1) Even when in a place where it is permitted to be totally [or almost totally] undressed, such as in a bathhouse, Mikvah, or while showering or swimming, it is still incumbent on every Jew to be mindful of the Halachos of Tzniyus and to remember that no matter where he is he is in the presence of Hashem. (See Mishna Berura Siman 2:1)
Thus, it is important to be careful not to undress until the closest place possible before entering the bath, shower, Mikvah or pool, to minimize the time spent in a state of non Tzniyus. (ibid.)
The same applies when exiting the bath, shower, Mikvah or pool; it is important to get dressed as soon as possible after exiting and not pointlessly stand around naked for extra amount of time.
2) It is extremely important while bathing, showering or any time one is in a state of nakedness to be mindful to Chas V'shalom not have improper thoughts due to seeing oneself or others. (We will discuss this more at length in the near future)
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:
After I light Shabbos candles, do I need to cover my eyes to say my personal prayers?
Am I allowed to see the light?
I see some women read Aneni, etc. right by the candles and I see others leave the room completely.
Answer:
No need to cover your eyes beyond the Bracha on the Shabbos candles.
You may see the light and you may stay in the room.
There is no prohibition to derive pleasure from Shabbos candles, on the contrary one of the reasons for the candles is for Shalom Bayis, that there should be light in the home to see
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
A person who lies has a phenomenal memory. Some people remember things that happened thirty years ago. Others remember things that happened fifty years ago. The liar even remembers things that never happened!
Rav Itzele of Volozhin Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
Today's halachos dedicated by daily reader, I.T., in memory of / Leilui Nishmat Jacques Yaacov ben Yitshak TAWIL HaCohen Z"L onoccasion of his 6th Yahrzeit, 16 Menachem Av [niftar in year 5765].
1) When getting dressed or undressed it should be done modestly in a way that the body isn't exposed, even if there is nobody else in the room, as a Jew (both male and female alike) must always be modestly dressed.
One should not say "but I am alone in the privacy of my room, who will see me?!", because Hashem is everywhere, and sees everything. (See Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 2:1, 2 and 6)
There are varying opinions about what is considered "exposed".
The most stringent opinion (that of the Malbim in Artzos Hachaim Siman 2:1 and others) requires any part that is considered a "covered place" (i.e. one must wash his hands if that area was touched) to be covered [under a blanket or a robe] when dressing/undressing (This includes feet, arms, shoulders etc.).
Other Poskim (Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal in Igros Moshe Yoreh Deah Viol. 3 Siman 47:3) are more lenient, and only require one to cover the parts that he would be uncomfortable to have exposed in the presence of a stranger (thus feet, arms, shoulders, ankles would be exempt from being covered).
2) If it is too difficult to get dressed/undressed without exposing areas that must not be exposed, one should get dressed/undressed in a bathroom [that also has a bath/shower in it] and thus not have to worry about what areas become exposed.(Ruling of Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal in Igros Moshe ibid.)
Rav Moshe Zatzal's reasoning is that such a room has the status of a bathhouse, and as such is a place where it is acceptable to walk around undressed. (Igros Moshe ibid.)
Even when relying on this, it is best not to be naked in the bathroom for more than the actual time necessary to get dressed/undressed.
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 it mutar (permissible) to store seforim in a bedroom where relations may take place?
Answer:
The seforim may not be left out in the bedroom while relations are taking place. They must be taken out or placed in a drawer or in a closet, preferably in a second covering. At other times they may be in the bedroom. (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 150:6)
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
For each day the American Stock Market closed this past week, the total of the digits of the change on the Dow Jones is the number 26 .
Monday close - 634.76 = 26
(6+3+4+7+6 =26)
Tuesday close + 429.92 = 26
Wednesday close - 519.83= 26
An actuary in shul said the odds of this are millions to one.
For those not familiar, the number 26 is the sum of the name of Hashem -
yud=10, hay =5, vav = 6 hay = 5 grand total 26
It worked for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday but not for Thursday and Friday...
Thursday close +423.37
Friday close +125.71
But hold on a second....
Just when you think it ends...
If you add the gains from Thursday and Friday what do you see???
Thursday and Fridays gains..... +549.08 = 26
Pretty remarkable!
Submitted separately by a few daily readers
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1) A male's mother in law is considered an "Ervah" to him and there are no leniencies toward her regarding touching, kissing or hugging her, and in fact this may be more stringent in regards to her than other females. (See Talmud Kidushin 12b and Bava Basra 98b)
This is true both during the engagement period as well as after the marriage.
2) Although many people call their mothers in law by the title "Mother" , "Mommy" or similar, and indeed there is an obligation to respect a mother in law as one's mother, still the prohibitions against touching, hugging or kissing or being alone with her are in full force, as halachically she isn't like one's own mother.
The same applies to one's sisters in law; they are considered "Ervah" and care must be taken to avoid physically touching them in any way. (See Nidchei Yisroel from the Chofetz Chaim Perk 24 at length regarding "relatives")
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:
Can someone light their first Shabbos candle from a shabbos candle that is already burning?
Answer:
The Poskim do allow using a lit shabbos candle to ignite another candle.
However, it's best not to pick up the lit candle and light the unlit candle, rather take the unlit candle and bring it to the flame of the lit candle.
A lit shabbos candle, however, may not be used to ignite a match or another non shabbos candle etc. (See Mishnah Berurah Siman 263:4 and Biur Halacha).
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
"People ask me how to achieve humility. That is a ridiculous notion. If you want to understand humility, all you have to do is look at the difference between what you are and what you are supposed to be!"
Rabbi Mordechai of Lechovitz Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
Today's Halachos are dedicated by a daily reader Lilui Nishmas his grandfather Rav Moshe Leib ben HaRav Yeruchom Zatzal ,whose Yahrtzeit is today. May his Neshama continue to climb higher in Gan Eden and may he be a Meilitz Yosher for his entire Mishpacha.
1) When a male and a female get engaged for marriage it is a tremendous Simcha both for them and their family and friends as well as for the Ribono Shel Olam who rests His Shechinah on all married couples who live harmoniously. (See Talmud Sotah 17a)
During the period of the engagement it is extremely important to be careful not to Chas V'Shalom transgress any of the sins that we discussed in the Halachos of Tzniyus, as a male and his Kallah have no leniencies and all the Halachos that apply between males and females apply to them as well until after they are halachically married. (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 152:13. See also Mogen Avrohom Siman 339:5 where he writes that it is important to not have long engagements as they Chas V'Shalom lead to sinful thoughts and actions)
2) Thus, the engaged pair may not touch one another (e.g. while handing things to one another or when posing together for pictures etc.) and surely not kiss or hug one another; the biblical prohibition of "Lo Tikrevu l'Galos Ervah" applies to them 100% and the obligation of "Yeihareg V'Al Ya'avor, let yourself be killed rather than transgress" is in full effect. (See Rama Yoreh Deah Siman 157:1. See also Shla Hakadosh Sha'ar HaOsiyos; Kedusha and Ya'aros Devash page 26)
Furthermore, the Halachos of Yichud , improper seclusion of the genders, apply to an engaged couple and they must be extremely careful to not Chas V'Shalom be in a situation where they may transgress Yichud.
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 opening the Paroches of the Aron Kodesh when doing Pesicha, must it be opened from left to right or can it also be done from right to left?
Answer:
There is a concept in halacha of "B'chol Pinos SheAta Poneh, Tifneh L'Yemin", meaning anything that can be done two ways, should rather be done to the "right".
Thus, although not halachically mandated, it is indeed best to open the Paroches, as well as do any other Mitzvos, to the right, if possible. (See Drisha on the Tur beginning of Siman 651. See also Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 5 Siman 38).
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
The wise man is spared the necessity of personal misfortunes by learning gratitude from seeing the misfortunes of others.
Submitted by daily reader, S.L.; From Rejoice, O Youth by Rav Avigdor Miller Zatzal.
To sign up for the Rabbi Miller Simcha email click here
Today's Halachos are dedicated by daily reader , C.S., in loving memory of her grandmother, Mirel bas Nachman whose Yahrtzeit is today. May her Neshama continue to climb higher in Gan Eden.
1) Regarding situations of Ta'aruvos, there is no difference if the females are married or single; males may not be in a "mixed gathering" with them. (See Biur Halacha ibid. see also Igros Moshe Yoreh Deah Vol. 2 Siman 104 and Yoreh Deah Vol. 3 Siman 78 that even male and female children should not go to school together or otherwise engage in mixed activities. See also Sefer Chasidim Siman 168)
2) If one finds himself in such a gathering, he is obligated to get up and leave in order to not be a part of the Chilul Hashem (as the larger the mixed gathering, the larger the Chilul Hashem) and also to "make a point of protest" [especially if the people in the gathering are aware of the prohibition of mixed gatherings, yet for whatever reason decide to be lax, as is unfortunately the case sometimes], as well as to satisfy his own halachic obligations not to be in a situation where it may lead him to impure thoughts or actions. (See Rama Siman 608:2 and Mishna Berura there. If he can fix the situation and put up a mechitzah or at least separate the males and females, of course that would be better than simply protesting. (See Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 44)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) The prohibition against being part of a "mixed gathering" is even if the females in the "group" are dressed modestly, and is surely the case if they are dressed immodestly or even if they are dressed modestly but acting immodestly, as staying in such a situation is a severe sin. (See Shu"t Tashbatz Katan Siman 396 and Shu"t Igros Moshe Yoreh Deah Vol. 1 Siman 156. See also Kol Bo Siman 66, Shiyurei Bracha from the Chida Even HaEzer Siman 21 and Kraina D'Igrasa from the Steipler Zatzal letter 185)
At a public gathering that includes a sit down meal, such as at a Bris, Sheva Brachos, banquet or any similar event, males and females should not eat in the same room without a separation, even if they are eating on separate tables, as if they are too close and can see one another it will lead to impure thoughts. It goes without saying that males and females should not sit on the same tables at these public events.
2) According to some Poskim, at a Sheva Brachos where males and females are not separated by a mechitzah [and they can see one another], the Bracha of "Shehasimcha B'Meono, that our joy reaches the abode of Hashem" is not recited, as it isn't a Simcha in the eyes of Hashem when the situation is such that it can lead to thoughts of sin. (This is especially prevalent at a Simcha where females tend to "dress up" and are thus very attractive looking to males. See Be'er Heitev Siman 622:2 quoting Tosafos in Megilah 31a Dibur Hamaschil B'Mincha. See Bais Shmuel Even HaEzer Siman 62:11 and Mishna Berura Siman 415:2)
Nowadays, some Poskim are lenient regarding the recitation of this Bracha and allow it even without a [proper] Mechitzah as long as the tables of males and females are adequately separated. (See Pischei Teshuva Even HaEzer Siman 62:18 quoting the Levush. See Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 8 Siman 281 that L'chatchilah at least some sort of physical separation (such as a low mechitzah) should be made as a "mental reminder" to stay on the proper side.)
As with everything, a Rav needs to be consulted for Halacha L'ma'aseh.
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 read in certain sources that the Rambam didn't believe in Shaydim (spiritual demonic forces) (For example he never mentions them in Mishna Torah) and when the Gemara gives reasons of Sheydim for something, he gives a rational reason (e.g. hygiene).
In fact, I believe that the Maharsha wrote a pirush on parts of the gemara that talk about sheydim and explains them in a analogous way. I also read that the Rambam also wanted to write a pirush on these gemaras, but was never able to. Please explain some of the different approaches to Rishonim and how they reconcile gemaras which seem to explicitly state their existence. (here are a few i have seen quoted: "Rabbi Yehoshua ben levi said: a man shouldn't greet a stranger at night. He may be a demon." (Megillah 3a). Pesachim 54a: demons were created on Erev Shabbas.) {I have also seen the ramban quoted saying that the word "shadim" meaning creatures who are wild and dwell away from civilization.", but if you could offer some other approaches that would be great. (Vayikra 17:7)
Also,how can we claim to know what demons are when Rav Yochanan said: "There are three hundred kinds of demons in Shihin but what a demon is I do not know" (Gittin 68a)
Answer:
Indeed, the Rambam is of the opinion that Sheidim do not exist. (See Rambam Hilchos Avodas Kochavim Perek11:16 and in his Pirush to Mishnayos Avodah Zarah perek 4 Mishna 6 Dibur Hamaschil Sha'alu Zekeinim B'Romi)
However, the majority of Rishonim do read the Talmud about Sheidim literally and indeed maintain that they exist. The Shulchan Aruch also rules this way. See Shulchan Aruch Even HaEzer Siman 17:10 and Siman 141:19. See also Mogen Avraham Siman 239:7. See also Sefer Chareidim Perek 47:7 and Kaf HaChaim Siman 3:6
The fact that they exist, doesnt mean that we know what they are, what they look like or have any clues as to where to find them.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
SAYING THE FOLLOWING PRAYER, ACCORDING TO THE HOLY SEFORIM, TURNS SEVERE JUDGMENTS INTO MERCY AND MERITS OUTRIGHT MIRACLES FROM THE CREATOR. FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE JEWISH PEOPLE
Today's Halachos are dedicated by daily reader , C.S., in loving memory of her grandfather, Shlomo Yoel ben Moshe whose Yahrtzeit is today. May his Neshama continue to climb higher in Gan Eden.
1) It is incumbent upon a Jewish male to not be in a situation of "Ta'aruvos" (literally, a mixture), in a [public] gathering where males and females are mixed together.
2) This applies to all gatherings indoors and outdoors, including, but not limited to, in Shul or a house of an Avel R"L or other places where davening takes place as well as at a Chupah or other parts of a wedding or any party or R"L at a Levaya or Hesped. (See Talmud Sukkah 51b-52a, Shulchan Aruch Siman 529:4, Mishna Berura S"K 22 and Biur Halacha Siman 339 Dibur Hamaschil L'Hakel. See also Shu"t Chasam Sofer Choshen Mishpat (hashmatos) Siman 190 and Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 5 Siman 12. An actual mechitzah may only be necessary for indoor gatherings, where it is possibly an Issur D'Oraysa to not have one, while outdoor gatherings may only require a separation and not an actual mechitzah. See Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 39 at length. )
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 halacha regarding the bracha for rice cakes? Is there one brocha most poskim agree it requires? I try to make 3 brochos [on different items, in order to exempt the rice cakes] but it really is hard so I just quit eating it - now on diet I would like to resume.
Answer:
You are right, there are 3 possibilities.
According to many Poskim (including Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach zatzal) rice cakes are Ha'adama, as Mezonos is only recited on rice when it is cooked, and rice cakes are not cooked.
Even according to these Poskim, if a Mezonos was recited on them, you are Yotzei.
Rav Shlomo Zalmen says that there is no reason to be machmir and recite brachos on other items, and a Borei Pri Ha'adama can be recited L'Chatchila.
There are Poskim, however, (including Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv shlita who leans towards this Psak) that rule that it is Mezonos, as they maintain that heating element used to puff them is sufficient to consider them cooked.
Some Poskim say to recite SheHakol.
The prevalent minhag is to recite Ha'adama, but a Rav should be consulted for Halacha L'Ma'aseh. (See Shu"t Or L'Tzion Perek 14:21. See also Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 4 Siman 44 and 45)
All agree that the Bracha Achrona is Borei Nefashos.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
The holy Rebbe of Lelov Zatzal
One enjoying a sumptuous meal is not being paid to eat: he does it for pleasure and this is his reward. So too, should this be the way we view serving Hashem: not as a chore deserving of reward but as an enjoyment which is an end unto itself.
Rabbi Boruch of Kossov Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
ההלכה מוקדשת לעילוי נשמת הצדיק המקובל רבי אלעזר אבוחצירא זצוק"ל ת.נ.צ.ב.ה
Today's Halachos are dedicated by a daily reader who was a recipient of an extremely relieving yeshua from Hashem brought about through the Tzadik Baba Elazar Abuchatzeira Zatzal. May he be a Meilitz Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel
1) It is prohibited for a male to [intentionally] smell the perfume that is on a [forbidden] female. (Shulchan Aruch Even HaEzer Siman 21:1. See also Mishna Berura Siman 217:17)
According to some Rishonim this is a biblical prohibition. (See Rambam Pirush Hamishnayos Sanhedrin Perek 7 on Mishna on 54a and Sefer Chareidim Perek 28 quoting the Tashbatz. They say that the prohibition of "Lo Tin'af" is also read "Lo Tehene L'Af, do not have pleasure with your nose". See also Sefer Chareidim perek 15 that there is an additional prohibition of "Lo Tikrevu L'Galos Ervah" as anything that causes one to get closer to transgressing Arayos is biblically prohibited.)
2) Perfume on a girl below the age of twelve, according to some Poskim it may be smelled while others are stringent and disallow this as well. (See Mogen Avrohom Siman 217:10 and Mishna Berura S"K 16)
Some Poskim even prohibit a man from smelling his wife's perfume on her when she is a Nidah. (Mishna Berura ibid.)
If a female regularly wears a vial of perfume around her neck, it is prohibited to smell that vial even when it is not on her and is sitting on the table. (See Mishna Berura Siman 217:17. See also See Shu"t Ohr L'Tzion Perek 14:39 and Pischei Teshuva Yoreh Deah Siman 195:1 regarding smelling a random bottle of the kind of perfume that you know is worn by a certain female.)
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 I looked through the archives of the halachos of the 3 weeks/ 9 days, it mentioned that some things prohibited on Tisha b'Av are not allowed to resume until chatzot the day after Tisha b'Av.
What is the reason for delaying and not allowing activites to resume right after Tisha b'Av ends?
Answer:
Although the Bais HaMikdash was set ablaze on the 9th of Av, it continued to burn, and indeed most of it was consumed, on the 10th of Av.
In fact, the Talmud Taanis 29a tells us that Rav Yochanan stated that had he been alive during the time of the Churban he would have instituted the fast day on the 10th of Av instead of the 9th.
Many tragedies have befallen the Jewish people over the years on the 10th of Av as well, therefore this day is marked as a day of mourning as well until Chatzos.
The reason the actual fast is marked on the 9th is that the beginning of the destruction of the Bais Hamikdash is the most tragic time to commemorate. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 558:1 and Mishna Berura S"K 1)
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
Excessive guilt feelings for past failings will prevent you from continuing to do more good deeds in the present. Focus on doing on as many good deeds as possible. Imagine a person with a limited time to collect diamonds from a large pile. Whatever he put in his sack would be his. In his haste he might accidentally drop a few. Only a fool would then stop collecting more and bemoan his misfortune.
Today's Halachos dedicated by daily reader, C.S., in loving memory of her dear mother Marim bas Shlomo Yoel. May her Neshama continue to climb higher in Gan Eden.
Today, due to the prohibition of learning our regular Torah topic, we will discuss some relevant halachos of Tisha B'Av. Our regular topic will resume B'Ezras Hashem tomorrow.
1) There are five main things that bring a person enjoyment, and are therefore prohibited on Tisha B'Av:
#1) Eating /Drinking (this includes brushing teeth and rinsing the mouth with water)
#2) Washing one's body [or hands or face] for pleasure,even in cold water (Washing the hands upon waking and after using the bathroom is permitted, but only until the knuckles of the hands should be washed)
#3) Smearing soap, oil,lotion, cream etc. for pleasure. (If necessary for medical reasons, it isn't prohibited. Likewise, deodorant may used to prevent or eliminate odors if it is very hot weather. Preferably, the deodorant should be unscented.)
#4) Wearing leather shoes (Even if only part of the shoe is leather)
#5) Marital relations (It is best to be stringent and avoid sharing a bed or even touching one's spouse on Tisha B'Av)
2) On Tisha B'Av it is forbidden to learn Torah since learning Torah brings happiness, as the Posuk states Pekudei Hashem Yesharim, Mesamchei Lev (Tehillim 19) and on Tisha B'Av all Jews assume the status of mourners, and thus are prohibited from doing activities that bring happiness.
It is, however, permitted to learn certain sad topics that remind us of our bitter Galus (e.g. Certain parts of Sefer Yirmiyah, Midrash Eicha, the Agaddah in the fifth Perek of Gittin (Starting from 56b) or the Yerushalmi at the end of Taanis that deals with the Churban etc.) as well as the halachos of Tisha B'Av. (See Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah Siman 384:4 and Halichos Shlomo; Orchos Halacha page 440)
Even when learning these permitted topics, they should not be learned B'Iyun, with too much depth, rather just enough to understand and internalize what is being learned. (Mishna Berura Siman 554:5)
The prohibition to learn begins on Erev Tisha B'Av after Chatzos. However, one may learn the permitted topics B'Iyun on Erev Tisha B'Av, as only on Tisha B'Av itself do we limit the depth allowed
3)Smoking cigarettes/Cigars is prohibited on Tisha B'Av. Some authorities allow it after Chatzos (midday) if done secretly. (Many contemporary Poskim prohibit smoking altogether, even the rest of the year. See Q&A# 542 on page 11 here regarding the halachic status of smoking)
Even one who will not be fasting on Tisha B'Av (for halachically acceptable medical reasons) should still partake of the Seudah HaMafsekes (the final meal on the eve of the fast)(Halichos Shlomo Perek 15:2)
4) Non leather shoes that are very comfortable (such as cozy slippers, air sneakers, crocs, etc.), although M'Ikar Hadin they may be worn on Tisha B'Av, there is valid Halachic room for stringency to avoid wearing them. The Chazon Ish and other Gedolei Yisroel would not wear any shoes on Tisha B'Av and spent the day in socks or with very thin footwear only so that they would "feel the floor". (See Halichos Shlomo Perek 15:4. Rav Moshe Sternbuch shlita and Rav Nisim Karelitz shlita also rule as such and say that a Yerei Shomayim should avoid shoes that are worn all year round for comfort, even if they aren't leather)
Even those who are more lenient on Yom Kippur and wear comfortable non leather shoes, should be more stringent on Tisha B'Av as we try to minimize comforts on Tisha B'Av as much as possible. (Halichos Shlomo Perek 15 footnote 5 quoting the Sha'arei Teshuva Siman 554:11 and footnotes Orchos Halacha there 19-21)
5) On Tisha B'Av it is customary to limit one's pleasures as much as possible. Some people have the custom to sleep with a stone under their pillow, to make their sleep uncomfortable.
(See Toras Moshe from the Chasam Sofer Bereishis 28:11 where he writes that the day that Yaakov Avinu slept on the stone was Tisha B'Av)
Many people simply sleep with one less pillow than they are
accustomed to. Each person can do whatever it is they feel would minimize their personal comfort, and thus satisfy the spirit of Aveilus.
6)From nightfall of Tisha B'Av until Chatzos (midday, around 1:00 pm ) we do not sit on chairs that are higher than 3 Tefochim (between 9 and 12 inches depending on whose measurements you follow, though the Chazon Ish and Steipler were not makpid on the exact measurement in this case, and just sat on a low stool). Some have the custom to sit directly on the floor.
Though sitting on regular chairs is permitted after Chatzos, the other prohibitions of Tisha B'Av (eating, washing etc.) are prohibited all day until nightfall of the 10th of Av.
7) Tefillin is not donned at Shacharis on Tisha B'Av, rather it is worn at Mincha. The special Bracha of "Nacheim" which asks Hashem to comfort us from our state of mourning, is inserted into the Beracha of "V'LiRushalayim Ircha" in the Shemona esrei of Mincha. It should be said with deep Kavanah (concentration)
8) Kiddush Levana is recited after Maariv on Motzei Tisha B'Av, but should only be recited after breaking the fast and changing into regular shoes. Women do not say Kiddush Levana (ever).
It is best to say Kiddush Levana with a large Minyan (B'Rov Am Hadras Melech), but B'Dieved it may be recited with just another person there, or even alone if no one is around.
9) All the Halachos of the nine days (meat, wine, music, cutting hair etc.) are in effect until after midday of the tenth of Av. One who abstains from the above for the entire day (even past midday) is blessed.
10) It is proper to refrain from marital relations on the night of the tenth of Av, unless that is the night of Tevilah.
Wishing all my readers and all of Klal Yisroel an easy and fulfilling fast.
May this be the last Tisha B'Av spent in mourning and may we merit seeing next Tisha B'Av celebrated , all of Klal Yisroel together, in joy in our rebuilt Bais Hamikdash Hashlishi in Yerushalayim Ihr Hakodesh.
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 one permitted to take a pill ( not a medication, rather like a birth control pill) on a fast day without water? Is there a difference between any fast, for example , are Tisha B'av and Yom Kippur stricter than the other fasts?
Answer:
Yes, pills taken for health reasons (even if the person is not sick) may be taken on fast days including Tisha B'Av, and if one cannot take a pill without water, the pill may be taken with as much water as necessary to get the pill down.
If the pill itself is good tasting, it should preferably be wrapped in a tissue before swallowing. (See Halichos Shlomo Bain HaMetzarim Perek 16:3 and the footnotes. see also Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 10 Siman 81:1)
Regarding Yom Kippur, it may be more stringent.
As always, a Rav must be consulted for Halacha L'Ma'aseh.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
כל המתאבל על ירושלים זוכה ורואה בשמחתה. בבא בתרא דף ס
Whoever mourns the destruction of Jerusalem will merit seeing its rejoicing.
Talmud Bava Basra 60b
There was once a girl who was davening at the kosel on Tisha B'Av and crying.
Her friends asked her what she was crying about. They wondered what she really felt.
She replied that she was crying because she didn't know what she should be crying about. She didn't know what to feel.
Today, we are so lost; we don't even know what we're missing.
Taken from www.Divreichizuk.com
***********
Do you want the Bais Hamikdash rebuilt?
Really?
I don't believe you.
Do you cry during V'leerushalayim in sh'mone esrei? If you really want the bais hamikdash and the Shechina to come back, why not? Don't just go to lectures and hear speakers on Tisha B'Av. Focus on the tragedy and think about what we are missing.
Imagine you chas v'shalom lost those dearest to you. Wouldn't you cry uncontrollably? We are living in a world void of the Shechina; what bigger tragedy is there? We know that in each generation the Holy Temple isn't rebuilt, it's as if it was destroyed in that generation. What are YOU doing to help ensure it gets rebuilt?
Those who mourn over the destruction of Jerusalem will merit to see it rebuilt. Do you cry at funerals? Did you cry when you heard about the terrible tragedies of recent past? Imagine being taken out of your home and being thrown into a ghetto, overcrowded beyond your imagination. The Shechina is now homeless, living in an unbearable exile. How can you not cry?
Instead of just listening to speakers and words this entire Tish'a b'Av, take at least a few moments to think alone; reflect on the reality of the situation. If only we would really show remorse and pray with fervor, H-Sh-m would redeem us INSTANTLY. Go to a private room and cry, at least for some time, during this saddest day of the year. Read the last chapter of Eicha to yourself, very slowly and solemnly, with the proper tune if you know it.
Why was Rabbi Elazar Abuchatzeira (grandson of the Baba Sali) stabbed to death so viciously?
Why did Leiby have to die in such a tragic and horrific way?
Why were six million Jews murdered by the nazis?
Babies were taken out of mothers' arms, only to be thrown up and shot, like a game. Why?
Why were people forced to drink their own urine?
Many were placed into ovens to be burned alive. Countless were led into shower rooms, ready to finally wash and clean themselves, only to be murdered with poisonous gas. Why?
Why did mothers eat their own children to survive?
Why was Rabbi Akiva's skin flayed with iron combs?
Why were children taken, only to use their blood for a bath?
Cry this Tish'a b'Av over all of our tragedies.
Daven with intent and feeling; don't let any prayer this day finish without shedding tears. We are all responsible for one another and if these tragedies happened, we are to blame.
Cry to counteract our needless crying thousands of years ago.
Beg H-Sh-m not to give us more reasons to cry.
Make this Tish'a b'Av different. Do you really want all the suffering to end?
Do you really want to rejoice in Jerusalem NOW?
Do you want to feel G-d's Presence among us again?
PROVE IT.
CRY.
Submitted by daily reader, C.M.
***********
QUESTION FROM A READER:
In life, we tend to follow the quote 'don't cry over spilled milk' , we try not to sulk in our past miseries....why when it comes to mourn for the bais hamikdash, we gotta sulk for three whole weeks?
ANSWER:
Very good question.
And the answer is:
When one loses a loved one, they mourn for the proper amount of time and then move on, and in fact it's against halacha to mourn endlessly for a loved one.
The reason for this is that it is not in our hands to control if someone passes away or not; it is the will of Hashem that that person made the transition from this world to the next, and too much mourning risks seeming like we don't accept Hashem's judgement.
HOWEVER, Chazal teach us that each generation that doesnt merit to have the Bais Hamikdash rebuilt in their time is as if it was [newly] destroyed in their time!
Thus, when it comes to mourning for the Bais Hamikdash, we arent mourning over a 2,000 year old loss. We are mourning a fresh loss. A loss that is newly painful to each and every Jew as if it just happened. Thus, we arent mourning a building that was burned down way back when, rather we are mourning our disconnect from Hashem today. We are mourning our lack of closeness to Hashem today. We are mourning the tragedies of today which are all an extension of the Churban that began 2,000 years ago.
We are crying for a loss that WAS and IS in our hands to reverse. It is Hashem's will that we reverse the churban. It isnt "spilled milk". It isn't a "past misery"
May this Tisha B'Av be our last one spent in mourning and may we all finally do our part to ensure the rebuilding of the Bais Hamikdash Hashlishi and an end to all the Tzaros of Klal Yisroel.
We are currently in the period of mourning over the Bais Hamikdash.
As we all know,our Holy Temple was destroyed, and is being withheld from us due to Sinas Chinam. As our Gedolim teach us, the key way to combatting baseless hate is through developing baseless love; Spreading Ahavas Yisroel.
On that note, one of the readers of Halacha for Today has informed me that they have launched a new website to achieve that goal!
Visit www.SpreadAhavasYisroel.com and in 3 easy steps YOU can expedite the arrival of Mashiach!
1) There are certain Heterim, leniencies, when a male and a female [whose voice he is allowed to hear] sing zemiros (which include pesukim and names of Hashem, and thus are considered Davar SheBiKedusha) together at the Shabbos table, as we say that since he is singing too he hears his own voice and doesn't hear (i.e. focus on) her voice, a concept in Halacha known as "Shtei Koli Lo Nishmaim- two voices cannot be heard at once"
Many Poskim blatantly reject this Heter, while others only rely on it for Zemiros Shabbos with family and not for other singing. (See Halichos Shlomo Perek 20:11 and footnote 20)
Each person should consult with and follow the ruling of their own Rav.
2) Even the Poskim that accept it, agree that it is only acceptable when the female he is singing with is someone whose singing voice he is permitted to otherwise hear.
Furthermore, all Poskim agree that this concept of "two voices aren't heard" is only when one of those voices is his own, but if he is listening to two females (who are not his wife, daughter etc.) singing it is 100% prohibited. (See Mishna Berura Siman 560:13)
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 it permissible to say Tehillim on Tisha B'av?
Answer:
If being said on behalf of Cholim (sick people) it is permitted.
However, if one has a regimen of saying Tehilim each day, the portion that was supposed to be said on Tisha B'Av should be said the day before/after Tisha B'Av. (See Shu"t Rivevos Efraim Vol. 3 Siman 433 and Shu"t Divrei Malkiel Vol. 6 Siman 9)
Hopefully, Mashiach will be here before this Tisha B'Av and then we will be able to say Tehilim, learn Torah and be joyous on that day!
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
Question:
Is it proper to serve Hashem with Simcha when other people are suffering Tzaros?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
A man must have the ability to departmentalize his mind. I'll give an example. Just recently we had Tisha B'av; we sat on the ground and we wept for the destruction of the Bais Hamikdash. We wept Al Bais Yisroel, V'al Am Hashem Shenuflu Ba'cherev.
Soon after that came Chamisha Asar B'ov, we didn't say Tachanun. Lo Hoyu Yomim Tovim L'Yisroel K'Chamisha Asar B'av. This year it came so soon, that it seems to us, no time in between?
The answer is, that's our job in life. We don't have any emotions of our own; we feel with emotions of the Torah. Eis Lakol, there's a time for everything; there's a time to mourn and a time to rejoice. And therefore when we think of other people's misfortunes, we should sympathize with them, no question. But it doesn't mean that when you have some good fortune in life, you shouldn't appreciate it. Hakadosh Baruch Hu doesn't want you to overlook the happiness He is giving to you. Hakadosh Baruch Hu wants you to appreciate, to enjoy it fully.
And as a result you will serve Him with a full heart, you'll be grateful and thanking Him. And therefore we have to have a mind that's capable of both, even at the time that you're rejoicing, if you'll remind yourself of your fellow-man's misfortunes, you'll feel for him, but that won't stop you from dancing at your daughter's wedding. And therefore even the person who is mourning for the Churban Bais Hamikdash, and for the sadness of the multitudes that perished by persecution, nevertheless even then he shouldn't lose sight of the fact that Hakadosh Baruch Hu gave him garments, makes a Brocho Malbish Arumin even on Tisha B'av. He makes a Brocho for a belt, Ozer Yisroel B'gevurah, even on Tisha B'av. He makes a Brocho on the ability to walk, Hameichin Mitzadei Gover.
All the benefits that we enjoy in life, we still enjoy on Tisha B'av. So you see even on the same day that you're sitting and mourning, even on that day you're cognizant of the happiness that Hashem gives you. You can't make a Brocho for nothing; it means you are happy with these things, only you demonstrate sadness today. On another day, you demonstrate on Simchas Torah, you demonstrate joy, but always both qualities must be in the mind.
And that's how a Jew has to be. A Jew can not be one thing, if he's one thing, he's a cripple, one thing, you lost free will. A man who is alive has free will and he chooses constantly between this attitude and the other attitude and all the attitudes are true.
To subscribe to the weekly "A moment with Rabbi Miller" email Click HERE
1) A male that hears a female singing, even if it's a little girl [above age 6 and below age 9, 11 or 12 depending on which opinion one follows for maximum age] or even his own wife, may not recite Brachos. Tefilos or Divrei Torah while hearing her, as her voice is considered Ervah. (Rama Siman 75:3. See also Mishna Berura Siman 75:17 and Ben Ish Chai Parashas Bo)
If the female singing is his mother or daughter under the age of 11, according to many Poskim it isn't considered Ervah and he may recite Brachos, Tefilos or Divrei Torah while hearing her. Other Poskim are stringent. (See Shulchan Shlomo Siman 75)
Some Poskim allow Brachos, Tefilos and Divrei Torah to be recited while hearing a sister sing, while others are stringent. (See Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 16:8)
2) If one hears females singing and cannot remove himself from the area or otherwise prevent himself from hearing them, he may recite Brachos, Tefilos and Divrei Torah. Of course he should try his utmost to tune their voices out. (See Mishna Berura Siman 75:17. The Ben Ish Chai Parashas Bo Siman 13 says that in such a case he should only "think" the Devarim SheBiKedusah, and not verbalize them.)
Although there is no prohibition to recite Brachos, Tefilos and Divrei Torah when one hears a female talking, if she is telling a story or otherwise speaking lengthy words that he is interested in hearing, he should not recite Brachos, Tefilos or Torah while listening to her. (Ben Ish Chai 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:
I wanted to know if a woman who gave birth 3 weeks before Tisha B'Av and is nursing has to fast on Tisha B'Av?
Answer:
A nursing mother [as well as a pregnant woman] must fast on Tisha B'Av. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 554:5)
If doing so will harm the child, a Rav must be consulted.
For the first seven days after giving birth, a woman may not fast.
From day 7 until day 30 after the child is born (as is your case), a Rav must be consulted as depending on her strength she may or may not be told to fast, and may be told to fast for part of the fast etc.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
At times a person might feel so embarrassed and discouraged over the wrongs he has committed that he will give up trying to improve.
Despair is wrong.
You always have the ability to improve yourself and should never become discouraged.
Rabbi Zelig Pliskin - Gateway to Happiness
www.Jewisheverything.net
We are currently in the period of mourning over the Bais Hamikdash.
As we all know,our Holy Temple was destroyed, and is being withheld from us due to Sinas Chinam. As our Gedolim teach us, the key way to combatting baseless hate is through developing baseless love; Spreading Ahavas Yisroel.
On that note, one of the readers of Halacha for Today has informed me that they have launched a new website to achieve that goal!
Visit www.SpreadAhavasYisroel.com and in 3 easy steps YOU can expedite the arrival of Mashiach!
1) A female that is singing in a place where males can hear her must stop. (See Mishna Berura Siman 560:13. See also Sha'ar HaTziyun Os 25 quoting the Shla Hakadosh that singing songs with impure lyrics or sources to a child will cause the child to develop bad characteristics)
This prohibition against listening to a female sing applies equally where he sees her as she sings as well as where he doesn't see her and only hears her voice. (See Shu"t Pri HaSadeh Vol. 3 Siman 32)
2) It is likewise prohibited to listen to the recorded voice of a female singing if he knows what she looks like [even if the female has already passed away from this world and even if he only knows what she looks like from a picture and has never seen her in person], as the voice will lead him to think of her and thus lead to impure thoughts. (ibid. See also Shu"t HaBach Siman 17 and Shu"t Yabia Omer Vol. 1 Siman 6)
If he does not know what she looks like, although not prohibited M'Ikar Hadin according to some contemporary Poskim, it is still proper to avoid listening to any recorded voice of a female singing as doing so will activate the Yetzer Hara and lead to impure thoughts, especially in the immoral society that we unfortunately find ourselves in currently. (See Shu"t Minchas Elazar Vol. 3 Siman 25 and Shu"t Bais Shearim Orach Chaim Siman 33 and Shu"t Tzitz Eliezer Vol. 5 Siman 2. Some Poskim rule that this is even prohibited M'Ikar Hadin. See Shu"t Shevet Halevi Even HaEzer Vol. 3 Siman 181 and Shu"t Az Nidberu Vol. 9 Siman 9)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) If the female singing is a girl below the age of puberty, it is permitted to listen to her, according to many Poskim.
Some Poskim, however, are stringent and prohibit listening to a female sing from a younger age (6, 9, or 11 depending on different rulings; a Rav should be consulted for Halacha L'Ma'aseh). (See Mishna Berura Siman 75:7 and 17 and Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 26. See also Be'er Heitev Even HaEzer Siman 21:4)
2) However, if he derives pleasure from hearing the young girl sing, even if she is below the age where it usually permitted, it would be prohibited for him according to all Poskim, as being that he enjoys hearing her it can lead him to have impure thoughts. (See Igros Moshe 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:
Can one feed children meat during the 9 days [between Rosh Chodesh Av and Tisha B'Av] L'chatchila?
If yes until what age?
Answer:
Healthy Children above 7 years old should not be given meat during the nine days, according to all Poskim. All Children under the age of 3 may be given meat according to all Poskim.
Some Poskim are lenient for children between the ages of 3 and 7. Other Poskim, including the Mishna Berura (Siman 551:70), are stringent and don't allow it.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
The following question was sent in to and answered by my dear friend, R' Eli Nasson Shlita of www.DivreiVhizuk.com
Question:
It's the 3 weeks again, Tisha b'Av is approaching and still no sign of Moshiach. The world continues on its seemingly chaotic path. It's all extremely discouraging and frustrating. Where is Moshiach?
Answer:
The real question is : How much do we want Moshiach? Are we praying for him to come as the Rambam writes in his commentary on the Mishnah, the Thirteen Articles of Faith.
We are living in a world of luxury/sheker. Do we feel that we are missing or are we so comfortable that we forget that this is Galus. How many more wake-up calls do we need to start feeling the pain of no Beis Hamikdash?
L'chvod / Dear Klal Yisroel, I am in middle of reading a wonderful book called From Dusk to Dawn (by Rabbi Zechariah Fendel, zt'l). It talks about the holocaust and the unbelievable kiddush Hashem that many showed as they were being led to their deaths and as they sang Ani Maamin, I believe with perfect faith in the coming of Moshiach and even though he should tarry, nevertheless, I will await him him every day for he will come.
Hashem knows what He is doing. In the meantime He wants us to have faith, work on ourselves to be better people, and run to Him. Understand that there is only Hashem.
Ein Od Milvado!!!!!!
Say to Hashem now:
'Please Hashem send us Mashiach take us out of this galus it has been so long.We are so lost, please Father bring us HOME'!!!!
1) It is forbidden for a male to hear a female sing as a female's [singing] voice is considered Ervah.
If just hearing her voice talking leads him to impure thoughts it is considered Ervah then as well. (See Mishna Berura Siman 75:18)
This applies to single as well as married females and to Jewish as well as non-Jewish females. (ibid.)
2) The reason for this is that hearing her sing will cause him to think about her and lead to impure thoughts. (See Talmud Sotah 48a and Rashi there Dibur Hamaschil K'Aish regarding the power of the Yetzer Hara and how we must treat him like a raging fire to be avoided at all costs.)
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:
Why should one wait to say Kiddush Levana [on Motzei Tisha B'Av ] until after eating - is this halachic or out of concern for the fasters?
Answer:
This is brought down in the Poskim as Halacha. (see Mishna Berura Siman 426:11)
The main reason for this halacha, is that Kiddush Levana needs to be recited with Simcha.
One who is on an empty stomache for 24+ hours and still in the Tisha B'Av mode cannot be doing it with Simcha, until after he has eaten and gets into the post Tisha B'Av mode of Geulah.
Also it should not be recited without shoes on, and thus is best to change out of "Tisha B'Av shoes" before reciting.
See also Be'er Heitev Siman 551:8 quoting the Arizal that being that Mashiach was born on Motzei Tisha B'Av it is proper to say Kiddush Levana then to symbolize the "rebirth" of the moon as well as the "rebirth" of [the glory of] Klal Yisroel.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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
1) Chazal forbade asking a [forbidden] female [in a friendly way] how she is doing or how she is feeling as doing so will lead to her answering him and then continue into an unnecessary conversation and ultimately to a friendship between the two. (See Shulchan Aruch Even HaEzer Siman 21:6)
It is likewise prohibited to send a gift to a [forbidden] female as this is akin to inquiring as to her well-being and will lead to developing a friendship. (See Mishna Berura Siman 696:20)
Giving a female money or food for her basic necessities, however, is permitted, as this isn't being done in a friendly manner rather as a fulfillment of the Mitzvah of Tzedakah. (See Mishna Berura Siman 695:27)
It is permissible to ask a female how her husband or son is doing or feeling, provided this will not lead to continued unnecessary conversation, as this inquiry is not a friendly one but a courteous one. (See Aruch Hashulchan Even HaEzer Siman 21:8)
2) Nowadays, it is permissible to bid a female "good morning" , "hello" or "Mazel Tov!" as well as other similar greetings, as these are common courteous greetings even between two males and do not necessarily have any connotations of friendliness or closeness. (See Rama Even HaEzer Siman 21:5, Kraina D'Igrasa from the Steipler Zatzal letter 164 and Aruch HaShulchan ibid. See also Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 5 Siman 195. See Shu"t Minchas Yitzchok Vol. 8 Siman126 where he rules a bit more stringently)
The above holds true even if the female responds in kind with "good morning to you too "or "Thank you, Simchos by you as well" or similar as the prohibition only is in place for "chatter" that may lead to friendliness or closeness. (See Sefer Ezer M'Kodesh Even HaEzer Siman 21)
Of course, if one is intellectually honest with himself and knows that greeting any female will lead to impure thoughts, friendships or actions, he must avoid saying them at all costs.
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 learning Torah on Erev Tisha B'Av after Chatzos permitted or prohibited?
Answer:
This is a machlokes HaPoskim.
However, all agree that if by not studying Torah on Erev Tisha B'Av after Chatzos, that time will be wasted, it is better to study Torah.
The Gr"a, MaHarshal, Chayei Adam and many other Gedolim all learned on Erev Tisha B'Av, as they held it was an unnecessary Chumra to refrain from Torah study then.
See Rama end of Siman 553, Mishna Berura S"K 8 and Aruch HaShulchan Siman 553:8. See also Shu"t Chasam Sofer Orach Chaim Siman 156 for a different approach and reasoning for the prohibition.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
Last week's Torah portion begins "Eileh Masei Bnei Yisroel Asher Yatzu Mei'eretz Mitzrayim Li'tzivosam B'yad Moshe V'Aharon-these are the travelings of the Jewish people who left Egypt by their legions under the hand of Moses and Aaron."
The Tzor HaMaor explains that the recording of the travels through the harsh conditions that exist in a desert, should comfort us because just as Hashem brought the Jewish people through the desert before bringing us to Eretz Yisroel, we will go through exile before the final geulah.
So although the times we are going through today are bitter and harsh, we can gain comfort through the knowledge that this galus (exile) is only a journey on the way to redemption.
This week began the nine days before Tisha B'av, a fast day on which we mourn the loss of the Beis Hamikdash, our holy Temple, and other tragedies that occured on that date throughout Jewish history.
During these nine days the Jewish people do certain things to mourn over the loss.
We should also pray that this year we will not have to mourn on Tisha B'av, and instead it will be a holiday, celebrated in Yerushalayim Habenuyah, in the rebuilt Jerusalem.
1) One who disregards the severity of not having lightheaded conversation and idle chatter with [forbidden] females and is lax in this area, besides for transgressing the actual sin is also causing him to eventually fall further and transgress even more severe sins Chas V'Shalom. (Talmud Nedarim 20)
The Chasam Sofer (Teshuvos Even HaEzer Siman 85) writes that it is worthwhile for Bais Din (Jewish court of law) to flog those who engage in excessive talking, joking and lightheadedness with [forbidden] females, as this behavior is disgusting. (Although the Batei Din nowadays do not do this, the severity of this sin can be seen from the words of the holy Chasam Sofer)
2) This does not only apply to males.
A female who regularly acts lightheaded, jokes and otherwise engages in idle chatter with [forbidden] males is considered "Overes Al Das Yehudis, one who transgresses the laws of Judaism" (See Taz Even HaEzer Siman 115:7 quoting the Rashba. See also Bach ibid. who is even more stringent.)
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:
Can you use hot or warm water to wash your hands & face during the 9 days?
Answer:
The water does not have to be freezing cold, but should not be enjoyabley warm either.
You can add a little warm water to make it not freezing, and that's all.
Soap may also not be used, unless the dirt will not come off without it.(See Mishna Berura 541:94-96).
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
It takes a great person to admit his shortcomings and appear in front of the Kohen to be examined for leprosy.
One does not lose the appellation "adam" by sinning. No one is perfect.
On the contrary, by not seeking to correct his shortcomings, one loses this title.
Rabbi Nissan Alpert Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
Monday
Rosh Chodesh [Menachem] Av 5771
August 1, 2011
1) The Mishna (Pirkei Avos Perek 1:5) teaches "V'Al Tarbeh Sicha Im Ha'Isha, do not converse too much with a female"
It is prohibited for a male to have unnecessary conversation and idle or lightheaded chatter with a female other than his wife, mother, daughter, grandmother or sister. (See Talmud Nedarim 20a and Sefer Chareidim Perek 47:19. See also Avos D'Rav Nosson Perek 2:2 where it seems to indicate that this is a biblical prohibition)
The reason for this is that unnecessary conversation with females ultimately leads to impure thoughts and eventually to severe sins. (Talmud Nedarim ibid. See also Midrash Rabbaj Bereishis 23:6 and Yam Shel Shlomo Kidushin 4:25)
Surely, it is forbidden for a male to gesture with his eyes, tell jokes, and join in laughter or otherwise share levity with a [forbidden] female. (Shulchan Aruch Even HaEzer Siman 21)
2) The above applies equally to females that one is familiar with such as neighbors, male friends' wives, employees, salespeople etc., as well as to females that one is not familiar with.
That which is necessary to speak with them is permitted; anything extra - even a few words- is prohibited. (See Talmud Eruvin 53b)
Even if ones neighbors, co-workers , friends or others will ridicule him for minimizing his speech with females, he should pay them no credence and not be intimidated into behavior that is against the dictates of the Torah, as by standing tall and acting as a Torah-true Jew he will ultimately reap unimaginable reward in Olam Haba. (See Rama Orach Chaim Siman1:1)
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 it dangerous to fly to Israel [or anywhere else] during te 9 days? and why?
Answer:
Flying, and any other dangerous activities should be avoided in the nine days, unless being done for a Mitzvah.
The three weeks, and especially the last 9 days, is a time that many tragedies befell Klal Yisroel, and the rabbis say to avoid anything dangerous in that time period as the midas Hadin is strong then.
Unfortunately in this time of year we always hear of tragedies, car accidents with fatalities, etc. rachmana L'Tzlan. The Halacha even says to avoid court cases in this period, and not to start new business ventures.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
When I go to a Jewish wedding today I'm amazed at the music that is played, this music is called 'rock'.
It has no feeling of Judaism.
Then I found a clear hint for it in the Torah in the pasuk by Avraham Aveinu: rock ein yiras Elokim bamokin hazeh - ROCK has no feeling of fear of Heaven in this place!
Rabbi Moshe Wolfson Shlita quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
Sunday
Erev Rosh Chodesh [Menachem] Av 5771; Yom Kippur Katan
July 31, 2011
1) Besides for the biblical prohibitions against a male having physical contact (as well as Yichud, being alone) with [forbidden] females, Chazal cautioned against any form of "closeness" between [forbidden] males and females.
The Shulchan Aruch (Even HaEzer Siman 21:1) states "One must distance himself "very very" far ("Me'od Me'od") from [forbidden] females. (See Bais Shmuel on Shulchan Aruch ibid. that since the male heart is prone to lust, and sins of Arayos are extremely difficult to stop once they start, Chazal were very stringent in order to ensure that a person doesn't fall into these sins in the first place)
2) Due to the commandment of Kedoshim Ti'hyu (Vayikra 19:2), the requirement for every Jew to strive for holiness, it is incumbent on every Jew to distance himself as much as possible from situations and conditions that can Chas V'shalom lead to sin. This includes making fences for himself and staying away from certain things that may be permissible in order to ensure that they don't progress to the realm of the non-permissible. (See Aruch Hashulchan Siman 21:1)
In order to ensure proper separation of the genders, Chazal have mandated certain Halachos, which we will B'Ezras Hashem begin discussing tomorrow.
These Halachos are not stringencies or only for pious people, rather they are mandatory Halachos for each and every Jewish male to abide by. (Chida in Shiyurei Bracha to Even HaEzer Siman 21:1. See also Mesilas Yesharim Perek 11 Dibur Hamaschil U'Nedaber Ata min Ha'Arayos)
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 a woman who is in her 6th month of pregnancy supposed to fast on Tisha'B Av? I've heard of women who are further along fasting for Yom Kippur so are they usually exempt?
Answer:
As a general rule, otherwise healthy pregnant and nursing women must fast on Tisha B'Av (as well as on Yom Kippur) no matter how far along they are in their pregnancies.
There may be exceptions for certain situations, for the first few days after a baby is born, sickness etc. and a Rav must be consulted before any leniencies are relied upon.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
A European Gadol taken from us.
We didn't get the message.
An American Gadol taken from us.
We didn't get the message.
A Gadol from Eretz Yisroel taken from us.
We didn't get the message.
A little boy from Brooklyn, NY brutally sacrificed for us.
We didn't get the message.
A Sephardic Mekubal from Be'er Sheva savagely sacrificed for us.
Will we once again not get the message?
We shuddered.
We cried.
We gave Tzedakah.
We sighed.
We prayed.
We learned Torah.
But did we get the message?
Did we change?
Are we changing?
We heard speeches.
We heard tributes.
We heard songs.
But did we get the message?
Did we change?
Hashem is talking to us.
Are we listening?
Are we so brazenly insensitive?
Are we so deeply incapable of change?
Are we that numb?
The world is full of Achzariyus
The world is stooping to unprecedented lows.
The world is in a fast paced transition.
We dare not be insensitive.
We dare not chalk it up to coincidence.
We dare not block ourselves from feeling.
We must open our eyes and listen.
We must become bigger than our minute selves.
We must be ready to change...
ready to get the message...
ready to part of the transition...
Every Jew must be a part of this movement.
If not for him/herself, for the sake of their brothers and sisters, Am Yisroel.
It's time to really focus on Ahavas Yisroel
For the sake of Klal Yisroel
So we can merit Mashiach shel Yisroel
And the return of the Shechinah to Eretz Yisroel
Hazorim B'Dima, B'Rena Yiktzoru.
We wept oceans of tears
The time has come to reap with joy
Together.
Only together.
Erev Shabbos Kodesh Parashas Masei; Mevorchim Chodesh Menachem Av (Rosh Chodesh will be Monday, Aug. 1)
27 Tamuz 5771
July 29, 2011
Every day, a very short, very applicable D'var Torah is sent out via email from the Chofetz Chaim's Sefer "Ahavas Chesed". This is being done as a Zechus for a Refuah Shelaima of a special woman, a young mother who has been diagnosed with a serious form of cancer R"L, Chaya Meira Mindel bas Chava Golda, B'Soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel.
Right now, they have 750 readers and are trying to get to 1,000 subscribers to increase the Zechuyos in Shomayim which are desperately needed.
If interested in signing up, please email: ahavaschesedformeira@gmail.com to receive a daily Dvar Torah from the Chofetz Chaim's teachings.
****
Today's halachos are dedicated L'Zecher Nishmas R' Eliezer Binyamin ben Chananya Yom Tov Lipa on the occasion of his second Yahrtzeit. May his neshama continue to climb higher in Gan Eden and may he be a Meilitz Yosher for his entire Mishpacha.
1) The prohibition against "Negiah" applies as well, if not more so, to most of one's "relatives".
Touching, kissing and hugging relatives may even be worse than with unrelated females, as many relatives are called "Arayos" by the Torah (Vayikra 18). (See Chochmas Adam Klal 125 and Igros Moshe Yoreh Deah Vol. 2 Siman 137 Dibur Hamaschil B'Neshika)
2) The only permissible relatives for a person to hug and kiss are a mother/father, son/daughter, grandson/granddaughter according to some Poskim and a sister below the age of 3 (or 7 according to the Chazon Ish). (See Aruch Hashulchan Even HaEzer Siman 21:10)
All other relatives (Uncles/Aunts, Sisters in law/brothers in law, cousins etc.) may not be touched, kissed or hugged, and all the Halachos of other females apply to them.
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) One must do whatever it takes to make sure they don't hug or kiss or touch any of these "relatives" who they are prohibited to touch, and no "Kavod Habriyos" or "Minhag" or "They will be upset at me" answers or excuses are halachically acceptable. (See Mishna Berura Siman 468:23 and Biur Halacha Siman 690:17)
This can often cause friction between "relatives" where one is religious and the other is not yet religious and of course tact should be used to avoid any familial fights.
The best thing is to be honest with them and say that the Torah does not allow you to have physical contact with them, and you appreciate them respecting your decisions, but regardless if they accept it or not, you are forbidden to transgress due to their "feelings". (See Mishna Berura ibid.)
2) If a not yet religious female "relative" tries to hug or kiss you or otherwise have physical contact, you must move away and reject these gestures, as even if the male just stands there and allows himself to be hugged or kissed he has transgressed the prohibition.
Furthermore, by not moving away and allowing the hug or kiss to touch him he has also transgressed the prohibition of "Lifnei Iver Lo Siten Michshol", the biblical prohibition against causing another Jew to sin. (See Kraina D'Igrasa from the Steipler Zatzal letter 163)
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 it specifically say in the Torah that during the 3 weeks there should be no parties? Is it really a sin to listen to music?
Answer:
It isn't a Torah prohibition; it was instituted by the Rabbis after the destruction of the temple and it should be taken very seriously. The Talmud (Bava Basra 60b) tells us : All who mourn Jerusalem will merit and see her when she is joyful, and whoever does not mourn Jerusalem will not see see her when she is joyful."
The prohibition isn't the party (even though, those should be avoided too in the 3 weeks), it's the music and the dancing that was forbidden in this time period due to it being a period of mourning for the destruction of the temple.
Even an engagement party or a Seudas Mitzvah may not have music during the three weeks, and surely not a birthday party. (See Mishna Berura Siman 551:16 based on the Magen Avraham).
Live music is surely prohibited, and even recorded music is prohibited. This applies to men and women and even to older children, as this is a national time of mourning. (Ruling of Rav Moshe Feinstein zatzal in Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 4 Siman 21:4. See also Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman166 and Vol. 3 Siman 87. See also Minchas Yitzchok Vol. 1 Siman 111 ).
Many authorities even prohibit acapella style music,which is without instruments, rather with sounds made by mouth to mimic instruments.
Some authorities are lenient with this kind of recording. But it is best to be stringent if possible. (See Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 8 Siman 127:2, Shu"t Tzitz Eliezer Vol. 15 Siman33:2. See also Sefer Ishei yisroel page 765 who quotes Rav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita who is stringent. Rav Ovadiya Yoseph Shlita in Shu"t Yechave Da'as Vol. 3 Siman 30 is also stringent)
in mind, that according to the Talmud , it is prohibited to listen to music for pleasure all year round!
This is also the opinion of the Bais Yoseph, Rambam, many other Rishonim as well as contemporary Poskim such as Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal. Though we are lenient all year round for various reasons, for these three weeks a year when all Poskim agree that we must be less happy than usual, there is no real heter for listening to music, much less attending a party with live music.
More importantly, The posuk tells us (Tehilim 137:5 and 6) "Im Eshkachech Yerushalayim Tishkach Yemini; Tidbak Leshoni L'Chiki Im Lo Ezkerichi Im Lo A'aleh Es Yerushalayim Al Rosh Simchasi, If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning. Let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth, if I remember thee not; if I set not Jerusalem above my chiefest joy."
As Jews, we must never forget that we are in exile and although we are too weak to mourn properly all year round, these three weeks, and especially the last 9 days are important to at least follow the minimal guidelines of mourning instituted by our sages without looking for loopholes.
May we merit the speedy arrival of Mashiach, and the rebuilding of the Bais HaMikdash real soon.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
QUESTION OF THE DAY:
At the end of the day today, will you say it was an Olam HaBa day -- or an Olam HaZeh day?
Truth be told, this question is not limited to today -- but should be asked by everyone at the end of the day -- each and every day!
Submitted by daily reader C.S.; taken from the www.hakhel.info daily email
Today's Halachos dedicated in honor of the wonderful women that run www.WesternWallPrayers.org
"Thank you so much for the incredible work that you do. Your personal care and dedication are an inspiration to us."
1) A female that fell or otherwise needs assistance getting up or needs medical assistance may be helped to her feet or given other medical assistance by a male [as this is not being done for purposes of closeness, love or pleasure].
Obviously, even when assisting her, the physical contact should be kept to the bare minimum deemed necessary and he should be careful not have impure thoughts while touching her. (See Shach Yoreh Deah Siman 195:20)
Likewise, a male patient may be cared for by a female doctor or nurse, provided that it doesn't lead him to have any impure thoughts.
Of course, even when being treated by a female medical provider, he must be careful to not gaze unnecessarily at her.
2) One who is "stringent" and doesn't assist a female in need of medical assistance or in need of getting up after a fall etc. due to not wanting to touch her is deemed by the Talmud (Sotah 21b) as a Chasid Shota, a pious fool, as his stringency is unwarranted.
Even if he knows himself that if he helps her it may lead to impure thoughts, he must assist her if there is nobody else there to assist her. (Shach ibid.)
In the event that the female's life is in danger, even if he knows for certain that by helping her he will have impure thoughts or even derive pleasure from the contact, he must save her life. (See Igros Moshe Even HaEzer Vol. 1 Siman 56 and Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 8 Siman 75)
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:
While recently saying Kiddush Levana I found it interesting that everyone was davening facing towards the moon ( opposite of Mizrach in our Shul ).
Is there any Mekor for this ( facing towards the moon ) or should we be Davening towards Mizrach like all other Tefilos ?
Answer:
Although it isn't brought in Shulchan Aruch to face Mizrach when saying Kiddush Levana, I did hear from a Talmid of Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal that he was indeed makpid to stand facing east while reciting Kiddush Levanah. It is best not to specifically face the moon, especially while reciting the Bracha, lest it appear as if we are praying to the moon Chas V'Shalom.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
Take one Jewish child.....
Put him on a chair, look at him.
And realize that he is more important than the mountains,
The Oceans and the continents,
He is more important than the North and South America.
He is more important than the Universe.
It is not only Klal Yisroel as a whole that is important,
Every single Jew is loved by Hashem with an intense and burning love.
1) A male may not extend his hand to shake the hand of a female, even though this is commonly done in the non-Jewish world as a courteous way of greeting and not for purposes of love, pleasure or closeness.
If the female sticks out her hand first, it is incumbent on the male to do everything in his power, in a tactful way, to avoid shaking her hand in return. (See Igros Moshe Even HaEzer Vol. 1 end of Siman 56 where Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal bemoans the fact that many people are misguidedly not stringent with this. See Midrash Rabbah Parshas Bo Parsha 16:2 that a male should never touch a female that isn't his for any reason, and one who does so brings death upon himself R"L. )
2) Just as it's prohibited to touch a female directly on her skin, so too it's prohibited to touch her through her clothing.
Thus, shaking her gloved hand, placing your arm around her clothed shoulder or similar is prohibited. (See Sefer Chasidim Siman 1090)
Moreover, standing very close to a female on a crowded bus or in a crowd to the point that he senses her touching him or distinctly feels himself touching her is prohibited. (See Shu"t Chelkas Yaakov Vol. 2 Siman 14)
If there is no other option available and one finds himself on a crowded bus or in another similar situation, if it isn't inevitable that he will feel her touching him or vice versa, he can remain there. (See Igros Moshe Even HaEzer Vol. 2 Siman 14)
However, if a person knows himself and his nature, and he knows that being in such a situation will lead him to have impure thoughts, he must avoid going on such a bus unless absolutely necessary. (ibid.)
If a person knows that being in the aforementioned situation will inevitably lead him beyond impure thoughts (physical arousal etc.) he is prohibited from riding that bus, even if that's the only way he has to get to work or to another necessary destination. (ibid. Rav Moshe Zatzal adds that if someone's nature is Chas V'shalom like this it is due to emptiness, and he is required to work on himself, to add more Torah study to his day to change his nature.)
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 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.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
Question:
Why did Hashem create bacteria which cause disease to man? Which means, why did Hashem create disease?
Answer by Harav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
Rashi explains in one place, disease comes for a very important purpose. There's a bigger sickness that disease can overcome; that sickness is arrogance. Hagaavo Rosh Kol Chatos, the worst of all disease is arrogance, when people are conceited. But when a person comes down with a heavy cold, he's not arrogant anymore. His chest is heavy, he's coughing, he can't sleep at night, his mucous passages are irritated, it feels terrible, he's not arrogant anymore.
A sick man is not a Baal Gavaah, Rashi says that, and the purpose of illness is to tame your arrogance. That's a very important lesson. So therefore when a man is lying sick in bed, it states that the Shechina comes down and rests on him. Why does the Shechina rest on a sick man's head? Because Hakadosh Baruch Hu likes humble people. At that time you're humble, you're broken. Oh, Hashem says, Ani Es Dakoh, I am with the broken man. But when you're healthy and everything is going well, you're cocky, you're arrogant, you have to know that's a bigger illness. And now come along the nice bacteria, and they help you out to take away your arrogance.
By the way, bacteria makes all the good things in life. Without bacteria you couldn't eat, in our stomachs we have bacteria to help us digest the food. Bacteria makes cream, otherwise it would never turn into cream. Bacteria causes everything to happen in this world. You'd be surprised, bacteria causes food to grow out of the ground. Bacteria are one of the most important functions in all the physical things that take place in the world.
But those bacteria that cause us to be deprived of arrogance are among the most beneficial of all of them.
1) Although when it comes to Pikuach Nefesh, a danger or threat to a Jew's life, the Torah mandates that we transgress the laws of the Torah in order to save the life, there are exceptions to this rule.
When it comes to the three cardinal sins, Avodah Zarah (serving foreign gods), Gilui Arayos (acts of sexual immorality) and Shefichas Damim (murdering another human), we are required to choose death [Al Kidush Hashem] rather than transgress.
This mandate is referred to in Halacha as "Yaharog V'Al Ya'avor, [allow yourself to] be killed rather than transgress"
Being that Gilui Arayos is one of the three and being that improper touching is an extension of Gilui Arayos, Chazal thus teach us that one should rather be killed than allow himself to transgress a sin of sexual immorality, even if only the prohibition of Negiah, touching [a prohibited] female [Derech Chibah, for the purposes of pleasure, love or to get close to her] (Not only is the above Halacha according to the ruling of the Rambam (Sefer Hamitzvos Lav 353) who considers improper touching as the actual prohibition (Lo Ta'aseh) of Gilui Arayos, but even according to the ruling of the Ramban (Hasagos on Sefer Hamitzvos ibid.) who considers improper touching as Abizrahu D'Gilui Arayos, i.e. an extension of the Lo Ta'aseh but not the Lo Ta'aseh itself, he still considers it D'Oraysa enough to mandate Yaharog V'Al Ya'avor. The Ramban writes this explicitly in his Sefer Toras haAdam, Sha'ar Hamichush Dibur Hamaschil U'Linyan Avoda Zarah V'Gilui Arayos. See also Shach Yoreh Deah 157:10 and Birchei Yosef from the Chida to Shulchan Aruch ibid. See also Kreina D'Igrasa from the Steipler Zatzal page 163)
2) No Jew has a license to Chas V'shalom be lenient in these matters, and a competent Rav must be consulted for Halacha L'Ma'aseh before any form of touching between the genders is deemed necessary and permissible. (See Pischei Teshuva Even HaEzer Siman 21:3)
We shall, B'Ezras Hashem, discuss this Halacha and some common examples of it that many are often faced with and how to deal with them, tomorrow.
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 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.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
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 צדיק וקדוש לברכה
I merited a long life because I never questioned Hashem's actions. When one questions Hashem, he is summoned to heaven and shown that in fact everything is perfect and just. Since I have never complained, there has been no reason to take me up to see that all of Hashem's deeds are just!
Rabbi Shimon of Yaroslav Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
Important Numbers
