Today's Halachos dedicated by a daily reader, J.A., L'Zecher Nishmas HaRav Yechezkael (Chatzkel) Levenstein Zatzal, Mashgiach of Mir and Ponovez, whose Yahrtzeit is today 18 Adar. May the Mashgiach, who lived each day of his life with total Emunah in Hashem, be a Meilitz Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
1) There is an age old minhag (as the Rama refers to it but it's actually a halacha; See Sha'ar Hatziyun 429:7), dating back to at least the times of the Talmud (referenced in Talmud Yerushalmi Bava Basra Perek 1 halacha 4), for all dwellers of a city to give money to the poor of their town to ensure that they are able to purchase their needs for Pesach.
This Tzedakah, which is traditionally raised starting 30 days before Pesach, is referred to as "Maos Chitim" (Literally, money for wheat) as they used to provide them with wheat for use in their Matzos.
In later times the minhag was to give them flour (and referred to as Kimcha D'Pischa, literally flour for Pesach), and today's days the minhag is to give money to enable them to buy Matzos and any other Pesach needs for themselves and their families.
2) Anyone who withholds from participating in this Mitzvah is transgressing a big sin, as the poor people rely on this money (words of the Mishna Berura Siman 429:6. See Sha'ar Hatziyun Os 10 why this Tzedakah is most important specifically before Pesach)
There is no set amount to give for Maos Chitim. The objective is to ensure that every poor person in every city has all their Yom Tov needs taken care of, thus each town should take stock of their people's needs and have every member of the town give their fair share. (See Mishna Berura Siman 429:4)
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:
Wouldn't mezonos rolls be considered Maaris Ayin since someone may see you eat one without washing and assume it's regular bread?
Answer:
Well, first of all, "Mezonos Rolls" that are eaten as a meal require Netilas Yadayim and HaMotzi and Birchas Hamazon anyway, according to virtually all Poskim.
That being said, if you are eating it as a snack or other method where it is definitely Mezonos, how would the people seeing you know if you have washed or not? It is just as possible that you did indeed wash in another room and come here to eat your "Hamotzi roll"
If they heard you say the Bracha Mezonos, then there is no Maris Ayin either.
And if the above for some reason does not work, you can always tell them that it is a Mezonos roll, which is a common item.
All in all, I don't think any Maris Ayin would apply to this situation.
That being said, a Jew should always strive to act in a way that people who see him/her say how fortunate it is to be a Torah Jew! (See Talmud Yoma 86a)
Of course, 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
אין עוד מלבדו
" Don't tell HaShem how big your problems are. Tell your problems how BIG HaShem is."
1)From thirty days before Pesach, it is proper to be careful when eating Chometz to be aware of the upcoming Yom Tov and make sure not to take the Chometz any place where it may be difficult to find and get rid of properly before Pesach.
During this thirty day period it is customary to begin cleaning all the rooms of the house where Chometz may have entered during the past year, as well as start all the preparations for the upcoming Chag HaPesach. (See Meiri to Avodah Zarah 5b Dibur Hamaschil Mah SheAmru)
2)If there are small children in the home, the entire home is considered " a place where Chometz enters" as children often take chometz into places where they aren't meant to, and indeed many very small children often "hide" their chometz snacks in the most uncanny places, thus necessitating a real good cleaning up to find everything.
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:
My 10 year old daughter has unruly hair. Is it permissible to put anything in her hair to tame it a bit on Shabbos - e.g., oil, gel, spray?
Answer:
If you style it first and then afterwards spray a little hairspray, it is permitted according to many Poskim, as the spray is then only maintaining the hair's shape. Spraying first, however, and then styling it is prohibited. (See Biur Halacha Sim an 303:27 Dibur Hamaschil Lachuf)
CHIZUK CORNER
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
NEW WEEKLY "DAVENING CORNER" FEATURE!
INTRODUCTION:
This NEW segment was compiled by daily readers of "Halacha For Today", Moshe Weiss, S. Weiss, and E. Willner of Brooklyn, NY.
Approximately 250 years ago, the Yesod VeShoresh HaAvoda, a disciple of the Baal Shem Tov, wrote a will wherein he discussed the importance of davening correctly. He wrote that Eliyahu HaNavi attributes the length of the exile to the fact that we, as a nation, are not careful to enunciate the words of our tefillos properly.
He explains that our prayers, which offer praise to HaShem, when not pronounced correctly, are not complete and never really leave our mouths properly. The words of our davening are exact, and are intended to be pronounced accurately. Just as when speaking to a human being we are careful to use proper diction, so, too, and how much more important it is, to say the words the sages intended us to use carefully and properly.
Further, often the words that are mispronounced, sometimes entirely change the meaning of what we are saying. Punctuation, as well, can change the meaning of our words and phrases, so that putting a pause, or comma, in the wrong place can also change the meaning of the tefillah.
For the next few weeks, we will be giving an example of commonly mispronounced words or phrases. We will then give you a week to try to incorporate this correction into your davening.
GENERAL RULE: Emphasis (shown here by bold and italics) is usually on the last syllable. Look for a vertical line in (most) siddurim if the emphasis is on a different syllable.
WEEK ONE:
Modeh (fem. = modah) ani lefanecha, melech chai vekayam, shehechezarta bi nishmasi bechemlah. (Pause) Rabah emunasechah.
Translation: You have returned my soul within me with compassion. (Pause) Abundant is your faithfulness!
These last two words form an independent phrase. If you attach Rabah to the previous phrase, then you have the last word alone which doesn't mean anything by itself. So the full meaning is: I thank you HaShem for returning my soul with compassion. Why did you do it? Because your faith in me is great that I will spend my day productively doing the right thing and sanctifying Your name.
For questions and comments on this segment please contact mw@mosheweiss.com
B'Ezras Hashem,we will now begin reviewing many of the halachos relevant to the month of Nisan, the Yom Tov of Pesach, Chol Hamoed and Sefiras Haomer.
1) The Talmud Maseches Megilah ends with the following statement:
"Moshe Rabbeinu instituted a custom for Klal Yisroel that they study the laws regarding the topic "of the day", i.e. Halachos of Pesach before Pesach, Halachos of Shavuos before Shavuos and Halachos of Sukkos before Sukkos."
The Shulchan Aruch (Siman 429:1), based on the passage of the Talmud above, states that one must begin studying the laws of Pesach thirty days before Pesach.
2) The requirement of thirty days, according to some Poskim, is only for the Halachos of Pesach due their complexity and the fact that there are so many Halachos, but for other Chagim studying their halachos a few days before is sufficient. (Mishna Berura 429:1)
The purpose of this requirement is so that by the time Pesach arrives every Jew will be educated in the requirements of the Chag; even those who have learned it in the past need to learn it again to refresh their memory. (See Bach Siman 429)
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 it considered Yichud if there is a baby, under the age of Chinuch, present with the man and woman?
Answer:
Yes. In order for a child to be considered a Shomer to prevent Yichud, a girl must be at least 3 years old according to all Poskim, and according to others the girl must be five.
According to Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal, the girl must be seven years old in order to serve as a deterrent. For young boys the age is at least five yeras old, and according to Rav Moshe Zatzal, here too the boy must be at least 7.
See archives of Hilchos Yichud 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
There is no person that Hashem does not test. The test of the wealthy is to open their hands to the poor. The test of the poor is to accept their suffering and not become angry.
If the wealthy person passes their test, they enjoy their wealth in this world and their reward awaits them in the afterlife, and The Holy One Blessed Be He saves them from Gehinom.
If the poor man passes their test, their future eternal reward is doubled.
Monday
15 Adar II, 5771; Shushan Purim
March 21, 2011
1) The 15th of Adar, the day on which the Jews of Shushan as well as the Jews of Yerushalayim [and a few other walled cities] celebrate Purim, is referred to by those in the diaspora who already celebrated Purim on the 14th of Adar as "Shushan Purim".
Some people are stringent and also refrain from work on Shushan Purim. Others say this is only a stringency for women. (Abudreham quoted in the Darchei Moshe Siman 696:1).
Shushan Purim is also a day of Simcha, and one should try and celebrate with a small Seudah containing meat and wine. (Rama Siman 695:2. See also Yosaef Ometz Siman 1106)
2) Tachanun, Keil Erech Apayim and Lamenatzeiach ..Ya'ancha Hashem B'Yom Tzarah are not recited on Shushan Purim.
Al Hanisim is not recited on Shushan Purim; however, if it was inadvertently recited it is not considered a hefsek.
Wishing all our brothers and sisters in Yerushalayim A Freilichen Purim!
We express Shevach V'Hoda'ah to Hakadosh Baruch Hu for allowing us to complete our review of Hilchos Chodesh Adar and Hilchos Purim.
Let us end with the words of the Posuk (Mishlei 15:15), the concluding words of the Rama into Hilchos Purim, and indeed the very last words in Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim: "V'Tov Lev Mishteh Tamid", as Rashi explains "Tov Lev", one who is satisfied with his lot in life, "Mishteh Tamid", will live all his as if he is at a joyous celebration, i.e. Sameach B'Chelko!
May we be zoche very soon to the day when we will all be residents of a rebuilt Yerushalayim with a rebuilt Bais Hamikdash and live an existence of true Simcha of "Mishteh Tamid" with "Korbanos Tamid" on the Mizbayach with the "Aish Tamid" !
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 made a Bracha on coffee in my office and then went with the coffee to my car to go somewhere, do I make a new Bracha when I drink in the car?
If a very short while later I return to my office, still with the coffee, do I make a Bracha when I continue drinking in the office where the first Bracha was made?
Answer:
Yes, when you leave the location where you made the Bracha (besides for HaMotzi and Mezonos which have their own set of guidelines) it stops working and a new Bracha is required in the new location and then again when you return to the first location.
There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as if you were eating a whole time you were changing locations (such as gum or a candy) or if you run out for a few minutes and people are still at the table and you return, no new Bracha is required to continue eating in the first location.
Another exception may be if you really planned to only eat/drink in the car, and while waiting to go to momentarily your car you made the Bracha in your home or office, the bracha will still work when you get to the car. (as he is considered a traveler, and travelers are not subject to the above halachos)
What is considered a "change of location" and some other details of this halacha are beyond the scope of this email, as it is a very detailed set of halachos, many of which which are covered in detail in our discussion of Hilchos Brachos.
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
Question:
Is it important to save money for retirement or your children?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
It's permissible to do, however to save for your children, it depends. If you save without sacrificing the purpose of your life, that's alright. But people who give away the time that they should devote for their own betterment, they give that to their children, then it's a 100% waste. Because your child, when he comes into the world, he brings along an allowance, that he takes with him from Heaven. Everybody is born with an allowance. My parents didn't set me up in business, didn't leave me any money. Baruch Hashem I never had to borrow any money all my life.
And if you won't save up for your children, you'll take off your evenings to study Torah, you'll do Tzedaka, you'll give money to charity, don't try to leave wealth for your children. Of course if you want to leave them Torah wealth and it costs money to send them to Yeshivas, it costs money to keep even your married children in Kollel, that's yours, whatever you do for them is for you. It's an investment on your own.
But even that, suppose you're capable of sitting in the Kollel but your son would like you to keep on slaving to keep him in the Kollel, so you tell him, if you wish, you can do it for me, I'll let you slave and support me in the Kollel. Why not? Father has the right to be in the Kollel. Sometimes the father has a better head than the son has. The Gemara says, Hu Lilmod U'bno Lilmod Hu Kodem, it's a question who should learn he or his son, he is first. So you don't give away your soul for your children. But, if you can do it without any big sacrifices of your time, to leave a little bit for them, nothing wrong.
Erev Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Tzav; Parshas Zachor
12 Adar II, 5771; 2 Days until Purim
March 18, 2011
SPECIAL TRIPLE EDITION L'KAVOD SHABBOS KODESH AND L'KAVOD CHAG HAPURIM
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1) It is a Mitzvah on all Jewish men, women and children to partake of a festive Seudah, meal, on Purim.
The Purim Seudah needs to be eaten on Purim day, and if it was only eaten on Purim eve, you have not satisfied your obligation.
However, it is a Mitzvah to be joyous and have a small Seudah on Purim evening as well. (Rama Siman 695:1)
The meal should consist of meat (B'dieved chicken is acceptable too) and wine, and other delicacies as best as one can afford. It is also important to wash and eat bread at the Seudah, as according to some opinions you cannot satisfy the obligation of the Seudah without Pas, bread. (See Rosh to Maseches Brachos Perek 7 Siman 23 and Shu"t MaHarshal Siman 48)
2) It is good to study some Torah before beginning the Seudah, as the Posuk says "Layehudim Haysa Ohra V'Simcha..." and Chazal say (Talmud Megilah 16b) Ohra is referring to the light of Torah which should precede the Simcha! (Rama Siman 695:2)
It is customary to daven Mincha before beginning the Seudah, as not to end up davening Mincha while drunk. The Seudah should begin when it is still daylight, and not close to sunset, so that most of the meal should be eaten during the day.
The Seudas Purim should not be eaten alone; rather it is good to join with family and friends so it will be joyous.
However, care must be taken that the Seuda should be a Simcha Shel Mitzvah and not simply a wild party, with things Chas V'Shalom happening that are against Halacha.
The hands should be properly washed for Netilas Yadayim, Hamotzi should be recited on the bread, Birchas Hamazon should be recited after the Seudah, all Halachos of Tznius must be observed etc.
The table at the Purim Seudah (both by day and night) should have candles on it, to make it a Yom Tov Seudah (Mishna Berura Siman 695:9)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh, Erev Purim
1) Chazal have instituted that on Purim one should drink more than his usual share of wine. According to some opinions it is a Mitzvah to actually get intoxicated on Purim.
Others maintain that actual intoxication is not mandatory; rather one should drink until he gets tired, and falls asleep.
This is based on the words of the Talmud (Megilah 7b) "Chayav Inish L'Besumei B'Puraya Ad D'Lo Yada Bein Arur Haman L'Baruch Mordechai- one is obligated to drink on Purim until he cannot distinguish between "cursed is Haman" and "Blessed is Mordechai".
There is a plethora of ways to understand the above Gemara, according to Halacha and Hashkafa as well as Kaballah, and covering all of them is beyond the scope of this forum. (For those who are interested in delving deeper into this, please start with the following sources: Shulchan Aruch, Rama and Mishna Berura Siman 695, Aruch HaShulchan Siman 695:2-5, Yad Ephraim to Shulchan Aruch ibid., MaHarsha Megilah 7b and Chochmas Manoach to Megila 7b)
2) If by getting drunk, one will come to be lax in Mitzvah observance, or will Chas V'Shalom transgress sins (as is unfortunately the case sometimes, as intoxication in a non Torah environment often leads to promiscuity) , he is forbidden from getting drunk. (Meiri Maseches Megilah 7b,quoted in the Biur Halacha, Ran ibid., Shl"a ibid., Bais Yosef Siman 695 and Chayei Adam)
The point of drinking on Purim is to help us reach a higher level of Ahavas Hashem, loving our father in heaven. If one drinks in a manner that will bring disgrace to Hashem's name, not only has he not fulfilled the Mitzvah, he will also bear a very grave sin. May Hashem give us all the strength to fulfill the Mitzvos of Purim in the path of the Torah and not allow the Yetzer Hara to intervene.
Halachos for Chag HaPurim, Sunday March 20 2011
1) Although Purim is a Yom Tov on which work is permitted, the prevalent custom is not to work on Purim [day]. One who works on Purim will never see any blessing from the money he/she earns that day. (Some are lenient on Purim eve, in cases of great necessity) (Shulchan Aruch and Rama Siman 696:1. See also Shu"t Chasam Sofer Siman 195)
2) Although it is customary to dress up in costumes on Purim, care must be taken that men do not don women's clothing, and women do not wear men's clothing as doing so is a biblical transgression of "Lo Tilbash" as well as being a problem of Pritzus.
This applies to children as well, and G-d fearing people should not treat this lightly. (See Mishna Berura Siman 696:30 and Be'er Heitev Os 13. See also Aruch HaShulchan and Siddur Ya'avetz who are very stringent with this.)
Care should also be taken to ensure that the costumes do not contain Sha'atnez (materials containing wool and linen together) as that is also a biblical transgression, and may not be transgressed even on Purim. (ibid.)
PURIM 5771: WORLDWIDE TEHILLIM
The goal is to complete Sefer Tehillim as many times as possible as a Z'chus for Shidduchim for all those in need. The project will take place on Purim day at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time. A perek will be assigned to you when you sign up by going to www.worldwidetehillim.com. The idea is that you should have in mind the name(s) for whom you are davening as you say your assigned Perek. At 10:00 a.m., the organizers will be reciting the names they have compiled by those signing up for this project.
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 my Grandmother moved into her new apartment she found a mezuza hanging on her doorpost, she used it but now wants to replace it and doesn't know if she should keep the old one.
Is it in her rights to keep the mezuza she found?
Answer:
Yes, the halacha is that when one leaves an apartment they must leave the Mezuzos there for the next person who lives there. Even though there are ways around this when one wants to take their Mezuzos with them, if they dont take them they belong to the new person.
Thus, the Mezuzah belongs to your grandmother
CHIZUK CORNER
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
DEAR FRIENDS,
NO MATTER WHAT, DO NOT FORGET TO UTILIZE THE HOLY DAY OF PURIM TO DAVEN, DAVEN, DAVEN.
DAVEN FOR YOUR FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS, SPOUSES, CO-WORKERS, FOR ALL OF KLAL YISROEL.
DAVEN FOR MASHIACH'S ARRIVAL TO FINALLY END THIS DARK AND BITTER GALUS.
DAVEN FOR HASHEM TO REVEAL HIS GLORY UPON HIS CHILDREN, KLAL YISROEL, AND THE END OF ALL PAIN AND HARDSHIP IN THE WORLD.
DAVEN FOR THE MILLIONS OF ASSIMILATED JEWS WHO DON'T EVEN KNOW HOW TO SAY "SHMA YISROEL"
DAVEN FOR THE COUNTLESS JEWISH SOULS WHO LACK DIRECTION AND ARE FALLING INTO THE WORLD OF THE YETZER HARA FASTER THAN WE CAN BRING THEM BACK.
DAVEN FOR HASHEM TO REDEEM US DESPITE OUR MANY SINS.
DAVEN.
JUST DAVEN.
CRY REAL TEARS.
DANCE HARD.
SING.
SMILE AT PEOPLE.
LEARN SOME TORAH.
BUT, ALL THE WHILE...DAVEN!
THANK HASHEM FOR ALL THE GOOD HE GIVES US AND BEG HIM TO ALLOW THE REBUILDING OF THE BAIS HAMIKDASH TO HAPPEN REALLY SOON.
DAVEN FOR ALL THE CHOLIM IN KLAL YISROEL.
DAVEN FOR THOSE WHO DON'T HAVE PARNASSAH.
DAVEN FOR THOSE WHO ARE NOT SEEING YIDDISH NACHAS FROM THEIR CHILDREN.
DAVEN FOR OTHERS.
GIVE BRACHOS TO EVERYONE YOU MEET ON PURIM.
SHOW HASHEM THAT WE FEEL EACH OTHERS PAIN.
WISH SUCCESS UPON ONE ANOTHER.
MAKE UP WITH THOSE WE MAY BE IN A FIGHT WITH.
GO OUT OF YOUR WAY TO SAY A KIND WORD TO AN "EX FRIEND"
LET'S SWALLOW OUR PRIDE AND DO IT ANYWAY.
DAVEN HARD.
DAVEN FOR MENUCHAS HANEFESH.
DAVEN WITH KAVANNAH.
BEG HASHEM TO ACCEPT OUR TEFILOS.
DAVEN FOR STRENGTH...KOCHOS.
BESEECH HASHEM TO ACCEPT THE TEFILOS OF ALL JEWS, NO MATTER IF THEY LOOK LIKE YOU OR NOT.
DAVEN FOR HASHEM TO ACCEPT OUR TESHUVAH AS IF IT WAS AS SINCERE AT IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN.
MAY HASHEM ANSWER ALL OUR TEFILOS AND ALLOW THE FINAL REDEMPTION TO RID THE GLOBE OF ALL THE HAMANS OF THE WORLD.
MAY HASHEM USHER IN THE DAY WHEN THE YETZER HARA IS SLAUGHTERED FOREVER AND WE CAN ALL BE REUNITED IN YERUSHALAYIM HABENUYA.
AMEN.
A FREILICHEN PURIM TO ALL MY DEAR READERS, HOLY BROTHERS AND SISTERS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE.
L'CHAIM! TO A LIFE OF CLOSENESS TO HAKADOSH BARUCH HU!
Thursday
11 Adar II, 5771; Ta'anis Esther Mukdam; 3 Days until Purim
March 17, 2011
1) It is a Mitzva to give "Matanos L'Evyonim- gifts to the poor" on Purim day.
If the money was given to the poor person before Purim for use on Purim [for his meal], according to many Poskim, you have satisfied your obligation, B'Dieved. (See Pri Megadim based on Mogen Avraham Siman 694:1 that the whole reason not to give before Purim day is that the poor person may use it before Purim)
Every Jew- male and female- is required to give 2 "Matanos- gifts" to 2 separate "Evyonim- poor people" (i.e. one gift to each poor person). By giving 2 gifts to one poor person, you do not satisfy your obligation of this Mitzvah.
Matanos L'Evyonim may not be given from Ma'aser money. However, once 2 gifts were given to 2 poor people, any additional gifts that you give to poor people on Purim may be given from Ma'aser money. (Mishna Berura Siman 694:3)
The more Tzedaka you give to poor people on Purim, the more praiseworthy you are! It is better to give additional Matanos L'Evyonim than to give extra Mishloach Manos or to increase the Seudas Purim, because ..."There is no greater or loftier Simcha than to gladden the hearts of the poor, widows, orphans and converts. One who gladdens the hearts of these downtrodden people is likened to the Shechina (!)" (Words of the Rambam Hilchos Megilah Perek 2 Halacha 17, which we referenced a few times already in our review of Hilchos Purim, but due to their importance they warrant repetition)
You may not combine the Mitzvos of Mishloach Manos and Matanos L'Evyonim, by giving Mishloach Manos to a poor person. They each must be given independently of each other. (See Turei Even to Megilah 7b, quoted in Biur Halacha Siman 695 Dibur HaMaschil O Shel Minei Ochlin and Ksav Sofer Siman 139 that B'dieved it is possible that you are indeed Yotzei. )
2) Matanos L'Evyonim does not necessarily need to be with money, as one can satisfy the obligation by giving the poor person food which he can eat on Purim.
However, giving clothing or other non food gifts to a poor person, is not an acceptable form of Matanos L'Evyonim according to most Poskim (See Ohr SaMeach Hilchos Megilah Perek 2 Halacha 16. See Turei Even Megilah 7b. See Mishna Berura Siman 694:2)
When it comes to giving Matanos L'Evyonim, it is best not to be too scrupulous in determining if the poor person is truly deserving of Tzedaka, as on Purim we stick to the tradition of "Kol HaPoshet Yad Nosnim Lo- whoever stretches out their arm [asking for help] we give them". (Shulchan Aruch Siman 694:3).
The Sefarim say that Hashem, too, abides by this method on Purim and all who stretch out their hands to Him [i.e. whatever we daven for] will be answered!
Purim is an extremely opportune time to daven for things that we need. It is advisable not to squander this opportunity by focusing too much on "getting drunk" and having fun at the expense of not utilizing the spiritual powers of this holy day properly.
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 is permitted to listen to music on Ta'anis Esther- being that it is a fast day?
Answer:
Yes, although it's a fast day, it isn't a fast day based on our mourning of the destruction of the Bais HaMikdash, and thus listening to music, showering. taking a haircut and other things that bring pleasure are allowed.
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
At his Hakhel Shiur on the meaning of Purim, Rabbi Zev Smith Shlita, made many great points, including the following:
1. The essence of Purim is the realization that "Ain Od Melvado." This means that everything that preceded this world's existence, that everything that currently exists, and that everything that will exist forever and ever is Hashem and His Will. Indeed, the name of the Holiday Purim, indicates that something as "by chance" as a lottery is under the sole and complete jurisdiction of Hashem.
2. HaRav Yeruchem Levovitz, Z'tl, taught that one should not only give Mishloach Manos to friends--but to his "ex-friends" as well.
3. The Chofetz Chaim, Z'tl, writes in a published letter (Michtevei Chofetz Chaim 20): "We all know very clearly that Hashem can bring the Geulah BeChol Regah V'Regah--at any moment--as in the times of Mordechai and Esther the complete Geulah happened overnight. This is actually an explicit Posuk recorded in the last Navi, Malachi: 'Ki Pisom Yavoh El Heichalo--for He will suddenly come to His Sanctuary.' We have to be ready always!" Hakhel Note: Teshuva Bechol Yom--for each and every one of us!
4. An essential part of Purim Day is "Kiymu VeKiblu." This does not only refer to all of Klal Yisroel's voluntary acceptance of the Torah--but to each individual's rededication to Torah as well. Every person should view it as part of his Simchas Purim, as part of his Purim mandate, to rededicate himself to Torah study. Rabbi Smith cited two examples: One--His favorite Siyum--a subway rider who was not capable of learning Gemara and who completed Mishnayos in English on his back and forth commute every day. What an accomplishment! Two--an elderly gentlemen who "did not have time" to come to a Shiur that Rabbi Smith was giving because he was studying with tremendous diligence for a Dirshu test. Hakhel Note: We will all be pressured for time over the next month, with many demands and obligations upon us. The Chofetz Chaim notes that when one keeps his set time for study without fail, and in the case of a 'Dochak Gadol' makes up his studies within the day, then a "Kedusha Gedolah Venora'ah--a great and awesome Kedusha rests on him every single time he learns in this way. Let us not forget this Kedusha Gedolah Venora'ah every time that we keep our set time for learning. We suggest that our Kiymu VeKiblu this Purim involve a special effort in this regard. Remember the words of the Chofetz Chaim--Kedusha Gedolah Venora'ah--on you!
Submitted by daily reader C.S.; Taken from www.Hakhel.info
Wednesday
10 Adar II, 5771; 4 Days until Purim
March 16, 2011
1) At least one Mishloach Manos should, if possible, be sent with a Shliach, a messenger.
The reason for this is based on the question of the Shu"t Binyan Tzion from the Aruch LaNer (Siman 44, quoted in the Mishna Berura Siman 695:4) if the fact that the Posuk calls it "Mishloach" Manos, necessitates it being given through a Shliach.
Most Poskim, however, maintain that it isn't necessary and thus if it was given directly it is acceptable, but to satisfy this opinion, which the Mishna Berura does not negate, at least one package should be sent with a Shliach.
Mishloach Manos may be sent via a minor (under the age of 13) or a non Jew. (See Piskei Teshuva Siman 148 what he quotes from Rav Akiva Eiger Zatzal. See also Chasam Sofer to Gitin 21b that it may be sent with a minor, as even if it does require a Shliach, it does not have all the requirements of Hilchos Shlichus)
2) There are varying opinions in the Poskim if one satisfies his/her obligation by sending Mishloach Manos to a minor, as a minor may not be considered a "friend" (and the Posuk requires to send "Mishloach Manos Ish L'Re'ayhu- man to his friend". See Ben Ish Chai Parshas Tetzaveh Os 16 and Kaf HaChaim Siman 694:12 who are machmir. The Aruch HaShulchan Siman 695 on the other hand permits it)
However, according to all opinions, a Rav satisfies his obligation by sending to a Talmid and a father by sending to his son and vice versa, as for halachic purposes they are considered "friends".
Minors, who have reached the age of Chinuch, should be taught to give Mishloach Manos (Pri Megadim Siman 695:14)
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Thursday, March 17th
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PURIM 5771: WORLDWIDE TEHILLIM
The goal is to complete Sefer Tehillim as many times as possible as a Z'chus for Shidduchim for all those in need. The project will take place on Purim day at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time. A perek will be assigned to you when you sign up by going to www.worldwidetehillim.com. The idea is that you should have in mind the name(s) for whom you are davening as you say your assigned Perek. At 10:00 a.m., the organizers will be reciting the names they have compiled by those signing up for this project.
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 one yotzei the mitzva of matanos l'evyonim when giving a check, as opposed to cash? And L'chatchila is one better over the other?
Also, does the concept of hidur mitzvah (beutifying a Mitzvah) apply to mishloach manos, meaning by getting nicer and fancier ones and coming up with a theme, or is that all just nonsense and shtick?
Answer:
Matanos L'Evyonim has to be given with money that the poor person can use on Purim [to buy a Seudah]. If he has a way to cash the check on Purim, it is Ok to give a check, otherwise cash is better.
One of the main points of the Mitzvah of Mishloach Manos is to spread friendship among people (in fact it is more important to give Mishloach manos to people you are less friendly with and to people to who perhaps you may be in an argument with in order to make peace, rather than only to close friends!)
Therefore, it is definitely condusive to this objective to make it nice. However, there is no inyan at all to have a themed Mishloach Manos, which often can cause friction amongst friends, peers, 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
It is well known and recorded that on Shabbos many Gedolim had a special aura and their face would actually radiate and glow of kedusha to the point where their physical appearance changed.
Rav Eliyahu Lopian writes in Lev Eliyahu that when the Rav Simcha Zissel Broide, the Alter of Kelm, was sick near the end of his life, his complexion was pale and white as a ghost. However from the moment Shabbos started his face became radiant and fiery red as if he were perfectly healthy. When Motza'ei Shabbos came, the radiance disappeared from his face and he became white and sickly looking once again.
Rav Shlomo Wolbe tells a similar story about Reb Yeruchom Levovitz, the famed Mashgiach of the Mir Yeshiva. There was talmid new to the Yeshiva who thought that the Yeshiva had one Mashgiach for the weekday and an even greater one for Shabbos. Only after a number of weeks went by did he finally understand that these two Mashgichim were both Rav Yeruchom only his face changed on Shabbos to the point where he was hard to recognize.
Submitted by daily reader, P.K. ; Taken from www.Revach.net
Tuesday
9 Adar II, 5771; 5 Days until Purim
March 15, 2011
Please Note: In order to finish all the relevant Halachos before Purim, the next few days' segments may be slightly longer than usual.
1) It is a Mitzvah to send "Mishloach Manos" on Purim day. It should not be sent on Purim eve. (Rama Siman 695:4)
As with all Mitzvos, there is the concept of "Zerizim Makdimin L'Mitzvos- enthusiastic people run to do Mitzvos", thus it is best to send Mishloach Manos right away on Purim morning, right after davening. (Terumas HaDeshen Siman 110)
There are 2 key reasons cited in the Poskim for this Mitzvah:
a) So that each Jewish person should have the necessary food in order to be able to partake of a Purim meal (Terumas HaDeshen Siman 111, Levush 695:4 and others)
b) To promote "Ahava V'Achva- love and friendship" and to show that we [Jews] are one united nation, as opposed to how Haman referred to us as "Am Mefuzar U'Meforad- a nation that is spread out and separated" (Manos HaLevi from Rav Shlomo Alkabetz , Esther Perek 9:16-17, The MaHaral in Ohr Chadash Esther 9:22 and others)
Every Jew - man and woman - must send [at least] 2 "manos, items" to one person. Sending only one "maneh" is not sufficient to satisfy your obligation.
The more people that one sends "Mishloach Manos" to, the more praiseworthy he/she is. However, it is better to give extra "Matanos L'Evyonim" rather than to splurge on Mishloach Manos and the Purim meal. (Rambam Hilchos Megilah Perek 2:17)
2) The food items that are sent should preferably be ready to eat as they are, without needing additional preparation or cooking. (MaHaril, quoted in Mogen Avraham Siman 695:11, Chayei Adam Klal 155:31, Gr"a brought in Ma'aseh Rav Os 249 and others).
Some Poskim maintain that if it is a raw item that is ready to cook [as opposed to a live chicken], it is also acceptable. (Leket Yosher, Pri Megadim and others. See Mishna Berura Siman 695:20)
Any food items are acceptable, such as meat, bread, cake, wine ,fruits, and vegetables.
There is neither halachic requirement nor any basis at all in the writings of the Poskim for the two items to be of different Brachos, as many people mistakenly think. (As heard from Rav Dovid Feinstein Shlita.)
The Mishna Berura (Siman 695:20), Mogen Avraham, Shl"a Hakadosh and others maintain that beverages are acceptable for Mishloach Manos.
The Gaon of Vilna, however, maintained [based on the Psak of some Rishonim, and the Girsa of the Rabeinu Chananel in the Gemara Megilah 7b] that beverages are not sufficient.
Canned food is considered ready to eat and is 100% acceptable (Moadim U'Zmanim Vol. 2 Siman 186)
Men should not send Mishloach Manos to women and women should not send Mishloach manos to men (See Rama Siman 695:4)
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:
I wanted to know if it's permitted to carry the Megila to shul next shabbos in the afternoon [as Purim begins on Motzei Shabbos]?
Answer:
No, carrying the Megilah to shul is prohibited, even if an eruv is present, as doing so is preparing on Shabbos for Weekday. Rather the Megilah should be brought ot Shul on Erev Shabbos. (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 141:17 and Sha'arei Teshuva Siman 693:1)
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
"If a person will sin and commit a treachery against Hashem by lying to his comrade regarding a pledge or a loan or a robbery; or by defrauding his comrade." (Vayikra 5:21)
R' Dr. Leo Adler z"l (1915-1978; rabbi of Basel, Switzerland) writes: The Tosefta [a collection of teachings that post-dates the Mishnah but pre-dates the Gemara] relates:
Rabbi Reuven met a philosopher in Teveryah, who asked him, "Who makes himself hateful in this world?"
Rabbi Reuven answered, "He who denies his Creator."
"How does that make him hateful to men?" the philosopher wondered.
Rabbi Reuven replied, "Honor your father and mother; do not murder; do not steal; do not bear false witness--No man breaks these laws without first denying G-d."
What is the basis for Rabbi Reuven's assertion? R' Adler explains that it is our verse. If one man lies to another about a financial matter, it is a treachery against Hashem. Why? Because emunah means not only "faith" but "faithfulness" to G- d's command.
Thus, the level of one's emunah and his fear of G- d are as much tests of a person's character as are his sense of justice and charity.
(The Biblical View of Man p.59)
Submitted by daily reader, C.S. ; Taken from the writings of Rabbi Shlomo Katz on www.Torah.org
Monday
8 Adar II, 5771; 6 Days until Purim
March 14, 2011
Please Note: In order to finish all the relevant Halachos before Purim, the next few days' segments may be slightly longer than usual.
1) The names of the ten sons of Haman HaRasha, until after the word "Aseres" after their names, must be said by the one reading the Megilah in one breath, to remember the fact that they were all hanged and died at one time (in other words, as the Talmud Megilah 16b explains, they all took their last breaths at the same instant; perhaps as Midah K'Neged Midah for their plot to kill all the Jews in one day).
L'Chatchilah this should start a few words earlier, and from "Chamesh Me'Os Ish" until "Aseres" should be said in one breath.
If these words were not read in one breath, even if one took a long break between them, B'dieved you are Yotzei. (Rama Siman 690:15)
However, L'Chatchilah if they were not said in one breath, they should be repeated (Elya Rabbah Siman690:11)
The congregation need not read these names, and they can simply listen to the Ba'al Koreh. (Chayei Adam Klal 155:22 and Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 141:14)
However, the prevalent Minhag is for the congregation to indeed read these names [in one breath] before the Ba'al Koreh reads it. (Aruch HaShulchan. The reason is possibly, that since the Ba'al Koreh reads it very quickly, the congregation may not hear it properly, thus developed the minhag of everyone reading it themselves. See also Shu"t Tzafnas Pa'aneach fromthe Rogotchov Gaon Vol. 3 in the Hashmatos for a novel approach to this requirement; Due to "Shomea K'Oneh", the Ba'al Koreh can be Motzi you with the reading but he cannot be Motzi you with the "one breath" requirement, thus each individual must do this alone)
2) It is the prevalent Minhag in Klal Yisroel to "bang" or otherwise make a noise whenever the name of "Haman" is read in the Megilah.
This Minhag should not be discontinued, nor ridiculed, as it was not instituted for naught. (Rama Siman 690:17).
However, the banging should not go on for too long, otherwise the entire reading/listening of the Megilah will become confusing.
Musical instruments or similar loud noisemakers should not be used, rather a simple gragger, banging with the feet or similar gesture of "banging" should be used. (Mishna Berura Siman 690:59. See also Sha'ar HaTziyun ibid: 57)
If the Shul that one davens in doesn't comply with the above guidelines, and the entire Megilah reading turns into a "noise fest" with people competing as to who can make the loudest, longest and most disturbing noise, it is better to read the Megilah with a small minyan in a different Shul or even at home rather than rely on this noisy and confusing Megilah reading.
This is especially true for women, who will be unable to hear the Megilah properly in the women's section with all the tumult taking place. (Based on MaHar"i Algazi in Shalmei Chagiga, quoted in Sefer Hilchos Chag B'Chag. Also the ruling of the Aruch HaShulchan)
While the congregation is "banging", the Ba'al Koreh should be quiet, and only continue once the noise has subsided totally, otherwise some in the congregation may miss a few words of the Megilah.
It is a good idea for all the congregants to read the few words after each "Haman" by themselves from a Kosher Megilah [if at all possible] or from a Chumash, to ensure that not even one word of the Megilah is missed. (Mishna Berura Siman 690:60)
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:
We know that one of the mitzvot of Purim is mishloach manot.
Many organizations offer cards, etc. to send to people in lieu of mishloach manot, which according to the organization fulfills both the mitzvah of mishloach manot and mataynos l'evyonim. Is this permissible or is it still better to separate the two mitzvot?
Answer:
You cannot fulfill Mishloach Manos with these cards, only Matanos L'Evyonim.
However, once you fulfill Mishloach Manos in the traditional way, it is indeed praiseworthy to give extra charity/Matanos L'Evyonim "in lieu" of extra Mishloach Manos, as the Rambam Hilchos Megilah Perek 2:17 writes:
"It is better for one to give additional "Matanos L'Evyonim" rather than to embellish their Purim Seudah and/or give additional Mishloach Manos to their friends, as there is no greater and more glorious Simcha than to gladden the hearts of the less fortunate poor people, orphans, widows and converts. One who lifts the spirits and gladdens the hearts of these less fortunate individuals, is likened to the Shechina!"
These organizations should not write on these cards that it is "in lieu of Mishloach Manos".
At most they should write that it is "in lieu of extra Mishloach Manos once you have been Mekayem your Mitzvah with the required 2 types of food given to someone"
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
When a man brings an offering from among you to Hashem -- from animals -- from the cattle or from the flock you shall bring your offering." (Vayikra 1:2)
Rav Avigdor Miller Zatzal (1908-2001) writes: As a people, we have lost the ability to relate to sacrificial offerings. At one time, however, bringing a sacrifice represented an act of devotion to Hashem. This is alluded to in our verse, which says, "When a man brings an offering from among you," i.e., it is as if you have brought a part of yourself.
Even so, Rav Miller observes, an even greater act is to accept G-d's authority and to obey Him. Thus the prophet Shmuel said to King Shaul (Shmuel I 15:22), "'Does Hashem take delight in olot / burnt offerings and zevachim / feast-offerings as in obedience to the voice of Hashem? Behold! Obedience is better than a choice offering, attentiveness [better] than the fat of rams." This does not mean that Hashem does not desire offerings, only that He desires obedience and attentiveness even more.
This too, continues Rav Miller, is lost in our culture. Obedience is not a widely accepted concept, and even the word is almost taboo. This, Rav Miller asserts, is the source of every evil in our society. Our task, however, is to ignore public opinion and ignore what popular literature and newspapers are telling us, and to live with the principles that the Torah teaches: "Obedience is better than a choice offering, attentiveness [better] than the fat of rams." (Toras Avigdor IV p.186)
Sunday
7 Adar II, 5771; Moshe Rabbeinu's Yahrtzeit; 1 week to Purim
March 13, 2011
1) It is the accepted Minhag amongst all of Klal Yisroel, when reading the Megilah, that the Megilah scroll of the Ba'al Koreh is unfurled and folded like a letter before commencing the reading. The reason for this Minhag is that the Megilah is referred to in the Posuk as an "Igeres- a letter".
The congregation need not unfurl their personal Megilahs (for those who follow along in a Kosher Megilah), though they may do so if they wish. (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 141:10)
2) There are four Pesukim in the Megilah, which are referred to as "Pesukim Shel Geulah- Pesukim of redemption", and these Pesukim are customarily said aloud by the entire congregation, and afterwards read by the Ba'al Koreh. (The Mateh Moshe quotes the Ba'al HaTania that this is only if children are present, as it is done to keep them interested, thus if one is reading the Megilah for adults only, it needn't be done. According to the Gaon of Vilna though, it is done even if no children are present)
The four Pesukim are:
1) Ish Yehudi Haya B'Shushan HaBirah... (Perek 2 Posuk 5)
4) Ki Mordechai HaYehudi...(The last Posuk of the Megilah)
If one does not have a kosher Megilah, he/she should have in mind not to be Yotzei the aforementioned Pesukim when saying them aloud, rather to be Yotzei with the Ba'al Koreh's reading like the rest of the Megilah. (Mishna Berura Siman 690:58)
When the Ba'al Koreh reads the words "B'Laila HaHu Nadedah Shnas HaMelech (Perek 6 Posuk 1) he raises his voice, as that is the beginning of the miracle. (MaHaril quoted in Mishna Berura Siman 690: 52)
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:
Are you allowed to clap on shabbos? and furthermore, are you allowed to make a beat on shabbos to sing to (like bang and clap) as many shabbaton activities do?
Answer:
The Shulchan Aruch Siman 339:3 rules that it is forbidden to clap ones hands together or ones hand against their thigh on Shabbos and it is also forbidden to dance on Shabbos . This ruling is based on the Mishna in Beitza 36b where Chazal forbade these activities, which are usually done in the presence of musical instruments, lest one come to fix an instrument that breaks.
The Rama, ibid. (based on Tosefos Beitza 30a Dibur Hamaschil T'nan) in his second opinion, rules that today's day's it is permitted to clap and dance as most people don't know how to fix broken instruments.
The Mishna Berura S"K 10 maintains that even today it is only acceptable if the clapping/dancing is done for purposes of a Mitzvah. See also Shu"t Minchas Elazar Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 29 where he defends the Minahag of many holy Tzadikim who danced and clapped on Shabbos
Bottom line, when dancing and clapping for a Mitzvah, such as during Zemiros on Shabbos, we are lenient and allow it, otherwise, it is best to avoid it. The same applies for banging on a table to a beat etc.
Regarding applauding on Shabbos, see Shu"t Az Nidberu Vol. 13 Siman 14:2, where he allows it as this has nothing to do with singing.
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
"In the Blessing of the New Month, we petition Hashem for a "life of sustenance".
What robs us of our daily bread are the books of faithless heretics filled with mockery and indecency.
When we bring those into our home, not only does it poison the home, but it is the main cause for our sustenance being withheld!"
Rabbi Yisrael Meir Hakohen Kagan Zatzal , the Chofetz Chaim quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
1) The Megilah should be read with the proper "Ta'amim" (Trop, or tune used for reading Torah Sh'Biksav).
However, reading it without the Ta'amim does not disqualify the reading, thus if no Ba'al Koreh is available to read it with the proper tune, it should be read anyway by someone in the congregation. (Mogen Avraham Siman 691:10)
2) The Megilah must be read in the order in which it is written. If even one Posuk or letter was read out of order, the obligation to read the Megilah has not been satisfied, and it must be re-read starting from the Posuk that was read out of order until the end.
Likewise, if a Posuk was skipped, it must be re-read from that point until the end. (Mishna Berura Siman 690:21 and 22)
The Megilah must be read from a Kosher Megilah.
If part (up to half) of the Megilah was read from memory, without looking into the text, B'dieved you have satisfied your obligation. (Mishna Berura ibid. S"K 7 and 8)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) If one who does not understand Lashon HaKodesh (Biblical Hebrew) hears the Megilah being read in Lashon HaKodesh, even though they do not understand what is being read, they have satisfied their obligation of hearing the Megilah, as long as they hear every single word. (Mishna Berura ibid. S" K 26)
2) The Ba'al Koreh should recite the Brachos on the Megilah while standing.
Many have the custom that the entire congregation stands while the Brachos are being recited. (See Mogen Avraham beginning of Siman 690. Though from the Biur Halacha in Hilchos Sefiras HaOmer Siman 489 it seems that the congregation need not stand)
While reading the Megilah, the Ba'al Koreh should stand, as doing so is "Kavod HaTzibur- respectful to the congregation" (Thus one who is reading for women, or for a group of less than 10 men, may sit L'Chatchilah).
The congregation may sit while listening to the Megilah.
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 will be reading the Megillah G-d willing this year, I know that there is an opinion that one may put "troph" (musical notes) in parts of the Megillah (with pencil) that will help them. May my wife pencil in some of the Troph, or is this a problem of writing by a woman?
Answer:
According to some Poskim, including the Pri Megadim, Mishbetzos Zahav, Siman 691:2, unlike Sifrei Torah and Tefilin, a woman may write a Megilah as she is obligated in reading the Megilah.
Other Poskim, however, including the Sha'arei Teshuva Siman 691:3 and Rav Akiva Eiger Siman 691:2, maintain that women may not write a megilah. (See Tosafos Arachin 3a Dibur Hamaschil L'Asuyei nashim quoting the Behag that women are not obligated in reading the Megilah, rather they are obligated only in hearing the megilah.This opinion is brought in Rama Siman 689:2. This is one reason cited regarding their ineligibility to write megilos, as only those that must read it are eligible to write it.)
The prevalent custom is not to use, and certainly not recite a bracha over, a megilah written by women.
Now, regarding penciling in Trop and other markings into a megilah, this should only be done B'sha'as Hadchak, in extreme circumstances where there is no other way to read/hear the Megilah. (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 141:18 and Mishna Berura Siman 691:25)
In the event that this needs to be done, according to the Poskim that allow a woman to write a megilah, she surely may also make these pencil markings.
According to the Poskim that disallow a woman to write the Megilah, I would say that these markings, although not the actual writing of the megilah, should also preferably not be done by a woman.
Of course, for halacha L'Ma'aseh 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
Question:
Here's a big question, it needs three hours to answer this. How can one resist temptation in today's wicked world?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
And the answer is, in one sentence, cut loose from the world. Does it make sense, here's a man who happened to take hold of a thorn bush, and the big thorn sank into his flesh, and he's shouting, "Look it's bleeding, it hurts". So people say to him, "Dumbbell, first thing is let go!"
Here's a man sitting in front of a television and saying to his wife, how can we get rid of this wicked world? Take a hammer and give one smash and you're finished with the wicked world. If you continue to bring the New York Times into your house, what do you expect?! If a man brings in dead rats into his house, into his dining room, and lets them ripen on the floor, will he complain about the odor?
So you cut loose from the wicked world. You have nothing to do with the wicked world, and you'll be amazed what an immediate remedy it's going to be. Now if you're talking about wicked world, a world of crime, that's a different story. But if you're talking about a world of Rishus, of bad character, of immorality and so on, so you heard in one sentence what to do. Cut loose!! And you'll be surprised; you'll be gratified at the results. Now how to cut loose, however, that's a big subject.
You know, the Sefer Tehilim is a Sefer of coming close to Hashem, it's full of ways of speaking to Hashem, Emunah, Bitachon, Ahavas Hashem. Everything is in Tehilim, by the way. Tehilim is a wonderful text book of coming close to Hashem. But the very first Kapitel, the first chapter of Tehilim, is an exception, it's a queer chapter. It starts out, "Happy is the Man who did not walk in the ways of the wicked". All of a sudden he's talking Mishlei, that's not Tehilim, he's giving advice. He's not talking about love of Hashem there; he's talking about cutting loose from the wicked.
The answer is this: What's the use of talking about coming close to Hashem, what's the use of talking noble ideals, when you're still in the company of the wicked, if you're mingling with them all the time? It's Tovel V'sherets B'yodo, how can you go and purify yourself when you're still holding a dead Sherets (creeping creature) in your hand? So the first thing is, in Tehilim it tells you first of all get rid of the company of the wicked, Cut loose from the Reshaim in every way; we are tied to them in thousands of ways. Cut loose! And then you're a candidate to learn the great lessons that Tehilim has in store for you.
If the Ba'al Koreh missed even one word or even one letter, regardless if omitting that word or letter changes the meaning of the Posuk, he must go back to the place where the mistake was made and re-read from there again. (In certain instances, such as if the missed word changes the meaning of the Posuk, and he was Masiach Da'as from the Megilah, a new Bracha may be necessary too)
Similarly, one who is listening to the Megilah must be very careful not to miss hearing even one letter of the Megilah.
2) If one did miss hearing a word or letter of the Megilah (as is common when someone coughs, or is a child makes noise etc.) the listener must read the missed words by him/herself until he/she catches up to the Ba'al Koreh.
L'Chatchilah, this should be done from a Kosher Megilah, or at least from a printed Chumash, but definitely not by heart. (See Mishna Berura Siman 689:19 and 690:19)
If a word was mispronounced, in such a way that the meaning of the Posuk was not changed, it need not be repeated L'Chatchilah. If the mispronounced word does change the meaning of the Posuk, it is as if that word was skipped, and the Halachos of a skipped word apply.
To participate in our Matanos L'Evyonim Campaign benefitting two Talmidei Chachamim and their families, which will be distributed by me on Purim day please click link below. Thank you for your participation in this great Mitzvah and Tizkeh L'Mitzvos!
No PayPal account is necessary to donate; donations can be processed as regular secure Credit Card donations.
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 eating chicken and milk only prohibited D'Rabanan?
Answer:
The Biblical prohibition of Basar B'Chalav applies only to animal meat and not to Chicken, which is a prohibition added by the Chachamim. (See Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah Siman 87:3)
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
The ,ukhp, said on Purim are sure to be answered. Purim, more than any other day of the year-is a day to daven. Daven with all your heart, for all you need. Daven for yourself, for your family, and for the Jewish People.
"On Purim each year, Hashem sends us the same help as He sent by the miracle of Purim. Whatever prayers sent to Hashem by Bnei Yisrael are accepted."(Divrei Yechezkel)
Our Chachamim tell us that just as Hashem rescued us on that first Purim, so He stands ready to rescue us every Purim. Normally, the Halacha tells us to check people out before we give them tzedakah, but on Purim we give to whoever asks.
So too with Hashem and our ,ukhp,. Hashem answers whoever davens to Him-without looking if they deserve it.
There is so much we can accomplish with our ,ukhp,, especially on Purim. We can daven to Hashem to make all of the Jewish people who are sick better and to help the people who are poor.
On the first Purim, the Jews accepted the Torah on themselves again-just like by Matan Torah. They showed that they want to do Hashem's will. Purim is a very special day for us to accept the Torah and Mitzvot on ourselves and to show Hashem we want to do what He says.
"We read in the Megilla, 'These days are remembered and fulfilled.' The day of Purim is remembered by Hashem, so that all requests are fulfilled."(Torat Emet)
Every day we stand before Hashem with all of our faults and mistakes. On Purim we are free of these burdens. We come to Hashem like children to their father and He answers us out of His love for us, His children.
Make sure you use this special power of tefillah-by davening on Purim!
Submitted by daily reader Zev; written by Chasida Gross on www.Chinuch.org
1) Upon the completion of the reading of the Megilah, it is customary to recite the Bracha of "Baruch Ata... HaRav Es Riveinu"
One who is reading the Megilah alone, and not with a Minyan does not recite this Bracha (Rama Siman 692:1)
However, an individual may recite this Bracha if he wants to, without Shem U'Malchus (Hashem's name), as there are opinions that an individual does indeed recite it (Elya Raba citing the opinion of the MaHaril and others. See Biur Halacha Siman 692 Dibur Hamaschil Ela B'tzibur)
2) The one reading the Megilah must have in mind to satisfy his obligation to do the Mitzvah.
Likewise, he must have in mind to exempt those listening to his reading, with the Brachos as well as with the reading. (Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 141:13)
The ones listening must also have in mind to exempt themselves with the reading, and the Brachos, of the Ba'al Koreh. (ibid.)
If one came to Shul specifically in order to read or hear the Megilah even though he didn't have specific intent, we consider the fact that he came for this reason, as his Kavanah, and he has satisfied his obligation ,even L'Chatchilah according to some Poskim (See Mishna Berura Siman 589:16 and Siman 690:49)
** ** ** **
To participate in our Matanos L'Evyonim Campaign benefitting two Talmidei Chachamim and their families, which will be distributed by me on Purim day please click link below. Thank you for your participation in this great Mitzvah and Tizkeh L'Mitzvos!
No PayPal account is necessary to donate; donations can be processed as regular secure Credit Card donations.
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:
May a person be motzei (exempt) someone else in the bracha acharona of Borei Nefashos?
Answer:
Although its best for each person to recite Borei Nefashos themselves, in cases of necessity (e.g. they don't know how to say it themselves or they are not well and thus unable to say it themselves) as long as the one reciting it has in mind to exempt the one listening and the one listening has in mind to be exempted, it woks.
Ideally, if possible for the one listening to say along with the one saying it that would be best. (See Mishna Berura Siman 213:9. See also Sha'ar hatziyun there Os 7 that this will only work if they both sat and ate together)
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
Every Yom Tov, says the gemara in Pesachim (68b), is "Chetzyoi LaShem V'Chetyoi Lachem". Of course it is all for Hashem but our celebration has two parts. One part in pure spiritual devotion like davening and learning and the other part is more earthly through eating (albeit with the goal of Kiddush Hashem).
What about Yom Kippur, where is the Chetzyoi Lachem as we are wrapped in talis and fast all day? The Vilna Gaon answers that the Lachem part of Yom Kippur is Purim. Purim is the completion of Yom Kippur. It is the physical half. Moreover say Chazal, Purim is the holier half as Yom Kippur is only Yom "K"Purim a day whose kedusha only approaches the incredible kedusha of Purim.
Rav Shimshon Pincus says that some Meforshim explain the connection between the two with the Chazal that says "Kol HaPoshet Yad Nosnim Lo". Just like on Purim where we are obligated to give tzedaka to whoever stretches out his hand, so to on Yom Kippur Hashem gives us whatever we ask for. Purim is a day where Hashem also gives whatever we ask and is more effective than Yom Kippur when we need to fast and daven to get it. Purim we can be in a state of obliviousness "Ad D'Lo Yadah" and still get what we need.
Rav Shimshon Pincus himself offers that there are three days of celebration of Matan Torah during the year. Shavuos where we celebrate the first Luchos with the hearing of them on Har Sinai, Yom Kippur when we received the second luchos, and Purim when we finally accepted the Torah by our own volition without being forced. This was the most joyous kabalas HaTorah that came from a physical revelation that the torah is in our best earthy and heavenly interest. That is why on this Kabalas HaTorah we celebrate in a most earthly way.
1) When reading the Megilah on Purim eve, three Brachos are recited before the reading commences. The three Brachos are:
1) Baruch Ata... Al Mikra Megilah.
2) Baruch Ata... SheAsah Nisim L'Avoseinu...
3) Baruch Ata...SheHechiyanu V'KiYemanu...
These three blessings are recited regardless if the Megilah is being read with a minyan, in Shul or if it is being read by one individual by himself at home.
2) When reading the Megilah again on Purim day, most who follow Ashkenazic customs repeat all 3 Brachos. (as per the Rama Siman 692:1)
Those who follow the Sephardic customs, as well as those who follow the Gaon of Vilna, do not repeat the third Bracha of "SheHechiyanu" at the day reading. (As per the Shulchan Aruch ibid. and Gr"a in Ma'aseh Rav)
Even those who do say the "SheHechiyanu" again, should have in mind when doing so that the Bracha should go on the other Mitzvos of Purim [i.e. Mishloach Manos, Matanos L'Evyonim and the Seudas Purim] as well as on the re-reading of the Megilah.
In many Shuls, indeed, the custom is for the Rabbi or the Gabbai to announce that everyone have this intent when hearing the bracha of SheHechiyanu. (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 141:12)
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 use whipped cream on Shabbos from the bottles that make it from a liquid to a solid when it gets sprayed out?
Answer:
According to many Poskim it is indeed prohibited to discharge this whip cream from the bottle as doing so changes the liquid into a solid and thus violates "Molid", the prohibition to create a new entity on Shabbos. (Psak quoted in "The Shabbos Kitchen" by Rav Simcha Bunim Cohen Shlita in the name of the Debreciner Rav Zatzal, Rav Yechezkel Roth shlita, Rav Menashe Klein Shlita and Rav Shmuel Felder Shlita)
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
Supporting Talmidei Chachomim is the obligation of every Jew. It is not Tzedaka but rather payment for their service of learning Torah for us, as we are all obligated to learn.
Sefer HaChaim by the brother of the Maharal of Prague
Submitted by daily reader K.J.; Taken from www.revach.net
Monday
2nd Day Rosh Chodesh Adar II, 5771
March 7 , 2011
Today's Halachos dedicated by Y. Dobelsky L'Ilui Nishmas her mother, Leah bat Pinchas Yecheskel, whose Yahrtzeit is today Rosh Chodesh Adar. May her Neshama continue to climb higher and higher in Gan Eden and may she be a Meilitzah Yosher for her entire family.
1) The obligation of Megilah for women is different than the obligation for men, in that women are only obligated to "hear" the Megilah, whereas men are obligated to "read" the Megilah.
In fact, according to many Poskim, when a man reads the Megilah for a woman, or if a woman reads the Megilah herself, the Bracha she recites is not "Boruch Ata Hashem...Al Mikra Megilah- on the reading of the Megilah" rather she says "Boruch Ata...LiShmoa Mikra Megila- on the hearing of the reading of Megilah" (Ram"a Siman 689:2 and Mishna Berura S"K 8. This is also the opinion of the Chayei Adam. However, the opinion of the Gaon of Vilna quoted in Ma'aseh Rav, as well as the Pri Chadash 689:2 and others is that even women make "Al Mikra Megila")
Being that the obligation of women is not the same as men, a woman may not read the Megila for men.She may, however, read the Megilah for another woman. (Mishna Berura ibid. S" K 7).
However, according to some Poskim, a woman may not read the Megilah for an entire group of women. (Sha'ar Hatzion ibid. Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, however, allowed a woman to read for a group of women; see Halichos Shlomo page 330 in footnote 4)
L'Chatchilah, however, a woman should not read the Megila herself, rather she should hear it from a man, if at all possible. (Mogen Avraham quoted in Mishna Berura ibid. S" K 8)
2) All the Halachos of reading the Megila (many of which we will iy"H learn in the near future) that apply to men, apply to women as well. Therefore, a woman who went to Shul to hear the Megilah but could not hear clearly, and missed a few [or more] words, should hear it again when she gets home [from a man reading from a kosher Megilah].(Though, If she says the missed words on her own from a Chumash, and catches up to the Ba'al Koreh, that is fine, and it isn't necessary to hear the Megilah again)
Alternatively, if the women possesses a kosher Megila, she should bring it to Shul and quietly read along as the Ba'al Koreh is reading, thus ensuring that she doesn't miss even one word from a Kosher Megilah. (Pri Megadim, Aishel Avraham, Siman 689:11.)
However, one (man or woman) that does not have a kosher Megilah, and is following along in a printed Megilah, should not read along with the Ba'al Koreh. (Chayei Adam Klal 155:17)
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 halachic basis for a kallah having a shomeret on the day of her wedding?
Is the kallah not allowed to be alone at all on her wedding day? Does one specific person have to be designated as a shomeret or as long as she is with someone (ex: hairdresser, mother, sister) then its ok?
Answer:
Yes, indeed there is a halachic as well as a Kabbalistic basis that necessitates a shomeret for a Kallah (and a shomer for a Chasan) on the day of the wedding (and possibly the entire week of Sheva Brachos).
It doesn't have to be the same person, as long as someone is around, she isnt alone.
She may be alone in her room if other people are home. But she shouldn't be home alone or go out in the street alone.
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
Bitachon
Many people think that bitachon (trust in Hashem) means; I'll pray to G-d then sit back and G-d will do the work for me.
That isn't bitachon...that is laziness. Bitachon means that one takes responsibility for one's life, and accepts Hashem's response as correct and healthy for them, whether or not on the face of it the response appears to be correct and healthy.
I know that often I have lacked faith in Hashem; things have gone "wrong" and try as we might things continued to go "wrong". I would become angry, did not want to pray, felt that life was horrific and we were abandoned by G-d.
And then I would let go...of the anger and the fear. Okay, this is the way Hashem wants it. Deep breath. Not getting paid for months at a time ended up with my being paid at just the moment that we needed to be paid. The fridge dying ended up at the perfect time for us to get a new fridge.
I trust Hashem. That is where I put my faith. I do not put my faith in the governments or in any political party or leader. I trust Hashem. That doesn't mean I lie back and wait for it. I'm in a partnership here.
I work. I put my nose to the grindstone. I heave and ho and I struggle.
But what I mean by bitachon is I give up the fear and the anger and the worry and the concern...and trust that what is happening is for my good no matter how bleak it appears at the moment.
Bitachon is not a work free life; it is not a life free of thought or consideration. It is a life free of fear.
Sunday
1st Day Rosh Chodesh Adar II, 5771
March 6 , 2011
1)The Megilah of Esther, containing the events that lead up to the miracle of Purim, is read on Purim twice, once on the eve of Purim and once again on Purim morning (This year on Motzaei Shabbos, March 19 and Sunday morning March 20)
Every Jewish male and female must hear the Megilah being read, preferably in Shul.
Children who are old enough to quietly listen to the entire Megilah should also come to Shul to hear the Megilah (Shulchan Aruch Siman 689:6. See Mishna Berura S"K 18 that those who bring very young children to Shul for the express purpose of "banging" by Haman, and by doing so they disturb everyone else during the rest of the Megilah, are not being Mekayem the Mitzvah of Chinuch)
Once the time for the Megilah reading arrives, eating, sleeping or doing any work is prohibited before the Megilah is read, unless one must eat something for health reasons. Learning Torah is permitted before the Megilah is read. (Mogen Avraham Siman 692:7)
2) It is a Mitzvah -for both men and women- to hear the Megilah as part of a large congregation (B'rov Am Hadras Melech), as this way the "Pirsumei Nisa- the spreading of the miracle of Hashem" will be greater. Thus, one [who doesn't belong to any one Shul] should choose the largest Shul in his/her city or neighborhood and hear the Megilah there. (See Mishna Berura Siman 687:7)
However, if one is part of a Shul, and always davens there, there is no need to find a larger Shul. (Chayei Adam quoted in Mishna Berura ibid.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. 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:
Are there any hakpodos (halachic concerns) about buying something in a pawn shop?
Answer:
If you have reason to believe that the item being purchased is stolen ( the price is too good to be true, the shop in question doesnt have such a good reputation, or if the item being sold shouldn't be in such a shop, e.g. Tefilin, Mezuzos and other holy items) it should not be bought, as doing so may be considered assisting a thief, which is prohibited. (See Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 356:1)
If you already purchased the item, according to many opinions you may keep it as the sale is valid based on the fact that even if it was stolen goods the owner probably gave up on ever getting it back (a halachic concept referred to as "Yiush"). Additionally, the fact that the it is no longer in the actual thief's posession ( a halachic concept referred to as "Shinui Reshus") (See Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 353:3)
For halacha L'ma'aseh, of course, 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
There are many challenges when it comes to dressing properly. I recently read this mashal and thought it would help those who are having a hard time choosing the right things to wear. I'm curious to hear what you think about this since it's a very touchy topic and sometimes girls are not given the proper hashkafos and direction about this special mitzvah of tznius.
Did you ever see little kids looking at their parents albums? They'll all be saying the same thing. Oh my! Look at those hairstyles, look at those clothes...That's SO odd! How could you ever wear such styles?
It's all in whose looking at it.
So now, try to picture the celestial judges looking at you in the album. Realize that those short skirts really don't look so cute anymore! The things that are so in style and trendy down here on this world are viewed in a whole different light in the next world!!
Does this change your perspective in any way? Do you think this thought can help you dress properly in the future?
Written and Submitted by daily reader; Taken from her "Inspire Yourself" website.
Erev Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Pekudei; Parshas Shekalim;ShabbosChazak;Machar Chodesh; Mevorchim Chodesh Adar II (Rosh Chodesh on Sunday and Monday)
28 Adar I, 5771
March 4 , 2011
1) The obligation to give Machtzis HaShekel is for all males over the age of 20, and according to some opinions for all males over the age of 13.
However, the prevalent custom is for every father to give a separate "Half" coin (or 3 coins) for each of his male children, and if his wife is pregnant, to give for the unborn child as well. (See Mishna Berura 694:5)
2) Women are exempt from giving Machtzis HaShekel (Mishna Maseches Shekalim Perek 1:3)
However, some Poskim bring the custom to indeed give Machtzis HaShekel for the women [as well as the female children] in the household. (Leket Yosher and Levush Siman 686)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) "Machtzis HaShekel" may not be given from Ma'aser money, as Ma'aser may not be used for obligations. (Shu"t Bais Dino Shel Shlomo Yoreh Deah Siman 1. See also Sefer Tzedaka U'mishpat Perek 6 footnote 37. See also Mogen Avraham Siman 694:1 in the name of the Shel"a HaKadosh)
However, the "Machtzis Hashekel" that is given on behalf of boys below the age of 13, females or on behalf of anyone who isn't halachically obligated and is only giving based on the custom, may be given from Ma'aser money. (See Elya Rabbah and Yosef Ometz Siman 686)
2) The money raised for "Machtzis Hashekel" (which today's days is only a commemoration of the real Machtzis Hashekel in the times of the Bais Hamikdash, which was used for purchasing Korbanos) should ideally be distributed to poor people, preferably for use for their Purim Seudah. (See Siddur Ya'avetz quoting the Levush Siman 686.)
If no poor people are present, the money can be held until a later date when a poor person can be located [or M'Ikar Hadin it can be given to any charitable cause.] (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 694:4)
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:
Is a person allowed to hold off on some of the morning brachos (i.e. She'asah Li kol Tzarchi / shelo asani goy etc.) and save them for later in the day to invigorate him, i.e. If he is depressed and needs a chizuk, he recites one of those brachos.
I heard a story of a chasidishe rebbe who was depressed and burst out one of the brachos (possibly before tefillah mind you) but thought that is a great idea!
Answer:
Although it is best if said in the morning before davening, all the Birchos Hashachar (with the exception of "Al Netilas Yadayim" and according to some Poskim the Bracha of "Elokai Neshama") must be said after davening if they weren't recited before davening. (See Rama Siman 51:1 and Mishna Berura S"K 9)
If they may be said at any time during the day as opposed to immediately after davening,from the language of the Poskim it seems that they should be said as soon as possible.
There are other Tefilos etc. which can be said anytime throughout the day if you need Chizuk and need to connect to Hashem.
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
Question:
In general, there's a principle, Godol Hameaseh Yoser Mi Haoseh, if you cause others to do things, to do good deeds, it's even greater than the one who did the good deeds. So how does that jive with the statement that Godol Haoneh Amen Yoser Min Hamevoraich. The one who answers Amen, that's a result of the man who made the Bracha, the man who made the Bracha is causing him to say Amen, so how could the answer of Amen be greater than the one who made the Bracha, who caused him to say Amen?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
Now I'll say as follows: First of all, Godol Hameaseh, if a person causes somebody to do a Mitzvah, this person is the originator; the one who does the Mitzvah is the follower. It's very good to be a follower of a good teacher. But to be an originator of a good thought is even a greater merit, and that's why the first one who tells somebody, 'do this,' he's the originator. If you follow him, you have a great merit but you're secondary to the merit of the pioneer who told you to do it.
Now, in the case of answering Amen, a different element enters here. If you're ever in the synagogue in the morning and some people demonstratively make Brachos in the morning, and you're saying your own Brachos, it's a big nuisance to you. It disturbs you. He's saying the whole list of Brachos and you're wasting time; you have to wait and answer Amen to him. So you're saying, "Who told you to say your Brachos so loud? Why don't you say it quietly, I have to say my own Brachos. Just because you want to say a Bracha I have to answer Amen?" If you're nice enough, despite the nuisance, the bother, you listen and you answer Amen too, that's a different story, now you are yielding to somebody's desires. He wants to say Brachos and you're nice enough to let him have his way, and you say Amen, so that's a different story.
That's why Gadol, it's greater if you answer because, I didn't want him to make the Brachos, he's making the Brachos. I've got my own business to do, and he is intruding on my time by saying the Brachos. So I have to stop what I'm doing and answer Amen. That's why there it's greater, because you're holding back your impatience at him. Holding back your impatience and cooperating with him because he wants to do something good, that's even greater.
Thursday
27 Adar I, 5771; Yom Kippur Katan Mukdam
March 3 , 2011
1) On Ta'anis Esther, before Mincha, It is customary to give a "Half" coin to Tzedaka to commemorate the "Machtzis Hashekel, the Half Shekel" that each Jew was obligated to give [in the times of the Bais HaMikdash] to the communal fund from which the Korban Tamid (sacrificial lamb that was offered each morning and evening] was purchased.
In the Parsha of "Machtzis HaShekel" (Parshas Ki Sisa)it says the word "Terumah" three times. Therefore, many have the custom to give 3 "Half coins". (Tashbatz Siman 173 based on the Mordechai in the first Perek of Maseches Megilah, also brought in Ram"a Siman 694:1).
Others, however, have the custom to only give one "half" coin. (Opinion of the Gaon of Vilna)
2) The "Half" coin that is used varies from country to country. In the United States, the accepted custom is to use a "Half Dollar coin" (which is referred to as "Half a dollar). Each person should use the "Half" coin that is used in their respective country.
If one lives in a country that does not have a "Half" coin, he should give one coin(or 3 coins, if following the Minhag to give 3) and think in his mind that half of the coin should be for the obligation of commemorating "Machtzis HaShekel" and the other half should simply be Tzedaka. (See Biur Halacha Siman 694 Dibur HaMaschil V'yesh Liten Shlosha. See also Shu"t Minchas Elazar Vol. 1 Siman 30)
Aneinu presents:
Yom Kippur Katan Tehilim Teleconference for Women and Girls
Featuring Divrei Chizuk from Rabbi Fischel Schechter followed by Tehillim.
Thursday, March 3, at 1:00 p.m. EST.
Call 212-990-8000, Access code: 6060 #
Perokim that will be recited: 20, 83, 121, 130, 142 and 100.
They can be downloaded from Artscroll here.
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 question I am curious about: on Friday night when singing Shalom Aleichem, why do we (not all people, but most people) say each line 3 times?
Answer:
The "Shalom Aleichem" was authored based on the Talmud (Shabbos 119b) that says that each person has two malachim (angels) escort him home from shul each friday night, one a good angel and one a bad angel.
When they enter the home they check for three things: 1) candles burning 2) the Shabbos table set and 3) the beds are nicely made up.
If the three things are found as they should be, the good angel blesses the home that it should be this way the following week as well, and the bad angel is forced to answer "amen" to this Bracha. If the three things are not found, the bad malach curses the home, saying that it should be unready for shabbos the following week as well, and the good angel is forced to answer "Amen"
The "3" times we repeat each verse of the shalom Aleichem are symbolic of the "3" things above that each Jewish home should have prepared in honor of the holy shabbos day. (Based on the writings of the Ya'avetz in his siddur)
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
What should every Shabbos Seudah contain? The renowned Mechanech, Rabbi Dovid Finkelman, Shlita teaches that a Yerushalmi Tzaddik told him that one should not allow his Seudah to be diverted, and that accordingly no Seudah should miss:
a. Niggunim;
b. A meaningful story which reinforces everyone's Emunah and Emunas Chachomim;
c. A Devar Torah; and
d. A Devar Halachah--over time, hundreds and hundreds of halachos are learned, reviewed and discussed.
The great lesson from the Yerushalmi Tzaddik is that the Shabbos Seudah is an incredible opportunity--not only for quality time and Oneg Shabbos--but for growing spiritually. The Shabbos Seudah, in a wonderful sense, is able to combine the Olam HaZeh comforts with the Olam Haba aspirations--bringing us to Menucha VeSimcha!
Submitted by daily reader, C.S.; Taken from www.Hakhel.info
Thursday
27 Adar I, 5771; Yom Kippur Katan Mukdam
March 3 , 2011
1) On Ta'anis Esther, before Mincha, It is customary to give a "Half" coin to Tzedaka to commemorate the "Machtzis Hashekel, the Half Shekel" that each Jew was obligated to give [in the times of the Bais HaMikdash] to the communal fund from which the Korban Tamid (sacrificial lamb that was offered each morning and evening] was purchased.
In the Parsha of "Machtzis HaShekel" (Parshas Ki Sisa)it says the word "Terumah" three times. Therefore, many have the custom to give 3 "Half coins". (Tashbatz Siman 173 based on the Mordechai in the first Perek of Maseches Megilah, also brought in Ram"a Siman 694:1).
Others, however, have the custom to only give one "half" coin. (Opinion of the Gaon of Vilna)
2) The "Half" coin that is used varies from country to country. In the United States, the accepted custom is to use a "Half Dollar coin" (which is referred to as "Half a dollar). Each person should use the "Half" coin that is used in their respective country.
If one lives in a country that does not have a "Half" coin, he should give one coin(or 3 coins, if following the Minhag to give 3) and think in his mind that half of the coin should be for the obligation of commemorating "Machtzis HaShekel" and the other half should simply be Tzedaka. (See Biur Halacha Siman 694 Dibur HaMaschil V'yesh Liten Shlosha. See also Shu"t Minchas Elazar Vol. 1 Siman 30)
Aneinu presents:
Yom Kippur Katan Tehilim Teleconference for Women and Girls
Featuring Divrei Chizuk from Rabbi Fischel Schechter followed by Tehillim.
Thursday, March 3, at 1:00 p.m. EST.
Call 212-990-8000, Access code: 6060 #
Perokim that will be recited: 20, 83, 121, 130, 142 and 100.
They can be downloaded from Artscroll here.
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 question I am curious about: on Friday night when singing Shalom Aleichem, why do we (not all people, but most people) say each line 3 times?
Answer:
The "Shalom Aleichem" was authored based on the Talmud (Shabbos 119b) that says that each person has two malachim (angels) escort him home from shul each friday night, one a good angel and one a bad angel.
When they enter the home they check for three things: 1) candles burning 2) the Shabbos table set and 3) the beds are nicely made up.
If the three things are found as they should be, the good angel blesses the home that it should be this way the following week as well, and the bad angel is forced to answer "amen" to this Bracha. If the three things are not found, the bad malach curses the home, saying that it should be unready for shabbos the following week as well, and the good angel is forced to answer "Amen"
The "3" times we repeat each verse of the shalom Aleichem are symbolic of the "3" things above that each Jewish home should have prepared in honor of the holy shabbos day. (Based on the writings of the Ya'avetz in his siddur)
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk For Today:
What should every Shabbos Seudah contain? The renowned Mechanech, Rabbi Dovid Finkelman, Shlita teaches that a Yerushalmi Tzaddik told him that one should not allow his Seudah to be diverted, and that accordingly no Seudah should miss:
a. Niggunim;
b. A meaningful story which reinforces everyone's Emunah and Emunas Chachomim;
c. A Devar Torah; and
d. A Devar Halachah--over time, hundreds and hundreds of halachos are learned, reviewed and discussed.
The great lesson from the Yerushalmi Tzaddik is that the Shabbos Seudah is an incredible opportunity--not only for quality time and Oneg Shabbos--but for growing spiritually. The Shabbos Seudah, in a wonderful sense, is able to combine the Olam HaZeh comforts with the Olam Haba aspirations--bringing us to Menucha VeSimcha!
Submitted by daily reader, C.S.; Taken from www.Hakhel.info
1) When Purim falls out on Sunday, as it does this year, And thus the 13th of Adar, Ta'anis Esther, falls on Shabbos, the fast is held Mukdam, earlier, on the previous Thursday (This year, on March 17 2011) as we do not fast on Shabbos nor are public fasts [with the exception of Asara B'Teves] held on Erev Shabbos.
In the event that one forgot to fast on a Ta'anis Esther Mukdam, he should fast on the following day, Friday. (See Mishna Berura Siman 686:3 and Sha'arei Teshuva 686:1)
2) If a Bris Milah falls out on Ta'anis Esther Mukdam the Seudah may be celebrated and all those attending may eat. (Rama Siman 686:2 and Mishna Berura S"K 7. The Mishna Berura also brings the view of the Taz and the Elya Rabbah who maintain that only the Ba'alei Bris [the parents of the child, the Sandek and the Mohel, see Rama Siman 555:8] may eat.)
However, all who ate at the Bris, must fast on the following day. (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:
I am cleaning out old stuff and I have a whole bag of dried out old esrogim.
I know that some of them have Kedushas Shvi'is(i.e they are from Eretz Yisrael and were grown in the Shemitah year and thus may not be discarded).
I used to use them as decorations but now i want to throw them out. If they are all dried up is it a problem to dispose shmitah produce in a regular manner?
Answer:
Once they are dried up and not edible anymore they no longer have Kedushas Shvi'is and may be disposed of. They should, however, be disposed of respectfully (e.g. in a bag and on top of the garbage can and not mixed in with the regular garbage) as a Mitzvah was performed with them.
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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
Important Numbers
