Monday
4 Sivan 5771; 48th Day of the Omer; 2 Days to Kabolas HaTorah!
June 6, 2011
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תזכו למצוות
If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos learned.
1) A fruit or vegetable that was cooked or baked and thus became soft due to the cooking or baking may be crushed or mashed, as it is no longer subject to the prohibition of Tochen. (Based on Rambam Hilchos Shabbos Perek 21:13)
Thus, for example, potatoes that have been cooked may be mashed in the regular manner with a fork on Shabbos (though not with a specialized mashing utensil as we will B'Ezras Hashem discuss in the near future.)
2) The above only applies if the items in question were fully cooked to the point of being totally soft.
If they are not fully cooked and thus not sufficiently soft the above leniency will not apply and they will still be subject to the prohibition of Tochen. (See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 6 footnote 21 quoting HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal)
Additionally, this leniency only applies if the vegetable became soft due to cooking or another action; if it became soft on its own due to being overripe, such as an avocado, this leniency will not apply. (See Chazon Ish Siman 58:9. See also Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 6:7.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Why can't a girl marry a boy with the same name as her father?
Answer:
This is based on the Tzava'ah (will) of Rav Yehuda HaChasid (Tzava'ah 23) and applies to men and women equally. Apparently the reason had to do with sakana, danger, and is definitely based on kabalistic sources. The Arizal was known to be extremely cautious about this as were the Ba'al HaTanya and other great Torah giants. (See Shu"t Tzemach Tzedek Even HaEzer Siman 143)
Volumes upon volumes have been written to deal with this issue and to find some way to explain it, and determine if it is indeed something that we need to avoid today. This is not the forum for an extensive presentation of both sides.
Many Poskim ruled that the Tzav'ah of Rav Yehuda HaChasid which contains many such directives (such as not cutting hair on Rosh Chodesh, not visiting the same grave twice in one day etc.) is only applicable to his decendants and not mandatory for all of Klal Yisroel. (See Shu"t Noda B'yehuda , Tinyana, Even HaEzer Siman 79)
One thing seems clear from the majority of the Poskim, that if there is even a small difference in one of the names, then it is OK and not a problem at all (e.g. one is names Moshe and the other is named Moshe Tzvi, or one is Faiga and one is Faigel) (See Hanhagos of the Chazon Ish printed in the back of Sefer Ta'ama D'Kra from Rav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita, Os 31, that one who has 2 names it is considered one long name. He also writes there that parents should not name their child a name that is out of the ordinary that will cause the child embarrassment when he/she grows up)
Certain Poskim were extremely makpid on this while others were not. (Case in point: It is a well known fact that Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal, the Posek and Gadol Hador, had two sons in law with the same name as him!)
If this is something that comes up, a Rav must be consulted to determine if it is a problem, and if it is, how to fix it (i.e. add a name, change the name etc.)
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
Question:
How does one bring peace to his family, especially where in-laws are involved in the conflict?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
Number One: Each partner should tell his or her father and mother, "Pa, Ma, stay out of it. Don't talk to me one word against my husband or against my wife." Lay down the law, don't be afraid; your wife comes first. Al Kain Ya'azov Ish Es Aviv V'es Imo, a man should forsake his father and his mother, V'dovak B'ishto, and be loyal, cling to his wife. It's the most stupid thing for a parent to talk to a child against the child's spouse. If the parents are so stupid, you have to tell them, "Either you stop talking about them or I won't talk to you any more." Don't be afraid. "I'll talk about everything but not about my spouse." That's the first thing to lay down the law.
Secondly: A husband and wife should never criticize each others parents. Don't criticize your husband's brothers or sisters. Never do that! It's bad manners and it's bad diplomacy. Now that's elementary, and very many people understand that by common sense, but some people must be told. Now, sometimes it already has commenced, the war is on. What do you do? You must stop it. Of course it's not easy because they're already angry at you. There's a back and forth, they want to get revenge for what you did in the past, so you have to find ways and means of making up. Start sending little gifts to your mother-in-law, little gifts to your sisters-in-law, to your brothers-in-law, find ways and means of being nice to them. They'll continue to barb you, to needle you; but if you won't react, little by little it'll die out and after some time peace will be restored.
Of course if you start out on the right foot, it's still better. When you get married, start with wisdom, make up your mind that you are going to be the very best to your husband or your wife's family that you're able to be. Of course, don't have your mother-in-law around too much. A mother-in-law should not settle in her daughter-in-law's house. If she has to live with a child, she has to live with her daughter, but never with a daughter-in-law, because a mother-in-law has to be an angel to keep her mouth shut, and the daughter-in-law has to be an angel to suffer her mother-in-law.
Now there was a case, I had a member here whose mother was a widow and she lived with him, and they lived in tranquility; it was a remarkable story. Many years passed by and never was there a whisper of distention; but it wasn't something that should be done if it's possible to avoid.
Sunday
3 Sivan 5771; 47th Day of the Omer; 3 Days to Kabolas HaTorah!
June 5, 2011
1) We learned yesterday that the Rama allows cutting foods into very small pieces if done immediately before the meal.
However, this leniency only applies if they are being cut with a regular knife, but if a special instrument is being used (e.g. a grater) to cut them into very small pieces, it is prohibited even according to the Rama. (See Mishna Berura Siman 321:45 and Biur Halacha Dibur Hamaschil Midi)
2) According to some Poskim, the leniency of cutting food into small pieces immediately before the meal applies only to cutting into small pieces.
However, crushing or mashing fruits and vegetables [in the regular manner] is prohibited even if done immediately before the meal. (See Chazon Ish Siman 57 Dibur Hamaschil V'Aamnam)
Other Poskim, however, do not differentiate between cutting and crushing and allow it all if done immediately before the meal. (See Shu"t Rivash Siman 184 quoted in Biur Hagra Siman 321:10. See also Pri Megadim, Aishel Avraham, Siman 321:14 and Shu"t Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 4 Siman 74: Tochen; 4)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
[A while ago] I was asked to lead bentching at a sheva brachos. I agreed. Half way through the first bracha my wife says, "You didn't wash!" What should I have done at that point? (I did eat about 5 oz of cooked barley and some other foods, but no bread.) Did I invalidate anything or cause spiritual harm to the chosson and kallah, Chas V'Shalom?
I finished the first bracha and had the man sitting next to me say the ends of the succeeding brachos out loud and people answered Amen. Almost nobody noticed.
Did I still need an Al hamichya?
Answer:
B'dieved, the first Bracha of Birchas HaMazon suffices to exempt the barley. No spiritual harm was done to the Chasan and Kallah or to anyone else in the room!
In the future...if you remember while still in middle of the first Bracha, stop, and continue the nusach of Al HaMichya from "Al SheHinchalta L'Avoseinu" until the end. (See Mishna Berura Siman 208: 75-79. and Kaf HaChaim 208:87)
If the second Bracha (or further) of Birchas HaMazon was started, stop immediately where you are, even in middle of a Bracha. (Psak of Rav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita quoted in Sefer Shgios Mi Yavin Perek 26:28)
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
The Torah tells us about the three "pilgrimage" festivals - the Shalosh Regalim. In the discussion of the Shalosh Regalim, we find (Devarim 16:16) the following command: Three times in a year all your males should appear before Hashem your G-d in the place that He shall choose; in the Feast of Unleavened Bread (Chag HaMatzos), and in the Feast of Weeks (Chag HaShavuos), and in the Feast of Booths (Chag HaSukkos). . . .
The names assigned to the holidays for the most part appear to correlate to an event or commandment associated with the holiday. To start, the holiday of Sukkos is aptly named. On this holiday, we are commanded to dwell in Sukkos that commemorate our dwelling in "Sukkos" during the sojourn in the desert. The name assigned to Pesach, "Chag HaMatzos," is also appropriate. On this holiday, that celebrates the exodus of the nation of Israel from Egypt, we have the commandment to eat Matzo, which reminds us of the bread that had no time to rise
while the nation swiftly departed Egypt.
The name "Chag HaShavu'os," however, does not appear to fit this mold. We know that we have a commandment to count the days and weeks between Pesach and Shavu'os - Sefiras Ha'Omer. Yet, the holiday of Shavu'os, as we find in the holiday prayers, is referred to as the "Z'man Matan Toraseinu," "The time of the giving of our Torah." The holiday commemorates this monumental event in our nation's history. What is the connection between the anniversary of the giving of the Torah and weeks?
Rav Avrohom Yitzchak Kook answers that indeed, each of the names is reflective of the essence of the holiday. On Pesach, Chag HaMatzos, the fulfillment of the special commandment of the day is accomplished through matzah, which illustrates that the holiday is the Z'man Cha'rusainu, time of our freedom. On Sukkos, Chag HaSukkos, the fulfillment is through dwelling in the Sukkah, even though the holiday is termed the Z'man Simchaseinu, "time of our happiness."
A gift cannot be given unless there is a recipient to accept the gift. Shavu'os, as mentioned, is termed the Z'man Matan Toraseinu, the time of the giving of our Torah. Because the holiday commemorates a "giving," we need to prepare ourselves to be proper recipients. Obviously, this preparation entails more than one day's work. We are given seven weeks to prepare for this special day, for this day on which we accept the Torah anew.
Yes, from the perspective of Hashem, so to speak, this holiday is the time that the Torah was given. However, from our perspective, this is the holiday in which we celebrate the receipt of the Torah. We celebrate the culmination of seven weeks of preparing for this receipt. On Chag Ha'Shavuos, the fulfillment of the special commemoration of the day was accomplished through "Shavu'os" - the weeks of preparation, and therefore such a name is wholly appropriate.
Submitted by daily reader, L.M.; written by Rabbi Yehudah Prero at www.Torah.org
1) If the fruits or vegetables are being prepared for a salad immediately before the meal, it is permitted to dice them into small pieces. (Rama Siman 321:12 based on Shu"t HaRashba Vol. 4 Siman 75)
2) The reason for this is that if being done immediately before eating we don't deem it "grinding" rather we deem it a normal "manner of eating" to cut up our food before we eat it. (See Mishna Berura Siman 321:44)
The same applies for preparing food for one's pets (or any animals that one is obligated to feed) that the food may be cut up for them into small pieces immediately before feeding them. (ibid.)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) Some Poskim disagree with the above leniency of the Rama and maintain that even for immediate consumption it is forbidden to cut into very small pieces. (See also Chazon Ish Siman 57 Dibur Hamaschil U'Bikur and Dibur Hamaschil Aval where he adds some more restrictions even for those who do hold of this leniency.)
Therefore, it is best even when cutting it into small pieces, to avoid making the pieces too small. (See Mishna Berura Siman 321:45.)
2) However, if you see people who are not stringent with this, and they prepare their eggs and onions (a traditional Shabbos dish in many circles, known in Yiddish as "Aier mit Tzvibel") on Shabbos morning very finely diced, do not chastise them as they have on whom to rely, provided they do so immediately before eating. (ibid.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Do you make Shehechiyanu on becoming a Bar Mitzva?
Answer:
There are various customs regarding Bar Mitzvah boys. Some have the custom to recite SheHechiyanu the first time they don Tefilin (which in many communities is a month before their actual Bar Mitzvah. See Rambam Hilchos Brachos Perek 11:9 and Taz Siman 22:1)
However, many Poskim maintain that no Shehechiyanu is recited on Tefilin (either because it's leather or for other reasons). The Biur Halacha Siman 22:1 suggests putting on a new garment right before putting on the tefillin for the first time, and recite SheHechiyanu on the garment and have in mind to exempt the Tefilin.
Becoming a Bar Mitzva in it if itself does not require a SheHechiyanu, as we do not recite SheHechiyanu every time a Mitzva presents itself for the first time, unless it is a Mitzvah bound to a certain time (a cycled Mitzvah).
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
We find ourselves in an intense period awaiting zman matan Toraseinu. The days of the omer in general, and the shloshes yemei hagbola in particular, challenge us to appreciate and internalize the profound significance of kabolas haTorah. The Ramban explains that the very purpose of sefiras haOmer is to connect the experience of yetsias Mitzrayim (the exodus from Egypt) with that of ma'amad Har Sinai (standing at Mt. Sinai). This linkage emphasizes the need to view our freedom from the bondage of Mitzrayim as a means toward heightened Avodas Hashem.
How do we prepare ourselves for the Shavuos experience? Which aspects of our avodas Hashem require the most considerable emphasis?
Unquestionably, we must approach our limud haTorah with a profound sense of passion, diligence, and commitment. We must perceive Torah study as an act of kabolas penei haShecinah, Divine revelation.
Rabbeinu Yonah, however, underscores tikkun hamiddos, perfection of character, as a necessary condition for kabolas haTorah. Commenting on the teaching of Rav Elazar ben Azaria, "im ein derech eretz, ein Torah" (Avos 3:17), Rabbeinu Yonah explains, "Torah einena shochenes l'olam b'guf she'eino ba'al middos tovos"; Torah can only reside in a ba'al middos tovos, one who posses a refined or exemplary character.
Interestingly, the Avudraham cites a minhag limiting the recitation of Pirkei Avos to the weeks between Pesach and Shavuos, highlighting tikkun hamiddos as a prerequisite for kabolas haTorah.
The Avnei Nezer explains that the students of R' Akiva who, l'fi madreigasam (at their level), failed to exhibit proper kavod for each other, died specifically during yemei haSefira, a time designated for tikkun hamiddos.
Both limud haTorah and tikkun hamiddos require our constant attention and concern. Just as the Torah characterizes the weeks of Sefira as "temimos" (whole; perfect), so too our commitment to limud haTorah and tikkun hamiddos must be incessant and continual. May we merit a meaningful and profoundly significant
kabolas haTorah.
Submitted by daily reader, Y.K.; written by Rabbi Yonasan Sacks at www.Torahweb.org
Thursday
Erev Rosh Chodesh Sivan 5771;Yom Kipur Katan; 44th Day of the Omer
June 2, 2011
1) It is permissible to cut a fruit or vegetable [or other food item] into sections, and doing so is not subject to the prohibition of Tochen.
According to many Poskim, it is even permitted to use a specialized utensil (e.g. egg or cheese slicer) as only actions that are considered Tochen (i.e. very small pieces) are subject to restrictions of specialized utensils (as we shall discuss in the near future B'Ezras Hashem.) (See Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 4 Siman 74: Tochen;4. See also Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 6 footnote 12 quoting HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal)
2) Most contemporary Poskim maintain that the prohibition of Tochen only applies if the food is being diced "very small" both in its length and its width, but if slicing a tomato, egg or any other item in only one direction, there is absolutely no prohibition and it may be slices as thin as desired. (Ruling of Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal in Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 4 Siman 74:Tochen;3. Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal in Shu"t Minchas Shlomo Siman 91:13 also rules this way.)
There is a minority opinion that maintains that thinly slicing a vegetable, even in one direction, is a prohibition of Tochen. (See K'tzos HaShulchan Siman 129; Badei HaShulchan 2 quoting the ruling of the Tzemach Tzedek. See also Sefer Orchos Shabbos page 217 footnote 12 where he quotes Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Shlita as ruling this way as well.)
For Halacha L'ma'aseh a Rav should be consulted.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Can you please explain were it says a person isn't suppose to whistle?
Answer:
I know that there is a "legend" that says that whistling is prohibited due to its summoning of Sheidim (demons). However, there is no source for this in Halacha, and I have yet to find a reference to this even being a problem according to Kabbalah.
In fact, the Rama Siman 338:1 and Mishna berura 338:3 clearly rule that whistling on Shabbos is permitted, even if one whistles a tune. This is true as well if the fingers are used to produce the whistling. (See Aruch HaShulchan 338:7)
If there would have been a problem with whistling, wouldnt the Poskim mention it, rather than simply ruling that it's permitted?
Of course, it isn't a refined. Jewish thing to crudely whistle in public. But, pleasant whistling to enhance a niggun, seems to be OK and can even be used to enhance Avodas Hashem.
If you come across any sources that forbid it, please be so kind as to let me know, as I have been researching this for a while.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
To continue on where we left off yesterday, I wanted to get practical.
I felt like the last post was inspirational and can leave the reader feeling like they want to do something to use each day for growth but then the feeling may creep in:
Now what?!
How do you get to a level where by the time Shavuos comes around, you can look back and say Wow! I really changed! I used each day to grow and come closer to Hashem!
Let's get real. I know that in the past I haven't been able to look back after 49 days and say that I've really grown.
Change is difficult.
It takes work.
Here's something I heard from my very special married sister that I wanted to share with you because it can make all the difference.
You need to choose something small.
And that is SO true. That's how you can change over the 49 days of sefira.
In Judaism, growth can only be made if you take baby steps.
Little, small, teeny baby steps.
Proof: Sefira is forty nine whole days. That's quite a long time if you think about it! It's not like you are expected to change in a weeks time. No. It's gradual. You have more than a month to change, to prepare for the big day!
Now we are already more than halfway through sefira but I still think it's worth sharing these ideas so that if you haven't started yet, you can still utilize the time that's left to take something little and start making a change.
That's what I said. Something little.
It's up to you to decide where you want to begin.
Here are some ideas:
You want to become a more giving person? You want to work on chessed? Do one small thing every day to help someone else. It can be an anonymous act of kindness (like closing an opened safety pin so it wont prick someone else - I heard this idea at a speech a while back and it really left an impression on me!) or it can be something else - calling someone to let them know you're thinking of them. Whatever it is, make sure it's something small that can be done every day.
You think your kibbud av va'eim could use a little polishing? That's a hard mitzvah. But if once a day you make sure you had a positive thought about your parents, your mother or your father, you are already on your way up that spiritual ladder. One "thank you" to your parent, one extra chore to help out, one less complaint - and you're getting there.
Are you too connected to technology?
Do you want to connect to Hashem but find yourself whipping out your phone/laptop/iPad too often to check your text messages or emails? Once a day, just one time during the day, hold yourself back. Instead, direct your thoughts upward and think a spiritual thought.
Do you want to work on your appreciation to Hashem for all the things He does for you but find yourself complaining about the things going wrong too often? Again, make it a once a day thing - think of something you are thankful for because in reality, Hashem gives you so, so much! Your eyes, your ears, your taste buds, your friends, your family, a healthy body, a digestive system, flowers, sunrise, music, the ability to understand, a job, a home...and the list goes on and on. So take a moment once a day to thank Hashem for ONE THING and then when Shavuos comes, you can look back and say, I've grown in my appreciation to Hashem during this sefira period.
Does your bein adam l'chaveiro need a little tune-up? There are so many ways to improve but just take one little step every day - give someone a sincere compliment. Hold in that urge to answer back for an extra second. Smile at someone when you pass them by in the hallway. Hold the door open for someone walking in behind you. Stop yourself before you respond to someone's gossip. These are hard things but if you take a small step, you can get there at the end of the 49th day.
Can your tefillah use a little more concentration to make it better? Decide that you are going to look into your siddur during one tefillah each day. You can choose the same tefillah, the first one you daven when you open your siddur, or a different one every day. But make sure that at the end of each day you can look back and say that you looked inside once. Because that can really make a difference in the kavanna that you have. When you look inside, you see the words and automatically your brain thinks about what those words mean! It may take a quick second before you get distracted but if you push yourself to look inside again at that tefillah, you'll see a difference in how you are able to concentrate!
There are so many areas that a person can change. When you look at all the ideas thrown out to you here, it may seem overwhelming. But just choose one thing. And take small steps towards your goal. Your goal is that when Shavuos comes around, you will be able to look back at this time with pride knowing that you utilized each day.
But if you do too much, you can fall back and give up because it becomes too hard.
Taking something little upon yourself makes it a goal that can be reached.
Happy Climbing!!
Submitted by daily reader, Devoiry; Taken from her blog
Wednesday
28 Iyar 5771;43rd Day of the Omer
June 1, 2011
1) We will now begin learning the Halachos of the Melacha of "Tochen", grinding.
In the Mishkan the Melacha of Tochen was employed when they ground up the many different spices necessary to make the Ketores, incense, as well as grinding wheat kernels to make flour used for the Menachos, Lechem HaPanim, Lachmei Todah etc.
The Av Melacha of Tochen is "Grinding"; The Tolados of Tochen are applicable to activities where one breaks a large item into smaller parts (e.g. chopping, dicing, shredding etc.) as we shall see B'Ezras Hashem in the very near future.
Tochen applies to non-food items as well as to food items.
2) One who grinds wheat kernels and turns them into flour or grinds any whole spice and turns them into powder on Shabbos has transgressed the biblical Av Melacha of Tochen. (See Rambam Hilchos Shabbos Perek 8 Halacha 15)
Cutting fruits or vegetables into "very small" pieces is biblically forbidden and doing so is a Toladah of Tochen. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 321:12)
This applies even to vegetables that are able to be eaten raw. (See Mishna Berura ibid. S"K 38)
What is considered "very small" pieces is not clearly defined in the Poskim. (See Biur Halacha Siman 321:12 Dibur Hamaschil Hamechatech)
Thus, one must be careful to not cut the pieces any smaller then what would usually be considered by people as "very small".
The fact that the pieces can be further cut into even smaller pieces does not automatically render the original pieces large enough to be permitted.
It is best to consult a Rav to determine minimum size that the pieces need to be to be permissible on Shabbos.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
When eating say grapes from Israel and also grapes from the US, what bracha acharona does one make. Does [the ending, Al Ha'Aretz V'Al] "PeroteHa" (fruits of the land of Israel) cover the non-Israeli fruit?
Answer:
According to many Poskim,the ending for Israeli produce exempts all the grapes.(See Orchos Rabbeinu page 88 and Shu"t Dvar Yehoshua Vol. 2 Siman 29 and Vol. 4 Siman 9)
Some Poskim maintain that if a Kzayis was eaten of both varieties, the ending should be "Al Ha'Aretz V'Al PeiroSeHa V'Al Hapeiros" (See Ketzos HaShulchan Siman 60:5)
Some Poskim maintain that just "Al Ha'Aretz V'Al Hapeiros" should be recited on both. (Shu"t Shevet HaKehasi Vol. 4 Siman 64)
For Halacha L'Ma'aseh a Rav should be consulted
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
Sefira is the time between Pesach and Shavuos-the time we count up towards kaballas haTorah. What is the reason that we count this way? The Jews are a nation who always work upwards. Ma'alin Bakodesh v'Einam moridim-we go up in kedusha and don't go down. (It's the same way on Chanukah, we light the menorah going upwards. One candle on the first day, two on the second and so on.) When a person is excited for something, for example, for a birthday or a big trip, they make a countdown.
I remember making a countdown for my wedding and giving it to my chosson-each day, he'd pull of the page 25...24...23...22...21...20... The reason why we were counting down is because these twenty-something days (from when I made the countdown) were standing between us and the wedding. Each time a page was pulled off, it was an excitement! There is less time standing between us and the big day!
However, when it comes to the day we will accept the Torah, the days between Pesach and Shavuos are not just days we want to pass by as quickly as possible. Each day is supposed to be a day of accomplishment. Each day is precious and meant to be used to it's fullest.
I will explain this with a mashal from R' Shimshon Pincus zt"l. Imagine someone were to tell you that in one month, he was going to give you 3 million dollars. Three million dollars! Imagine that!! The 30 days you have to wait to get the money are now standing between you and your 3 million. They are holding you back from becoming a millionaire. So you want each day to pass as quickly as possible! However, if he were to tell you that each day he would give you 100,000 and by the end of the month, you would have received 3 million dollars, then each day is precious! Each day you are gaining the money that will help you become a millionaire! Now, you view each day as important in helping you achieve your goal.
It is the same thing with Sefira. We are counting towards Matan Torah-towards the day we are going to get the greatest treasure in the world! Each day, we are getting more than a million dollars in spirituality. We are getting treasures and treasures of diamonds! This is why we count up-today is day 1, 2, 3, 4...and so forth. We are counting because we are so excited to get to this day-the day of Matan Torah! But it's not like we are waiting for the time from now until then to pass, we are using the days we have until then to reach greater heights in our avodas Hashem, by working on ourselves and becoming closer to Him to prepare for the big day!
During the time of the bais hamikdosh, when korbanos were brought, there was a difference between the korbanos brought on Pesach and Shavuos. On Pesach, the Korban Omer was brought. It was made out of barley which is food for animals. The korban brought on Shavuos, the Korban Shtei Halechem was made of wheat, which is food that is normally eaten by human beings. This comes to show us that the time between Pesach and Shavuos is a time of tremendous growth and change. It is a time that we elevate ourselves from the level of animals to the level of human beings-people! Because without the Torah, we are like animals who have desires and wants and act upon them. But once we were given the Torah, we learned that all our actions can be elevated to a higher level and then we are like people!
Sefira is a special time to work on your middos. It is a time to perfect ourselves and work on improving the way we relate to one another. There are so many areas in which we can improve. Show Hashem that you are preparing yourself to accept the greatest gift ever-the Torah!
Submitted by daily reader, Devoiry; Taken from her blog
Tuesday
27 Iyar 5771;42nd Day of the Omer
May 31, 2011
Today's halachos dedicated by a daily reader, S.D., L'Ilui Nishmas Eliezer Dovid ben Yehuda Aryeh. May his neshama continue to climb higher and higher in Gan Eden. Please have him in mind when learning today's halachos; may they be an eternal zechus for him.
1) It is permitted to walk upon snow on Shabbos and there is no need to be concerned about any snow that gets crushed and thus turns into water due to your walking on it. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 320:13)
The two reasons for not being concerned about this are a) It isn't the person's intention to crush the snow and b) it is all but impossible to be careful from stepping on snow when there is a snow storm; thus Chazal did not enact the Gezeira in regard to walking on snow. (See Mishna Berura Siman 320:39)
2) It is permitted to break a layer of ice in order to reach water that is under it, and there is no need to be concerned that some of the ice that is being broken may itself turn into water, as the prohibition of crushing ice was only enacted when the purpose of crushing the ice was to turn it into water. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 320:10 and Mishna Berura S"K 36)
It is permitted to spread salt on top of icy surfaces on Shabbos in order to melt it, provided it is being done to prevent people from Chas V'shalom slipping on the ice and injuring themselves. (See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 25 footnote 49)
Tam V'Nishlam B'Rov Shevach L'Keil Borei Olam.
This brings us to the end of our coverage of the Melacha of Dosh. Tomorrow, B'Ezras Hashem we shall begin studying another of the 39 Melachos of Shabbos.
As always, if you have any questions on any of the material we learned, or on any topic, please do not hesitate to email me at HalachForToday@Yahoo.com
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Can a person who buys a dog or cat have them spayed or neurtured as I have just recently learned that not doing this if you are not going to breed the dogs can cause them harm and they can even contract several different kinds of Cancer ?
Answer:
Your question is one that has been the subject of much debate in recent years amongst the Poskim.
On the one hand, the Torah forbids causing harm to animals, and there is no question that this process does exactly that.
On the other hand, recent research has shown, as you indicated, that not spaying/neutering pets that will not breed, may indeed cause them to be at risk of contracting diseases, and thus the Tzar Ba'alei Chaim aspect would go away as it is being done for their benefit.
Another option, which many Rabbis have suggested is the best option, is to have the pet undergo hormonal neutering, which is a less intrusive and virtually painless procedure, with the same desired effects. (From what I understand, it's a cheaper process as well)
Of course, a competent Orthodox Rabbi must be consulted for Halacha L'ma'aseh, before doing anything
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
The Mishna in Pirkei Avos lists 48 Kinyanei Torah , ways To Acquire Torah. During the 49 days of Sefirah, it is especially important, to the best of our ability, to try and improve ourselves in all or at least in some of these important areas.
.
1. Talmud - Learning
2. Shmi'as HaOzen - Listening
3. Arichas Sefasayim - Articulating the words
4. Sichlus HaLev - Discernment of the material
5. Eimah - Awe of Hashem
6. Yirah - Fear of Hashem
7. Anava - Humility
8. Simcha - Joy
9. Shimush Chachomim - Serving Torah scholars
10. Dikduk Chaveirim - Attachement To Friends
11. Pilpul Talmidim - Discussion With Students
12. Yishuv - Peace Of Mind
13. Mikra & Mishna - Chumash & Mishnayos
14. Tahara - Purity
15. Mi'ut Sheina - Limited Sleep
16. Mi'ut Sicha - Limited Speech
17. Mi'ut Schorah - Limited Business
18. Mi'ut S'chok - Limited Laughter
19. Mi'ut Ta'anug - Limited Earthly Pleasure
20. Mi'ut Derech Eretz - Limited Mundane Activity
21. Erech Apayim - Patience & Tolerance
22. Lev Tov - Good Hearted
23. Emunas Chachomim - Trusting The Sages
24. Kabalas Yisurin - Acceptance Of Suffering
25. HaMakir Es Mikomo - Knowing Your Place
26. Samei'ach B'Chelko - Happy With Your Lot
27. Siyag L'Dvarav - Protective Measures
28. Eino Machzik Tova L'Atzmo - Claiming No Credit
Tuesday
27 Iyar 5771;42nd Day of the Omer
May 31, 2011
Today's halachos dedicated by a daily reader, S.D., L'Ilui Nishmas Eliezer Dovid ben Yehuda Aryeh. May his neshama continue to climb higher and higher in Gan Eden. Please have him in mind when learning today's halachos; may they be an eternal zechus for him.
1) It is permitted to walk upon snow on Shabbos and there is no need to be concerned about any snow that gets crushed and thus turns into water due to your walking on it. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 320:13)
The two reasons for not being concerned about this are a) It isn't the person's intention to crush the snow and b) it is all but impossible to be careful from stepping on snow when there is a snow storm; thus Chazal did not enact the Gezeira in regard to walking on snow. (See Mishna Berura Siman 320:39)
2) It is permitted to break a layer of ice in order to reach water that is under it, and there is no need to be concerned that some of the ice that is being broken may itself turn into water, as the prohibition of crushing ice was only enacted when the purpose of crushing the ice was to turn it into water. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 320:10 and Mishna Berura S"K 36)
It is permitted to spread salt on top of icy surfaces on Shabbos in order to melt it, provided it is being done to prevent people from Chas V'shalom slipping on the ice and injuring themselves. (See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 25 footnote 49)
Tam V'Nishlam B'Rov Shevach L'Keil Borei Olam.
This brings us to the end of our coverage of the Melacha of Dosh. Tomorrow, B'Ezras Hashem we shall begin studying another of the 39 Melachos of Shabbos.
As always, if you have any questions on any of the material we learned, or on any topic, please do not hesitate to email me at HalachForToday@Yahoo.com
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Can a person who buys a dog or cat have them spayed or neurtured as I have just recently learned that not doing this if you are not going to breed the dogs can cause them harm and they can even contract several different kinds of Cancer ?
Answer:
Your question is one that has been the subject of much debate in recent years amongst the Poskim.
On the one hand, the Torah forbids causing harm to animals, and there is no question that this process does exactly that.
On the other hand, recent research has shown, as you indicated, that not spaying/neutering pets that will not breed, may indeed cause them to be at risk of contracting diseases, and thus the Tzar Ba'alei Chaim aspect would go away as it is being done for their benefit.
Another option, which many Rabbis have suggested is the best option, is to have the pet undergo hormonal neutering, which is a less intrusive and virtually painless procedure, with the same desired effects. (From what I understand, it's a cheaper process as well)
Of course, a competent Orthodox Rabbi must be consulted for Halacha L'ma'aseh, before doing anything
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
The Mishna in Pirkei Avos lists 48 Kinyanei Torah , ways To Acquire Torah. During the 49 days of Sefirah, it is especially important, to the best of our ability, to try and improve ourselves in all or at least in some of these important areas.
.
1. Talmud - Learning
2. Shmi'as HaOzen - Listening
3. Arichas Sefasayim - Articulating the words
4. Sichlus HaLev - Discernment of the material
5. Eimah - Awe of Hashem
6. Yirah - Fear of Hashem
7. Anava - Humility
8. Simcha - Joy
9. Shimush Chachomim - Serving Torah scholars
10. Dikduk Chaveirim - Attachement To Friends
11. Pilpul Talmidim - Discussion With Students
12. Yishuv - Peace Of Mind
13. Mikra & Mishna - Chumash & Mishnayos
14. Tahara - Purity
15. Mi'ut Sheina - Limited Sleep
16. Mi'ut Sicha - Limited Speech
17. Mi'ut Schorah - Limited Business
18. Mi'ut S'chok - Limited Laughter
19. Mi'ut Ta'anug - Limited Earthly Pleasure
20. Mi'ut Derech Eretz - Limited Mundane Activity
21. Erech Apayim - Patience & Tolerance
22. Lev Tov - Good Hearted
23. Emunas Chachomim - Trusting The Sages
24. Kabalas Yisurin - Acceptance Of Suffering
25. HaMakir Es Mikomo - Knowing Your Place
26. Samei'ach B'Chelko - Happy With Your Lot
27. Siyag L'Dvarav - Protective Measures
28. Eino Machzik Tova L'Atzmo - Claiming No Credit
Monday
26 Iyar 5771;41st Day of the Omer
May 30, 2011
CORRECTION: ROSH CHODESH SIVAN IS THIS COMING EREV SHABBOS KODESH, NOT ON THURSDAY AS WAS INADVERTENTLY POSTED IN THIS PAST FRIDAY'S EMAIL. I APOLOGIZE FOR THIS ERROR.
1) One who wants to add honey to a glass of tea or other liquid may do so, as even though it will mix with the liquid and become liquefied, it is happening by itself and not being done with your hands. (See Mishna Berura Siman 318:118)
However, the honey should not be stirred into the drink with a spoon, as doing so is similar to crushing ice with your hands. (See Sha'ar HaTziyun Siman 318:146 that even though it is being done in the liquid, it is best to be stringent.)
Once the honey has totally liquefied of its own accord, the drink may then be stirred.
2) If the tea to which the [raw] honey is being added is hot (beyond Yad Soledes Bo) it is best that the tea be in a Kli Shlishi, as if it is only in a Kli Sheini, according to many Poskim, it is still prohibited due to the Gezeira of "Mechzi K'Mevashel" as we discussed when we learned Hilchos Bishul. (See Mishna Berura Siman 318:34 and Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 52:19)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
If I just ate a food, and then decided to wash [for bread], do I make a borei nefashos or al hamichya first, and then wash, or do I not have to?
Answer:
Generally, a Bracha Achrona must first be recited on what you ate before washing and eating your Seudah. (It is best to try and not get yourself into this situation in the first place, due to Bracha Sh'Aina Tzerichah)
However, there are some instances when no Bracha Achrona needs to made, and the Birchas HaMazon will exempt the food you ate before washing. They are:
1) The food was eaten in order to build up an appetite for the forthcoming meal.
2) The food was eaten in order to exempt a questionable item that will be eaten during the meal (e.g. reciting a Ha'Adama on something before washing, in order to eat the canteloupe after washing, which is a subject of debate if a Bracha is needed on this fruit during the meal)
3) The food that was eaten before washing, will also be present and eaten during the meal.
4) The food that was eaten was a pastry (or other Pas HaBa B'Kisnin) which is questionable if it's considered bread
5) The food was eaten at Kiddush right before the Shabos meal.
If a food was eaten before the meal and it requires a Bracha Achrona, it must be recited, even if you remembered about it during the meal!
B'Dieved, if one already recited Birchas Hamazon, it covers the food that was eaten before washing, and no new Bracha Achrona should now be recited. Ideally, if this happens, it is good to specifically have in mind that the Birchas Hamazon should cover that food as well.(See Mishna Berura Siman 176:2 for more details)
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"One who tries to correct the corruption of the world is like a chimney cleaner. Try as he might, he cannot avoid becoming soiled!"
Rabbi Pinchas of Koritz Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
Sunday
25 Iyar 5771;40th Day of the Omer
May 29, 2011
1) Congealed fish gel that was removed from the refrigerator and allowed to thaw in room temparature and became liquid on its own, may be eaten. (See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 1 footnote 109 in the name of HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal that this is true according to all Rishonim, as there is no concern of Nolad here)
2) In cases of great necessity it is permissible to place the congealed fish gel near a fire or heat source to aid in its thawing, provided it isn't placed close enough that it would be able to reach Yad Soledes Bo if left there for the entire Shabbos. (See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 1:37)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
According to those who hold like R' Yehuda Hachasid regarding no haircuts etc. on Rosh Chodesh [See Tzavo'as Rav Yehuda HaChasid #48], is there any difference when Rosh Chodesh is two days ? Is there a greater leniency on either of the two days ?
Answer:
From the words of the Mogen Avraham Siman 260:1 it doesnt seem there is a difference between the 2 days of Rosh Chodesh regarding this.
So those that abide by the Tzav'ah of Rav Yehuda HaChasid should indeed not shave or cut their hair on both days of Rosh Chodesh.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"The humiliation that a person suffers atones for his wrongdoings. How unfortunate I am that I have never had any humiliation in my life!"
The Chofetz Chaim Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
1) One who has a glass of frozen water or other liquid should not place it near a fire or other heat source [in a place where it cannot reach Yad Soledes Bo] in order to thaw the ice, as many Poskim regard doing this as crushing the ice with your hands. (Rama Siman 318:16)
In cases of great necessity (e.g. the water is needed for a non-deathly ill person or an infant) this can be done and we can rely on the Poskim that consider doing this as a causative action (Grama) and thus not prohibited. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 318:16)
2)However, if the proximity of the ice to the heat source is such that it would eventually reach the temperature of Yad Soledes Bo if left there for the duration of Shabbos, it is prohibited even in cases of great necessity (Besides Pikuach Nefesh of course), due to the prohibition of Bishul, cooking. (See Mishna Berura Siman 258:2)
B'dieved, if this ice was placed near the heat source and it thawed, it is permissible to drink the liquid. (Mishna Berura Siman 318:107)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1)If a few ice cubes were placed in an empty bowl and they melted and turned into water, according to many Poskim it is permitted to drink the water, as no action was done to cause them to melt. (Mishna Berura Siman 318:107 quoting the Shulchan Aruch HaRav. See also Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 7 Siman40)
Some Poskim, however, rule that it is best to avoid drinking this water unless in cases of great necessity. (HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal quoted in Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 10:3)
2) In cases of necessity for use on Shabbos, it is permitted to remove a frozen juice or dessert from the freezer and allow them to sit at room temperature until they thaw and melt. (as even the Poskim who prohibit doing this, agree that if it was done it may be eaten. Thus, in cases of necessity L'Kavod Shabbos we rule that it may be done L'Chatchila, even according to them as long as it wasn't placed near a fire or other heat source.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
I learned in halachos of aninus and aveilus that a Kohen may only become tamei (impure, to handle or be near the corpse) for one of his 7 deceased direct relatives if the body is whole and intact. Does this restriction apply to a relative who had during his life a surgery that resulted in an organ like appendix, a tooth, or a sinew being removed, or say some cosmetic surgery was performed?
Answer:
You are correct, that a Kohen may only handle the body of one of his 7 relatives (His father, mother,son, daughter, wife, paternal brother, and paternal sister who was never married) when the body is whole.
According to one opinion in the Shulchan Aruch, organs that were missing while the person was alive, are not a problem, and the body is still considered whole.(See Shulcan Aruch Yoreh Deah Siman 373:9).
According to Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal (Igros Moshe Yoreh Deah Vol. 1 Siman 251) only missing organs that are evident on the outside of the body would proclude a Kohen from touching the body of the relative, but internal blemishes (such as the examples you gave) are not a problem.
Of course, for Halacha L'Ma'aseh a Rav should be consulted.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow; it empties today of its strength.
If Hashem brought you to it, He will get you through it!'
Thursday
22 Iyar 5771;37th Day of the Omer
May 26, 2011
1) Ice or snow may not be crushed and turned into water on Shabbos. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 320:9)
According to some Rishonim (including the Rambam Hilchos Shabbos Perek 21:13) the reason for this prohibition is that doing so is [like] Sechitah ; extracting water from ice is like extracting juice from fruits. (Other Rishonim, although they agree it is prohibited, maintain that the reason is not due to Sechitah, rather due to Molid or Nolad, Melachos which we shall discuss more at length B'Ezras Hashem when we get to Hilchos Muktzeh)
2) However, it is permissible to place ice into a glass of water or other liquid, even though the ice will melt, as this is happening by itself and isn't being done deliberately with your hands. (Shulchan Aruch ibid.)
Some Poskim even allow crushing the ice deliberately with your hands, if it is being done while the ice is in the glass of water or other liquid. (See Mishna Berura Siman 320:34)
L'Chatchila, however, it is best to be stringent with this. (See Biur Halacha Siman 320:11 Dibur Hamaschil Yizaher)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Shabbos comes in at a set time. We greet shabbos kodesh with shabbos candles and tefillos.
My question is regarding Motzei shabbos. As much as we love shabbos and dont want her to leave, shabbos goes out at a certain time (based on each's minhag i.e. 45, 60 or 72 minutes past Shkia). What is the reason behind saying "Hamavdil bein kodesh l'chol" (when doing activity before havdalah)?
Is it necessary?
Or is it a way that we escort the shabbos queen away, along with havdalah? If I do malacha once shabbos is completely over, without saying "hamavdil bein kodesh l'chol" and without hearing havdalah is this wrong-Shabbos is only here for 25 hours, after that isn't shabbos kodesh over?
Also, a few of my friends and I were once debating what exactly should be recited? "Hamavdil Bein Kodesh L'chol" "Boruch Hamavdil bein kodesh lchol", or "Boruch Ata HaShem Elokeinu Melech Haolam Hamavdil Bein Kodesh L'chol"?
Answer:
There is a concept known as "Tosfos Shabbos" , adding on to Shabbos, both at the onset and at its conclusion. (See Biur Halacha Siman 261:2, that this is a biblical obligation)
There is no set amount that needs to be added, but at least a short amount needs to be added, and it is up to each individual how long to add. For example, a woman that lights candles 18 minutes before sunset on Friday night (or men who daven maariv early on Shabbos in the summer months) accept Shabbos upon themselves early, and may not do any Melachos after that time, even though it is technicalyy not Shabbos yet according to the clock!
The same applies to Motzei Shabbos, where each person should extend Shabbos for as long as possible. For example if one is still in middle of Seudah Shlishis well past sunset, it is still Shabbos and Retzei is still recited in Birchas HaMazon, even if the clock shows that Shabbos is over for a long time already!
Thus, the only real way to know that Shabbos is over and that your "Tosfos Shabbos" is no longer being observed, is by reciting Havdalah[in Shemona Esrei of Maariv and then again on a cup of wine], or at a minimum saying "Baruch HaMavdil Bein Kodesh L'Chol". Doing Melacha before saying these words, even if the clock says its Motzei Shabbos, is very problematic, and should be avoided.
The accepted text to say is "Baruch HaMavdil Bein Kodesh L'Chol"
Even after saying this short text, no real Melacha should be done until after a proper Havdalah on a cup of wine has been said/heard.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"Some people believe that holding on and hanging in there are signs of great strength. However, there are times when it takes much more strength to know when to let go... "
Wednesday
21 Iyar 5771;36th Day of the Omer
May 25, 2011
1) A woman who is extracting milk (in a permissible situation as we discussed yesterday) may use a manual breast pump for this purpose.
However, the utensil that the milk is being pumped into should preferably have soap, or another non edible and non Muktzeh substance in it, to ensure that the milk being pumped will be unfit for feeding the child (as some Poskim require that not only must it be discarded, it may never be useable in the first place even if the intention is to discard in a few moments.)
Alternatively, though not always practical, the milk that is pumped can go directly into a sink and down the drain.
2) An electric breast pump may not be used in the normal manner, and preferably should be avoided altogether.
In cases of extreme necessity when a manual pump is not sufficient, as determined by a Rav, an electric pump may be used in an indirect way (Grama) as follows:
The pump can be set on a timer to go on and off at regular intervals.
The part of the pump that attaches to the woman must be put in place when the pump is off.
Thus, when the pump turns on the milk will be extracted automatically without any action on the woman's part; she may not even hold onto the cup while it is pumping, though it may be tied on with a string before the pump turns on. (See Chazon Ish Siman 38:4)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
What is the reason for the issur (prohibition) of gambling and is playing with slot machines included in the Issur of gambling?
Answer:
The issur of gambling, known in halacha as Mesachek B'Kuvia, is mainly due to the fact that most gambling, especially if done on a regular basis, will lead to stealing to feed his habit.
The Mishna (Sanhedrin 24b) says that one who gambles is disqualified from being a witness in a Bais Din, as thieves are disqualified from being witnesses. See Rashi that they are considered Reshaim, evil.
The Gemara, in the first explanation, explains that even if the gains are gotten lawfully, it is still stealing as the loser hands over the money grudgingly. (Asmachta Lo Kanya)
Some Rishonim say that the stringency of this prohibition is only for a "full time gambler" and not for one who does so occasionally, but many Rishonim, including the Rambam, maintain that any gambling at all is prohibited.
The Rivash (Shu"t HaRivash Siman 395 toward the end) calls gambling "a disgusting, empty, abomination to do...."
See Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 34:16 that this includes any gambling, races or other methods of "chance" where people are conned out out of their money.
Slot machines, which don't involve two people may be different according to the letter of the law, but they are still not within the spirit of the activities becoming of a child of Hashem, especially as the places they are usually situated are places that have serious issues of Tzniyus,Pritzus, Prikas Ol, Chukos Hagoyim and a whole slew of other problems for a frum Jew.
A Rav should be consulted for halacha L'Ma'aseh.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
The Happiness Bank
The 92-year-old, petite, well-poised and
proud lady, who is fully dressed
each morning by eight o'clock, with her
hair fashionably coifed and makeup
perfectly applied, even though she is
legally blind, moved to a nursing
home today.
Her husband of 70 years recently passed
away, making the move necessary.
After many hours of waiting patiently in
the lobby of the nursing home,
she smiled sweetly when told her room was
ready.
As she maneuvered her walker to the
elevator, I provided a visual
description of her tiny room, including the
eyelet sheets that had been
hung on her window.
"I love it," she stated with the enthusiasm
of an eight-year-old having
just been presented with a new puppy.
"Mrs. Jones, you haven't seen the room .
just wait."
"That doesn't have anything to do with it,"
she replied.
"Happiness is something you decide on ahead
of time. Whether I like my
room or not doesn't depend on how the
furniture is arranged... it's
how I arrange my mind.
I already decided to love it. It's a
decision I make every morning when I
wake up. I have a choice; I can spend the
day in bed recounting the
difficulty I have with the parts of my body
that no longer work, or get
out of bed and be thankful for the ones
that do.
Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes
open I'll focus on the
new day
and all the happy memories I've stored away
just for this time in my life.
Old age is like a bank account: you
withdraw from what yo u've put
in.
So, my advice to you would be to deposit a
lot of happiness in the bank
account of memories.
Tuesday
20 Iyar 5771;35th Day of the Omer
May 24, 2011
1) It is prohibited, on Shabbos, for a woman to extract her milk into a utensil for the purposes of feeding it to her infant child, unless doing so for the health of the child (Pikuach Nefesh). (Shulchan Aruch Siman 328:34)
However, it is permitted for her to extract the milk directly into the mouth of the child in order to get him to latch on and start nursing. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 328:35. See Sha'arei Tziyun Os 81 where he discusses the reasons for this being permitted.)
2) If a woman is in pain due to excessive milk, she may extract it on Shabbos, provided it goes to waste and isn't gathered for a later feeding of her child. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 330:8 and Mishna Berura S"K 32)
Likewise, if she isn't in pain but is doing this in order to ensure that she will be able to nurse properly at a later time it is permissible [even if the child already eats other foods] provided the milk goes to waste. (Ruling of Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal quoted in Sefer M'Or HaShabbos Vol. 1 letter 11:10)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
If I reuse a glass bottle or jar, do i need to tovel it in the mikva?
Answer:
According to Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal (Igros Moshe Yoreh Deah Vol. 3 Siman 23), a disposable utensil does not require Tevilah before use even if you plan to re-use it.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
Speaking loshon hora can cause the inestimable merit of one's Torah study to be forfeited. In the words of Midrash Shochar Tov (Tehillim ch. 52):
Let not your mouth bring guilt on your flesh, and do not tell the emissary that it was an error. Why should God be angered by your speech and destroy the work of your hands? (Koheles 5:5).
Let not your mouth bring guilt on your flesh -by speaking loshon hora.
Why should God be angered by your speech and destroy the work of your hands? - for you will lose the little Torah which you have to your credit.
The intent of this Midrash is that, as already discussed, speaking loshon hora causes the speaker's merits to be transferred to the Heavenly account of the person against whom he spoke.
When a Jew studies Torah, he perfects his entire being, for he draws upon himself a spirit of sanctity, which gives vitality to his body in this world and to his soul in the next world. Thus do the Sages teach (Eruvin 54a): "One who feels pain in his head should study Torah... One who feels pain in his throat should study Torah... One who feels pain in his entire body should study Torah, as it is written (Mishlei 4:22), 'And a cure for his entire flesh.' "
And all this can be lost through speaking loshon hora.
Submitted by a daily reader; Taken from the Chofetz Chaim Heritage Foundation's daily email.
Monday
19 Iyar 5771;34th Day of the Omer
May 23, 2011
1) Milk that is milked on Shabbos is Muktzeh and may not be moved or handled. (See Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 305:32 and Shu"t Rav Akiva Eiger Siman 5. See also Chazon Ish Siman 44:5)
2) However, a non-Jew may be asked to put it in the refrigerator in order to prevent it from spoiling. (See Shulchan Aruch HaRav ibid. The reason being that this is a Shvus D'Shvus which is permitted in cases of monetary loss.)
If no non-Jew is available, some Poskim allow it to be done by a Jew, due to Tza'ar Baalei Chaim, provided that the milk is discarded. (See Chazon Ish Siman 56:4)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
If one had to Daven over Shmoneh Esrei because they forgot Yaleh V'Yavo [or any other insertion that needed to be said, and wasn't] do you count the extra 19 brochos towards the count of the 100 Brachos that need to be said each day?
Answer:
The second, valid Shemona Esrei is definitely counted. The question is if the original hemona Esrei is counted.
The Poskim debate this.
They base it on the machlokes if one omitted something from Shemona Esrei and thus needs Tashlumin, is the Tashlumin coming to give him just the part he missed, or is the whole Shemona Esrei invalid, and thus the Tashlumin is necessary for the entire Shemona Esrei.
If its like the first opinion, then the first Shemona Esrei was valid as far as the 100 brachos are concerned. If it's like the second opinion that the entire Shemona Esrei was invalid, most likely those Brachos will not count toward the 100.
The Chazon Ish was said to have ruled that indeed a shemona esrei that needed to be repeated was still counted toward the 100 brachos. (brought in Ma'aseh Ish page 88)
See Shu"t Eretz Tzvi (from the Kosholover Gaon, Rosh Yeshivas Chachmei Lublin) Vol. 1 Siman 23 for more on this topic
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
Give a person enthusiasm and you have given him a key to success. Enthusiasm isn't everything, but it goes far.
When a person goes for a job interview, all things being equal, enthusiasm will give him a better chance of getting hired. Enthusiasm without knowledge and skill won't accomplish. But an enthusiastic person is most likely to gain the necessary knowledge and skill. By helping someone increase his level of enthusiasm, you increase his potential for success when meeting new people.
Enthusiasm is energy. And energy is what you need to get up and go. Unfortunately, there are many of whom it can be said, "His get up and go has gotten up and gone." Don't let that be said about you. Be enthusiastic about increasing the enthusiasm of others.
When enthusiasm is faked, it's likely to be incongruent. It can be overdone. Some people will still appreciate it. "At least he's trying." Others might be put off. There is external enthusiasm that increases internal enthusiasm. This is when you sincerely want to be enthusiastic, just that you aren't spontaneously in this state. By acting externally the way you want to feel internally, you will increase your inner enthusiasm.
What are you spontaneously enthusiastic about? Ask this of yourself and of those you want to help increase their level of enthusiasm. Remember your most enthusiastic moments. Recall what you saw. See that vividly now. Recall how you sounded when you spoke with intense enthusiasm. Feel those feelings once again. By being able to access the state of enthusiasm at will, you will be able to transfer this to others.
If you try to teach someone to be more enthusiastic when you aren't in this state yourself, you are lacking an important ingredient. Still, you can never tell. You might be able to say to someone, "Personally, I find it difficult to feel enthusiastic right now. But even if I can't do it, you still might be able to."
Model enthusiastic people. Find people who are highly enthusiastic. Interview them and find out what thoughts and attitudes enable them to be enthusiastic. Practice talking the way they talk. Mirror their body language. The same way that you will experience more enthusiasm by mirroring enthusiastic people, so too you can help others become more enthusiastic by mirroring you when you are enthusiastic. Speak about something that you are enthusiastic about and ask the person you wish to inspire to mirror you. Have him speak in the same manner about something that arouses his enthusiasm. Keep giving him feedback about his tone of voice and body language.
Build up your own enthusiasm for doing acts of kindness. And do what you can to influence others to be enthusiastic about doing acts of kindness. This will have a powerful effect on many lives as the chain reaction keeps spreading.
From Kindness: Making a Difference in People's Lives:
Formulas, stories, and insights By Rabbi Zelig Pliskin
Sunday
18 Iyar 5771;33rd Day of the Omer; Lag B'Omer
May 22, 2011
1) Milking a cow is a Toladah of Dosh, as the milk is being separated from its source where it was produced, and is forbidden on Shabbos. (See Rambam Hilchos Shabbos Perek 8 Halacha 10)
Drinking milk that was milked on Shabbos is prohibited for anyone on that Shabbos. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 305:20)
The person who transgressed the prohibition of milking the cow, if done deliberately, may not drink the milk forever.
2) However, since it is painful for a cow not to be milked for an entire day, and may cause her harm and thus be a violation of Tza'ar Baalei Chaim, a non-Jew may be asked to milk the cow on Shabbos. (Shulchan Aruch ibid.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Do you know of any Torah sources that recommend: 1) physical exercise as a way of staying in good health. 2) playing sports as a good way to spend one's time?
Answer:
Excercising, in order to stay healthy is an important part of being a Torah Jew!
The Torah specifically dictates that we guard our health, as it states V'Nishmartem Meod L'Nafshoseichem- You shall Guard your health very much" (Parshas V'Eschanan Chapter 4:15)
Rambam in the 4th chapter of Hilchos Dayos prescribes a whole regimen of healthy eating and excercise, and even guarantees anybody that follows his regimen to a long life, free of sickness!
Regarding ball playing, if it is being done for excercise, there is absolutely nothing wrong with it (as long as it is done in a kosher venue, and without any compromising of halacha, Tzniyus etc.)
If it is being done for reasons other than health (physical or otherwise) , then some authorities have dubbed it " a waste of time" (See Kaf HaChaim Siman 308:259)
Of course, on Shabbos and Yom Tov it is prohibited to play ball and/or excercise for various reasons. This applies to children who have reached the age of Chinuch as well. If necessary for health reasons, a Rav must be consulted.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
LAG B'OMER:
Starting From Scratch At 70
During the Sefira period we mourn over the deaths of the 24,000 talmidim of R. Akiva. The gemara (Yevamos 62b) discusses the incident:
Rabbi Akiva had 12,000 pairs of disciples ... and all of them died at the same time because they did not treat each other with respect. The world remained desolate until Rabbi Akiva came to our Masters in the South and taught the Torah to them. These were Rabbi Meir, Rabbi Yehuda, Rabbi Yosi, Rabbi Shimon and Rabbi Elazar ben Shammua; and it was they who revived the Torah at that time. A Tanna taught: "All of them died between Passover and Shavuos". Rabbi Chama ben Abba, or some say, Rabbi Chiya ben Abin said: "All of them died a cruel death." What was it? Rabbi Nahman replied: "Croup."
Lag b'Omer, in contrast, is a sudden burst of elation in total contrast to the solemnness of this time. The Gra writes that on Lag b'Omer the plague ended and the talmidim ceased to die. The Mashgiach, Rav Zeidel Epstein, zt"l, comments that there is a very important lesson to be understood from the biography of R. Akiva. At the age of forty, he started from scratch and labored twenty-four years, managing to become one of the greatest Torah scholars of his day. He amassed 24,000 talmidim. Suddenly, he lost them all in the short span of just over a month. Here was the greatest Rosh Yeshiva of the generation. He had been surrounded by crowds of the best Talmudic scholars of the time. He had spent the major portion of his life building up the largest and most renowned yeshiva in the world. And suddenly, he was thrown into solitude and loneliness.
He had started learning at the age of 40 and had spent 24 years amassing his talmidim and building his great Yeshiva. So he was probably over seventy by this time. How terrible a tragedy this was for a man of his age, to endure such a misfortune and start anew - opening a new yeshiva with only five talmidim. To any ordinary person it would have been an overwhelming task.
But R. Akiva didn't despair. He started all over again! And in doing so, he succeeded in saving Torah in Klal Yisroel. The whole Talmud we have, our sole remnant of the Oral Tradition, is due almost entirely to those five new talmidim. This is a brilliant image of how important it is not to despair. One must fight his impulses, fight his situation, and trust in Hashem Yisborach that He will send him the Geula.
In 1923, the Chofetz Chaim zt"l traveled to Vienna to participate in the Agudas Yisroel convention, and he spent some time together with R' Avraham Mordechai Alter zt"l, the Gerrer Rebbe. In the course of their discussion, the Chofetz Chaim cited the verse from that week's parsha (Devorim 13:5), "Acharei [literally, 'after'] Hashem, your God, shall you follow and Him shall you fear; His commandments shall you observe and to His voice shall you hearken; Him shall you serve and to Him shall you cleave." The Chofetz Chaim commented:
"Our Sages observe that the Torah uses two words for 'after' - 'Acharei,' which means 'long after' (or 'far away') and 'achar,' which means 'soon after' (or 'close'). Why does our verse use 'acharei,' implying that one should follow Hashem from a distance? In fact, one should become as close to God as possible!"
He explained: Sometimes a person becomes depressed, and he feels that he is standing on the brink of a cliff as far from God as can be. He is confident that Hashem will not help him at this moment. One should know that such feelings are the work of the yetzer hora. Hashem is a Jew's "Father" at all times, and He accepts His children when they return to Him and saves them from all troubles. Even when one is "acharei," "far away, he should not despair of following Hashem. This is the meaning of the words in the High Holiday prayers, "Fortunate is the man who will not forget You, and the human being who will find strength in You."
The Gerrer Rebbe responded: "Now I will try to interpret this verse in the manner of the Chassidim. Specifically when a person feels distant from Hashem, that is when he can best follow Hashem, as it is written in Tehilim: 'God is close to the broken-hearted'."
Written by Rabbi Eliezer Parkoff Rosh Yeshiva Yeshiva Gedolah Medrash Chaim
If you would like to correspond with Rabbi Parkoff, or subscribe to his wonderful emails, please contact:
1) One who cuts oranges, grapefruits and similar fruits for purposes of a fruit salad, and as a result of preparing the salad some juice from the fruits gathered at the bottom of the plate, that juice may be consumed, and we don't consider the cutting of the fruit as "squeezing". (See Sefer Orchos Shabbos page 199 footnote 43)
Likewise, a bowl of fruit salad that was finished, and on the bottom of the bowl remains a mixture of juices from those fruits, the juice may be consumed, even if there were grapes in the salad. (Sefer Orchos Shabbos page 200 footnote 44)
2) It is permissible to eat a halved grapefruit with a spoon, even though the spoon will inevitably squeeze some of the juice. (Ruling of HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal quoted in Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 5 footnote 42)
Moreover, when the grapefruit is finished, it is permissible to drink the leftover juice.
However, if the express intent of doing this is to drink the juice it is prohibited. (ibid.)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) It is permissible to place a wedge of lemon into a hot glass of tea (in a Kli Shlishi) or into a glass of cola, even though the juices of the lemon will ooze out and mix with the tea or cola and give it a taste of lemon.
The reason for this is that the Gezeira against drinking juices that oozed out of their own accord applies only when they ooze out into an empty utensil, and not when they go into another drink.(See Chazon Ish Siman 52:19)
2) However, it is prohibited to deliberately squeeze the lemon into the tea as we learned earlier.
Additionally, it is prohibited to press the lemon onto the side of the glass (as is commonly done in restaurants etc.) as doing so will inevitably squeeze it a bit.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Where do we learn out in the Torah that a man must wear a yarmulka (Kippah)?
Answer:
It isnt clearly in the Pesukim of the Torah, rather it is derived by Chazal (based on Pesukim). See Talmud Kiddushin 31a, Shabbos 156b and Berachot 60b where we are taught that covering the head brings to fear of heaven, and also glorifies Hashem.
The Shulchan Aruch rules (Siman 8) that one may not go 4 Amos without a head covering. The Taz (Orach Chaim Siman 8:3) rules that even sitting in one place should not be done with a bare head. The Mishna Berura (Siman 2:11, quoting the Shla HaKadosh) even says that a man should sleep with a Yarmulka (Though, this is not M'Ikar HaDin)
Regarding saying Hashem's name or even walking into a shul with a bare head, that is even more stringent (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 91)
Although in biblical times, and even in the times of the Gemara it isn't clear if they did indeed cover their heads, it is a custom that Klal Yisroel has accepted upon themselves, and now has the severity of a halacha, and may not be treated leniently.
See also Q&A #13 Here
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"Imagine for a moment how you would feel if you arbitrarily gave someone a present, and he immediately complained that he was not given twice as much. You would certainly regret giving him in the first place.
Failure to appreciate what Hashem gives you is behaving in the exact same manner."
HaRav Yaakov Krantz Zatzal(Dubno Maggid) quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin; taken from
Thursday
15 Iyar 5771;30th Day of the Omer
May 19, 2011
1) We learned that it is prohibited to deliberately squeeze fruits that are normally squeezed for their juices, on Shabbos.
However, if the juices oozed out on their own, it depends on the type of fruit and sometimes also on the intent of their use, as follows:
The juice of grapes or olives that oozed out on its own may not be consumed on Shabbos. The reason Chazal prohibited this is due to the fact that they were concerned that if it was allowed, people would then come to deliberately squeeze them, and thus transgress a biblical prohibition. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 320:1)
Furthermore, these juices that oozed out on their own are Muktzeh and may not be handled on Shabbos. (See Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 305:32 and Shu"t Rav Akiva Eiger Siman 5 for more about this)
The above Halacha applies even if the person's intent when purchasing the grapes and olives were to eat them and not to squeeze them for their juices.
2) The juice of other fruits, which are sometimes squeezed for their juices, which oozed out on their own, would depend on the intent for which they were purchased.
If they were purchased for the purpose of eating, then the juices that oozed out on their own may be consumed on Shabbos.
However, if they were purchased for the purpose of juicing, their juices that oozed out may not be consumed and are Muktzeh on Shabbos. (Shulchan Aruch ibid.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
If a woman came to shul late, is she allowed to catch up on davening during Krias Hatorah or does she have to wait until after?
Answer:
Women are not obligated in Krias haTorah and may continue davening even at the expense of missing it.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.(Tehilim 1:3)
One must wonder regarding this guarantee that one whose desire is solely in Torah will prosper. Do we not see many Torah scholars who struggle financially and have challenges raising children?
How, then, can Dovid Hamelech guarantee that one whose desire is solely in Torah will prosper in everything that he does?
The answer to this question is that Dovid Hamelech is not referring to one who prospers in worldly matters. Rather, Hashem guarantees that the Torah scholar will prosper
in Torah, despite his challenges in material matters.
Hashem promised Yehoshua that if he is diligent in Torah study, he will prosper.
This guarantee was that Yehoshua continue to prosper in his study of Torah.
Submitted by Rabbi Binyomin Adler. To sign up for his various Torah emails send request to shabbostaamhachaim@gmail.com
Wednesday
14 Iyar 5771; Pesach Sheini; 29th Day of the Omer
May 18, 2011
Dear Readers,
I will iy"H be in Eretz Yisroel in honor of Lag B'Omer. It would be my honor and privilige to daven for each and every one of you while I am there. After all, YOU are the reason that Halacha For Today has become so successful and B"H attracted thousands of daily readers. If you would like to submit your name (and/or other info) for me to include in my Tefilos, please email them to me at HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com at your earliest convenience.
1) The Melacha of Sechitah, squeezing, applies equally to foods that contain their own juices as well as to foods that do not have their own juices but have absorbed in them other liquids.
For example, a piece of bread which was dipped into wine or a piece of meat which is filled with gravy may not be squeezed to release the wine or gravy which was absorbed into it [if being done to consume the wine or gravy]. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 320:7)
However, to suck the wine or gravy out of the bread or meat is permissible. (See Mishna Berura Siman 320:11)
2) It is prohibited to squash an unpeeled orange in order to soften the inside for the purposes of inserting a straw into the orange to drink its juice. (See Sefer Orchos Shabbos page 198 footnote 39)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Does any red string protect against Ayin Hara (evil eye), or is it supposed to go around Kever Rochel 7 times?
Answer:
The color red is a color that wards off Ayin Hara. See Q&A # 381 here
Regarding the red string, there are some authorities that balk at this "segulah" and claim it isn't of Jewish origin and should be avoided.
Others, including the Debreciner Rav Zatzal in Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 8 Siman 36:3 (who writes that this is an ancient custom and according to the Rashba we should not dismiss ancient Jewish customs even if we don't understand them) and other Kabalistic sources indeed say that a red string wrapped around Kever Rochel is indeed a segulah against pregnant women having miscarriages and against Ayin Hara in general.
Each person should follow their own heritage in regard to this (and other similar) Segulos.
I would, however, advise being aware of people selling "fake" red strings and jewery etc. which oftentimes never went around kever Rochel and were probably never even within a few hundred mile radius of the Kever.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
יוסי בן יוחנן איש ירושלים אומר: יהי ביתך פתוח לרוחה, ויהיו עניים בני ביתך, ואל תרבה שיחה עם האשה. באשתו אמרו, קל וחומר באשת חבירו. מכאן אמרו חכמים: כל המרבה שיחה עם האשה - גורם רעה לעצמו, ובוטל מדברי תורה, וסופו יורש גיהנם,
Yose ben Yochanan, leader of Jerusalem, says: Let your house be open wide; treat the poor as members of your household; and do not converse excessively with a woman. They said this even about one's own wife; surely it applies to another's wife. Consequently, the Sages said: Anyone who converses excessively with a woman causes evil to himself, neglects Torah study and will eventually inherit Gehinnom.
(Mishna Pirkei Avos 1:5)
We can understand the opening statement of the Mishna that one should open his house and treat the poor as members of the household.
One must wonder, however, what is the connection between these ideals and the statement that one should not converse excessively with a woman?
In order to answer this question, it is worth examining what the Mishna means when it states "Let your house be open wide; treat the poor as members of your household?"
It would seem that the explanation of this statement is that one who wishes to accommodate guests requires the financial means to do so.
For this reason the Mishna is exhorting a man to take care that he does not converse excessively with women, as the Gemara (Sota 3b and Rashi Ibid) states that when there is immorality in the home, then the home will be destroyed.
One who wishes to retain his assets and have the ability to accommodate guests must be careful that he does not engage in immorality, as this can be the ruin of his household, and ultimately will lead him to Gehinnom.
Submitted by Rabbi Binyomin Adler. To sign up for his various Torah emails send request to shabbostaamhachaim@gmail.com
Tuesday
13 Iyar 5771;28th Day of the Omer
May 17, 2011
Dear Readers,
I will iy"H be in Eretz Yisroel in honor of Lag B'Omer. It would be my honor and privilige to daven for each and every one of you while I am there. After all, YOU are the reason that Halacha For Today has become so successful and B"H attracted thousands of daily readers. If you would like to submit your name (and/or other info) for me to include in my Tefilos, please email them to me at HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com at your earliest convenience.
1) The Poskim debate whether one may hold a fruit and suck its juice out on Shabbos.
Some Poskim rule that doing so violates the prohibition of Sechitah and they do not differentiate between squeezing and sucking as both actions have the same outcome: extracting the juice from the fruit, a prohibited action.
Other Poskim, however, rule that sucking out the juice is not the same as squeezing because a) this is not the normal way to extract juices from fruit and thus it was never prohibited by the Chachamim, and furthermore, b) sucking out the juice of a fruit is considered "eating" and not "drinking" and thus not a part of the prohibition of Sechitah. (See Rama Siman 320:1. See also commentary of Rav Akiva Eiger to Shulchan Aruch Siman 202:8 where he brings opinions that sucking out the juice of a fruit is deemed "eating" and the Bracha recited over this "juice" would be Borei Pri Ha'eitz. See also Kaf HaChaim Siman 202:3)
The Mishna Berura (Siman 320:12) rules stringently for grapes and olives and leniently for other fruits and vegetables.
2) The above dispute applies only when the actual fruit is not placed entirely in the mouth.
All agree that if the fruit was placed entirely in the mouth that it is considered "eating" and there is no prohibition of Sechitah even though the juices are extracted and enjoyed while chewing. (Mishna Berura ibid. And of course all agree here that the Bracha on this fruit is Borei Pri Ha'eitz. See Kaf HaChaim ibid.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Is there a specific time one has to do hafrashas challah? Is it ok if I do it on Wednesday?
Answer:
Hafrashas Challah can be done anytime you bake (and in order to recite a bracha, the correct shiur is required).
There are kabalistic sources that say that when a woman takes Challah on Erev Shabbos it atones for the sin of Adam and Chava, but halachically it can be done any time.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
Question:
What should one think while counting Sefiras HaOmer?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
Now everybody knows, that we're counting Sefirah to come closer to the very greatest event in history; and that event was Matan Torah. Like the Gemora says, Vayhi Erev Vayhi Boker Yom Shishi, Yom HaShishi, it doesn't say Yom Shishi, Yom HaShishi. Why the "Hey," HaShishi? Because the sixth day was the most important day in the whole world. The whole world was made for Matan Torah. And so we are counting, we are counting to that day. But there's a Kasha on this P'shat. Why do you say, today is so many days, and the next day more? You should count less! Let's say, today is 50 days before the Omer, next 49, 48, 47, that's how you should count, because you're waiting for Matan Torah. I want to make sure the Kasha is understood. You should go from the bigger number to the lesser number. And the less days there are, the happier you are?
And why call it, Sefiras HaOmer? Call it Sefiras Hatorah. Why Sefiras HaOmer? What's it got to do with the Omer? Now pay attention. There is a Machlokes HaPoskim, if the Brocho on Talmud Torah is a D'oraysa. Now we follow the Shita that it's M'doraysa. If you are in a Sofek if you made a Brocho on the Torah in the morning, you have to do it anyhow. It's a Sofek. In case you want, you can wait to Ahava Rabah, the Brocho before Krias Shema, and be M'chavain that you are thinking of Birchas Hatorah. But you must do it. But some Poskim say, Birchas Hatorah is M'drabanan. When it comes to the Brocho on eating bread, everybody agrees it's D'oraysa. Isn't that an interesting thing? The Brocho on eating bread, Birchas Hamazon, is D'oraysa. Hakol Modim, "Eretz Asher Lo B'miskainus Tochal Bo Lechem", V'achalta, V'sovoto, Uveirachta. So what do we see from this? That bread is more important than Torah. Bread is more important than Torah, because bread is life, and life is the most important thing.
Without bread you couldn't learn Torah. Not merely you say Im Ain Kemach Ain Torah,that's a different idea. Kepshuto, bread is the opportunity to live in this world. Now, we thank Hakadosh Baruch Hu for the bread. And every day we say, "Today is the first day we're thanking you for the bread." The second day, "THE OMER IS BREAD!!" Third day, fourth day, keep on thanking. Now what does it all end up? It ends up in Matan Torah. Bread is for the purpose for learning Torah. We are thanking Hashem for giving us Life, Baruch Hashem. So when you sit down to eat bread every morning, Pas Shachris is a Mitzvah, Pas Shachris is a Mitzvah to eat the Gemora says. Eat bread every morning. That little piece of bread, Pas Shachris, will save you from many illnesses, many sicknesses, if you eat Pas Shachris. When you eat that piece of bread, thinking, "AAH, bread that's Torah, that's Life, that's everything." And you say, "Baruch Ata Hashem, Hamotzei Lechem Min Ha'aretz," say it with Hisragshus, with excitement. Love Hashem for the bread. Because bread is going to bring you to everything else. And that's what Sefirah comes to tell us, how great is the Matana that Hashem gives us. Poseach Es Yodecha Umasbiah Lechol Chai Ratzon, and the purpose is, in order eventually to bring us to Har Sinai , to Matan Torah.
Monday
12 Iyar 5771;27th Day of the Omer
May 16, 2011
Today's halachos are dedicated L'Zecher Nishmas a true servant of Hashem, defender of His Torah and advocate of His people, R' Amos Bunim Zichrono L'Vracha, who returned his pure soul to his maker this past Shabbos Kodesh.
1) The leniency of squeezing fruits and vegetables into food applies only to foods and not to liquids.
Thus, for example, it is prohibited to squeeze a lemon into a glass of tea or cola on Shabbos.
2) There is a debate amongst the Poskim if one, who wants to add lemon to their drink, may squeeze a lemon onto a spoonful of sugar and then add the mixture into the tea. (The Mishna Berura Siman 320:22 allows this while the Chazon Ish Siman 56:7 prohibits it. The Sha'ar HaTziyun 320:27 quotes the Chayei Adam who is doubtful regarding the validity of this Heter. )
Even the Poskim that allow this, only allow it provided that a majority of the juice gets absorbed into the sugar.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Which category of mukza is a toilet paper roll under?
Answer:
Why are you assuming that it's muktzah? True, you may not tear it on Shabbos, but it may be used as it is (untorn) or in emergencies may even be torn (though not on the perferations) , so it is indeed not Muktzah at all.
Furthermore, there are other permissible uses for them (such as a doorstop), which would keep them from becoming Muktzah.
The same applies to a roll of paper towel.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HALACHAFORTODAY@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
The braisa (Talmud Nedarim 64) states: Four people are as if they are dead. These are a poor person, a leper, a blind person, and someone who does not have children. A poor person is as if he is dead, as derived from the passuk above, ""Because all of those (who have sought to kill you) have died." A leper is considered like he is dead, as the passuk states, "let her not be as if she is dead." A blind person is considered dead, as the passuk states, "In the darkness he placed me like the dead of the world." Someone who does not have sons is considered dead, as the passuk states, ""give me children, and if not I am dead."
Rav Chaim Shmulevitz Zatzal explains that the common denominator among these four is that they do not feel someone else's pain and that they cannot provide benefit for others.
A poor person is considered as dead not because he is lacking himself, but rather, it is because he cannot give to others.
A blind person cannot see others and therefore, he is unable to perceive their pain or suffering. He cannot join in his tribulation.
A metzora is banished from the camp and therefore, he is unable to offer assistance to others.
One who does not have children to nurture is lacking the ability to provide benefit to those that are dear and close to him. It is a natural instinct for a person to desire to give whatever he has to his children.
Only a life where one can share with others is worth living.
Submitted by Moshe H.; Taken from here
LET US REMEMBER TO PRAY FOR THOSE AMONGST US THAT ARE IN SITUATIONS THAT DEEM THEM "LIFELESS".
Important Numbers
