individual be urged—repeatedly and clearly—to put on tefillin daily (except on Shabbat and Yom Tov), even briefly and even if delayed until later in the day. Emphasis is placed on the mitzvah's unique power to safeguard and prolong life, regardless of the person's general religious observance. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/iyar/1026
The Rebbe responds to a request for a blessing regarding eye issues and says he will mention them at the Ohel. He encourages creating vessels for blessings through daily Tehillim, Chumash study, joining communal Torah classes, and the wife giving tzedakah before Shabbat and Yom Tov. A recent Lag BaOmer talk is enclosed. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/iyar/1012
The Rebbe looks forward to meeting over Pesach and sends wishes for a joyful Yom Tov. He expresses concern that funds from Mr. Zaks have not arrived and asks for follow-up. He also inquires about Mr. Robinson's loan for the African work, noting the project's great success despite financial strain, especially after a reduced Joint subsidy. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/nissan/970
The Rebbe shares that he heard from Rabbi Binyomin Gorodetsky about the recipient's dedicated efforts in supporting Torah and his involvement with Oholei Yosef Yitzchok. He highlights the great merit of providing spiritual nourishment—especially during Pesach—and blesses him with a kosher and joyous Yom Tov and abundant good in all areas. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/nissan/982
The Rebbe responds to a question about Yom Tov Sheini observance by visitors from Israel, noting that while it's a matter for a halachic authority, he has seen individuals from Israel observe only one day when their intent is to return, provided it's not done publicly. Though not heard directly from the Rebbe Rayatz, this was done with his knowledge. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/nissan/973
The Rebbe sends a blessing for recovery, especially regarding leg pain, linking it to the role of emunah—symbolized by legs and strengthened through eating matzah, the "bread of faith." As Pesach approaches, he wishes both physical and spiritual healing, along with a kosher and joyous Yom Tov. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/nissan/979
The Rebbe encourages turning inspiration into action in Ahavas Hashem, Torah, and Yisrael. He emphasizes the importance of reaching every Jew, especially during Pesach, and blesses the writer and family with a kosher and joyous Yom Tov. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/nissan/983
Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchasa - Perek Yud Tes: Seif 1-8 Carrying on Yom Tov For sponsorship opportunities go to https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=634XVJSEDYYAUwww.rabbifishman.com or email: rabbifishman@gmail.com https://hilchosshabbos.podbean.com/ Mishna Berurah Yomi - https://rabbifishman.podbean.com www.kriashatorah.com
The root of Chanukah.Source Sheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bJZWi8cNvH8LvjKa_jqVfMQhqGrqm6Na/view?usp=share_link
התוכן 1) ראש חודש הוא יום טוב לנשים שבו נוהגות להמנע ממלאכות מסויימות, וזה השכר שלהן על שלא רצו לקחת חלק בעשיית ה"עבודה זרה" של העגל וכו'. וההוראה: יש לנשים את הכח לחזק את האנשים בזמן הגלות שלא יהי' להם שייכות לענינים ש"זרים" לבנ"י. 2) גאולת כ"ק מו"ח אדמו"ר ממאסרו בי"ב תמוז פעלה חיזוק בהפצת היהדות במדינה ההיא. באמת ב(אד)ר"ח תמוז הודיעו לכ"ק מו"ח אדמו"ר שיכול להשתחרר [ושעליו לנסוע לקאַסטראַמאַ] אלא שסירב להשתחרר אז כי זה הי' קשור עם חילול שבת וכו'. וההוראה: כשהיצה"ר מנסה לשכנעו שמותר לעבור על ציווי ה' על מנת להשתחרר מ"בית האסורים" – אין לשמוע בקולו אלא לסמוך על ה' שבודאי ינחה אותו בדרך הטוב וכו'.יום ג' פ' חוקת, בדר"ח תמוז ה'תשל"ה, להתלמידות המסיימות ד"בית רבקה" ולהמדריכות דמחנה "אמונה" תחיינה תחיינה ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=26-06-2025 Synopsis (1) Rosh Chodesh is a special Yom Tov for women, on which women customarily refrain from certain forms of work, in reward for their refusal to take part in the avodah-zarah (“foreign service”) of the golden calf etc. The lesson is that during the exile, women have the power to strengthen the men to have no association with anything foreign to the Jewish people. (2) The liberation of my father-in-law the Rebbe from prison on 12 Tammuz effected a strengthening in the spreading of Yiddishkeit in that country. The truth is that the Rebbe was informed of his release on Rosh Chodesh Tammuz, but he refused to leave because the trip (to exile in Kostroma) would continue into Shabbos; instead he chose to remain in prison until after Shabbos. The lesson is that when the yetzer hara tries to convince a person that it's permissible to transgress Hashem's command in order to be released from “prison” – one must not listen, and must trust in Hashem Who will surely guide him on the good path etc.Excerpt from sichah of Tuesday, second day of Rosh Chodesh Tammuz 5735 – to the graduating students of Bais Rivkah and the counselors of Camp Emunah For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=26-06-2025 לע”נ הרה"ג הרה"ח הרה"ת ר' שלום ע"ה בן הרה"ח הרה"ת ר' אלחנן דובער הי"ד מרזוב ליום היארצייט שלו אדר"ח תמוזת.נ.צ.ב.ה.*לזכות מרת אסתר בת גאלדע רחל שתחי' ליום ההולדת שלה אדר"ח תמוזלשנת ברכה והצלחה ואריכות ימים ושנים טובות
Avodah Zara 8 : Marc Chipkin : 2025-06-26 Adam thought the world was ending, then made a Yom Tov. Celebrating the wedding of the sin of an idol worshipper is like idolatry. Rome's alliance with the Jews to conquer the Greeks, and eventual subjugation of the Jews.
התוכן טענת קרח [בראשון דפ' קרח] "מדוע תתנשאו על קהל ה'" (אף שהוא בעצמו ביקש שימנו אותו במקום אליצפן בן עוזיאל) היתה, שענין ה"התנשאות" של הכהן לא צ"ל באותם ענינים שבהם שווה הכהן לשאר בנ"י, אבל האמת היא, כמו שמשה אמר לו, שמעלתו של הכהן פועלת על כל עניניו. וע"ד המעלה של האדם "שנברא בצלם", הנה אצל בנ"י ה"ז באופן נעלה יותר מאשר אצל שאר אוה"ע, וע"ד בנוגע לקרבן תמיד של שבת ויו"ט ויוהכ"פ, שקדושת היום פועלת עילוי גם בקרבן תמיד, וההוראה: מעלתו של יהודי צריכה להתבטא לא רק כשעוסק בעניני תומ"צ אלא בכל עניניו, גם כשעוסק בעניני רשות, וכמ"ש ברמב"ם וכו' שה"חכם ניכר במעשיו באכילתו ושתייתו". ועד"ז בבנ"י גופא, הנה מי שהוא במדרגה נעלית יותר, שיודע ללמוד יותר וכיו"ב, ה"ז צריך להתבטא גם בעניני הרשות שלו, ועד"ז מעשה המצוות שלו צ"ל "מאירים" יותר ממי שאינו במדרגתו. [המשך יבוא]משיחת י"ג תמוז ה'תשכ"ב ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=22-06-2025 Synopsis Although Korach understood that there are distinctions between Jews (and he himself wished to be appointed in place of Elitzafan ben Uziel), nevertheless, he argued (in rishon of parashas Korach), “Why do you raise yourselves above the assembly of Hashem?” meaning, why must your being “raised above” be expressed in the areas where the Kohen is equal to other Jews? But the truth is that the Kohen's special quality changes every part of him. Similarly, while man is created in the Divine image and possesses a quality superior to other beings, for a Jew, this quality is even loftier than it is among the nations of the world. We find a similar concept regarding the korban tamid: although the tamid is a daily offering, when it is offered on Shabbos and Yom Tov etc., the holiness of the day imbues it with even greater sanctity. The lesson is that the special quality of a Jew must be expressed not only when he engages in Torah and mitzvos, but even when he engages in mundane matters, as the Rambam writes, “The wise man is recognizable in his actions, in his eating and drinking.” Similarly, among the Jewish people itself, when someone has is on a loftier spiritual level than others, this quality must be expressed even in his mundane affairs, and his Torah and mitzvos must also shine more than that of someone not on his level.Excerpt from sichah of 13 Tammuz 5722 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=22-06-2025
In this shiur we discuss: 1) Tevilas Keilim for a keurig machine, 2) Moving a garbage can on Shabbos and Yom Tov, 3) Tying a garbage bag on Shabbos, 4) Status of parve item cooked in a meat pot that has not been used in 24 hrs, 5) Taking off 2 articles of clothing at the same time, 6) Trapping a bee on Shabbos, 7) Can a non-Jew touch grape juice, 8) Is raw meat muktzah?
Deciding To Stay in Chutz L'Aretz In Middle of Yom Tov SheiniSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/ten-minute-halacha/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on Halacha Yom Tov. Shiur recorded in Yeshivas Ohr Reuven, Monsey, NY.
Zohar Bamidbar: Each Yom Tov/Holiday Unveils a Divine Light, Accessed through its Historical Context
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
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.
Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on Halacha Yom Tov. Shiur recorded in Yeshivas Ohr Reuven, Monsey, NY.
התוכן ככל שמתקרבים יותר לזמן מ"ת יש להוסיף יותר בהכנות לקבלת התורה. עאכו"כ כשנמצאים ביום ערב זמן מ"ת. ובכ"ז ישנם כאלו שעסוקים בכל מיני דברים טובים ונעלים אבל שוכחים להזכיר שצריכים להתכונן בפשטות לקבלת התורה בחה"ש זמן מ"ת! וההכנה היא בפשטות - הקדמת נעשה לנשמע! [שאמרו בנ"י בה' סיון], ולא רק לומר א"ז, אלא לקחת כמה דקות במשך יום זה להתבונן בזה, ב"נעשה" ו"נשמע" ו"הקדמת נעשה לנשמע", בהתבוננות אמיתית אליבא דנפשי', ושדקות אלו "יתפשטו" על כל היום, ועי"ז יהיו מוכנים לקבלת התורה בשמחה ובפנימיות!משיחת אור ליום ה', ה' סיון ה'תשל"ה ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=01-06-2025 Synopsis The closer we get to Shavuos, the more we must increase our preparations for receiving the Torah, and especially on the day before Shavuos. Nevertheless, there are many people involved in all sorts of good and lofty things, but they forget to mention the need simply to prepare for receiving the Torah on the Yom Tov of Shavuos, the Time of the Giving of the Torah. And the way to preparate for it is simple: putting “We will do” before “We will hear” (which the Jewish people said on 5 Sivan). And one shouldn't just say the words; rather one should take a few minutes during the day to reflect on it – to reflect honestly on “We will do,” on “We will listen,” and on putting “We will do before “We will hear” – and in such a way that these few minutes extend to the rest of the day. In this way, one will be ready to receive the Torah with joy and inner meaning.Excerpt from sichah of Thursday night, 5 Sivan 5735 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=01-06-2025 לזכות חיים עזריאל בן חיה ריסה שי' ונגר ליום הולדת שלו יום א' דחג השבועות - לשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובות*לזכות אדל בת שיינא שתחי' ליום ההולדת שלה יום א' דחג השבועותלשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובות
Join us in Jerusalem for Ohr Samayach's 2nd Yarchei Kallah event from July 7th to 9th, 2025! Featuring HaRav Yitzchak Breitowitz shlit"a & HaRav Asher Weiss shlit"a and more Click here for more information. Dont miss this one of a kind experience! ---------------------------------------------------- Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at https://ohr.edu/donate/qa Questions? Comments? podcasts@ohr.edu 0:00 were Ruth and Orpah converts at the time of marriage to Naomi's two sons 9:50 can we say that both psaks are correct in a halachic makloket How do we resolve the concept of one soulmate with the ability to have multiple wives What is the cause of the Shidduch crisis Can others rely on the Temani Masorah for eating kosher Grasshoppers Wearing tzitzit without Techelet 30:50: activities that cause one to forget his learning 32:50 do we have a Masora of transmission of the Zohar from Rav Shimon Bar Yochai to Rav Moshe DeLeon 38:25 how does one use their relationships with others to enhance our relationship with Hashem 41:05 what are the parameters for being allowed to break Shabbat for emergency EMT work 45:50 are lower quality hekshers like Rabbanut fully operating within permitted leniencies or do they violate some kashrut laws 55:35 will many things still continue as per normal after Mashiach 1:01:15 when the Mashiach, will we not get as much reward for mitzvot, will gerim be allowed 1:05:45 why isn't mashiv haruach morid hatal mentioned fully in tefilah 1:09:15 why is there a discrepancy between secular and Jewish dating of the temple periods 1:17:50 why is the schmita requirement only limited to farmers and not other professions 1:21:15 why are there 2 days of Yom Tov for Shavuot which is determined by counting down 1:25:25 when are certain people zocheh to learn with a magid or Eliyahu HaNavi 1:28:15 what does the Rav consider to be the best proof for Judaism 1:30:55 is there a way to explain the Torah through science 1:33:30 what are the halachic ramifications of being a plant geneticist 1:35:00 why do we keep 2 days of yom Tov but not Rosh Chodesh Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website https://ohr.edu/study_in_israelwhatsapp us at https://bit.ly/OSREGISTER or call our placement specialist at 1-254-981-0133 today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at https://plnk.to/rbq&a Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz https://forms.gle/VCZSK3wQJJ4fSd3Q7 Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/OhrSomayach/videos You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ https://ohr.edu PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
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.
This episode discusses the halachos of preparing dairy and meat meals with the same oven and hotplate, and various halachos of Yom Tov.
Bamidbar begins with the counting of the Bnei Yisrael, which the seforim teach shows the preciousness of our people as a whole, and of every individual as well. Matan Torah is really what gave us that special distinction and made us unique. May Hashem help us appreciate who we are and help us find ways to tap into His precious gift on the Yom Tov of Shavuos.Have a great Shabbos and a wonderful and meaningful Shavuos.
In this shiur we discuss: 1) Staying up all night on Shavuos, 2) Saying a bracha achrona between dairy and meat, 3) Kashering an oven from dairy to meat, 4) Making dairy bread, 5) Making a bbq on Yom Tov, 6) Paying a non-Jewish cleaning lady to come on Yom Tov, 7) Paying tuition from Maaser money, 8) Using a warming drawer on Shabbo, 9) Mashing avocadoes on Shabbos, 10) The custom of a women who just gave birth going to shul after delivery, 11) The custom of a vacht nacht, 12) Bracha on crispix, 13) Blending strawberries for a smoothie
We are Torah. And Torah is us.
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In this episode, I'm joined by Rabbi Pill for a deep and wide-ranging conversation on the spiritual essence of Shavuos. We explore what it means to truly “receive the Torah again,” not as a memory of Sinai, but as a living, recurring revelation. We discuss how each Yom Tov expresses a unique divine will, and how Shavuos brings a reactivation of the same infinite light that first descended on Har Sinai.We delve into the soul of Torah itself, beyond mitzvos, beyond words—and the interplay between concealment and revelation that underlies all of creation. Along the way, we talk about exile and redemption, the evolving accessibility of Torah's inner dimensions, and how moments of spiritual clarity can transform even the most mundane parts of our lives. This conversation is about reconnecting to the deeper reality that lies just beneath the surface, on Shavuos, and every day after.Join the Conversation! Be part of our growing community—join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp group to share feedback, discuss episodes, and suggest future topics. Click here to sign up.
Harav Yussie Zakutinsky Shlita
Harav Yussie Zakutinsky Shlita
Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on Dvar Halacha Yom Tov. Shiur recorded in Yeshivas Ohr Reuven, Monsey, NY.
Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on Dvar Halacha Yom Tov. Shiur recorded in Yeshivas Ohr Reuven, Monsey, NY.
Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on Dvar Halacha Yom Tov. Shiur recorded in Yeshivas Ohr Reuven, Monsey, NY.
Harav Yehuda Weiner explains, based on the pesukim in this week's parsha, that in order to truly prepare for Kabolas HaTorah and the Yom Tov of Shavuos, one must grow in the middah of chesed.
Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on Dvar Halacha Yom Tov. Shiur recorded in Yeshivas Ohr Reuven, Monsey, NY.
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There is nothing a person can accomplish without Hashem's help—and with Hashem's help, anything is possible. Even the smallest tasks require siyata dishmaya . A man shared an experience at an airport with his family. They were waiting for their last piece of luggage to appear on the carousel. His daughter asked if she could be the one to retrieve it, and he agreed. As the suitcase came around, she prepared to grab it—but in that moment, a single strand of her hair got caught on another piece of their luggage. This slight delay caused her to miss the suitcase, and due to the crowd, they couldn't retrieve it until it came around again. The man took a powerful lesson from that experience. His daughter had been ready, nothing seemingly stood in her way—yet, clearly, it was Hashem's will for them to wait a few more minutes. Hashem orchestrated it through something as small as a hair. We often have no idea how much He is helping us, even in delays or setbacks. Rabbi David Ammon, Rosh Yeshiva of Noam HaTorah in Israel, recounted a remarkable story. While in Los Angeles on Yom Tov, he was walking to deliver a shiur when he realized a few blocks from his home that he had worn the wrong suit jacket. He turned back to change. Upon his return, a man approached him and asked how he had known to turn around at that moment. Confused, the rabbi asked what he meant. The man explained that moments after the rabbi had turned back, a massive piece of a tree—thirty feet tall—crashed down on the exact path he had been walking. Because of the noise of traffic, the rabbi hadn't even heard it. He was completely unaware that Hashem had just saved his life by prompting him to wear the wrong jacket. On another occasion, Rabbi Ammon shared a story from a yeshiva trip to Europe. While visiting holy sites, someone recommended a sacred shul where three great tzaddikim had once served as rabbis. Entry was by appointment only, which they didn't have, but since they were nearby, they decided to stop by. Miraculously, someone with a key happened to be there at that exact moment to open the doors. Minutes later, a small group arrived—the ones who actually had the appointment. They had come hoping to hold a kumzitz , singing praises to Hashem in the holy site. Seeing the 30 yeshiva boys, they invited them to join, and together they shared what became the most uplifting experience of their trip. Appointments to that shul are rare, often just one or two per day. Hashem had clearly orchestrated the perfect timing for both groups to be there. Another man shared a story involving his son's bar mitzvah. He desperately needed a pair of tefillin but couldn't afford them. He contacted an organization that helps low-income families acquire tefillin , and they added his son to the waiting list. Days later, the organization called with news: a man named Shimon wanted to donate a pair and was given the boy's information. When they spoke to Shimon, he explained how it all unfolded. He had met a man in Williamsburg with a rare talent: the ability to instantly convert any secular date to its corresponding Hebrew date, even decades into the past or future. Shimon gave his secular birthday, and the man replied: "28th of Av." Shimon disagreed, saying it was the 29th. The man insisted. Upon investigation, Shimon discovered that his father had mistakenly told him the wrong date. His birthday occurred during a Yom Kippur Katan tefillah, typically held on the 29th of Av—the day before Rosh Chodesh . But that year, Rosh Chodesh fell on Shabbat, so the tefillah had been pushed up to Thursday, the 28th. Following his family's tradition, Shimon had not begun wearing tefillin until his exact bar mitzvah date—meaning he had missed his first day due to the error. This realization devastated him. He prayed for guidance and atonement. Weeks later, while attending a class, he heard the rabbi mention that if someone accidentally misses a day of tefillin , one way to atone is by donating a pair to someone in need. Overjoyed by the clarity and opportunity, Shimon contacted the organization immediately—and was connected with the bar mitzvah boy in need. Hashem guided each detail of this story—from revealing the mistaken date, to teaching Shimon how to atone, to connecting him with someone whose need matched perfectly with his desire to give. These stories remind us that Hashem is present in every moment and every detail of our lives. From a missed suitcase to a falling tree, from a sacred visit to a humble act of giving—He orchestrates everything with purpose. The more we ask Hashem for help, the more we see His hand in our lives.
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
A situation recently arose concerning a family in Montreal who lost a relative, Heaven forbid, living in Miami. The family in Montreal did not to travel to join the other relatives at the funeral, which was held two days later, and they therefore faced the question of when to begin Aveilut (mourning). Does the period of Aveilut begin only after the funeral, in which they case they should call the relatives in Miami to find out when the funeral concluded and then begin Aveilut, or should they begin immediately? Although generally mourning observances begin only after the funeral, perhaps in this case, when the relatives are not attending the funeral, they should begin observing Aveilut immediately upon hearing of the unfortunate news. This issue is subject to a debate among the Halachic authorities. Many authorities, including the Sedei Chemed (Rabbi Chayim Chizkiya Halevi, Israel, 1832-1904) and Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Israel, 1910-1995), ruled stringently, and held that the period of Aveilut cannot begin until after the funeral. Others, however, including Rabbi Moshe Feinstein (Russia-New York, 1895-1986), in his Iggerot Moshe (Yoreh Dei'a, vol. 1, 253), held that relatives who do not travel to the funeral begin observing Aveilut immediately upon learning of the passing. This is the view taken by Rabbi Shemuel Wosner (contemporary, Israel), in his work Shevet Ha'levi. Rabbi Shemuel Pinchasi, in his work Chayim Va'chesed (3:13), cites both opinions. Chacham Ovadia Yosef (ibid) ruled that in situations where Yom Tov begins after the person's death but before the funeral, relatives who do not travel for the funeral may follow the lenient position and begin the Aveilut immediately. In such a case, following the stringent view would require delaying Aveilut until after Yom Tov, which might cause considerable difficulty. A person in this situation may therefore follow the lenient position and begin Aveilut immediately upon hearing of the relative's passing, such that the onset of Yom Tov will cancel the rest of Aveilut. In all other situations, however, Chacham Ovadia requires delaying Aveilut until after the funeral. As for the final Halacha, from my consultation with several leading Rabbis in our community it emerges that we follow the lenient view, and allow mourners who are in a different city and are staying there, to begin observing Aveilut immediately. This applies to all cases of a person who does not attend a relative's funeral when in a distant location. Summary: If a person loses a family member, Heaven forbid, in a distant location, and he does not travel to the funeral, some authorities maintain that he may begin Aveilut immediately, whereas others require that he delay Aveilut until after the funeral. The general practice in our community is to allow the individual to begin Aveilut immediately.
In this episode of 'Inspired to Lead,' host Talia Meshiach sits down with Shifra Kolsky, the Chief Accounting Officer at Discover Financial Services. Shifra shares her inspirational journey from overcoming the loss of her father during her teenage years, to working through high school and college, and eventually climbing the corporate ladder. With a special focus on balancing a high-powered career with family responsibilities, Shifra opens up about the importance of self-belief, continuous learning, and effective communication. She discusses her motivations, the challenges she faced regarding Shabbos and Yom Tov in a corporate environment, and the significance of a supportive workplace culture. Listeners will gain insights on the value of asking for growth opportunities, the power of mentorship, and the joy of contributing to both family and community. 00:00 Introduction to Inspired to Lead 01:24 Interview with Shifra Kolsky Begins 02:35 Shifra's Role at Discover Financial Services 06:18 Balancing Family and Career 07:23 Shifra's Early Life and Career Path 23:43 Challenges and Mentorship in Shifra's Career 30:20 Balancing Family and Career Responsibilities 31:15 Navigating Maternity Leave in Corporate America 33:09 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Climbing the Corporate Ladder 34:47 The Importance of Asking for Opportunities 38:04 Creating a Supportive Work Environment 41:04 Balancing Religious Observance with Corporate Demands 46:28 Leadership and Personal Growth 52:14 Final Reflections and Advice About Shifra Kolsky: Kolsky has been with Discover over 15 years and was promoted to Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer in 2020. She was instrumental in driving several key initiatives, including significant accounting changes, major technology implementations and the adoption of robotic process automation in the finance function. She is the executive sponsor of Discover's Jewish Affinity Group. Prior to working for Discover, Kolsky was in public accounting in the audit practice at Deloitte and Arthur Andersen. In addition to her role at Discover, Kolsky is also active in her community, volunteering with No Shame On U, an organization dedicated to ending the stigma associated with mental health conditions; the Chicago chapter of The JWE; and the Kehillah Fund, which supports Jewish educational institutions in the Chicago area. Kolsky's husband is a rabbi who teaches in Jewish day schools and high schools. They have four children and two fabulous kids-in-law. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shifrakolsky Powered By Roth & Co The JWE For guest suggestions, please email Talia: podcast@thejwe.org
Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on Dvar Halacha Yom Tov. Shiur recorded in Yeshivas Ohr Reuven, Monsey, NY.
When our plans are suddenly canceled or unexpected mistakes arise, they often appear to be nothing more than unfortunate coincidences. In such moments, it's natural to feel disappointment or confusion about why things didn't go as expected. However, someone with emunah —faith in Hashem—understands that there is no such thing as a mistake. Everything unfolds precisely as it is meant to, even if the reasons are hidden from us. Most of the time, we're not privileged to see the full picture. We don't always understand why certain events deviate from our carefully laid plans. Yet sometimes, Hashem offers a glimpse behind the scenes, revealing how what seemed like a disruption was actually a necessary step in a greater design. A woman shared her experience from this past Simchat Torah . She had been eagerly preparing for a joyous Yom Tov, anticipating a full house with all her children and grandchildren. She cooked in advance, excited to host the entire family. But on Chol HaMoed , her three teenage sons expressed a strong desire to return to their out-of-town yeshivot for Simchat Torah . Though disappointed, she graciously agreed, recognizing how meaningful it would be for them. Then, on Hoshana Rabbah night, her married son informed her that he had missed his flight home from his in-laws. As a result, he, his wife, and their three children would be spending Yom Tov elsewhere. The vibrant family gathering she had envisioned quickly diminished, leaving her and her husband with unexpected quiet. On a whim, they decided to go to her husband's former yeshiva—where two of their sons would be spending the holiday. A room near the yeshiva became available that night, and they took it. They packed up the food she had lovingly prepared and made the spontaneous trip. Though out of character for them, the experience turned out to be profoundly uplifting. During the Yom Tov, two different people independently suggested a shidduch for their daughter—an alumnus of the very yeshiva they were visiting who was also there for Yom Tov . They followed up on the recommendation, and Baruch Hashem , their daughter is now engaged to that young man. A missed flight, a change of plans, and a last-minute decision to travel—all seemingly minor and natural occurrences—were, in truth, Hashem's orchestration to bring this family to the exact place where their daughter would find her zivug . In another touching story, a man shared how his 10-year-old daughter asked for a special siddur with her name engraved on it. He told her that was a gift he had planned for her bat mitzvah, over a year away. Not wanting to wait, she asked again. He gently explained that it was an expensive item and not something he could give her "just because," but he encouraged her to ask Hashem for it instead. He used the moment to teach her the power of heartfelt tefillah . Inspired, the young girl began praying earnestly each day for that personalized siddur . One day a few months later, her principal called her to her office. While she was there, the principal pulled out a beautiful sidur with her name engraved on it. She explained she bought it for her granddaughter but it was the wrong nusach. Being that the store wouldn't exchange it because the name was already engraved upon it, she was stuck with it. Then she thought of this girl in her school with the exact same name as her granddaughter and offered the sidur to her. And just like that, this 10-year-old girl received the sidur she wanted so badly. It looked like a mistake but we know there are no mistakes. Hashem wanted this girl to have that sidur and this is how He accomplished it. Her sincerity was moving—and a powerful reminder that no prayer is too small or insignificant in Hashem's eyes. Everything that happens is me'et Hashem and if we're able to internalize that, we'll have a much easier time dealing with the unexpected.
Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on Dvar Halacha Yom Tov. Shiur recorded in Yeshivas Ohr Reuven, Monsey, NY.
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
**Today's Halacha is dedicated f or the refuah and haslacha of Ronnie, Sharon, Eli and all the children of CARE** It is customary each night during the Omer period for the Chazan to recite the Beracha and count the Omer aloud, before the congregation recites the Beracha and counts. This practice developed due to the concern that people may mistakenly count the wrong number, in which case they would not fulfill the Mitzva and would recite a Beracha Le'vatala ("wasted" Beracha). As it was assumed that Chazanim would know the correct number for the counting, the custom developed that the Chazan would first count aloud before the congregation. This practice is mentioned already by the Rashba (Rabbi Shlomo Ben Aderet, Spain, 1235-1310), in one of his responsa (126), and is discussed as well by Rabbi Chayim Palachi (Turkey, 1788-1868) in his work Mo'ed Le'kol Chai (5:19). Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi (the "Ba'al Ha'tanya," Russia, 1745-1813), in his code of Halacha (Shulchan Aruch Ha'Rav, 489:12; listen to audio for precise citation), notes an interesting Halachic dilemma that results from this custom. There is a debate among the authorities as to whether a person fulfills a Mitzva by performing the given action without intending to satisfy his Mitzva obligation ("Mitzvot Tzerichot Kavana" or "Mitzvot Einan Tzerichot Kavana"). According to one view, a person fulfills his obligation regardless of whether or not he has the Mitzva in mind while performing the given act. If so, Rabbi Shneur Zalman notes, once the Chazan publicly counts the Omer, everybody who hears his counting has fulfilled their obligation of Sefirat Ha'omer. Even though they did not intend to fulfill their obligation by listening to the Chazan's counting, and the Chazan did not have in mind for his counting to fulfill their obligation, they nevertheless fulfill the Mitzva by hearing his counting. Rabbi Sheur Zalman adds that with regard to Mitzvot De'Rabbanan (obligations ordained by the Rabbis, as opposed to Torah law), all authorities agree that intention is not indispensable for the fulfillment of the Mitzva. Therefore, since we generally follow the view that Sefirat Ha'omer nowadays is required on the level of Rabbinic obligation, according to all opinions one fulfills his obligation to count by hearing the Chazan's counting. Seemingly, then, it should be forbidden to count with a Beracha after one hears the Chazan count the Omer. Since one fulfills his obligation by listening to the Chazan, even if he did not intend to fulfill his obligation in this manner, he may no longer count with a Beracha. Chacham Ovadia Yosef addresses this issue in his work Chazon Ovadia (Laws of Yom Tov, p. 228). He writes that in order to avoid this dilemma, one should verbally declare each year towards the beginning of the Sefira period that throughout the period he does not intend to fulfill his obligation by listening to somebody else's counting. By making such a declaration, one establishes that he intends on fulfilling his obligation only by personally counting the Omer, and he may thus count with a Beracha even after listening to the Chazan's counting. Summary: It is customary for the Chazan to count the Omer aloud with the Beracha before the congregation counts. One should verbally declare at the beginning of the Sefira period that throughout the Omer he intends to fulfill his obligation to count only through his personal counting, and not by listening to the Chazan or other person's counting.