Today's Halachos are dedicated by a daily reader,D.E., in honor of her dear friend C. R. M.A. bas S.I.
May Hashem bless her with the answer to all her prayers and may she be successful in all her endeavors. May she realize her dreams of becoming a mother in Klal Yisroel very soon.
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1) Before eating bread the following blessing must be recited, after washing: "Baruch Ata Hashem Elokeinu Melech Ha'Olam Asher KidShanu B'Mitzvosav, V'tzivanu Al Netilas Yadayim- Blessed are you Hashem, master of the world who sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to wash (i.e. sanctify) our hands".
This text (i.e. "hands" in the plural) is recited even if washing only one hand (for medical or any other acceptable reason) (See Kaf HaChaim Siman 158:4 and Shu"t Yechaveh Da'as Vol. 2 Siman 19. The Aruch HaShulchan 163:2 maintains that no Bracha is made when only one hand is washed.)
2) One who washes for Netilas Yadayim and makes the Bracha, and then changes their mind and does not want to eat, may do this, and it isn't a Bracha L'vatalah (a blessing in vain) as at the time of the washing their intent was indeed to eat.
L'Chatchilah, however, it is best to eat a little bread. (Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 25:9 based on a Ritv"a in Maseches Chulin 106. See also Kaf HaChaim 158:6)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) It is best not make a Hefsek (interruption) between the washing of the hands and the recital of the Bracha (See Shulchan Aruch HaRav 158:16)
"Those who are [more]careful not to talk between reciting "Al Netilas Yadayim" and reciting "Hamotzi", yet [are lax and] talk between washing the hands and reciting the "Al Netilas Yadayim" are mistaken [in their priorities of when it's more important to not make a Hefsek]" (Direct quote of the Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 165:1)
It is best not to talk after even one hand is washed, as the obligation to recite the Bracha is already in place after the first hand is washed. (See Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 2 Siman 115)
The hands should not be dried or rubbed together, while reciting the Bracha; rather one should concentrate solely on the words he/she is saying.
2) Usually when doing Mitzvos, the Bracha is made before the Mitzvah is done (Over L'Asiyaso). However, since the hands are often not clean before the washing, Chazal instituted that by Netilas Yadayim the Mitzvah (washing) is done first and only then is the Bracha recited.
However, in order to make the Bracha before the Mitzvah is totally completed, the Bracha should be recited before the hands are dried (as the drying is also a part of the Mitzvah)
If one forgot and dried his/her hands, B'dieved, the Bracha can still be made afterwards as long as the "Hamotzi" was not recited on the bread. (See Shulchan Aruch, Ram"a and Mishna Berura Siman 158:11. See also Chayei Adam Siman 40:4 and Be'er Heitev 158:18 for other opinions in this Halacha)
Some people have the custom to say the Posuk "Se'U Yedeichem Kodesh, U'Barchu Es Hashem" (Tehillim 134) before reciting the Bracha of "Al Netilas Yadayim". They must be aware to make sure to not begin drying the hands until after the entire Bracha is recited. (See Mishna Berura 158:44. According to the Shl"a saying this Posuk is not a Hefsek. The Gaon of Vilna, the Ba'al HaTanya and others, however, maintain that it should not be said as it is indeed a Hefsek. Each person should follow their established custom with regard to this)
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
If a person who davens nusach Sefard - is davening in an Ashkenaz minyan - some will maintain Nusach Sefard tachnun - e.g. Mon & Thurs - Ashamnu - to themselves etc.
Others I see "follow" the minyan flow. your research/thoughts please?
My Answer:
In this case, the person may say the "Ashamnu" quietly to himself, so nobody should realize he is doing so. He also should not bang his chest as is the usual minhag, so nobody should realize he is saying something different than the rest of the Tzibbur. However, the "Yud Gimel Midos" may not be said, as that requires a minyan saying it. See Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 4 Siman 34
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Today's Halachos are dedicated to R.C bas A. May Hashem bless her with peace and serenity in her life and may she find the inner strength to make the right choices and have true Yiddish Nachas from her children.
1) One who uses the bathroom immediately before a meal where bread will be eaten, is presented with a quandary, as follows:
*If the hands are washed and "Asher Yatzar" (The Bracha required immediately after using the facilities) is said followed by "Al Netilas Yadayim" (The Bracha required before eating bread), it will be a "Hefsek- separation" between the washing and the blessing on the washing.
*If "Al Netilas Yadayim" is said first and followed by the "Asher Yatzar", it will be a Hefsek between the washing and the "Hamotzi" you will say on the bread.
*Pushing off "Asher Yatzar" until after you eat the bread is also not L'Chatchilah, as it is supposed to be recited as soon as possible after using the bathroom.
Therefore, the best thing to do in this situation is to wash the hands after exiting the bathroom without a cup straight from the faucet (as such a washing suffices for after the bathroom, but not for Netilas Yadayim for bread) and recite "Asher Yatzar".
Then the hands should be[dried, according to Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal and others, and then] washed again, this time with a cup, and "Al Netilas Yadayim" recited.
2) The above Halacha is L'Chatchilah. However, B'dieved it isn't a real Hefsek to say "Asher Yatzar" between the Netilas Yadayim and the "Hamotzi". Therefore if one washed his hands for the meal after using the bathroom with a cup, he/she should recite "Al Netilas Yadayim" followed immediately by "Asher Yatzar" and then make "Hamotzi on the bread and eat.
According to many Poskim, the aforementioned "B'dieved" method, is actually L'Chatchilah, therefore it may surely be relied upon in situations where washing twice is difficult. (That this method is L'Chatchilah is the opinion of the Gaon of Vilna in Ma'aseh Rav, Ba'al HaTanya in Seder Netilas Yadayim Siman 6, Ya'avetz in his siddur, Chazon Ish Siman 24:30 and Aruch HaShulchan 165:2. See Mishna Berura 165:2 and 3 at length and Sha'ar Hatzion ibid. 2. See Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 1 Siman 168 where he writes that "Al Netilas Yadayim" should be recited when the hands are wet, and "Asher Yatzar" should only be recited after the hands are dried. He says that this was the minhag of the Chofetz Chaim)
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
I say tachanun [after Shemona Esrei ] on Friday mornings, although I daven with a minyan that does not say tachanun on Friday mornings,[is this proper]?
My Answer:
I am not sure that is the proper thing to do. You must do what the tzibbur is doing. For example, if there is a bris in the shul and the tzibbur doesnt say Tachanun, you may not say tachnun in that minyan.
Follow Up Question #1 from the same reader:
I agree in the case of the bris for that is a WIDELY ACCEPTED halacha by all that one does not say tachanun when there is a bris in shul.. To say tachanun in such a sitatuation would perhaps be a "tifrosh min hatzibbur" However, where is there a makor in halacha to not say tachanun on Friday mornings? It is not halacha but a minhag of some sort, the origin of which is very nebulous and vague.[most Jews say Tachnun] on Friday.
My Answer:
Halacha mandates that you follow the Tzibbur even if what they are doing is only a Minhag.(as long as it isn't blatantly against Halacha, which this isn't. Even though it may be only a chasidish minhag, it is still a Minhag Yisroel)
Follow up Question #2 from the same reader:
I am curious as to why a chasidish minhag is referred to as Minhag Yisroel! Who determines or what determines when a minhag becomes minhag yisroel? When did this "minhag" start and who started this minhag?
Is this based on the fact that there are more chassidim in Klal Yisroel than BNei Ashkenaz, litvish, yeshivish.
I have heard three different reasons over the years why they do not say tachanun.
The only reason I saw brought down in a sefer (I believe, Minhag Yisroel Torah) is because it shortens the davening in order that people can have more time to prepare for shabbos. I am not sure I understand what that means. Certainly, in today's times with the hundreds and hundreds of cholim and tzoros in klal yisroel, saying another perek tehilim, in the form of tachanun, is not such a bad idea. In any event, I eagerly look forward to your response as I have enjoyed very much your research and discussions in the past.
My Answer:
A Minhag Yisroel is any Minhag that is adhered to by any [frum] segment of Klal Yisroel, no matter if they are the majority or not. Most Minhagim have their roots in holy places. Many may be Al Pi Kabala (as many Chasidic minhagim are) and many may be due to a story that happened in a certain town. ( The Rama was very makpid to adhere to minhagim of his city of Cracow, even those that seemingly went against halacha. The full story about this can be found in the hakdama to Darchei Moshe)
many of the reasons for the initial minhagim may not be relevant anymore ( as in needing time erev Shabbos to prepare) yet, many congregations will steadfastly hold on to minhagm even if the reasons dont apply anymore, and that is an accepted hanhaga in Halacha.
Tachnun is an extremely holy prayer and many Sefarim actually say that if one cannot properly say it (slow, with Kavana etc.) it is better left unsaid!
Again, every Kehila should do what their custom is, and one who davens in a minyan that follows any custom should join them in their custom for that tefilah. (This includes davening their nusach for certain parts of the tefilah that are said aloud, even sometimes. See Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 2 Siman 23)
For a final ruling, ask a Rav. But I would say that you should indeed not say Tachnun if the minyan isn't saying it, as doing so would be very evident and thus inappropriate.
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Erev Rosh Chodesh Nisan 5769 , Yom Kipur Katan (The Seforim say that even those who don't usually say the Yom Kipur Katan Tefilah before Mincha, should try to do so on Erev Rosh Chodesh Nisan)
Today's Halachos are dedicated to H.S bas S. and E.R. bas S. May Hashem answer their Tefilos and allow them to see the true beauty of His ways.
1) Netilas Yadayim should not be washed in a bathroom, even if the hands are dried only after walking out of the bathroom, as the hands will once again become impure from being in the bathroom. (See Igros Moshe Even HaEzer Vol. 1 end of Siman 114)
Likewise, if the hands were washed outside of the bathroom and the bathroom was then entered while the hands were still wet, the hands must be rewashed outside of the bathroom. (See Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 24:26)
In cases of extreme necessity (Sha'as HaDchak) some Poskim allow the washing in a bathroom as long as the hands were not dried until after leaving the bathroom. This is common when traveling and the only sink available is in a rest stop bathroom or when on an airplane. (See Shu"t Minchas Yitzchak Vol. 1 Siman 60. However, R' Shmuel Wosner Shlita (quoted in Kobetz M'Beis Levi Vol. 7)only allows this if the bathroom is clean of excrement etc. and does not have a bad smell. This is often not the case in rest stops and airplanes, so keep this in mind.)
One may take water from a bathroom sink, and wash with that water outside of the bathroom. (See Shu"t Har Tzvi Siman 50) 2) After washing the hands for Netilas Yadayim, the hands should be rubbed together well in order to clean them, and also in case the water didn't hit a particular spot on the hand, the rubbing will wash that spot. However, if this wasn't done, washing over is not necessary. (See Mishna Berura 162:23 and 24. See Pri Megadim 162:7. See Kaf HaChaim 162:2 that according to kabalistic reasons, the hands should be rubbed together 3 times.)
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
What if someone wanted to give Tzedakah to a certain organization but before they were able to the organization shut down? or they saw an ad online [and wanted to give to it] and can't find it anymore and forgot the name [of the organization]?
My Answer:
According to the Shulchan Aruch one cannot make a Neder in his mind. The Rama argues and maintains that a neder can be made in your mind. (Yoreh Deah 259:13)
The above is only if it was a real promise to give.One who merely thinks about giving Tzedaka, but doesnt make up his/her mind to actually give isn't considered a real pledge according to everyone.(Aruch HaShulchan Siman 258)
The Chazon Ish ruled that one who made up his mind to give Tzedaka to a certain poor person who was collecting, and then the poor person disappeared (similar to your case of the organization closing down) you can give the money to a different poor person (or in your case a similar institution)
The best thing to do always when pledging Tzedaka is to say it's "Bli Neder", thus if you run into issues you will not have a promise to deal with. (Psak of Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal)
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Today's Halachos are sponsored by a daily reader, M.B., in merit of a speedy Refuah Shelaima for his father Asher Ben Taji. May he and all the Cholim of Klal Yisroel experience health and well being B'Karov!
1)The proper procedure for washing for Netilas Yadayim 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]. The cup should then be transferred to the right hand, filled with water, and the left hand should then be washed [twice]. (Mogen Avraham in introduction to Siman 158. Also brought in the Siddur Ya'avetz and in the name of the Gaon of Vilna)
A left handed person should also follow the above procedure, and wash his right hand first. (See Mishna Berura Siman 4:22)
Similarly, 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)
2) The hands may be washed either into a utensil [or sink] or onto the ground, as there is no problem of "Ruach Ra- impure spirit" with this water [unlike by Negel Vasser where it may not be poured on the ground.] This is common when washing for bread at a picnic or other outdoor venues, when no sink or receptacle is available to wash into. (Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 162:16)
According to some opinions [based on the Arizal], Netilas Yadayim [and the Bracha of "Al Netilas Yadayim"] must be done while standing. According to other opinions, this isn't necessary. (See Mogen Avraham beginning of Siman 8 that standing isn't necessary. The Ya'avetz maintains that one should stand. See also Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 1 Siman 171. )
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
Is one allowed to eat in a home of a family member who thinks he/she is frum {religious}and I know for a fact they do not necessarily tovel all of their utensils (and even if they said they did, they had left a sticker on the utensil, so I know it wasn't done Halachically)?
It's [a close relative] , so we kind of don't have a choice sometimes.
My Answer:
Well, if you are not 100% sure that the food you will be eating is 100% Kosher according to your standards, you may not eat the food.
regarding the utensils, if they havent been toveled, you may not eat off of them. You must either use paper dishes, or lift the food (if it's kosher of course) off the plate and eat it from your hands.
When it comes to doing what Halacha mandates, we can not say "we have no choice" and must follow the guidelines of the Torah, even at the expense of feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable etc.
It woud be best to tactfully try and explain to them the basic halachic requirements of Tevilas Keilim etc. in the hopes that they will be willing to learn and change.
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Today's Halachos are dedicated L'zchus E.R. bas S. May Hashem give her the strength to properly deal with her current challenging life situation. May the merit of all the Torah learning generated by this daily Halacha email be a z'chus for her to have Bracha and Hatzlacha in her life. Trust in Hashem, and everything will work out for the best.
1)After washing for Netilas Yadayim, while the hands are still wet, it is important to be careful not to touch (or be touched by) someone who did not yet wash their hands [properly].
If the wet hands were indeed touched by someone who did not yet wash, you must dry your hands and re-wash them without a Bracha.
2) If the hands were already dried when they were touched by someone who didn't wash, there is no need to rewash the hands. (See Mishna Berura 162:56. See also Shulchan Aruch HaRav 162:13)
If two people who washed their hands [properly] touch each other's hands, even while still wet, there is no need for them to re-wash. (See Aruch HaShulchan 162:17)
To sponsor a future issue of Halacha For Today for your business or in honor of a loved one or any occasion , please contact me at Halacha For Today
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
Would I be allowed to say Shir Hashirim at night for it to be counted as the next day, or can a person only say it during the day? Also, am I allowed to say shir Hashirim for 40 days on my own, even though I'm not saying it with a group?
My Answer:
Is your question regarding the saying of Shir Hashirim at night in general? (which is definitely allowed. See Maseches Sofrim Perek 14 Halacha 18) or is your question if saying at night is considered like saying the next day? (which it is, as the day begins at night in Jewish law)
You may say Shir Hashirim as many times and for as many days as you like, on your own. No group is necessary. The whole saying of Shir HaShirim (or Tehilim or anything else) for 40 days is a "segulah" and not a Halacha.
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Today's Halachos are dedicated L'zchus H.S. bas S. May Hashem give her the strength to follow the right path and live her life B'Derech Hashem. May the merit of all the Torah learning generated by the daily Halacha email be a z'chus for her to make the right decisions.
Important Note: The Halachos we are currently learning are the Halachos of "Netilas Yadayim L'Seudah, the laws of properly washing the hands before eating bread". Please do not confuse this with the Halachos of "Negel Vasser- washing the hands upon waking up in the morning", as their halachos are not necessarily the same and may not always be applied interchangeably. For Halachos of Negel Vasser please see archives of Hilchos Tefilah HERE. Thank you.
1)As we mentioned in the Halachos of last week, it is a good idea to raise the hands upwards after washing them to ensure that the water touches every part of the hands.
If an abundance of water is used there is less of a concern that the water will miss any parts of the hands, and in that case it isn't as necessary to lift the hands.
However, according to kabalistic reasons, it is important to raise the hands upwards after washing them, even if a lot of water was used. (See Mishna Berura 162:9, Aruch HaShulchan 162:7 and Kaf HaChaim 162:6 and 7)
2) The hands should remain raised from immediately after being washed the second time until after they are dried (Mishna Berura 162:3)
It is important to keep in mind that if one is in a situation where he/she has less than a Revi'is of water with which to wash for Netilas Yadayim, then he/she must, Al Pi Din- according to the letter of the law, raise their hands in order that the water can trickle down and reach each and every part of the hand. (Mishna Berura 162:4 and 11)
If at all possible, it is always good to wash each hand with a Revi'is of water, as doing so will prevent many Halachic problems afterwards.
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
Several related questions on Ma'aser:
It seems that you often need to know that you are using the money for maaser when you first give it. My brother lost his job and I gave him a "loan" several weeks ago. Can I tell him he doesn't have to return it and consider it maaser?
Similarly, I wrote a check last week for my daughter's upcoming year in seminary in Israel. Then I read your halacha that seminary tuition may be considered maaser. Can I now consider it as maaser?
If I give a large sum of money to maaser, and I don't yet owe that much money on maaser, can I keep a record, and as I earn income deduct what I owe in maaser from the maaser I already gave?
My Answer:
It is best to have in mind before giving the money that you want it to come from, and be counted toward, your Ma'aser.
However, regarding your brother, if you gave him the money as a loan, and now want to allow him to not repay it, you can think in your mind that when you tell him that he doesnt need to repay it, that should be an act of Ma'aser. if you already told him that he needn't repay it, it is more difficult halachically to allow you now to deduct it from Ma'aser.
Likewise, if you already paid the seminary, it is hard to be lenient retroactively and make it Ma'aser.
Regarding your last question, yes, you may give a large sum to Ma'aser and deduct from Ma'aser you need to give as the income comes in throughout the year.
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Today's Halachos have been sponsored by an anonymous reader, in memory of all those who perished and went through the holocaust. Hashem Yinkom D'Meyhem.
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1) The hands should be totally dry before washing for Netilas Yadayim. (Even though, from the Mishna Berura 162:49 it seems that if a full Revi'is is used to wash the hands, as is usually the case today, it isn't necessary to start with dry hands, many Poskim disagree, including the Ba'al HaTanya, The Chazon Ish, the Malbim in Artzos HaChaim and others. Therefore it is worthwhile to be stringent with this, as according to these Poskim you are not Yotzei if the hand is even a drop wet.)
2) The water must be poured over the entire hand until the wrist (opinion of many Rishonim, brought in Mishna Berura 161:21 where he says it is important not to be lenient with this Halacha)
It is important to be sure that the water touches every spot on the hand, the entire length and breadth of every finger. It is good to raise the hands upwards after washing to ensure that the water does indeed flow back down onto every part of the fingers and hand. (See Pri Megadim 162:7 that if even one small spot was missed, it's worse than a Chatzitza and the washing is not valid. See also Kaf HaChaim 162:43. We will see more about raising the hands while washing next week iy"H)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) It is praiseworthy to use an abundance of water for Netilas Yadayim and not to fill the cup sparingly, as to ensure that the washing will conform to the aforementioned requirements. (See end of Biur Halacha Siman 162 Dibur Hamaschil V'Ra'U Linhog)
In extreme situations (B'Sha'as haDchak, if there isn't enough water, if one has a wound on his hand which can't get wet or similar scenarios) the hands may be washed only until the [second] knuckles (as there are Rishonim who maintain that this is always the shiur for Netilas Yadayim. See Mishna Berura 161:21) The above leniency is only if the hand is otherwise clean. However if the hand is dirty or soiled, according to all opinions it must be washed in its entirety in order to be a valid Netilas Yadayim ( See Mishna Berura 161:22) 2) L'Chatchilah, each hand should be washed twice; once to remove the Tumah, impurities, from the hand and a second time to remove the initial water that became impure as soon as it made contact with your impure hands.
However, M'Ikar HaDin, according to the letter of the law, if a Revi'is of water was poured over the hand at one time, it does not become impure and it suffices for Netilas Yadayim with that one washing. It is still best to be stringent and wash each hand twice. ( See Aruch HaShulchan 162:9 and Sha'ar Hatzion 162:18)
If one uses the amount of water that would suffice for two washings, and pours it all on his/her hand at once it is considered like he/she washed twice. This is L'Chatchilah according to many Poskim, though a small separation should be made while the water is being poured, so it should seem like two separate flows of water , and there are Kabalistic reasons to have "two" washings per hand besides the Halachic reasons, which in this case wouldn't apply. (Shulchan Aruch HaRav 162:2. The Kaf HaChaim 162:2 writes that "Al Pi Sod" it is required to wash 3 times each hand whenever one washes their hands.
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
Wet Perforated papers, i.e. Baby wipes, is it mutar(permitted) on Shabbos to gently separate/tear it?
My Answer:
To tear paper, wet or dry, is Asur (prohibited) on Shabbos. Tearing on the perforations is much worse than tearing in another spot. If one is in a situation on Shabbos where he must rip toilet paper, he/she must do so NOT on the perforations. (Regarding the use of wet baby wipes on Shabbos it depends on how wet they are. please consult a Rav before using them)
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
1) Anybody above the age of 6 years may wash another person's hands for Netilas Yadayim. (Mishna Berura 159:70 explains that a child younger than six has no idea what he is doing, and thus isn't considered "force of a person" The Gaon of Vilna argues and allows it, as according to him it isn't an issue of "Da'as- understanding what is being done".)
Even someone who themselves did not wash their hands, may assist in washing your hands.
2) L'Chatchilah it is best not to have your hands washed by a woman in her days of impurity (Nidah), or by a non Jew at any time, as the Chazal deemed them impure. (Mishna Berura 159:69. The Mekor Chaim maintains that a man may not have his hands washed by a married woman, other than his wife, any time, regardless if she is a Nidah or not. See Shulchan Aruch even HaEzer Siman 21:5.)
When a woman is a Nidah she is forbidden from washing her husband's hands , and the husband is forbidden from washing his wife's hands.
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
Which is worse, Baal Tashchis (wasting food) or Achila Gasa (Eating after one is full)? Let's say I'm eating an apple and I am full after I finish half. I should throw it out right?
My Answer:
Somoeone I know used to always say, "It's better to throw it out, than to throw it in"
Obviously, the best thing to do is to try and save the rest for later (or only take half an apple in the first place). If that isn't possible, it is better to dispose of it than to force it down, after you are full.
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Today's Halachos are dedicated in merit of the 3 boys that are beginning their 2nd year of captivity in a Japanese jail. Please daven for their speedy release:
יעקב יוסף בן ריזל יואל זאב בן מירל ריסא חוה יוסף בן איטא רבקה ~~~~~~~~~~~~
1)When washing for Netilas Yadayim, the hands must be washed with the "force of a person" (in Halachic terms known as "Koach Gavra"). In other words, the water must be poured over your hands by a human and not from a stream of water that is flowing or from a cup of water that has overturned by itself. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 159: 7-9 and Mishna Berura 60-62. See also Biur Halacha Dibur Hamaschil V'Im Haysa Mutah, that without Koach Gavra it doesn't work even B'Dieved) 2) In the event that one does not have a cup with which to wash for Netilas Yadayim, the following procedure should be followed: Open the faucet and let the water go over your hand. Close the faucet. Open the faucet again and let the water flow over your hand again.
The reason for this is that the opening of the faucet is indeed considered "force of a person", but only for the initial water that comes out and not for the water that now continues to flow. Therefore, by re-opening the faucet a second time, you now caused "force of a person" to happen a second time. (Mishna Berura 159: 63 and 64. See Shu"t Eretz Tzvi Vol. 1 Siman 87.This should only be relied upon in extreme circumstances when no cup is available, as there are other problems that may arise when using this method.)
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
Regarding the question of copying music or other material... Can you copy if you for sure wouldn't buy it. Like you like one song on a CD and not more or even you like the whole thing but you just would never purchase it?
My Answer:
If there is absolutely no chance that you would buy it, and thus you for sure won't be causing the producer a monetary loss,there is much more room for being lenient. A Rav should be consulted for a final ruling.
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Today's Halachos are dedicated L'Zchus H.S. bas S.
May Hashem give her the strength necessary to deal with and overcome her struggles and have her Neshama Tehora shine.
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1)Women must remove their rings before washing, as the rings are usually removed when a woman kneads dough or otherwise handles messy things.
However, if the hands were washed with the rings on, if the rings are loose fitting she doesn't need to wash again, as B'dieved it isn't a Chatzitza. (Mishna Berura 161:18. See also Shu"t Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 1 Siman 127 regarding a woman who never removes the ring at all even for kneading dough. See also Kaf HaChaim 161:32)
Many women "hold" their rings between their teeth while washing and making a Bracha. This practice is not commendable as the mouth must be empty when saying Brachos. The best thing is to remove the rings and place them down on the counter or table before washing.
2) Women who wear nail polish may wash on top of the nail polish, since they want the polish there, it is considered part of the hand and isn't a Chatzitza (This Halacha is for hand washing only, and should not be applied for a woman going to the Mikvah, as inthat case she needs to remove the nail polish).
However, if the polish is cracking and brittle and she plans to remove it, she must do so before being able to wash Netilas Yadayim.
Men may not wash on top of nail polish, even if they want it there, as it isn't the norm for men to wear nail polish.
One who has a band-aid on his/her hand must remove it for washing, lest it fall off during the meal. However, if by removing the band-aid it will cause pain or puss to develop, it is not a Chatzitza and may be left on.
If the band-aid falls off or is removed during the meal, the hands must be rewashed before continuing to eat. (Mishna Berura Siman 162:71. See also Sha'ar HaTzion Os 58 where he debates whether the entire hand must be rewashed or just the place where the bandage was)
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
Why does the Shliach Tzibur not complete the entire last brocho, Hama'vir Sheno...... out loud in the morning tefilos?
My Answer:
"Hama'avir Shena" and the "V'Yehi Ratzon.."that follows is one long Bracha. In order to make sure nobody mistakenly answers Amen after "Hama'avir Sheina...U'Senuama M'Afapai" we don't say it loud.
Follow Up question from the same reader:
I don't understand why it is considered one long bracha if the Vihi Rotzon and the last brocha discuss two entirely diffrent subject matters. After all, there are brochos that do not start with Boruch Atah. Why is the Vihi Rotozon not considered such a brocho (brocho ketzoro) and then one would be able to answer amen after Hamavir Sheno. Why is this brocho not accorded the same status as all the other preceding brochos?
My Answer:
Your question, is the Bais Yosef's question (Siman 46 Dibur HaMaschil V"Al Kein Ain L'Anos Amen) ,as it seemingly is two separate Brachos, one about removing our sleepiness and one about the Chesed of Hashem. He answers in the name of Tosefos in Brachos that this that Hashem gives us fresh strength every morning is the greatest form of Gemilas Chasadim from Hashem, and thus it's one Bracha (he is quoting the Kal Bo, a Rishon)
The Gaon of Vilna indeed was of the opinion that it is 2 separate Brachos, but the Mishna Berura and most Poskim maintain that it is one long Bracha.
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Today's Halacha is dedicated by a daily reader as a merit that A. bas M. should Be Chozer B'Teshuva Shelaima and once again live her life according to the will of Hashem.
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1) One whose "hands on" profession leads to his/her hands regularly being stained (e.g. construction workers, butchers, painters, artists, Scribes etc.) may wash Netilas Yadayim on the soiled hands, if the cement, grime, ink etc. isn't covering most of the hand, and it isn't something that he/she usually bothers to remove while working.
This is true, even if most other people would be bothered by similar grime, and run to clean it off. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 161:2 and Mishna Berura S"K 11. See also Shu"t Teshuvos V'hanhagos Vol. 2 Siman117)
2) A Chatitzah (separation) only prevents proper washing if it is a tangible stain on top of the hand, such as dried ink, paint, cement etc.
Simply having a small pen mark or similar stain which cannot be lifted off the hand, is not a problem and the hand may be washed. Similarly, wet ink or paint, which will move around as you wash your hands, is not a Chatzitza, as the water is able to reach every part of the hand.( See Mishna Berura 161:14. See also Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 2 Siman 110)
A wound that is healing and develops a scab is not a Chatzitza unless it bothers you and you regularly remove it. (Mishna Berura 161:16)
Noticeable dirt on the fingernails, under the fingernails, or part of a fingernail that is loose and hanging is a Chatitzah and must be removed before washing Netilas Yadayim. If the dirt is insignificant, and not bothersome enough that people usually remove it, it isn't a Chatitza. (See Shulchan Aruch HaRav 161:4 and Kaf HaChaim 161:4)
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
Can you please elaborate on the halacha of not cutting down a fruit tree that's in your property, and what the reasons are for it, as well as the what consequences chas V'Shalom would take place if one did indeed do it?
My Answer:
Well, it is a biblical prohibition of "Lo Tashchis" (Parshas Shoftim Perek 20 Pasuk 19) to cut down any fruit tree,regardless if you own it, a non jew owns it or even if nobody owns it.
It is permitted to prune the branches of a fruit tree to enhance its growth. It is also permissible to trim a few branches if they are on top of a Sukkah or for any other Mitzvah purpose.
As far as the consequences, the Gemara does indeed bring various stories where ill befell people who were not careful with the cutting down of fruit trees. ( See Bava kama 91b, Bava Basra 26a, Succah 29a for a few examples)
There are certain exceptions when it would be permissible to cut them down or to transplant them elsewhere, but even then it would be best to have a non Jew do it. It is adviseble to seek the guidance of a Rav before relying on any leniencies in this matter.
(See also Shu"t Chasam Sofer Yoreh Deah Siman 101 and Shulchan Aruch HaRav, Shmiras HaGuf V'Hanefesh 15 and 16 for more about this)
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Today's Halacha is dedicated L'Zchus Refuah Shelaima for Tova Riva Bas Marim B'Soch Shar Cholei Yisroel
~~~~~~~~~~~~
1)It is prohibited to give bread to a Jew who does not wash his/her hands before eating bread, even if the bread belongs to him/her, as doing so will cause him/her to do a sin, and thus you will transgress the biblical prohibition of "Lifnei Iver Lo Titen Michshol". (Shulchan Aruch Siman 163:2 and Mishna Berura Siman S"K 12)
However, if you aren't positive that he/she will not wash their hands, or if they plan on taking the bread to their home, and will not be eating it immediately, it is permitted to give it to them. It is, however, good to tell them before giving it to them to please wash Al Netilas Yadayim before eating it. (Mishna Berura ibid. S"K 11 and Biur Halacha Dibur HaMaschil V'Asur. See also Shu"t Shevet HaLevi Vol. 4 Siman 17)
The above Halacha does not apply to one who owns a restaurant, as he isn't obligated to only serve those who he is sure will wash before eating. (See Kaf HaChaim 163:16. See also Shu"t Shevet Halevi Vol. 1 Siman 37)
2) The water of Netilas Yadayim must wash the entire hand. Therefore, before washing it is best to examine the hands to ensure that there isn't any [significant]dirt that may cause the water not to cover that part of the hand (and thus be a Chatzitzah- separation) (Mishna Berura Siman 161:1)
If the item stuck to the hand is small and insignificant, and most people wouldn't bother to remove such dirt, even if it bothers you personally, it isn't a Chatzitza.
Similarly, If the item is of the nature that most people would remove it, even if it doesn't bother you personally, it is a Chatzitza and must be removed. (This is only the general rule, there are certain exceptions, which we will discuss tomorrow)
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
I heard that one is not allowed to eat while outside in the market place. Is this also reffering to being on a train and eating (like a sandwich)?
My Answer:
The Gemara (Kiddushin 40b) says that one who "eats in the street" is compared to a dog. Another opinion in the Gemara says that one who "eats in the street" is disqualified from giving testimony in a Jewish court of law. The Halacha (brought in Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 34:18) is like the second opinion.
The reason for this is that one who eats in the street is lacking basic human dignity.
The commentaries debate exactly what constitutes "eating " and what exactly constitutes "in the street"
Obviously, a place designated for eating such as a picnic area in a public park or a "food court" in a mall, although public, isn't subject to this Halacha.
Also, food which is common to eat in the street, such as chewing gum or sucking a candy, is permissible. (Loudly making bubbles with buble gums however, can be a problem in public)
Walking down the street wolfing down a piece of pizza, or sitting on a train eating a burger, fries and a large coke would also be undignified.
Each person must determine his/her own limitations based on their particular circumstance to decide if what they are doing is dignified and befitting for the child of Hashem, which we, as jews, are and we must always act accordingly.
When in doubt, a Rav should be consulted.
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Erev Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Ki Sisa; Parshas Parah Adumah
March 13th 2009
17Adar, 5769
SPECIAL DOUBLE PORTION L'KAVOD SHABBOS KODESH
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1)One who eats a "K'Beitza" of bread (size of an egg) is obligated to wash his/her hands and make the Bracha of "Al Netilas Yadayim".
One who will be eating less than this amount should wash, but not recite the Bracha. Even though many Poskim maintain that one who eats less than a Kzayis (size of an olive) need not wash the hands at all, it is still best to be stringent and wash the hands albeit without a Bracha. (Mishna Berura 158:10)
If the bread is being eaten as a secondary food (tafel) to a more important food (Ikar), and thus doesn't need a Bracha of Hamotzi (e.g. croutons in soup, or bread crumbs on chicken) it also doesn't require washing of the hands. (Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 212:6). However, if the amount of bread being eaten as a tafel is more than a Kzayis, some Poskim require washing the hands without a Bracha (See Sha'ar HaTzion 158:11 and Mishna Berura ibid. 10) 2) One who eats bread must wash both his/her hands, even if he/she will only be touching the bread with one hand, as we are afraid that the unwashed hand will touch the bread. (Mishna Berura 158:4.See Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 23:13 who argues with the Mishna Berura about the reasoning of this Halacha)
The aforementioned Halacha remains in place even if one hand is covered with a glove or a towel. Likewise, if one eats with a fork or spoon or is being fed by another person and thus will not touch the bread with their hands, Netilas Yadayim is still required.
One who is feeding another person bread (such as a nurse feeding an elderly person etc.), is not required to wash their hands, as Chazal only instituted Netilas Yadayim for the person eating the bread.(See Shulchan Aruch HaRav 163:2 )
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) One who is traveling and does not have water, and will not find water for 4 Mil (approximately 72 minutes) in front of him/her, and 1 mil (approximately 18 minutes) behind him/her, if he/she is extremely hungry, the hands may be wrapped in towels or with gloves, and the bread eaten.
Similarly, if one is unable to wash the hands due to medical reasons, the above procedure may be utilized. If one hand is unable to get wet due to having a cast on it or similar medical reasons, the healthy hand should be washed and the unhealthy hand should be wrapped. (Aruch HaShulchan 163:2)
When relying on the above, both hands must be covered, not just the hand that is touching the bread. (Mishna Berura Siman 163:5). It is important to note, that when relying on the above the hands must be covered and not the bread. Having the hands exposed, and holding the bread with a napkin or in a bag is inadequate, according to most Poskim. (See Shu"t Tzitz Eliezer Vol. 8 Siman 7:6. )
2) Many Poskim frown upon using the above leniency, unless totally necessary. However, if one can wait a little longer before eating, or manage to eat other things besides bread until water is located, he/she is praised for doing so. (See first Biur Halacha in Siman 163. See also the Siddur of the Ba'al HaTanya in Seder Netilas Yadayim Siman 22, and Tiferes Shmuel on the Rosh Chulin Perek 8:1 where he questions the Halachic legitimacy of this practice)
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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 my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
What about paying Shul membership, Melaveh Malkeh or Dinner [cover charges] from maaser money?
My Answer:
According to the Poskim one may give around 90% of the shul membership dues from Ma'aser, and around 10% from regular money. (Provided that he/she stipulated that his/her Ma'aser money needn't go only to poor people). The Poskim also allow using Ma'aser money for most of dinner reservations (besides parts that cover the actual meal cost)
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
1)The requirement of Netilas Yadayim is only before eating bread made from the "Chameishes Minei Dagan, the 5 species of grain" (wheat, barley, rye, spelt or oats), and only when the Bracha on the bread in question is "Hamotzi".
One should not be stringent and wash the hands before eating [dry] fruits, as doing this unnecessary Chumra is a sign of haughtiness. (The Chazal only instituted the washing on bread as most of Terumah was bread and only a small portion was from fruit, and they did not institute this Halacha for the minority of Terumah foods. See Ram"a Siman 158:5 and Mishna Berura 22. See also Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 158:1)
If one's hands are dirty, or if one has a minhag to wash his hands before uttering any Bracha to Hashem, he/she may indeed wash the hands before eating fruits. (Mishna Berura 158:23). However, when doing so, it is best to not wash the hands in a way that it appears that it is for "Netilas Yadayim" (See Ketzos HaShulchan 36:21 and Mishna Berura ibid.)
2) If the fruits were wet while eating, Netilas Yadayim is required, and we will discuss those Halachos (of "Tibul B'Mashkeh) iy"H in a few days.
One who eats bread whose Bracha is "Mezonos" or other pastries, does not wash the hands, unless they are "Kovea Seudah" by eating the "Mezonos" item for their meal. (We will iy"H cover the Halachos of what constitutes "Kovea Seudah" in the near future as well)
To sponsor a future issue of Halacha For Today for your business or in honor of a loved one or any occasion, please contact me at Halacha For Today
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
While delivering Tzedakah packages for Aniyim, I received a ticket for parking at a Fire Hydrant. If I would not be able to park at the hydrants, there would be no way that I can deliver these packages and look for 9 different parking spots. My question is, can I use Maaser Money to pay for this ticket.
My Answer:
Most probably you would be able to consider the fine an "expense" incurred while delivering the packages, and would indeed be able to pay it from Ma'aser money.
Please double check with a Rav though for a final psak Halacha
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
With Hashem's help, we will begin to delve into the Halachos that pertain to Netilas Yadayim, Seudah, Brachos etc. As always, if you ever have any questions about anything I write, or any topic, please do not hesitate to email me at Halacha For Today
1) Chazal instituted "Netilas Yadayim", and required the washing of the hands before eating bread, even if the hands are not soiled or dirty.
Some have the custom to scratch their heads or touch a normally covered part of their body before washing for bread, thus ensuring that their hands are surely in need of a washing. (See Shu"t Teshuvos V'hanhagos Vol. 1 Siman 170:3)
The primary reason for requiring this washing is that in times of old (and again shortly when Mashiach arrives) before Kohanim were allowed to partake of Terumah they had to wash their hands to ensure they weren't impure. In order for them to get in the habit of doing so, the Chazal instituted this washing for all of Klal Yisroel, not just for Kohanim.
Even though we don't have a Bais HaMikdash now, and are all "impure", the requirement for Netilas Yadayim was kept in force, so we should be in the habit of doing so as soon as the Bais HaMikdash is rebuilt (May it be speedily and in our days)
2) Care must be taken to be scrupulous with the mitzvah of Netilas Yadayim, as those who [regularly] disgrace this Mitzvah are subject to a life of poverty (alluded to in the words "Al Netilas Yadayim" whose first letter spell out the word ANY- a pauper") and some other not so pleasant repercussions. (See Talmud Shabbos 62b).
Women and children are also obligated in Netilas Yadayim.
The many intricacies of the Halachos pertaining to properly washing for Netilas Yadayim, necessitate a thorough learning of the subject in order to be able to properly adhere to them[ and avoid the negative outcomes of not being scrupulous in these laws] (Shl"a quoted in Kaf HaChaim Siman 165:12)
To sponsor a future issue of Halacha For Today for your business or in honor of a loved one or any occasion, please contact me at Halacha For Today
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
I was with a friend on Rosh Chodesh. She washed for bread before shkia (sunset) and ate her meal. By the time she was done and ready to bentch (say Birchas HaMazon) it was after shkia/not rosh chodesh anymore. She bentched saying Yaale V'yavo Is that the correct halacha? Is it the same as shalosh seudos on shabbos, still saying retzei even if Shabbos is already over/bentching after tzeis.
My Answer:
Yes, your friend is correct. Just like by Seudah Shlishis on Shabbos, if you ate your meal before shkiah, you bentch with Retzei or Yaaleh V'Yavo even well after Shkiah.
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
SPECIAL DOUBLE PORTION L’KAVOD YOM TOV. THERE WILL BE NO EMAIL TOMORROW DUE TO IT BEING CHAG HA-PURIM
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Halachos for Ta’anis Esther
1) Chazal have instituted that on Purim one should drink more than his usual share of wine. According to some opinions it is a Mitzvah to actually get intoxicated on Purim.
Others maintain that actual intoxication is not mandatory, rather one should drink until he gets tired, and falls asleep.
This is based on the words of the Talmud (Megilah 7b) "Chayav Inish L’Besumei B’Puraya Ad D’Lo Yada Bein Arur Haman L’Baruch Mordechai- one is obligated to drink on Purim until he cannot distinguish between "cursed is Haman" and "Blessed is Mordechai".
There is a plethora of ways to understand the above Gemara, according to Halacha and Hashkafa as well as Kaballah, and covering all of them is beyond the scope of this forum. (For those who are interested in delving deeper into this, please start with the following sources: Shulchan Aruch, Ram"a and Mishna Berura Siman 695, Aruch HaShulchan Siman 695:2-5, Yad Ephraim to Shulchan Aruch ibid., MaHarsha Megilah 7b)
2) If by getting drunk, one will come to be lax in Mitzvah observance, or will Chas V’Shalom transgress sins (as is unfortunately the case sometimes, as intoxication in a non Torah environment often leads to promiscuity) , he is forbidden from getting drunk. (Meiri Maseches Megilah 7b (quoted in the Biur Halacha), Ran ibid., Shl"a ibid., Bais Yosef Siman 695 and Chayei Adam)
The point of drinking on Purim is to help us reach a higher level of Ahavas Hashem, loving our father in heaven. If one drinks in a manner that will bring disgrace to Hashem’s name, not only has he not fulfilled the Mitzvah, he will also bear a very grave sin.
Halachos for Purim
1) Although Purim is a Yom Tov on which work is permitted, the prevalent custom is not to work on Purim [day]. One who works on Purim will never see any blessing from the money he/she earns that day. (Some are lenient on Purim eve, in cases of great necessity) (Shulchan Aruch and Ram"a Siman 696:1. See also shu"t Chasam Sofer Siman 195)
Some people are stringent and also refrain from work on Shushan Purim. Others say this is only stringency for women. (Shl"a). Shushan Purim is also a day of Simcha, and one should try and make a small Seudah with meat and wine. (Ram"a 695:2)
2) Although it is customary to dress up in costumes on Purim, care must be taken that men do not don women’s clothing, and vice versa as doing so is a biblical transgression of "Lo Tilbash" as well as being a problem of Pritzus. This applies to children as well, and G-d fearing people should not treat this lightly. (Mishna Berura Siman 696:30 and Be’er Heitev Os 13. See also Aruch HaShulchan and Siddur Ya’avetz who are very stringent with this.) Care should also be taken to ensure that the costumes do not contain Sha’atnez (materials of wool and linen together) as that is also a biblical transgression, and may not be transgressed even on Purim. (ibid.)
To sponsor a future issue of Halacha For Today for your business or in honor of a loved one or any occasion, please contact me at Halacha For Today
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader’s Question:
I know how important it is to say Hamapil every night. Can I say it and then read/write (no talking involved) because when I read first sometimes I fall asleep until the morning and thus hamapil wasn’t said.
My Answer:
Yes, the Poskim seem to allow reading/learning after HaMapil, if that is being done to help you fall asleep (as many people, including myself, need to read or learn in bed in order to fall asleep)
Writing, however, is best not to do.
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
SPECIAL DOUBLE PORTION L'KAVOD YOM TOV. THERE WILL BE NO HALACHOS POSTED TOMORROW DUE TO IT BEING CHAG HA-PURIM
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Halachos for Ta'anis Esther
1) Chazal have instituted that on Purim one should drink more than his usual share of wine. According to some opinions it is a Mitzvah to actually get intoxicated on Purim.
Others maintain that actual intoxication is not mandatory, rather one should drink until he gets tired, and falls asleep.
This is based on the words of the Talmud (Megilah 7b) "Chayav Inish L'Besumei B'Puraya Ad D'Lo Yada Bein Arur Haman L'Baruch Mordechai- one is obligated to drink on Purim until he cannot distinguish between "cursed is Haman" and "Blessed is Mordechai".
There is a plethora of ways to understand the above Gemara, according to Halacha and Hashkafa as well as Kaballah, and covering all of them is beyond the scope of this forum. (For those who are interested in delving deeper into this, please start with the following sources: Shulchan Aruch, Ram"a and Mishna Berura Siman 695, Aruch HaShulchan Siman 695:2-5, Yad Ephraim to Shulchan Aruch ibid., MaHarsha Megilah 7b)
2) If by getting drunk, one will come to be lax in Mitzvah observance, or will Chas V'Shalom transgress sins (as is unfortunately the case sometimes, as intoxication in a non Torah environment often leads to promiscuity) , he is forbidden from getting drunk. (Meiri Maseches Megilah 7b (quoted in the Biur Halacha), Ran ibid., Shl"a ibid., Bais Yosef Siman 695 and Chayei Adam)
The point of drinking on Purim is to help us reach a higher level of Ahavas Hashem, loving our father in heaven. If one drinks in a manner that will bring disgrace to Hashem's name, not only has he not fulfilled the Mitzvah, he will also bear a very grave sin.
Halachos for Purim
1) Although Purim is a Yom Tov on which work is permitted, the prevalent custom is not to work on Purim [day]. One who works on Purim will never see any blessing from the money he/she earns that day. (Some are lenient on Purim eve, in cases of great necessity) (Shulchan Aruch and Ram"a Siman 696:1. See also shu"t Chasam Sofer Siman 195)
Some people are stringent and also refrain from work on Shushan Purim. Others say this is only stringency for women. (Shl"a). Shushan Purim is also a day of Simcha, and one should try and make a small Seudah with meat and wine. (Ram"a 695:2)
2) Although it is customary to dress up in costumes on Purim, care must be taken that men do not don women's clothing, and vice versa as doing so is a biblical transgression of "Lo Tilbash" as well as being a problem of Pritzus. This applies to children as well, and G-d fearing people should not treat this lightly. (Mishna Berura Siman 696:30 and Be'er Heitev Os 13. See also Aruch HaShulchan and Siddur Ya'avetz who are very stringent with this.) Care should also be taken to ensure that the costumes do not contain Sha'atnez (materials of wool and linen together) as that is also a biblical transgression, and may not be transgressed even on Purim. (ibid.)
To sponsor a future issue of Halacha For Today for your business or in honor of a loved one or any occasion, please contact me at Halacha For Today
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
I know how important it is to say Hamapil every night. Can I say it and then read/write (no talking involved) because when I read first sometimes I fall asleep until the morning and thus hamapil wasn't said.
My Answer:
Yes, the Poskim seem to allow reading/learning after HaMapil, if that is being done to help you fall asleep (as many people, including myself, need to read or learn in bed in order to fall asleep)
Writing, however, is best not to do.
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
1)It is a Mitzvah on all Jewish men, women and children to partake of a festive Seudah, meal, on Purim.
The Purim Seudah needs to be eaten on Purim day, and if it was only eaten Purim eve, or Purim night, you have not satisfied your obligation.
However, it is a Mitzvah to be joyous and have a small Seudah on Purim evening as well. (Ram"a 695:1)
The meal should consist of meat (B'dieved chicken is acceptable too) and wine, and other delicacies as best as one can afford. It is also important to wash and eat bread at the Seudah, as according to some opinions you cannot satisfy the obligation of the Seudah without Pas, bread. (See Rosh to Maseches Brachos Perek 7 Siman 23 an d Shu"t MaHarshal Siman 48)
2) It is good to study some Torah before beginning the Seudah, as the Posuk says "Layehudim Haysa Ohra V'Simcha..." and Chazal say Ohra is referring tothe light of Torah which should precede the Simcha! (Ram"a 695:2)
It is customary to daven Mincha before beginning the Seudah, as not to end up davening Mincha while drunk. The Seudah should begin when it is still daylight, and not close to sunset, so that most of the meal should be eaten during the day.
The Seudas Purim should not be eaten alone; rather it is good to join with family and friends so it will be joyous.
However, care must be taken that the Seuda should be a Simcha Shel Mitzvah and not simply a wild party, with things Chas V'Shalom happening that are against Halacha.
The hands should be properly washed for Netilas Yadayim, Hamotzi should be recited on the bread, Birchas Hamazon should be recited after the Seudah, all Halachos of Tznius must be observed etc.
The table at the Purim Seudah (both by day and night) should have candles on it, to make it a Yom Tov Seudah (Mishna Berura 695:9)
To sponsor a future issue of Halacha For Today for your business or in honor of a loved one or any occasion, please contact me at Halacha For Today
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
If one is kove'a seudah on Lokshin Kugel, one does not have to recite birchas ha-mazon. Can one use Lokshin Kugel to be yotze Kidush be-makom seudah on Shabbos, since it's not an item that one would recite birchas ha-mazon on?
My Answer:
Yes, Lokshen Kugel is no worse than a piece of cake for this matter, and may even be better suited [than cake and wine] for the purpose of being your "Seudah" after Kiddush.
Follow up question from the same reader:
But Lokshen Kugel does not have the tsurah (form) of Pas (bread), and that is why we don't bentch after it even if we ate a lot of it?
My Answer:
For the purposes of Kiddush B'Makom Seudah, any Kugel whose Bracha is Mezonos is 100% acceptable to fulfill the obligation, and Tzuras HaPas doesnt play a role. ( See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchas Chapter 54:22 See also Shu"t Az Nidberu Vol. 8 Siman 31:4)
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
1) It is a Mitzva to give "Matanos L'Evyonim- gifts to the poor" on Purim day.
If the money was given to the poor person before Purim for use on Purim [for his meal], according to many Poskim, you have satisfied your obligation, B'Dieved. (See Pri Megadim based on Mogen Avraham 694:1 that the whole reason not to give before Purim day is that the poor person may use it before Purim)
Every Jew- male and female- is required to give 2 "Matanos- gifts" to 2 separate "Evyonim- poor people" (i.e. one gift to each poor person). By giving 2 gifts to one poor person, you do not satisfy your obligation of this Mitzvah.
Matanos L'Evyonim may not be given from Ma'aser money. However, once 2 gifts were given to 2 poor people, any additional gifts that you give to poor people on Purim may be given from Ma'aser money. (Mishna Berura 694:3)
The more Tzedaka you give to poor people on Purim, the more praiseworthy you are! It is better to give additional Matanos L'Evyonim than to give extra Mishloach Manos or to increase the Seudas Purim, because ..."There is no greater or loftier Simcha than to gladden the hearts of the poor, widows, orphans and converts. One who gladdens the hearts of these downtrodden people is likened to the Shechina (!)" (Words of the Rambam Hilchos Megilah Perek 2 Halacha 17)
2) You may not combine the Mitzvos of Mishloach Manos and matanos L'Evyonim, by giving Mishloach Manos to a poor person. They each must be given independently of each other. (See Turei Even to Megilah 7b, quoted in Biur Halacha 695 Dibur HaMaschil O Shel Minei Ochlin and Ksav Sofer Siman 139 that B'dieved it is possible that you are indeed Yotzei. )
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) Matanos L'Evyonim does not necessarily need to be with money, as one can satisfy the obligation by giving the poor person food which he can eat on Purim.
However, giving clothing or other non food gifts to a poor person, is not an acceptable form of Matanos L'Evyonim according to most Poskim (See Ohr SaMeach Hilchos Megilah Perek 2 Halacha 16. See Turei Even Megilah 7b. See Mishna Berura 494:2)
2) When it comes to giving Matanos L'Evyonim, it is best not to be too scrupulous in determining if the poor person is truly deserving of Tzedaka, as on Purim we stick to the tradition of "Kol HaPoshet Yad Nosnim Lo- whoever stretches out their arm [asking for help] we give them". (Shulchan Aruch Siman 694:3).
The Sefarim say that Hashem, too, abides by this method on Purim and all who stretch out their hands to Him [i.e. whatever we daven for] will be answered! Purim is an extremely opportune time to daven for things that we need. It is advisable not to squander this opportunity by focusing too much on "getting drunk" and having fun at the expense of not utilizing the spiritual powers of this holy day properly.
This Week's Halachos have been sponsored by:
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To sponsor a future issue of Halacha For Today for your business or in honor of a loved one or any occasion, please contact me at Halacha For Today
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
A while ago you answered questions regarding Netilas Yadayim, and one of the things mentioned was that hands must be dry before washing.
While I have always learned this to be so, someone challenged this stating that it's a chumra (stringency) and not the halacha- can you please clarify this for me?
My Answer:
Technically it may be considered a "chumrah".
Let me explain:
The Chofetz Chaim indeed Paskens that wet hands is not a problem at all (Biur Halacha Siman 162:2)
Other Poskim, including the Chazon Ish in Orach Chaim Siman 24:20, maintain that one whose hands are wet before washing is not Yotzei, possibly even not B'Dieved.
Therefore, the custom of scrupulous people is to be "Machmir" with this and to make sure the hands are totally dry before washing. See also K'tzos HaShulchan from Rav Chaim Na'eh Zatzal Siman 33:13 where he states that it is praiseworthy to be makpid on this.
[ Incidentally, the Shulchan Aruch, Ram"a and Mishna Berura (as well as virtually all Sifrei Halacha) are laden with "Halachos" that are based on minhagim, chumros and Hakpados. Just because the Ram"a may say "V'Yesh Nohagim" or similar Lashon , we still consider it Halacha, in the tradition of "Minhag Yisroel Torah" ]
1) At least one Mishloach Manos should, if possible, be sent with a Shliach, a messenger.
However, if it was given by yourself, you are Yotzei. (The reason for this is based on the question of the Shu"t Binyan Tzion Siman 44, quoted in the Mishna Berura Siman 695:4 if the fact that the Posuk calls it "Mishloach" Manos, necessitates it being given through a Shliach. Most Poskim maintain that it isn't necessary, but to be Yotzei the safek, at least one package should be sent with a Shliach.)
Mishloach Manos may be sent via a minor (under the age of 13) or a non Jew. (See Piskei Teshuva Siman 148 what he quotes from Rav Akiva Eiger Zatzal. See also Chasam Sofer to Gitin 21b that it may be sent with a minor, as even if it does require a Shliach, it does not have all the requirements of Hilchos Shlichus)
2) There are varying opinions in the Poskim if one satisfies his/her obligation by sending Mishloach Manos to a minor, as a minor may not be considered a "friend" (and the Posuk requires to send "Mishloach Manos Ish L'Re'ayhu- man to his friend". See Ben Ish Chai Parshas Tetzaveh Os 16 and Kaf HaChaim Siman 694:12 who are machmir. The Aruch HaShulchan Siman 695 on the other hand permits it)
However, according to all opinions, a Rav satisfies his obligation by sending to a Talmid and a father by sending to his son and vice versa, as for halachic purposes they are considered "friends".
Minors, who have reached the age of Chinuch, should be taught to give Mishloach Manos (Pri Megadim 695:14)
This Week's Halachos have been sponsored by:
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To sponsor a future issue of Halacha For Today for your business or in honor of a loved one or any occasion, please contact me at Halacha For Today
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and my Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
My question is about standing at "Baruch Hash-m L'olom" at Maariv.
My father always got up for this. I see a few others in shul who do as well. I believe i once saw in sefer Tefillah b'tzibur - that there is a minhag to stand but not face mizrach. this shows that it is NOT in place of shemonah esreh. What are your comments please?
My Answer:
The Rama in Siman 236:2 says that it is a good mihag to stand when saying "Baruch Hashem L'Olam". The Mishna Berura However brings from many Achronim that it is best not to stand.
Many people, including your father, followed the Rama and many people follow the Mishna Berurah, that is why you see varying customs for this by different people.
Even if saying it standing, you should not keep your feet together or face the wall, so it shouldn't seem like you are davening Shemona Esrei (Shaar Hatzion ibid. Os 7 and Aishel Avraham(Butchatch) Siman 236)
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. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Important Numbers
