The holy Seforim write that during the daytime on Tuesday of Parshas Beshalach (Today) it is a Segulah for Parnassah to recite the Parshas HaMann Sh'nayim Mikrah V'echad Targum, reading the Pesukim twice and the Targum Onkelos once.
Please, when davening to Hashem to provide sustenance for yourself and your family, have in mind as well that Hashem provide Parnassah to all of Klal Yisroel, many of whom are suffering terribly with a lack of Parnassah. Chazal teach us that one who prays for someone else in need, and they need that same thing, the one praying for their friend will be answered first!
Click here for the Parshas HaMann and the Targum.
Note: The Prayer following the Pesukim(Last two paragraphs beginning with Atah Hu Hashem Levadecha etc.) should be said only after the Targum has been recited as well.
Click Here to see an English translation of the Parshas Hamann
CURRENT TOPIC:
HALACHOS OF MELAVE MALKA
1)
Some Poskim rule that no special dishes need to be prepared beyond what
is already there and will be eaten for the Melave Malka. (Mishna Berura Siman 300:1)
Other
Poskim, however, maintain that it is indeed proper to prepare a new
dish in honor of Melave Malka, and not simply to eat leftovers from the
Shabbos meals. (Sha'arei Teshuva Siman 300:1 quoting the MaHarsha to Shabbos 119b. See also Kaf HaChaim Siman 300:8)
2)
Some say that if meat cannot be eaten, at least fish should be eaten at
the Seudas Melave Malka, as fish is also a respectable dish. (See Aruch HaShulchan Siman 300:3)
Some people, especially in Chasidic circles, are particular to eat garlic at the Melave Malka meal. (See Ba'al Shem Tov Parashas Yisro page 358)
If
one does not enjoy, or is not interested in eating a fleishig meal,
many Poskim rule that it is totally acceptable to eat a dairy meal, as
this can be just as respectable as a meat meal. Indeed this is the
prevalent Minhag of many scrupulous Jews.
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Does the candle used by havdalah have to be dipped in the wine to be put out?
Answer:
No,
it can be put out any way, but since it is a proper minhag not to blow
out candles with one's mouth (See Kolbo Siman 118, Shu"t Shalmas Chaim
Vol. 2 Siman 8, ben Ish Chai year 2 parashas Pinchos Siman 18 and Kaf
HaChaim Yoreh Deah Siman 116:16), the common custom (as brought in Rama
Siman 296:1) is to extinguish it in the spilled wine of Havdallah.
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they
both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
Growing
in purity is often like a caterpillar climbing a staircase. For the
caterpillar, stairs are a challenge. After a short upwards incline, the
caterpillar reaches a plateau, a long flat surface that is not going up
at all. Things go smoothly for a while as the caterpillar traverses this
surface, until the he hits a wall. It seems like the end of the road.
The journey has reached a dead end.
But after bumping into this
wall, the caterpillar looks around and realizes that the journey is not
over at all. The only way is up. So the caterpillar starts climbing. He
then understands that this was not a dead end. It was the next step
upwards, to reach a new height. What seemed like an obstacle was
actually an invitation to go higher.
The
same happens in our Avodas Hashem. After an initial high, we come to a
flat period where things coast along. Suddenly, the Yetzer Hara attacks
again and new obstacles appear that seem to threaten everything we've
gained until now. It looks like we've failed and the journey is over.
But this is normal. We are being beckoned to go to a higher level, to
raise ourselves above our current state and reach upward. It is at this
moment that we need to look up and start climbing.
Growing
closer to Hashem is not always a steep incline. That would be too
exhausting. The plateaus give us time to reenergize, and they are just
there to prepare us to go to the next level. But the challenge is in
front of you. Grab it, and caterpillar your way to new heights!
1)
Although the Shulchan Aruch writes to eat a minimum of a K'zayis (Food
amount equivalent to the size of a half or a third of an egg) at the
Melave Malka, it's best to actually eat a little more than a K'Beitaza
(Approximately double the size of a K'zayis) in order to establish it as
a meal, a Kvias Seuda. (See Machtzis HaShekel Siman 291:1)
Furthermore,
some Poskim write that in order to establish it as a meal, the table
should be set with Lechem Mishneh (two complete loaves of bread),
although only one of them should be lifted and used, as there is no
actual obligation of Lechem Mishneh at Melave Malka. (See Kaf HaChaim Siman 300:5)
2) Many scrupulous people make sure to eat hot bread at the Melave Malka meal, as the Talmud (Shabbos 119b) says
that eating or drinking something hot, especially hot bread, at Melave
Malka is a Refuah (cure) for the body. Additionally, many Seforim write
that it's a Refuah for the Neshama as well. (See the MaHarsha
to Shabbos 119b where he explains that by eating something that was
warmed up after Shabbos we honor the Shabbos by showing that we were
unable to cook on Shabbos.)
If one cannot eat hot bread, drinking something hot can suffice. (Ruling of Rav Yaakov Emden Zatzal in his siddur. See also Rashi Shabbos 119 b Dibur Hamaschil Chamin)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Am I allowed to read math books on Shabbos?
Answer:
M'Ikar
Hadin, math books, like other Sifrei Chochma, books of secular
knowledge, may be read on Shabbos. A Yerei Shomayim, however should try
and be stringent if possible. (See Mishna Berura Siman 307:65 and Sefer
Ashrei HaIsh from Maran Harav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv shlita, Perek 16:14)
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they
both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
1) Although the Shulchan Aruch writes to eat a minimum of a K'zayis (Food amount equivalent to the size of a half or a third of an egg) at the Melave Malka, it's best to actually eat a little more than a K'Beitaza (Approximately double the size of a K'zayis) in order to establish it as a meal, a Kvias Seuda. (See Machtzis HaShekel Siman 291:1)
Furthermore, some Poskim write that in order to establish it as a meal, the table should be set with Lechem Mishneh (two complete loaves of bread), although only one of them should be lifted and used, as there is no actual obligation of Lechem Mishneh at Melave Malka. (See Kaf HaChaim Siman 300:5)
2) Many scrupulous people make sure to eat hot bread at the Melave Malka meal, as the Talmud (Shabbos 119b) says that eating or drinking something hot, especially hot bread, at Melave Malka is a Refuah (cure) for the body. Additionally, many Seforim write that it's a Refuah for the Neshama as well. (See the MaHarsha to Shabbos 119b where he explains that by eating something that was warmed up after Shabbos we honor the Shabbos by showing that we were unable to cook on Shabbos.)
If one cannot eat hot bread, drinking something hot can suffice. (Ruling of Rav Yaakov Emden Zatzal in his siddur. See also Rashi Shabbos 119 b Dibur Hamaschil Chamin)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Am I allowed to read math books on Shabbos?
Answer:
M'Ikar Hadin, math books, like other Sifrei Chochma, books of secular knowledge, may be read on Shabbos. A Yerei Shomayim, however should try and be stringent if possible. (See Mishna Berura Siman 307:65 and Sefer Ashrei HaIsh from Maran Harav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv shlita, Perek 16:14)
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CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
"One can be for Hashem. One can be against Hashem. But no one can ever be without Hashem!"
We will now begin discussing the relatively short, but important, Halachos of Seudas Melave Malka, the farewell meal eaten on Motzaei Shabbos, in honor of the departure of the Shabbos queen. Many people do not realize the significance of this meal and hopefully after studying these Halachos we will all have a better appreciation for it.
1) The Siman in which Shulchan Aruch discusses the meal which has come to be referred to as "Melave Malka, Escorting the Queen" (Orach Chaim Siman 300) contains in it a total of fifteen words. A lot of commentary has been written to elaborate on the details not described within these fifteen words, based on the Talmud, Rishonim and Acharonim, which we will now endeavor to begin learning.
The fifteen words are: "L'Olam Yesader Adam Shulchano B'Motzaei Shabbos K'dai Lelavos Es Hashabbos, Afilu Aino Tzarich Elah L'Kzayis". Translation: "A person should always set his table on Motzaei Shabbos in order to escort the Shabbos, even if he will only be eating a Kzayis"
2) A tablecloth should be spread on the table as with other respectable meals, as well as setting the table nicely as is done by other meals.(Mishna Berura Siman300:1)
However, it isn't necessary to cook many dishes, rather only what will be eaten should be prepared and nothing more beyond that. (ibid.)
L'Chatchila, at this meal one should eat bread, and if possible also eat some meat and other dishes.
However if one does not have meat, or if one is so full from Seudah Shlishis (common in the summer months when Seudah Shlishis is eaten much later in the evening) and thus eating bread and meat would be Achilah Gasa, (gorging, which is halachically prohibited) the Melave Malka can be fulfilled with eating pastries or fruit. (Mishna Berura ibid. The Gaon of Vilna (in Biur HaGra Siman300:1), however, maintains that bread must be eaten at this Seudah in order to fulfill the obligation.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Is drying dishes on Shabbos considered Sechita? Or is it permitted?
Answer:
It is permitted to use a cloth towel to dry dishes on Shabbos as we do not worry that it will become so saturated to the point of sechitah, as when it gets that wet a new cloth is taken. It is best to not squeeeze very hard, if possible, when doing this to very wet dishes.
However, a utensil that is very narrow (like some wine goblets) and has in it a lot of water should not be dried as doing so will inevitably lead to sechitah. (Based on Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 12:21)
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
The following is from Rav Yaakov Meir Shechter Shlita :
Why does the Talmud (Sanhedrin 37a ) say "Chayav Adam Lomar - B'shvili Nivra Ha'olam" - "A person must continuously say that Hahem created the World for me"?
Clearly, the Talmud is teaching us the importance of our existence and our mandate not to ruin Hashems' world by engaging in destructive habits (Aveiros and the like).
However, why does the Talmud use the term "Lomar"...that we must speak this message to ourselves? It would seem more appropriate (within this conext) for the Gemorah to use the term 'to believe', or 'to feel'..etc.?...
Rav Shechter answered that it's not always easy for us to appreciate our own self worth. Indeed, we often look down upon ourselves and don't recognize or appreciate our G-d given talents and our ability (and responsibility) to positively contribute to society and to the World around us.
Therefore, the Talmud instructs us to begin the process of self discovery, by simply telling ourselves this message even when we really don't believe or feel it!
Then, if we repeat this mantra to ourselves enough times, we will slowly begin to realize the import of what we are saying and will come to recognize the truth of these words (and act upon them)!
Submitted by daily reader, C.N.; Taken from www.OhrShimshon.com
1) A yeshiva student that is eating the Shabbos Seudah in his parents' home, even though he will be going back to the dormitory or to his apartment to sleep and nobody lit candles there, does not need to do anything to take part in the lighting of the candles in his parents' home (e.g. contribute a coin or lifting them or having someone else lift them be "zoche" for him as a gift),as he is considered a member of the family and is automatically exempt via his mother's lighting like the rest of the household members. (Ruling of HaRav Nisim Karelitz Shlita)
2) If the Yeshiva student is a guest for the Seudah in a home other than his parents, and no candles were lit in the place where he will be sleeping, according to some Poskim, he has to partake in the candle lighting of the host by giving him a coin or lifting the candles or having someone else lift them a Tefach to be "zoche" them for him as a gift [before Shabbos]. (Ruling of HaRav Nisim Karelitz Shlita and Maran Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Shlita quoted in Shvus Yitzchok Perek 4)
Other Poskim, however, maintain that a Yeshiva student eating at a host's home assumes the status of the other family members and is automatically exempt by the host's Shabbos candles. (Ruling of HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal in Shulchan Shlomo Siman 263:13)
If the Yeshiva student is not sure if he will be eating in the Yeshiva's dining room or at a private host's home, he is exempt with the lighting in the yeshiva's dining room. (Ruling of HaRav Nissim Karelitz Shlita)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) A woman that negligently or even inadvertently didn't light the Shabbos candles on a particular week must from that week on always add an additional candle to the usual amount that she lights. (Rama Siman 263:1)
If she forgot multiple times, she is required to always add an additional candle for each time she missed lighting Shabbos candles. (Mishna Berura Siman 263:7)
This requirement was imposed on her as a K'nas, a penalty, to ensure that she is more careful in the future with honoring the holy Shabbos.
However, if the woman missed due to being unable to light (Oi'nes) she is not required to add any additional candles. (Mishna Berura ibid.)
2) This penalty is in place only if she didn't light the candles at all, but if on a particular week she, for whatever reason, lit a lesser amount of candles than her usual number, there is no requirement to subsequently add any candles in future weeks, as M'Ikar Hadin only one candle is required to be lit each week, and this that we always light two, and add additional ones for each child, is just a minhag. (See Biur Halacha Siman 263:1 Dibur Hamaschil SheShakcha)
Seemingly, this would apply to Yom Tov as well, however, according to some Poskim, since on Yom Tov she can still remember to light for the duration of the evening meal and thus there is less of a chance of her totally forgetting, they did not institute this Knas on a scenario that is not likely (known in Halachic terms as 'Milsa D'Lo Sh'chicha Lo Gazru'. See Shu"t Kinyan Torah Vol. 1 Siman 87. This is also the ruling of Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Shlita quoted in Shvus Yitzchok page 6)
Other Poskim, however, do require the extra candle to be added in the event that she missed a Yom Tov lighting. (See Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 5 Siman 101 and Vol. 8 Siman 63. See also Shu"t Az Nidberu Vol. 3 Siman 3 and Shu"t Mishne Halachos Vol. 7 Siman 35.)
Some Poskim rule that a woman who forgot to light on Yom Tov would only be required to add an additional candle each Yom Tov but not every Erev Shabbos.
For Halacha L'Ma'aseh a Rav must be consulted.
With endless gratitude to Hashem, this brings us to the end of our foray into the Halachos of Shabbos candles.
It is my Tefilah that we all will be performing the great Mitzvah of Hadlokas Ner Shabbos a little better and with a little more meaning now that we discussed the many Halachic aspects of it.
In the merit of our honoring the Shabbos with lights, may we speedily be granted the light of Mashiach and the eternal light of the Geulah Shelaima and our return to the light of Tzion.
אם אתם משמרים נרות של שבת אני מראה לכם נרות של ציון
We will B'Ezras Hashem be beginning a new topic next on Sunday.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
On Motzai Shabbos, does one say "Shir Hamalos" before birchas hamazon [or Al Naharos Bavel like another weekday]?
Answer:
According to Maran Rav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita, in Sefer Sh'eilas Rav page 338, on Motzei Shabbos we say Al Naharos Bavel like on any other weekday.
CHIZUK CORNER
[1.0579710144927536] Bizback2
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
[0.5938566552901023]
I don't know what I was thinking.
Yesterday I drove three friends down to Baltimore for my roommates wedding and we drove back up to Jersey after the wedding. Six hours of driving , five hours of dancing and eleven hours of being with the same three people. BH we got there and back safely, even in the crazy rain.
The ride felt like forever because I had to be extra careful not to speed. Usually I'll speed a little, just a little, but on this road, there were so many police pulling people over that it just wasn't worth the few minutes I'd save driving fast.
Every time I saw someone pulled over (as an aside, if you see someone pulled over, don't look at them, they are embarrassed as it is), my heart sped up,my stomach dropped, and my grip on the wheel tightened.
With every car pulled over, I glanced at my speedometer and slowed down. Although I wasn't the one being pulled over, by other people being pulled over, I was reminded that I too should make sure I'm not speeding.
No one has a perfect life.
Everyone has tzaros in some form of another. How many times do you hear a story of something that happened to someone, get an email or text telling you to say tehillm for someone, and your heart speeds up, your stomach drops, and you go on with your life?
When things happen to others-whether they are Jewish or not, they are meant as a lesson to you too.
Before Hashem does anything ,He takes into account who will hear about it and who will be affected. If it reached your ears, it was meant for you too. If you see someone being "pulled over", if you see someone going through something or "getting a ticket", it's meant for you.
It's meant for you to look at your own life speedometer and to slow down. When bad things happen to others, look at yourself, look at what Hashem could be telling YOU.
From Tiki's daily "Mincha email. To subscribe send request to tiki613@gmail.com
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1)
In the event that there is adequate light in the corridor near
the Bochurim's apartment or via a streetlight near an open window in
their room, and thus there is no need for a light/lamp in the room in
order to provide light not to stumble, they should then not light
candles with a Bracha in their apartment or room unless they will also
be eating the Seudah there on Friday night near the candles. (Ruling of HaRav Nissim Karelitz Shlita)
Even
if they only eat some Mezonos by the light of the candles it is
adequate, according to many Poskim, as this also deems it the place of
the Seudah. (Ruling of Harav Nissim Karelitz Shlita based on
the ruling of the Chazon Ish Zatzal. Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv
Shlita, however, maintains that the actual Seudah needs to be eaten
there to be able to consider the candles as necessary for the Seudas
Shabbos. See Sefer Shvus Yitzchok page 11)
2)
Alternatively, if they will close the door or the window to the room or
apartment [for a few moments] to block out the light from the corridor
or the streetlight so it is no longer adequate, and thus they will need
to make use of the candle light, they may light the candles with a
Bracha. (See Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 2 Siman157:6 Dibur
Hamaschil V'Nireh SheAfilu. See also Shu"t MaHaril HaChadashos
Siman45:4)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Is there a halacha to make a sedua when one reaches the age of 60? If yes is it considered a seduas mitzvah? What are the minhagim regarding this?
Answer:
The Talmud (Moed Katan 28a) relates that Rav Yosef made a feast when he reached the age of 60, as he was spared from Kares, which takes place usually before one reaches 60.
The Pri Megadim, Mishbetzos Zahav,
Siman 444:9 cites a Chavos Yair that one should make a feast (and say
SheHechiyanu) upon reaching the age of 70, which is a complete lifetime,
and considers this a Seudas Mitzvah. Many people do indeed mark these
milestones with Seudos.
See also Ben Ish Chai, first year, Parashas Re'ei Siman 9.
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they
both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
The
statement "You shall love Hashem, your G-d" is not only a command but
also a promise. If you will truly love Hashem, He will always be your
G-d and never forsake you.
Rav Dov Ber of Lubavitch Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
This
segment was compiled by daily readers, Moshe Weiss, S. Weiss, and E.
Willner of Brooklyn, NY, and will be posted in this email once a week
B'Ezras Hashem.
For those of you who missed The original "Davening Corner Part I", or the first few weeks of Part II, please e-mail mw@mosheweiss.com for back issues.
GENERAL RULE: Emphasis (shown here by bold and italics) is usually on the last syllable. Look for a vertical line in (most) siddurim if the emphasis is on a different syllable.
WEEK SEVEN:
When
a word starting with a yud with a sheva has a prefix (beis, vav, kaf or
lamed) added to it, the added letter gets a chirik and the sheva under
the yud is dropped. Examples: yerushalayim bee-rushalayim, yehallelu vee-hallelu, yemei kee-mei, Yehuda lee-huda.
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1)
If it is possible, from a safety standpoint, one of the Yeshiva
Bochurim should also light candles [with a Bracha] in their dorm room or
apartment where they will be sleeping, even if they won't be eating the
Shabbos Seudah there. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:29)
They should all ideally listen to the Bracha being recited and have in mind to be exempted with it. (Mishna Berura Siman 263:30. See also Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 1 Siman 52)
2)
Even though only one of them is lighting, the other roommates should
"chip in" to this lighting by giving the one lighting a coin or two, so
that it should satisfy their obligation as well.
Alternatively,
as with the Bochur lighting in the Yeshiva dining room, he can have
someone lift the candles up a Tefach before lighting them and thus be
"zoche" them as a gift for all those being exempted by this lighting. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:34)
Here
too, as with all candle lighting, if other electric lights/lamps will
be left on in the room, they too should be turned on with the Mitzvah in
mind and the Bracha over the candles should exempt the other lights as
well.
Ideally,
the candles should still be lit when the Bochurim return from the
Seudah to their apartment, so they can benefit from the light.
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Some
people in the shul in which I daven do something which I consider very
annoying, and I was wondering if you could tell me if what they are
doing is proper or not.
If
something special is to be inserted in Shmoneh Esrei (Such as Al
HaNisim or Ya'aleh V"Yavo ), they say the first few words out loud when
they reach that point in their silent Shmoneh Esrei.
I suppose they're trying to make sure everyone remembers to say it.
It
disturbs me because first of all it disturbs what little kavanah I
usually muster, as I am distracted from the current bracha I am saying
to be reminded of something else. Also, it seems that shey should be
directing their prayers to Hashem, not signaling others in the middle of
their tefillah. I wish they would stop doing it. It really bothers me.
Answer:
This is another one of those sticky situations, which are hard to control.
Many Poskim do indeed say that if these "shout outs"
are being done in order to remind the Tzibbur to say Yaaleh V'Yavo
or "V'Sein Tal Umatar" or Al HaNisim etc. then it is OK (See Shu"t Eretz Tzvi Siman 24)
The Chazon Ish was of the opinion that doing so is
not proper Derech Eretz, and even though the "shouter" has good
intentions it should not be done (Dinim V'Hanhagos L'Chazon Ish Perek 4:33; also brought in Orchos Rabeinu from the Steipler Vol. 3 Page 207.)
Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal also was against
this "Minhag" of every person in Shul doing this, as it is a Bizayon
(disgrace) to the King [Hashem].
However, he
quotes the Magen Avraham ( Siman 114:2)that says that for one person
(the Shamash or Gabai) to do so when he reaches that place in Tefilah
it's OK, but not the whole shul (Halichos Shlomo Chapter 8, Ha'arah 20)
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they
both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
Aren't we hurting the feelings of non-Jews by refusing to eat with them?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
Suppose you are a king,
and outside there's a hobo, and he has a stick on his shoulder and
hanging from his stick there's a pot. In the pot there's something
cooking. And he yells up into the palace of the king, "Come downstairs
and let's enjoy this meal together". So the king has to hurt the hobo's
feelings, he can't help it. Because that's his function in the world, to
exercise the prerogatives and maintain the dignity of the king. So
Hakadosh Baruch Hu said,that's one thing you can't help. So you have to
be kind to the non-Jews in other ways.
Hakadosh Baruch Hu
said, Kol Yisroel Bnei Melachim Heim, you are princes, and therefore I
am giving you a special diet, a princely diet, and you can not yield
your prerogatives even for the purpose of being kindly. You want to be
kindhearted, be kindhearted in other ways. So when you get off the bus
and the black man in front of you opens the bus door and keeps it open
for you, holds the door open for you, show your kindness by saying thank
you. Instead of taking him to the lunchroom on the corner and eating
with him, say thank you.
Be nice to
everybody and don't worry. If you are kind and polite to everybody,
they'll understand and they'll respect you for being loyal to your
religion and you'll see you'll get more kavod than you would get by
selling your religion just for the sake of flattering them. The fact is,
Jews who maintain the Torah, always get recognition from goyim. That's
how Hakadosh Baruch Hu planned it. People respect a person with
principles.
Do you know when
they don't like you? When you're mean, when you're nasty, you take
advantage of them, you ignore them, or do other things. But when you are
polite and then you have to maintain your principles, you'll always win
out and you'll get respect.
Today's Halachos are dedicated as a Zechus Refuah Shelaima for
Simcha Nosson Ben Zissel
who underwent a medical procedure on Monday morning. May he have a complete Refuah Shelaima Bsoch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel.
CURRENT TOPIC:
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) Generally, in a boys' Yeshiva there are no woman present to light the Shabbos candles, and thus the candles are lit by the Bachurim, the yeshiva students.
The candles should be lit by only one Bachur, in the dining room of the Yeshivah. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:30)
If the candles belong to the yeshiva, the bachur lighting can light for everyone present without any further requirements. (This works even on behalf of any guests present, who aren't students of the Yeshiva, according to the ruling of Rav Nissim Karelitz Shlita)
If the candles are privately owned by the one lighting, another Bachur should lift the candles up a Tefach and be zoche (Halachic gifting) them on behalf of all the other Bachurim, and only then should they be lit on behalf of everyone else. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman366:9 and Mishna Berura Siman 263:34)
2) Before lighting the candles, the Bachur should open the electric lights in the dining room and have in mind that his Bracha over the candles should also exempt the electric lights which will provide light for the entire student body as they enjoy their Shabbos meal in the Yeshiva dining room. (This is especially important here, as many of the Bachurim will be sitting far away from the candles, and only derive pleasure from the electric lights, and none whatsoever from the candles. See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 45 footnote 56)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
I wanted to ask you about the new (and exciting for many, nebach, unfortunately) trend of "Half Shabbos" whereas people keep full Shabbos but are texting [on their phones and mobile devices]throughout the day (hence "half Shabbos"). What's the halacha here?
Answer:
There is no such thing as half Shabbos. Keeping Shabbos 99% is desecrating it 100%.
Using any electronic devices on Shabbos is strictly prohibited, possibly even D'Oraysa as using electricity (where internal circuits are connected and completed ) involves melachos of Aish, Boneh, Soser and Molid to name a few. (See Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 50:9)
Again, there is no valid halachic permissibilty to text or otherwise use a cell phone on Shabbos Chas V'Shalom (besides in life threatening emergencies), and all who do so will ultimately have to deal with the heavenly consequences.
May Hashem have mercy on His holy nation and spare them from desecrating the holy Shabbos and His holy name
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CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Careers, marriage and child raising all have their stresses and difficulties. The person who looks at all suffering as the price he pays for what he has or will receive, will find coping with difficulties much easier.
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) The prevalent minhag is for a woman to light candles wherever she happens to be for Shabbos, even if she isn't in her own home.
The above is the case even if her husband or other household members remained home and are lighting candles there.
It is, however, ideal in situations where her husband or another household member will be lighting in her home when she is away, to have specific intent, when lighting where she is, not to be exempted from the obligation to light candles via their lighting. (Ruling of HaRav Nisim Karelitz Shlita quoted in Sefer Ohr HeNer Page 34)
2) The minhag used to be that the first Shabbos after giving birth to a child, a woman would not light the candles but rather have her husband do so. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:11)
However, nowadays most women do in fact light the Shabbos candles themselves the first Shabbos after giving birth, as due to the advancement of modern medicine and the modern birthing procedures, most women are back on their feet shortly after giving birth, and can light in the room where the Seudah will take place and also be present themselves at the Seudah. (See Shu"t Az Nidberu Vol. 11 Siman 2. This is also the ruling of HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal and many other contemporary Poskim)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
I have heard conflicting views if in the snow on Shabbos, one may put a bag over his shoe so that it should slide in smoothly into his rubber boots. What can you say regarding this matter if it's a machlokes or not and what your sources are.
Answer:
Rav Simcha Bunim Cohen shlita in his Sefer The Shabbos Home Vol. 1, page 121 writes that he heard from Maran Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal that these aren't considered garments and may not be worn outside of an Eiruv.
Rav Dovid Zucker shlita from the Chicago Kolel is quoted here as ruling that it is permitted, and that it's no different than a bag on a shtreimel or hat, where if part of the body is also covered, it's OK (and Rav Moshe Zatzal himself allows it in such a case).
I suppose that Rav Moshe Zatzal's reasoning to differentiate between these two bags is that the bag on the shoulder can protect from rain or snow as well, whereas the bag in the boot does not serve a purpose of protection of the body, and is only there to aid in getting the boot onto the foot, but once its on it serves no purpose.
If the boot would have a hole in it, or if the bag would otherwise serve a purpose to the body such as warmth ot protection from getting wet, Rav Moshe Zatzal would probably agree that it was permitted.
For Halacha L'Ma'aseh your Rav should be consulted.
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CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Rav Chaim Soloveitchik (Brisker) Zatzal
"The Gemara of a scholar that is not closed in order for him to do a chessed for someone else, is essentially closed even when it is open. The Gemara that he closes to perform an act of kindness for others is actually open even when it is closed! "
Rav Chaim Soloveitchik (Brisker) Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) Generally, in a public place, such as a hotel, a hospital or similar, it isn't possible, for valid safety concerns, to light candles in the private room where one is staying.
Therefore, one who finds themselves in such a place, should turn on the light/lamp in their room with intent that this should be in place of the Shabbos candles in their room, and then they should go and light the candles in the designated room, preferably the public dining room where the meal will take place. (If the only area given to light is the lobby or another area where no meal will take place, ideally, it is best to try and eat something near the candles. Ruling of Rav Nissim Karelitz Shlita)
2) Regarding the Bracha on the candles in this case, the prevalent minhag amongst Ashkenazim is to recite a Bracha, whereas Sephardim do not recite a Bracha, rather they can listen to an Ashkenazi woman's Bracha and will thus be exempted for their own lighting. (See Sefer Ohr HaNer page 30 footnote 90 for a lengthy dialogue about this)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
In my shul some avelim (mourners) have asked to say the Kadish after laining (Krias Hatorah) on shabbos and we now have a rotation among three avelim.
Is there any M'kor (source) for avelim to say the kadish after laining?
Meaning is this considered a Kaddish Yosom and if so, shouldn't other avelim in shul all join in the kadish together?
Answer:
Seemingly, that kaddish is a Chatzi Kaddish and not a Kaddish Yasom, and should be said by the Ba'al Koreh or the Shatz. (see Mishneh Berura Siman 292:4)
However, the Sha'ar Ephraim (considered the accepted authority on Hilchos Krias Hatorah by many Poskim) , in Sha'ar 10:9 does indeed bring a minhag that someone who has Yahrtzeit, or even an Avel during the year of mourning says this Kaddish.
However, from the language of the Sha'ar Ephraim it seems that only if the one with Yahrtzeit or the Avel received the last aliyah does he then go ahead and say the Kaddish, but if not it is said by the Ba'al Koreh and not by another Avel in the congregation (and certainly not by all of them in unison.)
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CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Question:
What are the sources that Avrohom Avinu spoke about nature?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
And the answer is, you heard today that Avrohom called out in the name of Hashem. So what do we think he did, when he built a Mizbaiach he stood there shouting, Hashem, Hashem, everybody come and serve Hashem? When you are talking to strangers and you give them the name Hashem, it's like talking to the wall. It's common sense that Avrohom spoke to them about the most plausible observations that were available. And what's most available? The Chovos Halvavos says at the beginning of Shaar Habechina, the closest way, the nearest way for a person to gain Emunah is to observe the wonders of nature. Now to many people this is meaningless because they never thought about it, but when you put your mind into it and you see Plan and Purpose, you begin to realize that this is a great demonstration created by Hashem in order that people should actually see Him with their eyes.
If you can see on a rose bush, thorns just like daggers, and you ask yourself, why are they shaped like daggers? And you understand, because the rose is such a beautiful and fragrant flower and people would like to try to uproot the plant and to take it home, to pull out the bush! So the daggers are shaped exactly in the configuration that's necessary, that's most efficient. They're all pointing downwards, and as the man tries to pull the bush upwards, so the daggers come down into his flesh.
Now when you study that - next time stop and study a rose bush - and little by little you'll see the Yad Hashem in nature. The daggers are no accident. There are no daggers on a poplar tree; there are no daggers on weeds. Daggers are only on this precious flower the rose, because that's the one that's most imperiled by covetous people who like to pull out the bush. And you begin to understand that Hakadosh Baruch Hu's footsteps are everywhere in nature. So if Avrohom called out in the name of Hashem, there's nothing that could convince his listeners other than the wonders of Plan and Purpose in nature.
1) As we learned yesterday, a woman who is not eating the Shabbos eve Seudah in her own home and leaves her home before Shabbos, but will be walking back home later that night to sleep in her own home, should light candles in her home any time after Plag Hamincha.
If after lighting the candles, the woman wants to drive to where she will be eating the Shabbos Seudah, she has to make a stipulation before lighting that, this time, she does not want to accept the sanctity of Shabbos with the lightingof the candles. (If no stipulation was made she may not even travel by taxi or bus as a passenger, as it is disrespecting Shabbos to be driven in a vehicle after the sanctity of Shabbos has set in. See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 43 footnote 136)
2) Although this stipulation should only be made in cases of necessity, many Poskim rule that this case is considered necessity. (Ruling of HaRav Nissim Karelitz Shlita quoted in Ohr HaNer Perek 4 footnote 78. Of course, every individual must consult their own Rav before executing this stipulation to ensure that their particular circumstance fits the criteria of "necessity". See Mishna Berura Siman 263:44)
It goes without saying that this stipulation, to postpone the acceptance of the sanctity of Shabbos, does not work beyond sunset.
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) After making the aforementioned stipulation, she should light the candles and the other lights/lamps around the house with intent that it should be benefitted from when she returns home later that night, and then recite the Bracha over the candles as usual. (Ideally, the candles should be long enough to still be burning when she returns home, as according to many Poskim the Bracha cannot be recited if, when she returns home, benefit will only be derived from the electric lights. Other Poskim are more lenient. A Rav must be consulted for Halacha L'Ma'aseh.)
2)Later on when she is at the host's home and the time for Hadlokas Neiros arrives, she should accept upon herself the sanctity of Shabbos at the time that she usually lights when she is at home . (Preferably she should do this verbally by saying "I now accept upon myself the sanctity of Shabbos for the purpose of 'Tosefes Shabbos', the Mitzvah to accept Shabbos earlier than the actual time it arrives. This verbalization is not necessary when a woman lights the candles at the regular time, as then her action of lighting the candles serves as her way of accepting the sanctity of Shabbos earlier than sunset. See Mishna Berura Siman 261:21)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
I note that when we say the morning blessings - Shelo Asani Goy, Shelo Asani Eved - the tense is in the masculine. For a woman davening, why would she not say these brachas in the feminine? these are, after all, personal brachos.
Answer:
In the Siddur Ya'avetz he does indeed rule that women should say these brachos in the feminine and replace "Goy" with "Goyah" and "Eved" with "Shifcha". However, since the Talmud makes no mention of this feminine variation he rules that they should be said without Shem U'Malchus (Hashem's name).
However, other Poskim, including the Aishel Avraham Butchatch Siman 46, rule that the words "Goy" and "Eved" include female gentiles and maid-servants as well, and thus the Bracha should be said by women with the same version as men.
The prevalent custom indeed is for women to recite these Brachos the same as men do.
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B'Siyata D'shmaya, a lot of time , energy and resources goes into producing the email each day without fail , as well as into updating and maintaining the website. Your generous donations and daily dedications are greatly appreciated and are vital in helping Halacha For Today continue each day.
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If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos learned.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Continuous effort - not strength or intelligence - is the key to unlocking our potential.
הודו לד' כי טוב כי לעולם חסדו
Today's Halachos are dedicated by Chaya Nechama bas Sarah with gratitude to Hashem!
CURRENT TOPIC:
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) If one will be eating the Shabbos eve Seudah away from home and be returning to their home later that night, and will be leaving to their destination on Friday afternoon, they may already light the candles in their own home any time after Plag Hamincha (between 45 and 75 minutes before sunset, depending on time of year. For exact time of Plag Hamincha on a particular day please click here and enter your zip code), as after this time anybody can already light the Shabbos candles and accept upon themselves the sanctity of Shabbos (unless they stipulated otherwise, which we will B'Ezras Hashem discuss further, tomorrow.)(See Shulchan Aruch Siman 263:4.)
2) However, if they need to leave home before Plag Hamincha in order to get to their destination on time, they cannot light Shabbos candles at home before they leave. (ibid.)
Rather, they should leave on the electric lights/lamps that they will need when they return home, but only light the Shabbos candles in the house where they will be eating.
Regarding the Bracha on the candles they are lighting in the host's home, it is best if they listen to the Bracha of the hostess as she lights her candles, and be exempted by her. (Based on Shulchan Aruch Siman 263:8, as in this case it is possible that the obligation has been satisfied by leaving the lights/lamps on in their own home, and thus no Bracha may be required in the host's home for these additional candles.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
What's the source for having a white tablecloth on shabbos and is it halacha?
Answer:
The halacha says to have a tablecloth on the table you eat and possibly on all the tables in your home, but the Poskim do not mention anything about this tablecloth needing to be white. (See Rama Siman 262:1, Biur Halacha ibid and Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 72:7)
True, many people have this minhag, but it is not required halachically; any respectable tablecloth suffices.
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
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The Halacha For Today daily email and website is, and will always be, FREE.
B'Siyata D'shmaya, a lot of time , energy and resources goes into producing the email each day without fail , as well as into updating and maintaining the website. Your generous donations and daily dedications are greatly appreciated and are vital in helping Halacha For Today continue each day.
YOUR donation WILL make a difference!
Sponsor a daily email in memory or in honor of a loved one!
Have a part in the Torah learning of over 4,200 Jews across the globe!
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If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos learned.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
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זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Back in Parashas Vayigash, Pharaoh meets Yaakov and asks him "how many are the days of your life?" Yaakov tells him "...130 years..."
Now, maybe this questions doesn't puzzle you but just picture this: As far as Pharaoh was concerned Yosef was the wisest man in the world. If you were to meet the wisest man in the world's father what would you ask him? How old he is? Really?!
And lets not forget, Pharaoh let Yosef into his high court, his inner sanctum. Don't you think the Egyptian CIA would have done a full background check on Yosef that included his father age?
Ok, so if Pharaoh knew how old Yaakov was why did he ask?
Have you ever met someone 130 years old? Neither had Pharaoh but he had met 90, 100, maybe 105. Now picture meeting someone 105, what would make you ask them how old they are?
Pharaoh asked Yaakov how old he was because Yaakov didn't look the part. When he saw Yaakov enter with such life, such vitality, he couldn't help himself but ask the question.
Pharaoh can see that Yaakov is old, yet he bears none of the marks of a life of mere existence. Instead, Yaakov exudes the appearance of a life that was fully lived. So Pharaoh asks: "How many days have you actually experienced living," as opposed to merely existing.
"When one counts by years, one does not reckon any more the days. It is only with a few select people that each day is full of importance and is considered by them as having a special meaning. A really true human being does not live years but days."(Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch)
When Yaakov meets Yosef again he exclaims: "I have seen your face and you are still alive"
"Still alive?" Did Yaakov really think the brothers would lie to him?!
Yaakov learns from the brothers that Yosef is alive and the viceroy of Egypt. But it's only when he looks into Yosef's eyes and sees that the wealth and power has not gotten to his head Yaakov knows that Yosef is truly alive and not merely existing.
So here's the question: If Yaakov could see that Yosef was alive just like Pharaoh could see that Yaakov was alive why couldn't Pharoah see that Yosef was alive?
When one is young, especially young and rich, it is easier to fool yourself and others that you are really living as opposed to existing. It takes a discerning eye to see someone else's life-style is really not going anywhere. Most people don't want to look because to do so would also require a little introspection.
But that's the young. Everyone can see what kind of life you led when you get old.
To experience a meaningful life, it must be filled with meaningful days. A great vacation now and again just won't cut it. Smiling for the camera and laughing at the right jokes doesn't make for a life. Don't wait till it's obvious; do something meaningful today.
Submitted by daily reader, E.S.; Written by Tova Baars,based on an article by Rabbi Stephen Baars
Today's Halachos dedicated by daily reader, N.K., in loving memory of his father
Nachman Shimon ben Yehuda Meir Hakohen A"H
whose Yahrtzeit is today, 23 Teves.
May his Neshama climb higher and higher in Gan Eden.
CURRENT TOPIC:
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) If one will be eating the Shabbos Seudah away from home, but will be coming home to sleep, the Shabbos candles should be lit at home as usual, however, additional lights or lamps should be turned on as well. (See Shvus Yitzchok Perek 5:3 and 4 for the reasons it's better to light at home than to light at the host's home where the Seudah will be)
When turning on these lights or lamps it should be with specific intent that they are for the purposes of Shabbos light, and the Bracha recited over the candles will cover these lights as well.
2) The reason for this is that when they return home later that night after the candles already burned out, they will still have light L'Kavod Shabbos and for Shalom Bayis, as otherwise the Bracha, if recited over the candles alone, would have been in vain as no benefit was derived from them. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:2)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Is there an issur (prohibition) to have a bed facing the door ?
Answer:
Not an isur per se, but according to kabalistic sources, since a dead person is placed on the floor in the room in which he passed away with his feet toward the door, it is best to not sleep with one's feet directly facing the door. (See Sefer Gesher Hachaim Vol. 1 Siman 3:2)
Some people avoid sleeping with their head facing door, but there is no clear source for this minhag.
See also Q&A # 474 here.
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CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Decency is a prerequisite for learning Torah. It is possible for a person to run to a mussar discourse and push elderly people out of his way because he is so hungry to hear mussar!
Rav Yisrael Salanter Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) If a woman is blind R"L, ideally her husband should recite the Bracha over the Shabbos candles in her stead. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:14)
If the blind woman is alone in her home she may still recite a Bracha over the Shabbos candles. (Mogen Avraham Siman 263:9 quoted in Mishna Berura ibid. The reasoning is that blind people also benefit from light, as others are able to see and assist them when there is light. See Shulchan Aruch Siman 69:2)
2) If other people are eating the Shabbos Seudah together with the blind woman, and they lit candles with a Bracha in the room where they are eating the Seudah, her candles can be lit [with a Bracha] in another room where the light will enable them to assist her, but if she lights in the same room as them she should not recite the Bracha. (Ruling of HaRav Nissim Karelitz Shlita based on Mishna Berura ibid.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
What is the reason for the issur (prohibition) of gambling and is playing with slot machines included in the Issur of gambling?
Answer:
The issur of gambling, known in halacha as Mesachek B'Kuvia, is mainly due to the fact that most gambling, especially if done on a regular basis, will lead to stealing to feed his habit.
The Mishna (Sanhedrin 24b) says that one who gambles is disqualified from being a witness in a Bais Din, as thieves are disqualified from being witnesses. See Rashi that they are considered Reshaim, evil.
The Gemara, in the first explanation, explains that even if the gains are gotten lawfully, it is still stealing as the loser hands over the money grudgingly. (Asmachta Lo Kanya)
Some Rishonim say that the stringency of this prohibition is only for a "full time gambler" and not for one who does so occasionally, but many Rishonim, including the Rambam, maintain that any gambling at all is prohibited.
The Rivash (Shu"t HaRivash Siman 395 toward the end) calls gambling "a disgusting, empty, abomination to do...."
See Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 34:16 that this includes any gambling, races or other methods of "chance" where people are conned out out of their money.
Slot machines, which don't involve two people may be different according to the letter of the law, but they are still not within the spirit of the activities becoming of a child of Hashem, especially as the places they are usually situated are places that have serious issues of Tzniyus,Pritzus, Prikas Ol, Chukos Hagoyim and a whole slew of other problems for a frum Jew.
A Rav should be consulted for halacha L'Ma'aseh.
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CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
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זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
שיבה =
שתיקה
יפה
בשעת
התפלה
One who is careful not to talk in Shul and answers Amen, Baruch Hu U'Baruch Shemo and Yehei Shemei Rabba,will merit a long life.
The reverse is also true!
Submitted by daily reader, L.M.; From the Ramak (Rabbi Moshe of Cordova)
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) It is important not to act in a disrespectful way in the presence of the Shabbos candles.
Thus, a child should not be totally or semi unclothed in the presence of the candles, nor should a child's diaper be changed or other disgraceful things be done or placed in front of the candles. (See Rama end of Siman 275 and Kaf HaChaim Siman 275:41 and 42. This Halacha applies to the Havdalah candle as well as to any candles used for a Mitzvah.)
2) A woman that lit the candles and is certain that she forgot to recite the Bracha when doing so, as long as it is before sunset, and thus still within the time when she would halachically be able to kindle the lights, she may recite the Bracha when she remembers. If it is after sunset, she may no longer recite the Bracha. (See Biur Halacha Siman 263:5 Dibur Hamaschil K'sheyadlik Yevarech)
The above is true even if she accepted the sanctity of Shabbos upon herself with the lighting. (Ruling of HaRav Nisim Karelitz Shlita, based on language of Biur Halacha ibid.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Does any red string protect against Ayin Hara (evil eye), or is it supposed to go around Kever Rochel 7 times?
Answer:
The color red is a color that wards off Ayin Hara. See Q&A # 381 here
Regarding the red string, there are some authorities that balk at this "segulah" and claim it isn't of Jewish origin and should be avoided.
Others, including the Debreciner Rav Zatzal in Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 8 Siman 36:3 (who writes that this is an ancient custom and according to the Rashba we should not dismiss ancient Jewish customs even if we don't understand them) and other Kabalistic sources indeed say that a red string wrapped around Kever Rochel is indeed a segulah against pregnant women having miscarriages and against Ayin Hara in general.
Each person should follow their own heritage in regard to this (and other similar) Segulos.
I would, however, advise being aware of people selling "fake" red strings and jewery etc. which oftentimes never went around kever Rochel and were probably never even within a few hundred mile radius of the Kever.
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
Please help support HALACHA FOR TODAY.
The Halacha For Today daily email and website is, and will always be, FREE.
B'Siyata D'shmaya, a lot of time , energy and resources goes into producing the email each day without fail , as well as into updating and maintaining the website. Your generous donations and daily dedications are greatly appreciated and are vital in helping Halacha For Today continue each day.
YOUR donation WILL make a difference!
Sponsor a daily email in memory or in honor of a loved one!
Have a part in the Torah learning of over 4,200 Jews across the globe!
Please click the "MAKE A DONATION" button below.
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If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos learned.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
The moment the hot soup touched my lips, I felt the warmth spread through the core of my body. I then shuttered, shooing away the cold. I turned to my friends and said " wow it's so weird, before I started eating the hot soup, I was fine, but after I started eating it, I suddenly realized that I was cold!"
We are all spiritually cold in one way or another.
Whether you are still in school or long out of it, we all are spiritually cold. But "thanks" to the "artificial heat" around us, the glittery clothing (literally), the Internet, the movies, the things that keep our mind off the important things in life, we forget that we're cold.
It's only at those times when we are lucky enough to get a taste of "hot soup" only when we get some warmth of Torah in us again, when we hear an inspiring speech, when we learn something that makes us smile, are we reminded that we're so cold.
We have to look for soup, we have to look for things to keep our souls warm. We need to get inspired, and we need to act on it.
There's no use in just holding the soup, you need to eat it. You need to absorb it. When you get the inspiration, do something real. Don't just hold it for a little and then leave it "on the table" and let it get cold.
May we all be zoche to realize what we lack spiritually, get inspired and act upon it."
Tidbit of wisdom taken from the wonderful and inspirational "Mincha email" sent out daily to a list of hundreds of subscribers, written by Halacha For Today reader, T.N.
To subscribe to the email send request to tiki613@gmail.com
Today's Halachos are dedicated by a daily reader L'Ilui Nishmas
Rena Bas Avraham A"H.
May her Neshama climb higher and higher in Gan Eden.
CURRENT TOPIC:
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) The Shabbos candles should ideally remain in the same spot where they were kindled, and should not be moved to another spot after lighting [and reciting a Bracha on] them. (Rama Siman 263:10)
This is the case even in the event that a stipulation was made to not accept the sanctity of Shabbos immediately after lighting the candles. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:47)
2) In cases of necessity when they must be moved, they can only be moved within the same house, and even then only from one place that will be used [via these candles or via another light source in the room] on Shabbos to another place that will also be used [via these candles or via another light source in the room].
However, if either the original place where it was lit or the current place to where it is now be moved is not a place that will be used on Shabbos, the lighting is not valid even B'Dieved. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:48. He also quotes the Chayei Adam that those women who on Sukkos light the candles in the Sukkah and then move them into the house, are not acting properly.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
My friend asked me to find out if/where it says we can't become good friends with people in other religions (of the same gender, of course).
I don't think there is a reason why she wouldnt be allowed to be friendly to a Muslim , but I figured I could ask. What about close friends? What can I tell her about the subject?
Answer:
The Torah advocates not getting too close or friendly with members of other religions, and indeed some of the laws that the Rabbis enacted (such as not eating Bishul Akum, not eating Pas Akum etc.) were put in place as to avoid becoming too friendly with the goyim, which if done, ultimately will lead to one's own level of observance "cooling off" Chas V'Shalom.
The Torah states (Vayikra 20:26 and in other places as well) "V'Hiyisem Li Kedoshim Ki Kadosh Ani Hashem V'Avdil Eschem Min Ha'Amim Lihiyos Li, you shall be unto me holy for I am Holy, Your G-d, and I will separate you from the nations to be mine". See Rashi there.
Yes, we must be cordial to our neighbors and treat them with respect, and in our business dealings with non Jews we must act nice and treat them fairly etc. but we must not become too friendly with them, as the consequences of doing that are never good in the long run.
Hashem assured us that the Jews and the nations of the world are and will always be separate; either by choice (as it should be by US making the HAVDALAH, separation) or by force (as it is if we don't do it ourselves, the nations of the world will ensure that THEY make KIDDUSH Hashem out of us, Rachmana L'Tzlan as we have seen throughout our history in Galus).
See also the chilling words of the Meshech Chachma in Parshas Bechukosai where he fortells the events of the holocaust decades before they unfolded, based on the above concept.
See also Vayikra 18:3 and Rashi there quoting Chazal that Jews do not belong in the arenas, theaters, parties etc. of the non Jews, something that will ultimately happen if we become too friendly with them.
Also, there is the whole issue of "Lo Tichanem" (Devarim 7:2). See Talmud Avodah Zarah 20a.
May Hashem give your friend (and all of us) the strength to do the right thing always and to make our Father in heaven proud of the way we act!
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
"To err is human, but to admit that you made a mistake, pick yourself up, and work on yourself, is to be a Jew."
Tidbit of wisdom taken from the wonderful and inspirational "Mincha email" sent out daily to a list of hundreds of subscribers, written by Halacha For Today reader, T.N.
To subscribe to the email send request to tiki613@gmail.com
Today's Halachos are dedicated by a daily reader, as a zechus for a Refuah Shelaima, Yeshua, Zivug Hagun and Parnassah B'Revach for Yosef ben Rivka Raizel
CURRENT TOPIC:
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) As we discussed earlier, most women of Ashkenazi descent, and even many of Sephardic lineage as well, light the Shabbos candles and only then recite the Bracha, as their recitation of the Bracha is considered for them as accepting Shabbos and thus they may not kindle the lights or do any other prohibited Melachos after the Bracha was recited.
2) As long as the Bracha was not yet recited, even though the candles were all lit, according to many Poskim it is not yet considered Shabbos for her, and thus she may extinguish the match with which she kindled the candles, or do any other Melacha for that matter. (See Aruch HaShulchan Siman 263:14 and Biur Halacha Siman 263:1 end of Dibur Hamaschil Shtei Pesilos.)
Other Poskim, however, maintain that immediately upon lighting the candles, it is considered for her an acceptance of Shabbos, and she may not do any Melachos, even though she did not yet recite the Bracha.
Thus, many women have the custom to not extinguish the match with which they lit the candles, rather they place it carefully on the tray and let it go out by itself, or in some households, the husband or another member of the household takes the lit match from her and extinguishes it. (See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek43 footnote 179. See also Ben Ish Chai; year 2 Parashas Noach Siman 8 and Kaf HaChaim Siman 263:62)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) Once a woman kindles [and recites the Bracha over] the Shabbos candles it is Shabbos for her even if it is still before sunset on Friday afternoon. (See Shulchan Aruch and Rama Siman 263:10. In cases of great necessity she may sometimes light candles and stipulate that she is not accepting Shabbos with this lighting, and then she would be allowed to do Melachos after lighting. However, a Rav must be consulted as to how early before sunset she may light in such a case and also to determine if this stipulation works for her in the first place in her particular situation. See Shulchan Aruch Siman 263:4)
A woman who regularly davens Mincha, must make sure to do so before she lights the Shabbos candles.
If she did not daven before lighting, she may not daven afterwards, as it is already Shabbos for her and she can no longer say the Mincha of Friday. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:43)
2) If a man is going to be lighting the Shabbos candles, and he wants to still do Melacha afterwards, it is best for him to stipulate (in his mind or verbally) that he does not intend to accept Shabbos yet by lighting the candles. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:42 and Siman 261:21)
If, however, he did not make the stipulation, and he wants to do Melacha after lighting the candles, he may do so B'Dieved (ibid. and Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman75:7).
Furthermore, a man may daven Mincha for Friday after he lights the Shabbos candles, even L'Chatchila, as his lighting is not yet an indication of accepting the sanctity of Shabbos as it is by a woman. (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch ibid.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
What's the halacha regarding Shaimos (texts that have Torah writing on them)?
When do u need to bury things and when is it sufficient to just put into a bag and then place bag into garbage? This always comes up with notes in class, work sheets, handouts etc.
Answer:
Unless they have the name of Hashem written out, worksheets, notes, invitations, newspapers , Tzedaka letters etc. with Torah content written on them can be wrapped in a plastic bag and either discarded directly, according to many Poskim or left out at the curb for the trash collectors to discard so it will be done indirectly, according to the more stringent Poskim.
Seforim, Tefilin, or anything that has any of the the actual holy names of Hashem written out properly, require proper burial.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Being able to walk is a great miracle that deserves study. Just being able to stand is a blessing, which not everyone has been granted. The act of standing is achieved by a continuous balancing of leg and foot muscles. A human being is tall and narrow and yet he is able to stand up and to stay upright even when he is pushed.
All the while that he is standing, he is actively using his muscles to adjust his balance so that he will not fall over to one side. So standing alone is a great achievement.
When he wants to start walking, his thighs have to swing from their hip sockets and his knees have to bend back and forth. His ankles, feet and toes, all have to work together to give him a push forward by pressing against the ground.
All the body parts involved in a simple step must cooperate in a series of complex motions like a choir with a thousand members who cooperate in singing a complex melody. There are large bones, small bones, major muscles, minor muscles, and the network of nerves that transmit signals to activate the muscles, all at the right time and with the right amount of force.
When you see somebody hopping on one leg with crutches, you have to think how lucky you are to have two legs, and you have to thank Hashem for both of them. This is something you should do all the days of your life, not just once in a while.
Each morning when you say the blessing, "Who establishes a person's footsteps," you are talking briefly about this great miracle. It is important that you know what you're saying every morning when you thank Hashem for the great gift of walking.
Many people can only sit in a wheelchair; they can't get up and walk around. When they see you walking, they realize what a great gift they once possessed. They think back to the good old days, when they had the happiness and joy of walking.
They lost that now and some have lost it forever. Therefore as long as you are able to walk you have to appreciate it and thank Hashem. That is the very least you can do to show your appreciation for this great gift that He has bestowed upon you.
HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal in Ohr Avigdor Shaar Habechinah
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) When kindling the Shabbos candles, the match or other fire being used to light the candles should be held there in the igniting position until the wick on the candle catches on and is burning nicely and steadily (i.e. when the hand with the igniting fire is removed, the candle should not be fighting for life as it sometimes is when the match or lighter is only brushed against the wick quickly and then removed, often resulting in the candle extinguishing and needing to be rekindled), similar to the requirement in the Bais HaMikdash when kindling the Menorah. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 264:8 and Mishna Berura S"K 26)
2) It is permitted to light one Shabbos candle directly from another without the aid of a match or other igniter, and there is no concern of Bizui Mitzvah, disrespecting the Mitzvah, as all of them are candles of Mitzvah.
However, it is prohibited to light a match or a non-Mitzvah candle directly from the fire of a burning Shabbos candle, even if the purpose of lighting this match is to then light another Shabbos candle. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:4)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
My 15 year old son told me last shabbos that the gemara speaks of life on other planets. Is this true? And if so, what is said about it?
Answer:
The Talmud in Shavuos 36a and Moed Katan 16a refers to life/powers emanating from the star/planet called Meroz which Devorah the prophetess cursed in her Shira after defeating the general Sisra (See Shoftim Perek 5 Posuk 23 and Rashi there).
Some commentaries learn into this that there is life in other worlds. Others learn that it is referring to the "Mazalos" or "heavenly powers" parralelling each person here on earth (See MaHarsha to Moed Katan ibid.)
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
The Torah attitude to life is that we should utilize every experience as a tool for elevation.
Even when someone acts in a condescending way towards us, we should view the situation in a positive manner and grow from the experience.
When we suffer emotionally from a situation, we create the negative attitudes ourselves and hence the emotional suffering is often our own creation.
To Today's Halachos are dedicated by daily reader, M.Z., in loving memory and L'iluiy Nishmas her dear sister,
Rahmah bat Rachel A"H
whose Yahrtzeit was on 14 Teves. May her Neshama continue to climb higher and higher in Gan Eden.
CURRENT TOPIC:
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) It is a praiseworthy custom for women to put a few coins (or dollar bills) into the Tzedakah box before lighting the Shabbos candles. Many women have set aside a special "Erev Shabbos pushka, charity box" for this purpose. (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 75:2. See also Kaf HaChaim Siman 263:34 that for kabalistic reasons it is good to specifically give three coins to Tzedakah at this time.)
2) It is proper for every Jewish woman, after she kindles and recites the Bracha on the Shabbos candles, to daven to Hashem to bless her with children who will illuminate the world with their Torah, i.e. children who are Talmidei Chachamim, Torah scholars. (See Mishna Berura Siman 263:2)
Women who experience difficult labor when giving birth, and especially women that have not yet merited having children, should recite the Haftarah of the first day of Rosh Hashanah [which details the story of Chana's childlessness and her ultimate giving birth to her son Shmuel the prophet] each Friday evening after lighting the Shabbos candles.
This Segulah works best when the woman understands what she is saying, and not simply reading words without meaning. (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch ibid.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
My 10 year old daughter has unruly hair. Is it permissible to put anything in her hair to tame it a bit on Shabbos - e.g., oil, gel, spray?
Answer:
If you style it first and then afterwards spray a little hairspray, it is permitted according to many Poskim, as the spray is then only maintaining the hair's shape. Spraying first, however, and then styling it is prohibited. (See Biur Halacha Sim an 303:27 Dibur Hamaschil Lachuf)
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
It's a law of Life:
We pretty much get what we give. So, if you want a lot, give a lot.
from Toronto, Ontario, who unfortunately passed away yesterday and left no relatives to sit Shiva or say Kaddish for him. Learning and/or performing Mitzvos in his merit is a great zechus.
CURRENT TOPIC:
HALACHOS OF HADLOKAS NEIROS SHEL SHABBOS; SHABBOS CANDLES
1) When lighting the Shabbos candles, it is best to light the candle that is closest to you first and then move on to the one behind that and continue to the ones further away until they have all been kindled.
The reason for this is due to the rule of "Ain Ma'avirin Al Hamitzvos", the obligation to not pass over any Mitzvah that is in front of you in order to do a different Mitzvah that is further away.(See Mishna Berura Siman 676:11 and Sha'ar HaTziyun Os 19)
2) If, however, by lighting the front candles first it will be difficult or dangerous to then reach over the already lit candles and light the rear candles, the rear candles may be lit first.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
When my Grandmother moved into her new apartment she found a mezuza hanging on her doorpost, she used it but now wants to replace it and doesn't know if she should keep the old one. Is it in her rights to keep the mezuza she found?
Answer:
Yes, the halacha is that when one leaves an apartment they must leave the Mezuzos there for the next person who lives there. Even though there are ways around this when one wants to take their Mezuzos with them, if they dont take them they belong to the new person.
Thus, the Mezuzah belongs to your grandmother.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
DAILY SURVIVAL KIT
Toothpick ... to remind you to pick the good qualities in everyone, including yourself.
Rubber band ... to remind you to be flexible. Things might not always go the way you want, but it can be worked out.
Band-Aid ... to remind you to heal hurt feelings, either yours or someone else's.
Eraser ... to remind you everyone makes mistakes. That's okay, we learn by our errors.
Candy Kiss ... to remind you everyone needs a hug or a compliment everyday.
Mint ... to remind you that you are worth a mint to your family.
Bubble Gum ... to remind you to stick with it and you can accomplish anything.
Pencil ... to remind you to list your blessings every day.
Tea Bag ... to remind you to take time to relax daily and go over that list of blessings.
This is what makes life worth living every minute, every day
Important Numbers
