Erev Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Ki Setzei
August 20 2010
10 Elul 5770; 20 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
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SPECIAL DOUBLE PORTION L'KAVOD SHABBOS
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1) Upon seeing the cities of Yehuda in ruins, one should say "Arei Kadshecha Hayu Midbar, Your holy cities turned into deserts" and then tear their garment (Kriah). (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 561:1. See Sha'arei Teshuva who quotes an opinion that this may not include Chevron which may have a status of Arei Miklat and not Arei Yehuda. He seems, however, to reject this exclusion.)
Upon seeing the city of Yerushalayim in ruins one should say "Tzion Haysah Midbar Shemama, Zion has become a desolate desert" and then tear their garment. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 561:2)
Upon seeing the place where the Bais Hamikdash once stood (including seeing the Kosel Hama'aravi),
one should say "Bais Kadsheinu V'Sifarteinu Asher Halelucha Bo Avoseinu Haya L'Sreifas Aish V'Chal Machmadeinu Haya L'Charava, Our holy and glorious house in which our forefathers praised you[Hashem], was burned down by fire and our entire splendor was destroyed" and then tear their garment. (ibid.)
The above applies as long as there is no Jewish sovereignty, even if Jews reside in the cities. (Mishna Berura S"K 2)
2) One who enters the place of the Bais HaMikdash today's days is subject to Kares (heavenly death penalty) as we all have the status of Tamei Meisim, spiritually impure, until Moshiach arrives to purify us, [may it be soon]. (Mishna Berura S"K 5)
A new Kriah is necessary each time any of the above places was not seen in 30 days. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 561:5)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) When tearing the garment, it must be done with the hand and while standing. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 561:4. Some Poskim allow using a knife to aide in the tearing. See Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 1 Siman 331)
When performing Kriah (tearing), the garment must be ripped at least a Tefach (3-4 inches) and ideally all the way until the place of the heart is exposed. (ibid. See also Hagahos Rav Akiva Eiger on this Halacha.)
2) The Kriah should be done on the left side, as that is the side of the heart.
Thus, left handed people also tear the left side. (Mishna Berura S"K 13)
The aforementioned procedure applies as well when tearing the garments upon the passing of a parent R"L. (See Taz Yoreh Deah Siman 340:6)
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
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BESURA TOVA!
We are pleased to announce the release the new Halacha Sefer written by one of our daily readers, Rabbi Ari Enkin, "Halacha Bilvad: Insights & Responsa".
Halacha Bilvad discusses over 100 contemporary halachic issues in a very clear manner and cites poskim from across the orthodox spectrum. The style is very clear, articulate, and engaging. There are over 2000 maarei mekomot! It's been called "An experience and education in Halacha like no other"
Among the many topics discussed include:
Transporting a Torah
Weddings: Minhagim/Halachos
Mixed Seating at Simchas
Responding to Letters
Dangerous Sports/Activities
Family Planning
Forty Days at the Kotel
Kiddush Between 6 pm - 7 pm
Magic
Nittel Nacht
Chess
.....and much much more!
Haskamos to the sefer (specific to this volume) include:
This sefer will NOT be available in stores or on-line.
A limited number of copies of Rabbi Enkin's previous sefarim "Dalet Amot", and "Amot Shel Halacha" are available as well.
Checks can be sent to him at the following address :
Rechov Nachal Dolev 31/15
Ramat Beit Shemesh
ISRAEL
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Rabbi Enkin can be reached at rabbiari@hotmail.com
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
My friend recently stated that Sefardim are not allowed to mix Fish and Dairy products together and Ashkenazim are.
Is that a true statement?
Answer:
Yes, your friend is correct in that many sephardic Poskim rule like the Bais Yosef (Orach Chaim Siman 173) that eating dairy and fish together is a health risk and thus prohibited.
Other Sephardic Poskim, including the Chida, maintain that the Bais Yosef never ruled this way for dairy and fish , rather it was only a ruling for meat and fish. The Kaf HaChaim (Yoreh Deah Siman 87:24) differentiates between milk and butter and also writes that the danger that existed in certain times and places from mixing milk and fish possibly no longer exists today.
Rav Ovadia Yosef (Yechaveh Da'as Vol. 6 Siman 48) is stringent and rules to avoid fish and dairy.
Ashkenazim follow the lenient view and rule that there is no problem and thus lox and cream cheese (and any other fish and dairy) can be enjoyed without a problem.(See Shach Yoreh Deah Siman 87:5)
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
For the next few days we will focus on some relevant areas of the Halachos of Teshuva (laws of repentance).
There are 3 main Yesodos (foundations) necessary to accomplish true Teshuva, and the 3 are broken down (by Rabeinu Yonah in Sefer Shaarei Teshuva) into 20 Ikarim (more detailed), different aspects to achieve a proper and everlasting Teshuva.
The 3 main Yesodos are 1)Charata (regret), 2)Vidui (verbally enumerating one's sins), and 3) Azivas HaChet (Letting go of the sin and resolving to never repeat it).
2) The first 5 of the 20 Ikarim (I am using the list brought in Sefer Chareidim, based on the Rabbeinu Yonah) are as follows:
#1) Regret your bad deeds and say to yourself "what have I done? How could I have not feared Hashem's anger and fury?"
#2) Let go of the sin. Let the evildoer resolve truthfully with his/her whole heart to never repeat the sin until his/her dying day. The resolve should be so strong that the One who knows our deepest and darkest thoughts [Hashem] will be able to testify that we will never transgress that particular sin again.
#3) Your entire being (body and soul) should tremble and feel pained and bitter for having angered your Creator who is the Creator of the sun, moon, sky, earth and everything else!
#4) Do something tangible to express your pain, such as fasting, crying and lamenting for your sins.
#5) Worry and fear about the punishment that you will get for your sins; how bad things will come over you because of them. Figure out how to do proper Teshuva to rescue yourself from the punishment.
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
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Thursday
August 19 2010
9 Elul 5770; 21 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
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Today's Halachos are dedicated by a daily reader, Hindy, as a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of Avraham Moshe ben Miriam Tova B'Soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, a 4 year old boy who is afflicted with the dreaded disease which has spread to his brain and his spine R"L . Please daven and learn and give Tzedakah in his merit.
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1)On Pesach, at the Seder, there is a Mitzvah to eat while leaning (B'Heseiva) to demonstrate Cheirus, freedom. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 472:2)
The leaning should not be forward, backward or to the right side, rather it must be done on the left side. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 472:3)
The reason for not leaning forward or backward is that doing so is not considered the way of Cheirus, freedom. (Mishna Berura 472:9)
There are two reasons for not leaning to the right side. One reason is that doing so will prevent the person from eating comfortably with his right hand. (Mishna Berura ibid. S"K 10)
According to this first reason alone, we may think that a left handed person would need to lean to the right side.
However, there is another [and more important] reason for leaning to the left, because a person's food pipe (trachea) is to the right and the air pipe is to the left, and when leaning to the right there is a chance that the cover of the air pipe will open and the food may get lodged in the wrong pipe and cause choking Chas V'Shalom. (Mishna Berura ibid.)
Therefore, there is no difference between lefties and righties and both need to lean to the left. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 472:3 and Mishna Berura S"K 11)
2) If a left handed person leaned to the right, B'dieved he has satisfied his obligation. (Mishna Berura ibid.)
If a right handed person leans to the right, according to some Poskim it is acceptable B'dieved, and according to others even B'dieved he has not satisfied his obligation. (Mishna Berura ibid. See also Kaf HaChaim Siman 472:23 and 48. See also Shu"t Hisorerus Teshuva Vol. 2 Siman 49)
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK 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:
I know that it is forbidden to call your parents by their first name, or even to refer to them by first name in conversation.
I, unfortunately, must daven for my sister, who was diasgnosed with [a disease], and my brother, who has just lost his parnasa, and I was wondering if I'm allowed to daven for them with my mother's name, or if there is something else I ought to say?
Answer:
When davening for a parent, the name of the parent should be said, just as Shlomo Hamelech prayed for his father saying "Dovid Avi, Dovid my father" (See Hagahos Rav Akiva Eiger to Shulchan Aruch 119:1)
Thus, when davening for a sibling, the mother's name may be said as well.
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
The Talmud (Rosh Hashana 17b) relates that Hashem Himself in all His glory wrapped Himself in a Tallis like a Ba'al Tefilah and appeared to Moshe Rabeinu and showed him the appropriate way for Klal Yisroel to pray (and earn the forgiveness of Hashem).
It was then that Hashem revealed to Moshe the "Yud Gimel Middos Shel Rachamim" (Tefilah containing the 13 attributes of mercy of Hashem), which we will say countless times in the Selichos , and is perhaps the most exalted and powerful prayer known to mankind.
Hashem told Moshe that whenever Klal Yisroel sins, they should pray for forgiveness using the expressions included in the 13 Middos Shel Rachamim, and He will forgive them! (see the above Gemara and Rashi at length for further details)
The following is a (loose) translation of the 13 Middos Shel Rachamim taken from the Sefer HaToda'ah by HaRav Eliyahu Ki Tov Zt"L based on the Gemara above. (There are many other interpretations by Rishonim , Acronim, and Mekubalim,on many different levels, but the following is the simplest and most concise way of understanding them.)
1) Hashem: "I am Hashem the merciful one before man sins, even though I know he will eventually sin"
2) Hashem: "I am the merciful one even after man sins [and repents] "
3) Kail: Kail is another expression of Hashem's Midas HaRachamim (attribute of mercy)
4) Rachum: "I have mercy on poor people"
5) V'Chanun: "and I have compassion for affluent people as well"
6) Erech Apayim: Hashem delays his anger and punishment and patiently awaits our Teshuva (repentance)
7) V'Rav Chesed: Hashem acts with compassion even to those without much of their own merits
8) V'Emes: Hashem rewards those who do His will
9) Notzer Chesed L'Alafim: Hashem remembers the Chesed that man does, for thousands of generations
10) Nosei Avon: Hashem carries mankind's sins (that were done intentionally) and holds on to them. (Doesn't punish right away)
11) V'Pesha: Hashem also carries mankind's defiant sins (that were done in rebellion)
12) V'ChaTa'ah: Hashem also carries mankind's unintentional sins (that were done inadvertently)
13) V'Nakeh Lo Yenakeh: Hashem wipes the slate (of sins) clean for those who repent, but not for those who remain unrepentant.
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Wednesday
August 18 2010
8 Elul 5770; 22 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
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1)Each Motzaei Shabbos during Havdalah, we light a candle [of at least 2 wicks] and recite the Bracha of "Baruch Ata Hashem....Borei Me'Orei Ha'Eish". (Shulchan Aruch Siman 298:1 and 2)
The reason for this is to commemorate the fact that Hashem created fire [i.e. gave Adam HaRishon the knowledge to rub two stones together to produce fire] on Motzaei Shabbos. (See Mishna Berura Siman 298:1 quoting the Talmud Pesachim 54)
It is customary to gaze at the palm of the hand and at the nails near the light of the Havdalah candle.
The fingers should be bent inwards into the palm and cover the thumb, so that the four remaining nails and the palm can be gazed at simultaneously. (Rama Siman 298:3 and Mishna Berura S"K 10)
There are three reasons for looking at the fingernails and the palm:
a) The light needs to be bright enough to enable one to discern between 2 coins, thus if one can differentiate between nail and skin, it shows that the flame is adequate.
b) The nails are a symbol of Bracha, blessing, as they continuously grow and thus we want to start the wee with an omen of blessing.
c) The palm of the hand has in it creases which contain within them symbols of Bracha. (See Mishna Berura Siman 298:9)
2) The cup of wine should be held in the left hand when the Bracha is recited and the nails and palm of the right hand should be gazed at and then the cup switched back to the right hand for the remainder of Havdalah. (Rama ibid. and Kaf HaChaim 298:21. See also Mishna Berura Siman 296:31)
May people have the custom after gazing at the nails of the right hand to then repeat the procedure and gaze at the nails and palm of the left hand.
This Minhag doesn't really have a basis in Halacha, and in fact according to kabalistic sources it is an ominous sign to gaze at the left hand as doing so may cause spiritual harm. (See Aruch HaShulchan Siman 298:68, Sefer Minhag Yisroel Torah Siman 298:1 and Likutei MaHarich, Havdalah. There are some sources who do justify this Minhag, and each individual should follow their custom or consult a Rav.)
Left handed people follow the same procedure and gaze at the nails and palm of the right hand. (If their custom is to gaze at both hands, the right hand still goes first) (See Darchei Moshe Siman 298)
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Correction to yesterday's halacha: The proper order for cutting the nails is as follows, not as it was written yesterday.
Start with the left hand as follows: ring finger, pointer, pinky, middle finger then the thumb.
Then move on to the right hand and cut the nail of pointer, ring finger, thumb,middle finger and then the pinky. (See Rama Siman 261:1 and Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman ibid. Some Poskim, including the Aruch HaShulchan, rule to start with the right hand but the prevalent Minhag is to begin with the left.)
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For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK 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:
How is davening (praying) the way to repentance?
Answer:
Teshuva is often interpreted as "repentance". Although, that's true in a sense, the actual definition of Teshuva is "Return", returning to Hashem.
When we sin we get distanced from Hashem, and that is the saddest thing that can happen to a human being, as closeness to Hashem, our Father, is the best thing for our souls.
When we do Teshuva, besides for regretting our sins and resolving to not repeat them, we must also heal the rift that we caused to happen between us and our Father in heaven.
When we daven, we are in essence talking to Hashem, and thus when done with sincerity we are becoming close to our Father again.
The closer we get, the better off we are.
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Written by a soldier from the civil war*
I asked G-d for strength that I might achieve,
I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey.
I asked for health that I might do greater things,
I was given infirmity that I might do better things.
I asked for riches that I might be happy,
I was given poverty that I might be wise.
I asked for power that I might have the praise of men,
I was given weakness that I might feel the need of G-d.
I asked for things that I might enjoy life,
I was given life that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing I asked for,
But everything I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered,
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.
Found in the book "Vistas Of Challenge" published by ArtScroll ; Submitted by a reader
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Tuesday
August 17 2010
7 Elul 5770; 23 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
Today's Halachos dedicated by E.N. L'Refuah Shelaima of Chaya Malka Bas Leah Frumit B'Soch Sh'ar Cholei Yisroel, who is undergoing some difficult surgery. Please Daven and Learn today on her behalf.
Your donation of $5, $10, $18, $36, $54 or ANY AMOUNT will make a BIG difference in keeping HALACHA FOR TODAY going and helping us reach more and more Jews around the globe!
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Thank you and Tizkeh L'Mitzvos!
If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos on this and other topics.
1)It is a Mitzvah to cut the nails of the hands in honor of Shabbos.
One should not cut the nails of his hands on the same day as cutting the nails of the toes. (Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 72:14)
It is best not to cut nails in order, as doing so can present a danger and cause one to forget their Torah learning.
Start with the left hand as follows: ring finger, thumb, middle finger, pinky and then the pointer.
Then move on to the right hand and cut the nail of pointer, ring finger, thumb, middle finger and then the pinky. (See Rama Siman 261:1 and Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman ibid. Some Poskim, including the Aruch HaShulchan, rule to start with the right hand but the prevalent Minhag is to begin with the left.)
There is no difference between left handed and right handed people in regard to the order of cutting nails.
2) After nails are cut they should be burned. Flushing them down the toilet is sufficient for them to be considered burnt.
The Talmud (Niddah 17a) says that a pregnant woman who steps on nails is in danger of losing her child Chas V'Shalom. The Gemara goes so far as to call one who doesn't dispose of his/her nails properly a Rasha, an evil person.
Although the Shulchan Aruch doesn't bring this Halacha directly, the Poskim do indeed quote the Gemara and seem to be very stringent with this Halacha L'Ma'aseh. (The Chazon Ish was extremely makpid with this as were many Gedolim.)
This only applies if the nails are in the place where they were dropped, but once they were moved, they are no longer a danger. Thus if one did cut their nails, it is important to sweep the area to make sure the nails move from where they fell.
(See Mogen Avraham beginning of Siman 260, Mishna Berura Siman 260:6 and Be'er Heitev 260:2)
This applies to a person's own nails as well. This also applies to nails of non Jews (See Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 8 Siman 88:1)
Although the Talmud seems to say that it is a danger only for pregnant women, the Zohar seems to say that it is a danger for anyone to walk on nails. (See Likutei MaHarich Seder Hanhagos Erev Shabbos Dibur Hamaschil V'Ayin B'Rama)
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The days from Rosh Chodesh Elul until after Hoshana Rabba are days of Hashem's Rachamim (mercy), Selicha (forgiveness) and Ratzon (goodwill). They are an extremely opportune time for Jews to find it within themselves to repent and atone for the sins that were transgressed in the past year and to accept upon themselves to live better lives, according to Halacha- the will of Hashem, in the year ahead.
Hashem is always waiting for his children to repent, but in Elul He is even closer to us and Teshuva is a lot easier.
It is never too late to jump on the bandwagon and start our journey of return to our Father in heaven, and hopefully, together, bring about the final redemption with Mashiach Tzidkeinu.
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK 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:
I have a few questions on the topic of Mechila.
First off, Is there any amount of time after which one can assume that the party that he has wronged has forgiven him?
Second, What should one do in the situation of Lashon Hara if he smiled, nodded, or just didn't protest when hearing someone speak Lashon Hara about another Jew? How should one go about asking Mechila from someone who probably will never know that he nodded or otherwise agreeed with a speaker of Lashon Hara?
What happens in the situation when a person speaks Lashon Hara about another, but the wronged party will never find out, unless the speaker asks for Mechila? What if this situation occurs, but the person simply listens or nods his head- must he ask Mechila from the wronged party whom would otherwise never know?
Answer:
No, there is no time period after which you can assume one has been Mochel a wrong against him/her. In fact, even after someone passes away, mechila needs to be sought from them by going to their grave with a Minyan of 10 people or such similar processes.
Regarding asking mechila for Lashon Hara related sins where one may possibly do futher harm by asking for it, see Q&A #358 here.
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
The Power of Vision
Chazal say that the heart and eyes can be two 'middlemen' for aveiros, for through them a person can be led to sin. Hashem tells a person, "If you give me your eyes, then you are mine!"
(ירושלמי ברכות פ"א ה"ה)
The Arizal says that eyesight connects a person with the subject of view, and whatever one sees has an impression on his נשמה, for good or for bad. This can be seen by an ostrich that can hatch its eggs just by looking at them.
(ס' הליקוטים פ' קדושים, קב הישר פ"ב)
The של"ה הקדוש writes that the eye of a Yid corresponds to the ruchniusdike 'eye' above (עין 'תחת' עין), and when a person guards his eyes and looks at proper things, his eyes will be brightened with kedusha. If however a person looks at improper things, he separates his eyes from the kedusha and causes a פגם (blemish) above.
(של"ה פרשת משפטים ד׳)
Submitted By M.F., taken from the Agudas Avreichei Lubavitch weekly email
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Monday
August 16 2010
6 Elul 5770; 24 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
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1)One should not sleep on his stomach nor on his back, rather on his side.
In the beginning of the night he should sleep on his left side and at the end of the night on his right side. (Rambam Hilchos Dei'os Perek 4 Halacha 5)
One of the reasons given for this is that the liver is on the right side and the stomach is on the left side, and thus when one sleeps on the left side, the liver's heat will warm the stomach and will help the digestive system. (Sefer Aleh L'Terufah quoted in Sefer HaLikutim back of the Shabsi Frankel edition of the Rambam. See also Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 71:5)
Another reason for the prohibition of sleeping on the back or on the stomach is to prevent embarrassing situations and/or nocturnal emissions while sleeping. (See Rashi to Brachos 13b Dibur Hamaschil Layit Aman. See also Pele Yoetz, "Yemin" and Shu"t Az Nidberu Vol. 6 Siman 50 regarding if these positions apply only to when going to sleep or to any time one lays down. See also Mishna Berura Siman 239:6 where he refers to sleeping on the back or stomach as an "Issur Gadol, a big sin")
Lastly, there are kabalistic reasons for not sleeping on the back and the stomach. (See Kaf HaChaim Siman 238:11)
2) This Halacha applies equally to men and women (as even though the second reason cited does not apply to women, the first and third reason do. Though for women it isn't considered a big sin if they do not follow this Halacha)
This Halacha also applies equally to right handed people and left handed people.
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The days from Rosh Chodesh Elul until after Hoshana Rabba are days of Hashem's Rachamim (mercy), Selicha (forgiveness) and Ratzon (goodwill). They are an extremely opportune time for Jews to find it within themselves to repent and atone for the sins that were transgressed in the past year and to accept upon themselves to live better lives, according to Halacha- the will of Hashem, in the year ahead.
Hashem is always waiting for his children to repent, but in Elul He is even closer to us and Teshuva is a lot easier.
It is never too late to jump on the bandwagon and start our journey of return to our Father in heaven, and hopefully, together, bring about the final redemption with Mashiach Tzidkeinu.
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
*****
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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 doing an activity with girls in day camp in which girls get blindfolded and taste foods. Before I put the food in their mouth, I will tell them to make the appropriate bracha.
Do they have to make a bracha on the following foods, and if yes, which bracha: salt, oil, cocoa, flour.
Which brachos should I tell them to make on: strawberry jam, honey, bamba (snack), klik (choc. balls with some crispy cookie or wafer-like substance inside), lasso (licorice)?
Answer:
The best thing to do would be for them to make the appropriate brachos on different foods first and have in mind to exempt whatever else you "serve" them.
However, since you asked, I will answer:
Salt: If enjoyed a bit, SheHakol, otherwise since it isnt a food that is eaten, even when one is extremely hungry no Bracha. (See Mishna Berura Siman 204:5)
Oil: If it's olive oil, and it isn't dangerous to drink it would be Borei Pri HaEitz. Other oil is SheHakol. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 202: 4 and 8)
Cocoa: SheHakol
Flour: It is no better than raw dough which according to most Poskim is SheHakol ( Some may rule Mezonos. A Rav should be consulted for halacha L'Ma'aseh)
Strawberry jam: SheHakol
Honey: SheHakol
Bamba:SheHakol
(according to some opinions, HaAdama)
Klik (choc. balls with some crispy cookie or wafer-like substance inside): Probably Mezonos, as the wafer is there for taste and not just for texture. A Rav should be consulted for halacha L'ma'aseh.
Lasso (licorice): Although it contains flour, it is only there as a binder to hold it together, and is not there to add to the taste or nutrition value, thus it isn't significant, according to most contemporary Poskim, and a Shehakol is recited. (There are some Poskim that rule to say Mezonos on certain licorices, so for halacha L'ma'aseh a Rav should be consulted)
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Mashal #1) The Hole In The Boat
A man was called to the beach to paint a boat. He brought his paint and brushes and began to paint the boat a bright, new red, as he was hired to do. As he painted the boat, he noticed that the paint was seeping through the bottom of the boat. He realized that there was a leak, and he decided to mend it. When the painting was done, he collected his money for the job and went away.
The following day the owner of the boat came to the painter and presented him with a large check. The painter was surprised. "You have already paid me for painting the boat," he said.
"But this is not for the paint job. It is for mending the leak in the boat."
"That was so small a thing that I even did not want to charge you for it. Surely you are not paying me this huge amount for so small a thing?"
"My dear friend, you do not understand. Let me tell you what happened."
"When I asked you to paint the boat I had forgotten to mention to you about the leak. When the boat was nice and dry, my children took the boat and went fishing. When I found that they had gone out in the boat, I was frantic for I remembered that the boat had a leak! Imagine my relief and happiness when I saw them coming back safe and sound. I examined the boat and saw that you had repaired the leak. Now you see what you have done? You have saved the lives of my children! I haven't enough money to repay you for your 'little' good deed..."
Mashal #2) A Piece of String
A wealthy merchant bought a wonderful candelabra for his home. It was a masterpiece, made of pure crystal and studded with precious stones. It cost a real fortune.
Because of the candelabra's massive size, the ceiling in the merchant's dining room could not support its weight. In order to hang this beautiful candelabrum, a hole was bored in the ceiling, through which a rope was run and fastened to a beam in the attic.
Everybody who came to the house admired the wonderful candelabra, and the merchant and his family were very proud of it.
One day a poor boy came begging for old clothes. He was told to go up to the attic, where their old clothes were stored, and to help himself to some. He went up to the attic, and collected a neat bundle of clothes. After packing them into his bag, he searched for a piece of string with which to tie it. He saw a rope wound around a nail and decided to help himself to a piece. So he took out his pocketknife and cut the rope.
Crash! There was a terrific smash, and the next moment the whole family rushed to the attic crying: "You idiot! Look what you have done! You have ruined us!"
The poor boy could not understand what all the excitement was about. He said: "What do you mean, ruined you? All I did was to take a small piece of rope. Surely this did not ruin you?"
"You poor fish," replied the merchant. "Yes, all you did was to take a piece of rope. But it so happened that my precious candelabra hung by it. Now you have broken it beyond repair!"
These two stories, my friends, have one moral: Very often, by doing what seems to us a "small" good deed we never know what wonderful thing we have really done. And conversely, in committing what seems to us a "small" transgression, we are causing a terrible catastrophe. Both good deeds and bad deeds cause a "chain reaction." One good deed brings another good deed in its succession, and one transgression brings another. Each of them, no matter how seemingly small, may create or destroy worlds. Don't you think these two stories are worth remembering?
Submitted By H.; written by Nissan Mindel at www.Chabad.org
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
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Thank you and Tizkeh L'Mitzvos!
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SPECIAL DOUBLE PORTION L'KAVOD SHABBOS KODESH
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1)When reciting a Bracha on a food/drink [or when reciting a Bracha before smelling Besamim] it is proper to hold the item in your hand, as doing so will lead to better Kavanah.
However, if the Bracha was recited without the item being in your hand, B'dieved it is an acceptable Bracha, as long as the item is in front of you. (Mishna Berura Siman 206:17)
2) Right handed people should hold the item in their right hand and left handed people should hold it in their left hands, as holding the item in the stronger hand is a sign of Chashivus, importance. (Mishna Berura 206:18 quoting Rav Akiva Eiger and the Mogen Avraham Siman 183)
The above does not apply to bread, as bread needs to be held with both hands (i.e. all ten fingers) when reciting Hamotzi. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 167:4 for the reasons)
The item should be held directly in the hands and not while wearing gloves.
Similarly, if the food is in a snack bag or the like, some of it should be removed and held in the hand not via the bag during the recital of the Bracha. (See Mishna Berura 167:23)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) If the food being eaten is normally eaten with a utensil (e.g. soup with a spoon or spaghetti in sauce with a fork) it can be held in the utensil while the Bracha is recited.
However, food that is not normally eaten with a utensil should not be held with a utensil while the Bracha is being said, as that is not respectful to the Bracha. (See Kaf HaChaim Siman 206:32. See also Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 8 Siman 28 regarding holding the food with a napkin in order to keep the hands clean.)
2) For Kabalistic reasons, it is best never to hold food with a metal knife.
According to some opinions, food should not be held with any knife, even plastic, as knives are a symbol of the opposite of life. (Mishna Berura Siman 206:18. See also Shulchan Aruch HaRav 206:8 and Kaf HaChaim 206:31 who says even a metal fork should not be used, however it is not the prevalent custom to be makpid on a fork)
*************
The days from Rosh Chodesh Elul until after Hoshana Rabba are days of Hashem's Rachamim (mercy), Selicha (forgiveness) and Ratzon (goodwill). They are an extremely opportune time for Jews to find it within themselves to repent and atone for the sins that were transgressed in the past year and to accept upon themselves to live better lives, according to Halacha- the will of Hashem, in the year ahead.
Hashem is always waiting for his children to repent, but in Elul He is even closer to us and Teshuva is a lot easier.
It is never too late to jump on the bandwagon and start our journey of return to our Father in heaven, and hopefully, together, bring about the final redemption with Mashiach Tzidkeinu.
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK 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:
I just davened mincha and for most of the brachos, the chazzan didn't leave even a tiny pause between finishing one bracha and starting then next one.
I heard that one needs to say Amen before the chazzan starts the next bracha and if he says it afterward, it is an Amen Yesoma.
First I want to clarify if this is indeed correct. if it is, would this also affect the chazzan's brachas being L'vatala?
Answer:
This is a huge problem indeed.
The halacha is that the Shatz may not proceed with the next bracha until at least the majority of the Tzibur (and in certain cases, where the bracha is an obligation such as shofar, Kidush etc. the entire Tzibur) has answered Amen. Many Poskim rule that Chazaras Hashatz today has a status like a Bracha that needs to be heard, and thus the entire Tzibur must be done answering Amen.
Answering Amen after the Shatz is already a few words into the next Bracha is an Amen Yesoma and should not be answered, as its better to not answer Amen than to Chas V'Shalom answer an Amen Yesoma that has punishments attached to it.
The Rav/Gabai of each shul should indeed make sure that people davening for the Amud are aware that they must slow down and not start the next Bracha until all (or at least most) of the Tzibur responded Amen to the last Bracha. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 124:8 and 9 and Mishna Berura S"K 31-38. See also Biur Halacha Dibur Hamaschil Miyad Shekala.)
This applies to Kaddish as well.
Regarding Bracha L'Vatalah, if the first Bracha of Chazaras Hashatz didn't have 9 people answer Amen to it properly, indeed it is a Bracha L'Vatalah. The rest of the Brachos, may also be Brachos L'Vatalos, or at least close to it. (See shulchan Aruch Siman 124:4 and Shu"t Minchas Shlomo end of Siman 10)
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
We began the month of Elul by blowing the Shofar.
The Tur cites the Pirkei D'Rebbi Eliezer that states that when Moshe ascended the mountain to receive the second Luchos, a Shofar was sounded in the Jewish camp announcing Moshe's ascent.
This Shofar blast signaled to the Jewish People that they should not stray after idolatry as they had the last time Moshe ascended the mountain. Furthermore, Hashem ascends with that Shofar, as it is said (Tehillim 47:6) Alah Elokim bisruah Hashem bikol Shofar, G-d has ascend with the blast; Hashem, with the sound of the shofar.
It is for these reasons, writes the Tur, that we sound the Shofar every year on Rosh Chodesh Elul and throughout the month of Elul, as the Shofar teaches us to repent. It is said (Amos 3:6) Im Yitaka Shofar Ba'ir V'am Lo yecheradu, is the shofar ever sounded in a city and people do not tremble? Additionally, we sound the Shofar to confuse the Satan.
The Tur cites numerous reasons for blowing the Shofar during the month of Elul. The Rambam (Hilchos Teshuvah 3:4) writes that blowing the Shofar on Rosh HaShanah is a Biblical decree. Nonetheless, there is a hint that is contained in the Shofar, and that is that those who are asleep should wake up, search their ways, and repent.
It is noteworthy that Rabbi Shimon Schwab writes that when HaShem fashioned for Adam a wife, HaShem first put Adam to sleep. Yet, we do not find that Adam ever woke up. This, says Rav Schwab, is a lesson for us that mankind has never woken up from that slumber. Nonetheless, the Jewish People awoke at the giving of the Torah at Sinai.
In a similar vein we can suggest that Adam HaRishon
as created on the first Rosh HaShanah in history. The Kabbalists talk about our requirement to rectify Adam's sin of eating from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Bad. Thus, every Rosh HaShanah we blow the Shofar to remind us that although Adam fell asleep, we can rectify his sin by awakening from the deep slumber of ignorance and foolishness and repent from our sins.
Written and Submitted by Rabbi Binyomin Adler; taken from www.doreishtov.blogspot.com
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
Your donation of $5, $10, $18, $36, $54 or ANY AMOUNT will make a BIG difference in keeping HALACHA FOR TODAY going and helping us reach more and more Jews around the globe!
To dedicate the learning of a day of HALACHA FOR TODAY, or to make a much appreciated donation to please CLICK BUTTON BELOW.
Thank you and Tizkeh L'Mitzvos!
If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos on this and other topics.
1) It is a Mitzvah Min HaMuvchar (the ideal, proper way to perform the Mitzvah) when reciting Birchas HaMazon after a meal to recite it over a cup of wine (Kos Shel Bracha) (See Mishna Berura Siman 182:1 that doing so is respectful and a proper expression of praise to Hashem, as it says in the Posuk (Tehillim 116) Kos Yeshuos Esa U'V'eshaim Hashem Ekra, A cup of salvation I will lift and the name of Hashem I will call).
Although according to some Poskim this applies even to an individual person who ate alone, the prevalent custom is to use a cup of wine only when three or more men participated in the meal; some people only use a cup of wine when a minyan of men participated. (See Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 182: 1 and Mishna Berura S"K 4. See also Igros Moshe Yoreh Deah Vol. 3 Siman 52:3)
Whenever a Kos Shel Bracha is used, the following procedure for lifting it should be followed:
The cup should initially be lifted by the one reciting the Bracha with both hands, to show our love for the Mitzvah. (See Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 183:4 and Mishna Berura 183:12. Some people have the custom that someone else hands them the cup, probably from the terminology of the Shulchan Aruch who uses the word "Mekablo" which can also be translated as "receiving". Even when receiving from someone else, it should be taken with both hands.)
When the Bracha begins to be recited, the left hand should be removed and the cup held only with the right hand, as holding it with two hands makes it seem like the Mitzvah is a burden. (ibid.)
If the left hand is needed to support the right hand, it is acceptable, as long as both hands aren't on the cup. (Rama ibid.)
2) According to the Shulchan Aruch (quoting the opinion of a "Yesh Omrim" which is the opinion of the Shibolei HaLeket Siman 156 and Meiri to Shabbos 103 Dibur Hamaschil Mimah SheKasavnu), a left handed person removes his right hand and continues to hold the cup with his left hand for the duration of the Bracha. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 183:5)
However, according to some Poskim, a left handed person also continues to hold the cup in his right hand.
Likewise, kabalistic sources concur with those that rule that there is no difference between right handed and left handed people in regard to this Halacha.(See Kaf HaChaim Siman 183:29 that the Bais Yosef himself in Siman 651 rules this way contradicting what he writes in Shulchan Aruch. He also quotes the Zohar to this effect. See also Ben Ish Chai Parshas Shelach Siman 19)
*************
The days from Rosh Chodesh Elul until after Hoshana Rabba are days of Hashem's Rachamim (mercy), Selicha (forgiveness) and Ratzon (goodwill). They are an extremely opportune time for Jews to find it within themselves to repent and atone for the sins that were transgressed in the past year and to accept upon themselves to live better lives, according to Halacha- the will of Hashem, in the year ahead.
Hashem is always waiting for his children to repent, but in Elul He is even closer to us and Teshuva is a lot easier.
It is never too late to jump on the bandwagon and start our journey of return to our Father in heaven, and hopefully, together, bring about the final redemption with Mashiach Tzidkeinu.
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK 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:
If one wears a removeable toupee can he make a brocha on the [Tefilin] shel rosh.
If not and it would be embarrising to take it off in shul should he just make a bracha on the shel yad & when he gets home make a bracha on the shel rosh?
Does he have to put on the shel yad again when he gets home.
Can you please describe the best way of doing things if one cannot make a bracha when it is on?
Answer:
No, Tefilin may not be donned on a toupe as it is a Chatzitza, a separation, and certainly no Bracha recited as doing so will be a Bracha L'Vatalah as the tefilin was not placed on the head.
If the actual tefilin is on the head and only the straps would be on the toupee, there may be room for leniency in certain instances, and a Rav should be consulted.
If he is embarrassed, the Tefilin should be donned [on the head] and their proper Brachos recited, in private.(See Mishna Berura Siman 27:16 and Shu"t Mishne Halachos Vol. 6 Siman 8)
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
We are in the month of Elul.
We are in very important time in the hebrew calendar, a time of closeness and connection to Hashem. Think about how lucky you are to have an opportunity to come back to your Loving Father!
He gives you so many chances to come close to Him and show Him that you really want to do the right thing-by thinking about what you have done and how you want to become better.
There's an amazing Mashal I want to share with you.
A fox passed a vineyard full of delicious grapes and wanted to eat some of them. However, there was a fence enclosing the vineyard that blocked him from going in. He did notice that there was a small hole in the fence and if he would fast for three days, he would be able to squeeze in and eat the grapes. So that is what he did.
After three days, the fox was skinny enough to make his way through the hole. He feasted and enjoyed all the grapes in the vineyard and when he was ready to leave he realized that he would not be able to get out because he ate too much and gained too much weight! So once again, he fasted for three days and only then was he able to get out of the vineyard.
The fox then realized that he did not gain anything from the vineyard because he left the same way he had gone in.
We have to ask ourselves the same question:Will we leave the world the same way we went in or will we have things that have true value to take along with us.
Elul is a time to ask ourselves these questions - what are we taking with us into the new year? What mitzvos and good deeds do we have to show for ourselves?
Each one of us is put into this world and there are so many temptations and things that look exciting - but we have to remember that we are in this world for a purpose, not just for the materialism and we need to focus on the things that last.
This past shabbos, I heard a continuation of this mashal.
There was a smart fox who watched what the first fox had done and said to himself, "I will not be a fool like this one." And here is what he did. After fasting three days so he could get through the hole in the fence, he ate and enjoyed the grapes. In the meantime, he threw a whole bunch of grapes over the fence so that when he gets out of the vineyard, he will have more grapes to eat. So even though he had to fast to get out, he thought ahead and saved for the future.
The woman who I heard this mashal from gave an interesting twist on the nimshal.
Elul is here. It's a hard month but it is a very rich month. There is so much to gain from what comes after it-the yomim nora'im, Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur and Succos. Some people are like the first fox and they leave the yomim tovim the same way they came in. The day after yom tov you wouldn't even know that they experienced such awesome days. However, if you want to be like the smart fox, you need to throw the grapes over the fence, you need to prepare properly and think ahead so that you will come out of these days enriched and a better person.
Elul is a very big month. There is so much to gain and so much to achieve. Now that we are entering such a crucial time in our calendar, it is up to us to use our time well and take advantage of the closeness we have with Hashem.
Let's think ahead so that we use each day to the fullest so that when we come out of Elul, we can say that we didn't just eat the grapes but we saved some for later - so that we can take the inspiration we get from Elul and the yomim tovim that come after it and come out a truly changed and better person!
Written and Submitted by Devorah; taken from her blog: www.inspirationalinformation.blogspot.com
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Wednesday
August 11 2010
2nd Day of Rosh Chodesh Elul 5770
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1) Before eating bread, there is an obligation to wash the hands.
The proper order regarding which hand goes first is as follows:
The washing cup should be held in the right hand, filled with water, and then transferred to the left hand.
The right hand should then be washed [twice, or even once if being done with an abundance of water].
The cup should then be transferred to the right hand, filled with water (if necessary), and the left hand should then be washed [twice, or even once if being done with an abundance of water]. (Mogen Avraham in introduction to Siman 158. Also brought in the Siddur Ya'avetz and in the name of the Gaon of Vilna)
2) A left handed person should also follow the above procedure, and wash his/her right hand first. (See Pri Megadim, Aishel Avraham, Siman 158:1 and Mishna Berura Siman 4:22)
The reason for this is that there are kabalistic reasons for the right hand being washed first
If one's hands are being washed by someone else, the right hand is washed first as well. (See Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 3 Siman 32)
Some have the custom when raising their hands after washing for bread to raise right hand a bit higher than the left hand. (See Piskei Teshuvos Siman 162 footnote 15)
[ For a comprehensive review of Hilchos Netilas Yadayim, see archives here.]
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The days from Rosh Chodesh Elul until after Hoshana Rabba are days of Hashem's Rachamim (mercy), Selicha (forgiveness) and Ratzon (goodwill). They are an extremely opportune time for Jews to find it within themselves to repent and atone for the sins that were transgressed in the past year and to accept upon themselves to live better lives, according to Halacha- the will of Hashem, in the year ahead.
Hashem is always waiting for his children to repent, but in Elul He is even closer to us and Teshuva is a lot easier.
It is never too late to jump on the bandwagon and start our journey of return to our Father in heaven, and hopefully, together, bring about the final redemption with Mashiach Tzidkeinu.
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK 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:
If someone davened Maariv early (after Plag) on Rosh Chodesh and then washed for bread , before Shkia , would he say Yaaleh V'yavoh in Bentching ?
Answer:
It would indeed be best to not wash at such a time, as doing so will bring you into a "Tarti D'Sasri" situation (as it is halachically night as maariv was davened and yet it is still day).
If one did already wash, it is best not to say Ya'aleh V'Yavo. (Based on Mishna Berura Siman 668:7 and Shaa'r HaTziyun Os 12. For Halacha l'ma'aseh, as always, a Rav should be consulted)
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Rav Shimon Schwab Zatzal, ( in the Sefer Rav Schwab on Prayer page 340), points out that the Rambam writes in Hilchos Mezuzah that when he encounters a Mezuzah he should be "Ye'or Meishenaso--he should awaken from his sleep."
The only other place where the Rambam uses the expression 'Ye'or Meishenaso' is in connection with the mention of Tekias Shofar, which we begin today.
Thus, even when we don't have the Shofar blowing every day we can always look to our Mezuzas to reawaken ourselves...multiples time a day.
Imagine, the combined power of the daily Shofar blowing plus the Mezuzah. What an awesome spiritual alarm clock!
Dear friends, let's wake up!
Let's wake up as individuals and as a Tzibbur and let's show Hashem that we heard His alarm clock and we are ready to jump at the opportunity to change- even something small- in our daily lives.
As long as we are heading in the right direction, Hashem will be there for us to help us.
Let's not snooze this Elul away!
Let's roll up our sleeves and make this coming year THE year that WE, together, bring an end to all of our problems, Tzaros, struggles and pains with the arrival of Mashiach.
Submitted by Yael; Taken in part from www.Hakhel.info
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Tuesday
August 10 2010
1st Day of Rosh Chodesh Elul 5770
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
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If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos on this and other topics.
1) When a Jewish male receives an Aliyah to the Torah, he recites a Bracha before the reading (Baruch...Asher Bachar Banu M'Kal HaAmim...) and a Bracha after the reading (Baruch...Asher Nasan Lanu Es Toraso...)
Before reciting the first Bracha, the Ba'al Koreh (the one reading the Torah) shows the one getting the Aliyah the correct place from where the reading will begin, and on which he will be reciting the Bracha. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 139:4 and Mishna Berura S"K 16)
When reciting the first Bracha, the Torah remains open. (See Mishna Berura S"K 17)
When reciting the first Bracha, in order that it shouldn't seem like he is reading the Brachos from within the Torah scroll (which, if it would be so, would invalidate the scroll) he turns his head slightly away from the Torah.
The direction to turn the head should be to the left. (See Rama Siman 139:4 and Mishna Berura S"K 19)
Left handed people also turn their heads to the left, as it is done that direction in deference of the right side of the Shechina. (See Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 2 Siman 3:14. See also Aruch HaShulchan Siman 139:13 that the reason here has nothing to do with the Shechina, as only by Tefilah are we standing "Lifnei Hamelech". Rather he writes that it is done to the left as that is the direction of the reader of the Torah.)
2) Some Poskim frown upon this minhag, as they say that turning the head away from the Torah makes it seem like the Bracha is being recited on something else and not on the Torah reading at hand. Rather, they say the head should remain straight and the eyes should be closed instead. (See Mishna Berura ibid. This was the Minhag of the Chazon Ish Zatzal)
Alternately, another Minhag is to not turn the head and also not close the eyes, and rather to close the Sefer Torah for the duration of the Bracha and only open it upon completion of the Bracha for the reading. (This was the minhag of the Steipler Zatzal. See Piskei Teshuvos Siman 139 footnote 62)
Any of the above methods are acceptable. (See Biur Halacha Siman 139 Dibur Hamaschil V'Roeh Haposuk)
****************
The days from Rosh Chodesh Elul until after Hoshana Rabba are days of Hashem's Rachamim (mercy), Selicha (forgiveness) and Ratzon (goodwill). They are an extremely opportune time for Jews to find it within themselves to repent and atone for the sins that were transgressed in the past year and to accept upon themselves to live better lives, according to Halacha- the will of Hashem, in the year ahead.
Hashem is always waiting for his children to repent, but in Elul He is even closer to us and Teshuva is a lot easier.
It is never too late to jump on the bandwagon and start our journey of return to our Father in heaven, and hopefully, together, bring about the final redemption with Mashiach Tzidkeinu.
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK 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:
In [the halachos for November 23 2008 ]you mentioned the issur to daven in front of an open TV.
What about today's computers (with the internet on, for example)? This would come to practical use every day for many of us who eat at least one meal in front of the computer as we work, and then bentch right where we are.
Answer:
Although I havent seen any seforim discuss this directly, and it is indeed possible that a computer would be the same Halacha, I would say a Sevara that in a room with a computer on it is fine to daven for the following reasons:
A computer isn't audible and is much less distracting than a television. Also. you can control whats on the screen and (hopefully) there isnt any Kefirah, Pritzus or other impure graphics on the screen, whereas the TV spews filth and Kefira non stop, and is not in our control.
Obviously one cannot daven or bentch while actually looking at the computer screen, and of course, if it is possible to turn off the computer for a few moments, it would be best, but I don't think it would be as chamur as a TV.
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
It says in Tehilim 87:2, "Hashem loves the gates of Jerusalem more then the dwelling of Yaakov." R' Chisda explains, Hashem loves the places where they learn halacha (Jewish law) more then the shuls and study halls. (Talmud Brachos 8a)
The Maharsha explains that in shuls and study halls many people learn all types of Torah, but it doesn't compare to where they learn Halacha i.e. Torah to learn how to live practically (Lilmod Al M'nas La'asos).
"Miyom Shecharav Bais Hamikdash ein lo L'Hakadosh Baruch Hu Ela Daled Amos Shel Halacha - from the day the Bais HaMikdash was destroyed the only place where Hashem (i.e. the Shechina) can be found is in the four amos of halacha" (Talmud ibid.).
We live in a difficult world and face unprecedented challenges and hardships- spiritually, emotionally, financially and physically- our ONLY hope is to cling to Hashem!
Our only hope of being close to Hashem is to live our lives to the best of our ability according to the Daled Amos Shel Halacha!
Only through the daily study of Halacha can we have the necessary tools to live according to Halacha.
In the Zechus of our daily learning of Halacha, may we all merit the speedy arrival of Mashiach and the rebuilding of the Bais HaMikdash
Submitted by Yitzchak; Taken in part from the Shone Halachos Talmud Tidbits email. To subscribe email halachos@gmail.com
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
Your donation of $5, $10, $18, $36, $54 or ANY AMOUNT will make a BIG difference in keeping HALACHA FOR TODAY going and helping us reach more and more Jews around the globe!
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Thank you and Tizkeh L'Mitzvos!
If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos on this and other topics.
1) After reading the Torah (according to the Sephardic tradition this is done before the reading of the Torah) Hagbahas HaTorah, lifting of the Torah is performed, as follows.
Somebody from the Tzibbur lifts up the Torah and unfurls it a minimum of three columns of writing, so that the writing in the Torah can be seen. (See Mishna Berura Siman 134:8)
It is proper to make sure the seam is in the middle before lifting the Torah. (Sha'ar Ephraim Sha'ar 10:17)
The one lifting it needs to turn to his right, slowly, and make a complete circle so that every single person in the Shul as well as in the women's section can see the Torah's words. (Mishna Berura Siman 134:9. Sha'ar Ephraim Sha'ar 10:13. In the event that there are no people in the front part of the Shul, it suffices to turn to the right and then to the left and not make a complete circle. See Halichos Shlomo Tefilah Perek 12:28. See Ramban Devarim 27:26 that one who doesn't lift the Torah so that everyone can see it is subject to the Torah's curse of Arur Asher Lo Yakim Es HaTorah HaZos.)
A left handed person also makes the complete circle by turning to the right, as since this is a public display it is not respectful to do it differently than most people do it. (Ruling of Rav Chaim Kanievsky shlita based on Pri Megadim, Mishbetzos Zahav, Siman 128:11 and other Poskim. See also Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 2 Siman 3:14)
2) It is proper to see the words in the Torah to the point that they can actually be read, as doing so is extremely beneficial for spiritual growth. (See Mishna Berura Siman 134:11. According to kabalistic sources it is proper to see the first letter of your name, if possible, while gazing at the Sefer Torah during Hagbah)
When seeing the words of the Torah all present should bend their knees and say the words "V'Zos HaTorah Asher Sam Moshe Lifnei Bnei Yisroel. [Al Pi Hashem yachanu V'Al Pi Hashem Yisa'u Es Mishmeres Hashem Shamaru] Al Pi Hashem B'Yad Moshe". (A combination of 2 Pesukim, one in Devarim 4:44 and one in Bamidbar 9:23. According to the Gaon of Vilna, the beginning of the second Posuk, which are in brackets above, is added in as well, as per the Talmud's dictum (Taanis 27b) not to split Pesukim in half.) (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 134:2 based on a Mishna in Maseches Sofrim Perek 14:14)
(Regarding pointing to the Torah when saying the aforementioned Posuk, an almost universally followed minhag that has no real source in the Poskim, see Q&A #452 here)
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK 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:
It is well-known that regular coffee is pretty much kosher everywhere. However, is iced coffee kosher everywhere? What about flavored iced coffee (specifically the hazelnut iced coffee flavor from Dunkin Donuts)?
Answer:
Iced coffee and flavored coffee should not be purchased without a Hechsher on the coffee and/or the establishment where it is being sold.
Even regular hot coffee an only be bought from a machine that is used only for plain coffee, not from a machine that vends other kinds of flavored coffees and other hot drinks which may be problematic.
I do not know about Dunkin Donut's coffee. It is best to contact a reliable Kashrus agency to inquire about the status of any particular brand.
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
In a Shiur given by
Rabbi Jonathan Rietti for the Chofetz Chaim Heritage Foundation, Rabbi Rietti made the following two outstanding points, amongst others:
1- The Pasuk that appears most often in Sefer Tehillim is actually the Pasuk of 'Hodu Lashem Ki Tov--Ki Le'Olam Chasdo'. With this, Dovid Hamelech gives us a message of focus and direction--look at what you have, not at what you don't. If there is one black dot on a white background which actually contains 5,999 white dots--one must overcome the natural tendency to look at the black dot, and instead realize that there are 5,999 more white dots on the page.
2- Very much related to this concept is that the letters of the word "BeSimcha", if unscrambled or rearranged, actually spell "Machshava"--thought, because if one thinks properly, he will be able to put himself into the proper frame of mind to be happy.
בשמחה
מחשבה
Submitted by Dovid Tzvi; Taken from www.Hakhel.info
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
Your donation of $5, $10, $18, $36, $54 or ANY AMOUNT will make a BIG difference in keeping HALACHA FOR TODAY going and helping us reach more and more Jews around the globe!
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Thank you and Tizkeh L'Mitzvos!
If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos on this and other topics.
1) When taking out, handing over, holding or carrying a Sefer Torah, it should be held with the stronger hand, thus a right handed person should carry it so that it leans on his right shoulder and he grasps it with his right hand, and vice versa for a left handed person. (Pri Megadim, Aishel Avraham, Siman 134)
Some Poskim, however, rule that even left handed people need to take it out and hand it over with their right hand, as it is more respectful for the Sefer Torah to be held on the right side. (However, it is possible that they rule this way only for taking out and handing over of the Torah, but not necessarily the entire time it is being held)
Another reason cited is based on the Posuk (Devarim 33:2) "MiMino Aish Das Lamo" which means that the Torah was written with Hashem's right hand and given to us by Hashem with His right hand. (See Darchei Moshe Siman 134 quoting MaHaril ,Sha'ar Ephraim Sha'ar 10:2 and Mishna Berura Siman 282:1 and Sha'ar HaTziun Os 2.)
2) All agree that if by holding it on his right side with his right hand it is in jeopardy of falling, that it be held on the left side with the left hand. (Sha'ar Ephraim ibid.)
There is no problem if the weaker hand is used to assist the stronger hand in taking out, handing over and carrying a Sefer Torah. (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:
[You wrote:] "It is a Mitzvah for Jewish males to hold their Tzitzis in their left hands, near the heart, during the recitation of Krias Shma [of Shacharis]. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 24:2)"
Do you have any information as to what a male does if his heart is on the right side rather than the left side? Situs inversus totalis is a medical condition in which there is complete right to left reversal (transposition) of the thoracic and abdominal organs including the heart?
Answer:
The Poskim do indeed discuss this , and do not conclusively rule either way if he does things according to his heart or according to the side where most people's hearts are.
In the rare instance where this will come up, a Rav needs to be consulted for Halacha l'Ma'aseh. (See Shu"t Mishneh Halachos , Mahadura Tinyana, Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 33 and Shu"t Avnei Nezer Yoreh Deah Siman 32:9. See also Shu"t Kanfei Yonah (printed in Prague 1812) Siman 46 where he discusses this phenomenon)
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Rabbeinu Moshe Ben Maimon Zatzal, The holy Rambam
THE NATURE OF A PERSON IS TO BE PULLED BY THE THOUGHTS AND ACTIONS OF HIS FRIENDS AND ACQUAINTANCES AND TO BEHAVE ACCORDING TO THE CUSTOMS OF THE PLACE WHERE HE RESIDES, THEREFORE A MAN MUST ASSOCIATE WITH TZADDIKIM AND SIT NEXT TO THE WISE SO HE CAN LEARN FROM THEIRACTIONS. AND HE SHOULD DISTANCE HIMSELF FROM EVILDOERS THAT WALK IN DARKNESS SO THAT HE WILL NOT LEARN FROM THEIR ACTIONS. (Rambam, Hilchos De'os, Perek 6:1)
THE ONE WHO SANCTIFIES G-D'S NAME IS THE ONE
WHO AVOIDS SIN FOR G-D'S SAKE
He who refrains from sinning not for any reason in the world: fear, shame, honor but only because thus commanded the Creator Blessed be His Name, he is one that sanctifies the Name of G-d. (Rambam, Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah Perek 5:10)
Rabbeinu Moshe Sofer Zatzal, The holy Chasam Sofer
The Holy Chasam Sofer ZTK'L wrote the following (in Taharas Yom Tov 8:9) "This aspect of this final Exile whereby it is harder than all other exiles and there's no day that doesn't bring worse curses than the prior day, this is because in the prior exiles there was no indecency or immodesty in women's dressing, nowadays however it is not thus, due to our many sins immodesty is common among women, which is a graver sin than all others in the Torah
Submitted by Gedalia
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Erev Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Re'ay
August 6 2010
26 Menachem Av 5770
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SPECIAL DOUBLE PORTION L'KAVOD SHABBOS KODESH
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1) After the three backward steps are taken, and while the back is still bent and the feet are together (like they were during Shemona Esrei), the head should be tilted to the left side and the 3 words "Oseh Shalom B'Meromav" should be said.
The head should then be tilted to the right side and the next 4 words "Hu Ya'aseh Shalom Aleinu" should be said.
Then you should bow your head to the direction directly in front of you and the last 5 words "V'Al Kal Yisroel V'Imru Amen" should be said.
It is important to make sure not to start saying "Oseh Shalom..." while the three backward steps are being taken, rather make sure to follow the method described above.
The same Halacha applies when saying "Oseh Shalom" at the conclusion of Kaddish.(Mishna Berura Siman 123:3)
2) When taking the three steps backwards after Shemona Esrei, a left handed person also tilts his/her head to the left first when saying Oseh Shalom, as the reason for this is that the Shechina is in front of us and we are bowing to the right of the Shechina. (Psak of Rav Chaim Kanievsky shlita)
Immediately following the recital of "Oseh Shalom" the body should be straightened out and "Yehi Ratzon...SheYibaneh Bais HaMikdash" should be recited, asking Hashem to rebuild the Bais HaMikdash so that we can once again perform the real Avodah and not need to rely on the Avodah of Tefilah, which is its substitute.
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) When the Shliach Tzibbur repeats the Shemona Esrei during the morning prayers, he adds in "Birchas Kohanim" right before the Bracha of "Sim Shalom". (This is in place of the actual Birchas Kohanim, known as "duchening" of the Kohanim which in most places in Chutz L'Aretz is only done on Yom Tov. In many places in Eretz Yisroel as well as in some Sephardic congregations in Chutz L'Aretz, they do perform actual Birchas Kohanim daily)
2) When the Shliach Tzibbur says the words "YeVarechecha Hashem" he should face the Aron Hakodesh.
When saying "V'Yishmarecha" he should turn to his right side.
When saying the words "Ya'er Hashem" he should once again face the Aron Hakodesh.
Finally, when saying the words "Panav Eilecha ViChuneka" he should turn to his left side, which is the right of the Shechina. (Zohar Parshas Naso quoted in Be'er Heitev Siman 127:4 and Mishna Berura S"K 8)
Since this is based on turning towards the Shechina, both lefties and righties follow the same procedure detailed above.
(Parenthetically, See Midrash Rabbah Bamidbar Parsha 12 toward the end of Siman 4 where the Brachos of "Birchas Kohanim are likened to a Kemeia (a spiritual amulet) provided by Hashem that protects Klal Yisroel, Hashem's beloved children, from Ayin Hara, the evil eye)
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 son allowed to see his father naked? Is a father allowed to take a bath with his child and if yes, at what age should this not be done. Also, how does a father and son go to mikveh together if it is likely the son may see the father at some point?
Answer:
The Talmud (Pesachim 51a) teaches us that a son may not see his father naked, and thus should not go to a Mikvah at the same time. If, however, they are in a bathhouse or swimming pool where bathing trunks are worn, there is no prohibition. (See Rama Yoreh Deah Siman 242:16)
I would say that this prohibition begins probably from the age of Chinuch when a child can grasp things of this nature, as Rashi explains the reason for the prohibition that a son seeing his father like this will come to have bad thoughts.
A Rav should be consulted for halacha L'Ma'aseh as to what age this begins.
The same applies to a daughter and mother.
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
the word for "worry" in Hebrew is "Da'agah"
דאגה Interestingly enough we see it has the first letters of the Aleph Bais (Daled, Aleph, Gimmel, Hey) yet it misses the " ב" simply because, one who worries is missing their Bitachan,
בטחון
their faith. Once one's faith in Hashem is strengthened they will never have to worry again.
Submitted by Shira S.
Ed note: Perhaps this is why the Torah begins with a Beis, to teach us that Bitachon is so important that it comes first, before we even begin to learn the Torah!
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Today’s Halachos are dedicated by a daily reader, S.F., L’zechus Refuah Shelaima for her grandfather Mishael Ben Avigail who underwent surgery today. Please learn and daven in his merit.
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1)After completing Shemona Esrei, saying "Elokai Netzor" and saying "YihYu L’Ratzon" , three steps must be taken back, while simultaneously bending the back and bowing , the way a servant takes leave of a master. (See Mishna Berura Siman 123:1)
One of the reasons for the three steps is because Nebuchadnezzar was allowed to destroy the Bais HaMikdash due to his running three steps forward in honor of Hashem; therefore we take three steps back and ask Hashem to rebuild the Bais HaMikdash (Mishna Berura Siman 123:2 quoting the Bais Yosef)
The first of the three steps should be taken with the weak foot (for righties, usually their left foot, and for lefties, usually their right foot).
The reason for starting with the weak foot is that we "step away" from Hashem with our weaker foot, so it should seem like it is difficult for us to take leave of Hashem (See Mishna Berura Siman 123:13)
The size of the step should be the length of one foot, i.e. the big toe of the weak foot should reach right behind the heel of the stronger foot.
The second step is then taken with the stronger foot. The size of this step should be the length of 2 feet, i.e. the big toe of the strong foot should now reach right behind the heel of the weaker foot.
The third step, again with the weak foot, should be the length of one foot, which will once again bring the two feet together. (See Biur Halacha Dibur Hamaschil K’ShePosaya, quoting the Chayei Adam and Shulchan Aruch HaRav who rule as we wrote. This is also the ruling of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch and the Mogen Avraham. The Biur Halacha also quotes another opinion of the Taz who rules that even lefties begin with their left foot. The Kaf HaChaim Siman 123:23 and the Shu"t Be’er Moshe Vol. 2 Siman 3:9 rule like the Taz. The prevalent custom is the way the Biur Halacha rules. For Halacha L’ma’aseh, of course, a Rav should be consulted. )
2) Some Poskim maintain that the aforementioned measurements, which are derived from the way Kohanim must stand during the Avodah, are not applicable to women. (See Sefer Ishei Yisroel, quoting Sefer Orach Ne’eman Siman 123:11)
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 put eye drops [in the eyes] on Shabbos?
Answer:
If the eyes are simply itchy or irritated no eyedrops may be inserted on If the eyes are simply itchy or irritated no eyedrops may be inserted on Shabbos. if , however, they are inflamed or if the eye drops are otherwise medically necessary they may be inserted.
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
By: Rav Ron Yitzchak Eisenman The other day I was at a wedding in Lakewood, New Jersey. As most Jewish weddings, there were people to be found from all over the metropolitan Jewish community and I met up with people I have not seen for quite a while. One man came over to me and said, "I know you from some where. Where do I know you from? What is your name? Did you ever learn here in the Lakewood Yeshiva? After I assured him that we did not know each other from the Yeshiva; I told him I live in Passaic. He then asked me, "Where do you daven in Passaic? Maybe I have seen you there; I have a daughter who lives there." I told him I daven at the Ahavas Israel. He was silent for a moment and then he said, "Oh, I have davened there sometimes." He then paused and then announced triumphantly, "Wait a minute; aren’t you the Rav at that Shul? I did not recognize you from close up. I am used to seeing you as the Rabbi of the shul; I did not recognize you when you are off-duty." I thought about the comment for quite a while. Who am I? Am I defined by what I earn my livelihood as? If someone would ask me, "What do you do?" If at that moment I was drinking a glass of water would I have answered, "What do I do? I drink water." The fellow would no doubt have thought I was deranged or being ’cute’. However, he certainly would not have assumed that is ’what I do’ or who I am’! Often we become defined by our occupations or by what we do with the majority of our time. A lawyer who works 50 hours a week when asked ’what do you do’ will answer, "I am a lawyer". On the other hand- a lawyer who only works 15 hours a week and spends 20 hours week in the Beis Medrash may answer the same question by saying, "I work part time and learn in the yeshiva." There can be different definitions of "who I am" for different relationships. My children do not call me "Rabbi Eisenman" nor of course does my wife. The reason is simple; my relationship with them is paternal and spousal respectively and not rabbinic. However, this man who met me at the wedding saw me and defined as he had only seen me; as the Rabbi of the Ahavas Israel Shul. When he saw me outside of that context, he was confused and could no longer place me in his file for identifying people. In his mind I was defined by the Shul and outside the Shul I had no context of definition. Every time we meet someone; be it professionally, be it personally, be it socially, we are given an opportunity at that moment to define ourselves to the person we are meeting. Often - such as the case of a rabbi in particular or a Jew in general- we may not just be defining ourselves, we may be defining all rabbis and/or all Jews to the person we are coming in contact with. Often that one meeting defines their entire understanding of you and the group you may represent. Friends, the message is clear. The person you meet today is going to form a mental image and definition of you and all that you represent. Indeed, this is true to such an extent, that all future meetings you will have with this person will be judged against this first impression. Friends, do your best today so that when you meet the person again he or she may say, "Where do I know you from? I can not remember." However, at least we hope that they then will add on the words, "Although I cannot place you, I know you made a good impression on me and I went away feeling good".
Remember often we are only given one chance- give it your best!
Submitted by Kaila; Taken from www.ahavasisrael.com
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות - one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L’Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
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1) Before beginning Shemona Esrei, one should take three steps forward as a gesture of "approaching" the King [of Kings]. (The reason for three steps is because it says "VaYigash -and he approached" three times in Tanach; once by Avraham, once by Yehuda and once by Eliyahu Hanavi. See Darchei Moshe Siman 95)
The prevalent Minhag is to take 3 steps backwards before taking the three steps forward.
The Steipler Zatzal's Minhag was not to take the three steps backward, and simply to move up three steps from wherever he was standing and begin Shemona Esrei (Orchos Rabbeinu Vol. 1 Siman 193)
2) The Poskim say that it is correct to take these three steps (both backwards and forwards) beginning with the stronger foot, unlike after finishing Shemona Esrei when the weak foot goes first. (See Mishna Berura Siman 123:13. The reason for the weak foot first after Shemona Esrei, doesn't apply for before Shemona Esrei)
Thus, righties take these steps, backwards and forward, beginning with their right foot, and lefties use their left foot.
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:
With regard to the bowing [by Shemona Esrei]: if I realized as soon as I finished either of the bowing brachas, that I forgot to bow, should I repeat it and bow? What should I do to fix it?
Answer:
Bowing is one of the 8 important parts of Tefilah (See Rambam Hilchos Tefilah Perek 5 Halacha 1) and one should be careful to be scrupulous in carrying it out.
However, bowing is not one of the 5 things that invalidate the Tefilah (See Rambam Hilchos Tefilah Perk 4 Halacha 1), thus if one davened and didn't bow, the Tefilah need not be repeated.
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Rav Shimshon Dovid Pincus Zatzal
The beauty of the Sefer Yetzira, is attributed directly to our Patriarch, Avraham Avinu. Although there is debate whether Avraham Avinu wrote it himself (Rav Tzadok Hakohen argues that the Sefer was written by Rebbi Akiva, based on the teachings of Avraham Avinu), everyone agrees that the secrets of the Torah contained therein are attributed to Avraham Avinu.
One of the chapters in this beautiful Sefer, deals with outlining 10 expressions/manifestations of Hashems' 'Hanhagos' Kaviyachol. This is called the (chapter of) 'Eser Sefiros'.
In this section, there is a pasuk that states 'Tzipiyason K'mareh Habazak' (dealing with the Angels of Hashem), which literally means that their vision, encompasses and shares the quality of flashes of "lightning bolts". Although the actual meaning and depth of this pasuk is relegated to the secrets of the Torah ('Sirei Torah), we can perhaps interpret it and apply it to ourselves on the following level:
The quality of a lighting bolt is that it is a 'flash of light' - it comes and goes in an instant. However, when it peaks, it serves to illuminate the darkness even for that moment in time.
From here we can learn a valuable lesson. Sometimes we are so consumed with the ideal and importance of achieving greatness in our spiritual growth, that we tend to overlook or unjustly minimize the beauty and greatness we can achieve by snatching the smaller 'flashes of light' (spirituality) within our grasp.
Moreover, we are sometimes overwhelmed by the seemingly insurmountable task of achieving greatness, that we don't realize how much spiritual greatness can be achieved by simply capitalizing on any and all opportunities for spiritual growth, as small as they might seem to us.
If we cannot yet overcome our desire to speak Loshon Harah all of the time, let us at least try to hold back from saying that nasty word..just once..twice... This too is greatness.
This is akin to the bolt of lighting, the 'flash of lighting' which can illuminate the darkness, but for a second.
Like the Angels, our 'Tzipiyah' - our Vision, must be 'K'mareh Habazak' - it must include the intellectual capacity and understanding of the importance of capitalizing on any and every opportunity for spiritual accomplishment.
Nothing is too trifle for our Hashem Yisborach!
Submitted by L.H.; Taken from the teachings of Rav Shimshon Dovid Pincus Zatzal published at www.ohrshimshon.com
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Today's Halachos are dedicated by a daily reader L'Zecher Nishmas R' Moshe ben R' Menachem Z"L. May his Neshama continue to have an Aliya in Shomayim and may he be a Meilitz Yosher for his entire Mishpacha and all of Klal Yisroel.
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Thank you and Tizkeh L'Mitzvos!
If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos on this and other topics.
1) If while davening Shemona Esrei, one finds his/her mind wandering, he/she should stop until the foreign thoughts pass and then resume the davening with concentration.
In order to get the mind back to the task at hand (i.e. talking to Hashem), one should focus on thoughts that humble the heart and bring it to center on serving Hashem... (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 98:1)
A Segulah (spiritual remedy) for clearing the mind before starting to daven is to pass the right hand three times over the forehead, and each time say the Posuk (Tehillim 51:12, in the chapter of Teshuva) "Lev Tahor Bra Li Elokim, V'Ruach Nachon Chadesh B'Kirbi, Create me a clean heart, Hashem; and renew a steadfast spirit within me.".
Likewise, if an unclean or otherwise foreign thought enters the mind during Shemona Esrei (or any other part of davening where talking out is prohibited), the right hand should be passed over the forehead three times and the abovementioned Posuk "thought" in the mind with each passing of the hand. (as actually saying it then would be a Hefsek). (Mishna Berura Siman 98:2 quoting the Elya Rabbah in the name of the Shl"a HaKadosh)
2) Being as this is a Segulah based on kabalistic sources and ideas (right hand representing Rachamim etc.) it applies equally to lefties and righties. (Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 2 Siman 3:7b)
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 have not had a chance to look it up but I wonder does it say that [one should learn Halachos daily] means specifically two halachos rather than the class of halachos.
I did not want to ask as either way the practice of two halachos per email should of course continue - I was just wondering regarding the interpretation.
Answer:
Though the word Shone can mean "learn",the Sefarim translate the word "Shone" Halachos as "two" and also the word Halachos is plural , otherwise it should say " Kol Halomed Halacha B'Chol Yom".
Also, The Medrash (Tanchuma Parshas Beshalach Siman 20) does explicitly say " Shone Adam Shtei Halachos B'Chol Yom- one should study TWO halachos daily"
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Wouldn't it be more grammatically correct to say "hatzneya leches lifnei Elokecha" instead of "hatzneya leches im Elokecha"? One is modest before G-d, in G-d's presence -- what does it mean to be modest "with G-d"?
The Midrash (BaMidbar Rabbah 1:3) tells us that before there was an Ohel Moed G-d spoke to Moshe from a burning bush in Midyan, G-d spoke to Moshe in Egypt, G-d spoke to Moshe from Har Sinai. However, now that there was an Ohel Moed G-d spoke only privately from that tent to fulfill the ideal of "hatzneya leches".
A number of points can be learned from this Chazal:
1) The source for the concept of tzniyus is rooted in the idea of imitating G-d. Just as we learn elsewhere mah hu rachum af atah..., we must act with kindness and mercy because G-d acts in this manner, so too "hatzneya leches im Elokecha", act with modesty not just before G-d, but along with G-d, meaning imitate the tzanu'a behavior which G-d has demonstrated. G-d does not call a news conference and make sure it is carried on all the major networks to say what he wants to; G-d speaks from the privacy of the Ohel Moed to those who are invited to listen.
2) Tzniyus means privacy. Even speaking anthropomorphically, I don't think the Midrash means that G-d wore a skirt below the knees and a blouse down to the wrists. Modesty and privacy are not the same thing. A person's dress can meet all the technical details that halacha requires but he/she can be a very loud and flashy person.
3) The Midrash continues that the paradigm of tzniyus was Moshe, about whom it is written, "kol kvuda bas melech pnima". Moshe was literally raised by a "melech", as he was adopted by Pharoah's daughter, but many of the meforshim explain the appelation of "bas melech" to refer to Moshe's relationship with Torah or he was the melech and the Torah itself is the "bas melech". In any event, this is clear: Moshe Rabeinu obviously did not shun taking a public leadership role as a result of his tzniyus. Tzniyus should not be an excuse to deny worthy men or women a public position.
What exactly is tzniyus? Chazal tell us that Torah requires tzniyus (Sukkah 49). Maharal (Nesiv haTzniyus ch 1.) explains that this is so because Torah has a "madreiga pnimis", a "madreiga nisteres." Torah has depth. Every parsha and sugya is like the top of an iceberg that protrudes above the sea, providing just a hint of the vastness which lies below. A person who embodies tzniyus is a person of depth, a person who is defined not by their clothes or hat or by a sound-bite, but a person whose character remains hidden behind a concealing veil and not on public display. Just when you think you have the person buttonholed, you discover that there is a deeper more pnimiyus aspect to the person's whole personality that you had previously overlooked or not seen. That's a person who is tzanu'a.
If we deconstruct the way tzniyus is taught and emphasized in our society, it pretty much turns this entire idea on its head. Rather than emphasize depth and inner-meaning, the emphasis is placed on externals: skirt length, sleeve length, hat size/color, etc. Don't get me wrong -- these details are important and halachically crucial. But these details are just the superficial siman of what defines tzniyus. What is missing is the stress on tzniyus as pnimiyus. We need to cultivate depth of character, not just a superficial commitment to a particular mode of dress.
Submitted by H.G.; Taken from divreichaim.blogspot.com
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Today's halachos are dedicated L'Refuah Shelaima of Nechama Ilana Bas Marim, who will be undergoing heart surgery today. Please keep her in mind while you daven and learn the halachos.
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1) While davening Shemona Esrei, one's hands should be in the same position they would be in were the person speaking to a human king, dignitary or president. (During Shemona Esrei we are standing "L'fnei HaMelech- in the presence of the King [of Kings]!")
A person's hands may not be in their pockets, crossed over their chest, or any other disrespectful position during Shemona Esrei (and ideally not at any other part of davening either)
Thecorrect position is dependent on each place and time.
In the old days the right hand was placed on top of the left hand when in the presence of a king.
Today it is acceptable for the hands to be placed gently at one's side, although some people still have the custom to place the right hand on top of the left hand and hold it near the heart, as there are kabalistic reasons for standing in this position. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 95:3 and Mishna Berura S"K 6. See also Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 95:4. This is a proper custom which many Yirei Shomayim, G-d fearing Jews, follow.)
2) For Kabalistic reasons, the left hand should never be placed over the right hand as the power of the right (Rachamim) should always overpower the left (which is symbolic of the Yetzer Hara). (See Darchei Moshe Siman 95:3)
Thus, left handed people who place their hands near their heart while davening Shemona Esrei, should also make sure to have their right hand on top of their left hand.
All of the above applies to women as well as to men.
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 allowed to wear sunglasses on Shabbos, if the sun is too bright and it is painful to go without sunglasses?
Answer:
Ordinary sunglasses used to shade the eyes from the sunlight may not be worn outside on Shabbos, as we worry that when a shady area is reached, they will be removed and ultimately carried on Shabbos.
If they are worn outdoors for health reasons, there may be room for leniency and a Rav should be consulted for Halacha L'Ma'aseh.
If they are prescription glasses which are also tinted to serve as sunglasses, they may be worn.
If they are not prescription, but are worn even indoors for health reasons, they may be worn outdoors as well.
(See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchasa Perek 18:18 and footnote 71)
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
"On a hot June day in 1944, my mother dragged her starving and emaciated body towards one of the many electrified fences in Auschwitz. A lifetime ago it seemed she and her family had stood face to face with Mengele. His cursed finger had pointed my mother's family to the left and to death. She had been sent to the right, to slave labor and, by the grace of G-d, to life. Now, on this hot and soul numbing June day, she found herself near one of the fences dividing two parts of the Auschwitz camp, longing to be with her family, yet still clinging to life.
"A girl standing on the other side of the fence noticed her and called out in Czech. Turning her head, my mother saw a young girl of about 16 who stood shivering in fear and quaking from emotion. 'Please, tell me, do you speak Czech or German?' the girl asked.
'I speak Czech,' my mother answered.
'And are you Jewish?' the girl asked.
'Yes, of course I am,' my mother replied.
'Do you, perhaps, also know how to pray?' the girl continued.
'Certainly, but why are you asking all these questions?' asked my mother.
"Visibly relieved, the girl explained: 'I heard that we are being taken to the gas chambers tonight. I'm Jewish but I was never taught how to pray. I am terrified. If this camp is empty tomorrow morning, you will know that I'm no longer alive. If that happens, please pray for my soul. My name is Anishka.'
"Her heart breaking for this child just three years younger than herself, my mother reassured her and promised that should Anishka's camp be empty, she would pray for her.
"The next day, the camp on the other side of the fence was eerily silent. Not one person remained. My mother tearfully fulfilled young Anishka's last request. Though Anishka had no idea how to pray, she knew that a Jewish soul is eternally linked to the concept of prayer, and perhaps she went somewhat "easier" to her death knowing that her Jewish soul would indeed be prayed for."
You read these words and the heart quakes with a sudden rush of spiritual warmth. Hashem has given this world a nation called Bnei Yisrael, and despite all the horrors, we seek to pray to Him. It is astounding, we Jews pray even when all hope seems lost. It is one of the greatest mysteries of our people, yet in fact it is no mystery at all.
Every Jew is born with a pintele that beats with the need to connect with Hashem. Our enemies have sought to destroy this flame, they have belittled us, tortured us, disparaged everything we hold sacred, yet, the pintele remains alive. It is Hashem's gift to us, the kernel that makes us who we are, and nothing can destroy it.
This is so real. There are no lost Jews who are gone forever. They are part of the nation that Hashem took out of Egypt. They have the pintele, and they can and will raise their heads to Hashem one day.
Theholy Rebbe of Gur, the Pnei Menachem,used to always say: Alle Yidden zenen heilig, "All Jews are holy!!"
Plaque at the site of the Auschwitz Concentration Camp where so many Yidden suffered. Hashem Yinkom Damam.
Submitted by C.S.; Taken from a larger essay written by Rabby Y. Reuven Rubin ( Rabbi@Theinformalproject.com)
Do YOU
have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Your donation of $5, $10, $18, $36, $54 or ANY AMOUNT will make a BIG difference in keeping HALACHA FOR TODAY going and helping us reach more and more Jews around the globe!
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Thank you and Tizkeh L'Mitzvos!
If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos on this and other topics.
1) Every Jewish male is obligated to recite the entire Krias Shma twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening.
Women, M'Ikar HaDin, are exempt from reciting the entire Krias Shema. However, they should (and according to some Poskim must) recite the first Posuk of "Shema Yisroel..." and "Baruch Sheim..." each morning and evening as they are definitely obligated in Kabolas Ol Malchus Shamayim ,accepting upon themselves the yoke of Hashem's sovereignty. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 70:1 and Mishna Berura S"K 4)
2) The custom is to cover the eyes with the hand when saying the first Posuk of Shma Yisroel as to ensure that the eyes do not wander and prevent proper concentration (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 61:5)
The hand that should be used to cover the eyes is the right hand. (Mishna Berura Siman 61:17)
The Poskim discuss that the reason for using the right hand is because the left hand is already occupied with holding the Tzitzis (as we previously discussed) and thus the free hand is used to cover the face. The Sefarim also write that there are kabalistic reasons for using the right hand for this purpose. (See Sefer Od Yosef Chai from the Ben Ish Chai Parshas V'Eira Os 2 Dibur Hamaschil U'Mah Shekasav)
Since both righties and lefties hold their Tzitzis in their left hands, they both use their right hands for covering the face. (See Kaf HaChaim Siman 61:21)
Although women do not hold Tzitzis when reciting Krias Shma, they should still use their right hand to cover their face, due to the kabalistic reasons for using this hand.
Some people have the custom to simply close their eyes when saying Shma, without putting any hand on their eyes. This is not a proper custom according to kabalistic sources. (See Ben Ish Chai ibid. Os 1)
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 are all eagerly awaiting the arrival of Mashiach].
Can you possibly explain what we are waiting for?
I know that I am not the only one of your readers who doesn't really understand what will happen when Mashiach comes. Though I know that my Neshama is yearning for him to come, I don't really know exactly what I should be yearning for?
Answer:
To answer your question, I have translated for you (as best I can) a line of Gemara and a few paragraphs of the Rambam that deal with this issue, which I hope will sufficiently give you at least a little glimpse into what kind of world we can expect when he arrives, may it be soon and may we merit going along with him:
* The only difference between the world as we know it and the world after Mashiach arrives is that the subjugation of the nations over the Jews will cease. (Talmud Brachos 34b)
* For what reason did the Jewish nation and its wise men and prophets crave the arrival of Mashiach? So that they can get a break from the evil governments which didn't allow them to peacefully and properly study Torah and perform Mitzvos.
Ridding them of these oppressive regimes in the Galus will allow them to amass more wisdom and thus help them merit eternal life in Olam Haba, as in the days of Mashiach there will be an increase of Da'as, knowledge, Chochma, wisdom and Emes, truth...
...The king, a descendant of Dovid that will be in place at that time will be wiser than Shlomo Hamelech he will be almost as big a prophet as Moshe Rabbeinu, and therefore he will teach the nation the way of Hashem, and even the nations of the world will come to listen to him...
The [physical] world will continue to function as before with the exception that the reigning kingdom will be the Jewish nation. (Rambam Hilchos Teshuva Perek 9 Halacha 2. He writes similar language in Hilchos Melachim Perek 12 Halacha 4)
* [Regarding the appearance of Eliyahu Hanavi to announce Mashiach's arrival, as well as other details of war and peace that will precede Mashiach] nobody will know what will transpire until it happens, as these occurrences were hidden from all the prophets, and even the Chachamim only deduce certain events based on their interpretation of various Pesukim, and thus even amongst themselves there is a lot of differences of opinion.
Bottom line, knowing exactly how these things will unfold is not an important tenet of Judaism, and is best if the Midrashim and Aggados regarding them are not delved into too deeply, as getting too involved in these matters does not bring to love and/or fear of heaven. Also, it is best to stay away from trying to calculate the timing of the arrival of Mashiach, as the Chachamim said that those who delve into these calculations will lose their minds.
Rather, we must wait and believe in the imminent arrival of Mashiach, as it can be any moment. (Rambam Hilchos Melachim Perek 12 Halacha 2)
* When Mashiach arrives there will be no more hunger, war, jealousy or strife. The abundant goodness of Hashem will be so plentiful and all the pleasures of the world will be readily available like earth. The only thing the inhabitants of the world will busy themselves with is the knowledge of Hashem... (Rambam Hilchos Melachim Perek 12 Halacha 5)
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
For all the yisurim(problems) that are out there, there is a solution.
First one has to know that everything that Hashem does is 100% out of love.
Hashem doesn't just do things just like that. Hashem decides and plans for each one what is best for that person.
Each problem that one goes through is to bring one closer to Hashem, our Father, our Creator, and Friend.
It is to improve ones bitachon & emuna in Him.
To believe that everything and anything that happens comes from Him, and for a reason.
One must know there is no such a thing as a coincidence, if it happened it's for a reason.
It is to for us to work on ourselves to become closer and closer to Hashem. We should be singing praises and blessings in thanking Hashem for all that He does. One must know that Hashem is full of chesed and rachamim (kindness and compassion) for each and every one of us. All we have to do is TRUST HIM, Hashem is telling us:
TRUST ME I KNOW WHAT I'M DOING.
Is this easy? NO.
But the more we try the more Hashem will help us reach and understand this feeling.
TRY YOUR BEST HASHEM WILL DO THE REST!
It says סוֹמ'1;ךְ ה' לְכ'4;ל ה'3;נּ'5;פְל'0;ים- Hashem upholds all that fall.
Rav Avigdor Miller Zatzal explains: Everyone is actually a faller if not for the support of Hashem. Every rich man is penniless, and every healthy man is unwell, if not for the hand of Hashem that holds them up. Thus the verse states: all those in the world who have been upheld from falling: know that Hashem has been supporting you! There is no wealthy man, or honored man, or healthy or happy one; there are but men Hashem keeps wealthy, or honors, or keeps healthy or happy.
How does one reach such a level? Answer-
One has to be mispallel for it.
"Please Hashem help me get close to You"
"Please Hashem help me understand this and live like this.
"Please Hashem help me with add in what you are mispallel for.
Always remember.
One who prays for another's need, Hashem will answer that need of his first.
Submitted by H.- adapted from www.divreichizuk.com
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Erev Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Eikev
July 30 2010
19 Menachem Av 5770
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DOUBLE PORTION L'KAVOD SHABBOS KODESH
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1) Jewish males [over the age of 13] must don Tefilin every single day, except Shabbos and Yom Tov (and Chol HaMoed according to some)
One who does not don Tefilin is shunned by Hashem (Talmud Pesachim 113b)
One who fulfills the Mitzvah of Tefilin is as if he fulfilled all the Mitzvos of the Torah (Talmud Kidushin 35a)
2) The Tefilin is placed on the weaker hand. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 27:1 and Mishna Berura S"K 1)
Thus, right handed men place the Tefilin on their left hands and left handed people [who do everything with their left hands] place the Tefilin on their right hands. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 27:6)
If the Tefilin was placed on the wrong hand, the obligation has not been fulfilled even B'dieved. (See Be'er Heitev Siman 27:11 and Mishna Berura Siman 27:1 and 24)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) There is a minority opinion amongst the Poskim that rules that a even a left handed person should place Tefilin on his left hand.
Some Poskim are stringent and say that lefties should first place the Tefilin on their right hands and then also place on their left hands to satisfy the minority opinion. (See Sha'arei Teshuva Siman 27:7 and Kaf HaChaim Siman 27:31. See also Shu"t Az Nidberu Vol. 14 Siman 33, Ohr L'Tzion Vol. 2 Siman 83:3 and Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 1 Siman 41)
The prevalent custom, however, is for lefties to just place their Tefilin on the right hand.
2) If a person writes with his right hand but does everything else (eats, throws a ball etc.) with his left hand or vice versa, a Rav must be consulted as to which hand is considered his stronger hand. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 27:6. See also Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 4 Siman 11 and Vol. 3 Siman 2 , Shu"t Minchas Shlomo Vol. 2 Siman 3 , Kobetz Teshuvos from Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Shlita Vol. 1 Siman 4 and Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 1 Siman 41)
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 someone wears glasses with "Transitions" lenses (i.e. lenses that tint into sunglasses when exposed to sunlight), is it a transgression of Shabbos to wear those glasses, if bringing them into the sunlight will cause the lenses to change colour to become darker?
Answer:
According to virtually all contemporary Poskim, it is permitted to wear these "Photo Gray" glasses on Shabbos even if the lenses will change colors, as this isn't considered "coloring" on Shabbos as no color is being added, rather the color that is already there is appearing and disappearing. (See Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 3 Siman 45, Shu"t Tzitz Eliezer Vol. 14 Siman 31, Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchoso Perek 18 footnote 70 , Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 6 Siman 46 and Piskei Teshuvos Siman 320 footnote 38)
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
No matter how bad things may seem at any point in our lives, we must always remember that there is another chapter waiting to be turned just around the corner.
However long it may take us to ultimately realize it, there will finally come a time when we will be able to retroactively understand the Divine Providence and the good which were germinating in what seemed to be life's darkest moments.
Dovid Hamelech writes (Tehillim 116:13) Kos Yeshuos Esa Uv'shem Hashem Ekra - the cup of salvation I will raise and I will call out in the name of Hashem.
Dovid Hamelech also writes in the same chapter, using the same terminology (116:3-4) Tzara V'yagon Emtza Uv'shem Hashem Ekra - I will find troubles and suffering, and I will call out in the name of Hashem.
Regardless of whether I will raise the cup of salvations or whether I will find troubles and suffering, I will ultimately call out in Hashem's name just the same.
The only difference is that when things seem difficult, we sometimes have to patiently wait until we are able to recognize the good that will ultimately make us call to Hashem to express our praise and gratitude.
Dovid Hamelech understood this, and lived his life- a life of troubles, struggles, disappointments, trials, tribulations, downfalls, harassment, pain and suffering- with the steady praise of Hashem on his lips.
That is the power of Sefer Tehilim!
That is the power of a Jew who uses the words of Tehilim to cry to- and praise- Hashem in every situation!
It was his understanding of and clinging to this tenet of Judaism that will earn him the coveted honor of leading the Birchas HaMazon at the feast of Moshiach, may it be soon! (See Talmud Pesachim 119b)
Even if we aren't there yet and aren't able to see the good that currently lies hidden, the knowledge that it is there and we will eventually understand it should give us the strength to persevere with faith and trust until it is revealed.
Kever Dovid HaMelech
Submitted by R.P.J.; Taken in part from Parsha Potpourri by Rabbi Ozer Alport.
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
HURRY! RSA $25,000 RAFFLE! All tickets purchased by August 3rd will be entered into a Early Bird Raffle for a $500 Amex gift card! Click HERE
Your donation of $5, $10, $18, $36, $54 or ANY AMOUNT will make a BIG difference in keeping HALACHA FOR TODAY going and helping us reach more and more Jews around the globe!
To dedicate the learning of a day of HALACHA FOR TODAY, or to make a much appreciated donation to please CLICK BUTTON BELOW.
Thank you and Tizkeh L'Mitzvos!
If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos on this and other topics.
1) It is a Mitzvah for Jewish males to hold their Tzitzis in their left hands, near the heart, during the recitation of Krias Shma [of Shacharis]. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 24:2)
The reason for their being held in the left hand is due to the Posuk (Devarim 6:6) V'Hayu HaDevarim Ha'eileh...Al Levavecha, and these words...on your heart" (ibid.)
2) The Tzitzis should be held between the pinky and the ring finger for the entire Shma, and when reciting the Parsha of Tzitzis (V'Yomer) it should also be held with the right hand and gazed upon. (Mishna Berura Siman 24:4)
They should be held in this position until after the words "Ne'emanim V'nechemadim La'Ad" [in V'yatziv] are said. They should then be kissed and released from both hands. (Mishna Berura ibid. quoting the Arizal)
Since the reason for the left hand is due to its proximity to the heart, there is no difference in this Halacha between righties and lefties.
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:
You stated [in the halachos for Nov. 14 2008 ] that the feet must be together [after Kedusha] until Hakel Hakodesh. What is source for this? Most people move the feet after Yimloch.
What is your position on Rosh Hashana & Yom Kippur? There are many paragraphs between the end of Kedusha and Hamelech Hakodosh. Must feet be together throughout until the end of the beracha?
Answer:
See Elya Rabba Siman 95:6 and Aruch Hashulchan Siman 95:5.
Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal (Halichos Shlomo, Tefilah, Perek 8: Ha'arah 60) maintains that on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur when there is a long time between Kedusha and HaKel Hakadosh, it isn't necessary to stand until HaKel hakadosh.
I heard in the name of Rav Joseph D. Soloveitchik Zatzal that he held that even on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur one must stand the entire time until HaKel HaKadosh, though I havent seen this in print and havent verified this yet.
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
The Torah tells us that our matriarch Leah thanked Hashem when her fourth son, Yehuda, was born, saying "HaPam Odeh Es Hashem, This time I will thank Hashem"
Why does Leah only thank Hashem for Yehuda?
Was she not thankful for her first three sons?
The explanation can be as follows:
The four wives of Yaakov Avinu knew B'derech Nevuah (via prophecy) that Yaakov was going to have 12 sons. So they all just assumed - four wives, 12 sons... 12 by 4 is 3 so that's three sons each.
When Leah had Yehuda, and saw it was a son, and saw that she now had FOUR sons, she realized that there was no such accounting in play.
With four sons to Leah, there was definitely going to be at least one wife with only two. And once there's no equal cheshbon, Hashem could just as easily gone with 6-6-0-0 or 5-4-3-0 or 4-4-4-0 (etc.)
And she could just as easily have been the mother of 0. Instead she was now the mother of 4.
So only with Yehuda did she truly realize that ALL of her sons were "gifts."
Until Yehuda, there was a part of her that saw her sons as something she was "due," but with Yehuda she realized retroactively that she had to give Hoda'ah (thanks) to Hashem even for things that seemed "natural".
Submitted by Ben M.
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
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1) When a man puts on his Talis in the morning, the Talis should initially cover his face, until his mouth. Those that throw the majority of the Talis over themselves and have it reach down way beyond their mouth are not doing a proper Atifa, wrapping. (Mishna Berura Siman 8:4. See also Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 8:5 and Aruch HaShulchan Siman 8:5)
During this procedure, part of the Talis must be on the back. If the entire Talis is draped over the neck like a shawl, the obligation has not been satisfied. (See Be'er Heitev Siman 8:3 quoting the Mogen Avraham. Unfortunately, I often observe people not being careful with this. Additionally,in certain communities the Talesim are small and worn as shawls around the neck only throughout the davening. This is not proper.)
2) The four strings of Tzitzis should then be taken and thrown over his left shoulder and remain that way for the amount of time it takes to walk four Amos (approximately 8 feet) (Mishna Berura ibid.)
The primary reason for the Tzitzis being placed on the left shoulder is Al Pi Kabala, and thus even left handed men should follow the above procedure. (See Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 2 Siman 3:3)
Another reason given for this is that Tzitzis serves to combat the Yetzer Hara as it says in the Parsha of Tzitzis (Bamidbar 15:39) "V'Lo Sasuru Acharei Levavchem, you shall not err after your heart" and thus the Tzitzis are flung over the shoulder on the side of the heart. According to this reason as well, left handed men follow the same procedure. (See Shu"t Radvaz Vol. 3 Siman 571. See also Ben Ish Chai Parshas Bereishis 5, Kitzur Shnei Luchos HaBris (Shla HaKadosh) Hilchos Tzitzis and Sefer HaChinuch Mitzvah 386. See also Talmud Menachos 44a and Avoda Zara 17a)
After waiting the proper amount of time, the Tzitzis should be placed in their appropriate place (two in the front on the right and left side and two in the back on the right and left side) (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:
Is it forbidden to learn during Chazaras HaShatz (The Chazzan's repetition of Shemona Esrei)?
Answer:
Yes, it is forbidden to learn Torah (this includes intense studying as well as just glancing at a Sefer or a Torah pamphlet which is on the table in Shul) during Chazaras HaShatz.
Rav Chaim Kanievsky shlita is known to tell people that doing so is a "Mitzvah Haba B'Aveira". I once heard from a Rav that the reason that so many people suddenly want to learn during Chazaras HaShatz is because at that time we are "Aino Metzuveh V'Oseh", we are not commanded to learn then thus the Yetzer Hara pushes us to learn then.
See Mishna Berura Siman 124:17 that one who learns during Chazaras HaShatz, even if he manages to hear and answer all the Amens properly himself, still may not do so as it causes others to copy him and they will not listen properly and thus he will be a Choti U'Machti.
The Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 124:6 writes that people who learn or say other Tachanunim (such as tehilim) during Chazaras HaShatz should be chastised for doing so as what they are doing is not proper.
See also Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 4 Siman 19 that this is all the more so when actually in a small minyan where there may not be 9 people answering Amen.
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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 Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
The following is an excerpt from an email I recently received from a reader of Halacha For Today, a Ba'alas Teshuva who strives every moment of her life to improve and become closer to Hakadosh Baruch Hu. I am sharing her words with her permission, as I feel that we can all be inspired by the sentiments she expresse:
...Every time I go out of one email to go into the other,
Yahoo puts up a box on the right that says: "Trending".... and lists usually ten names I think of movie stars or other famous people, and occasionally an event or a place will show up among them.
Just now, as I glanced at the list and thought how very far that Gashmius world that they all live in is from the world we Torah Jews inhabit. And therefore there's no wonder my non religious friends don't understand me or what I'm doing.
My "Trending" list would include: Rashi, The Chasam Sofer, Rav Hirsch, Rav Zalman Sorotzkin, Rav Eliyahu M'Vilna, Rav Moshe Feinstein, Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv, the Chofetz Chaim, Rav Yisroel Salanter, etc.
My non religious friends would have the same reaction to my list as I have to her world's list.... I don't know a single name on it!
How lucky I am! How wonderful it is to be so divested from that world!
Hodu Lashem Ki Tov Ki L'Olam Chasdo!!!
HaShem has really blessed me with a total disregard for celebrities such as movie stars, their escapades, and their lack of good behavior. And this was even when I was a kid. Amazing that I was one of the few girls in my school who DIDN'T read pulp movie and fan magazines! I never understood the concept of idolizing these stars...
...Once again I reiterate: Hodu LaShem Ki Tov Ki L'Olam Chasdo! We are so blessed!!
May we all be zoche to minimize our interest in the superficial Gashmius world and strive to put our efforts into belonging to the world of Hashem and His holy Torah.
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Important Numbers
