1) It is a Mitzvah to send "Mishloach Manos" on Purim day. It should not be sent on Purim eve. (Ram"a Siman 695:4)
As with all Mitzvos, there is the concept of "Zerizim Makdimin L'Mitzvos- zealous people run to do Mitzvos", thus it is best to send Mishloach Manos right away on Purim morning, right after davening. (Terumas HaDeshen Siman 110)
[ There are 2 key reasons cited in the Poskim for this Mitzvah. 1) So that each Jewish person should have the necessary food in order to be able to partake of a Purim meal (Terumas HaDeshen Siman 111, Levush 695:4 and others) 2) To promote "Ahava V'Achva- love and friendship" and to show that we [Jews] are one united nation, as opposed to how Haman referred to us as "Am Mefuzar U'Meforad- a nation that is spread out and separated" (Manos HaLevi from Rav Shlomo Alkabetz , Esther Perek 9:16-17, The MaHaral in Ohr Chadash Esther 9:22 and others)]
Every Jew- man and woman- must send [at least] 2 "manos" to one person. Sending only one "maneh" is not sufficient to satisfy your obligation.
The more people that one sends "Mishloach Manos" to, the more praiseworthy he/she is. However, it is better to give extra "Matanos L'Evyonim" rather than to splurge on Mishloach Manos and the Purim meal.
2) The food items that are sent should preferably be ready to eat as they are, without needing preparation or cooking. (Maharil, quoted in Mogen Avraham 695:11, Chayei Adam 155:31, Gr"a brought in Ma'aseh Rav Os 249 and others). Some Poskim maintain that if it is a raw item that is ready to cook [as opposed to a live chicken], it is also acceptable. (Leket Yosher, Pri Megadim and others. See Mishna Berura 695:20)
Any food items are acceptable, such as meat, bread, cake, wine,fruits, and vegetables.
The Mishna Berura (695:20), Mogen Avraham, Shl"a and others maintain that beverages are acceptable for Mishloach Manos. The Gaon of Vilna maintained [based on the Psak of some Rishonim, and the Girsa of the Rabeinu Chananel in the Gemara Megilah 7b] that beverages are not sufficient.
Canned food is considered ready to eat and is 100% acceptable (Moadim U'Zmanim Vol. 2 Siman 186)
Men should not send Mishloach Manos to women and women should not send Mishloach manos to men (Ram"a 695:4)
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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:
Not that I consider myself worthy but the latest current events have got me thinking......when one is chosen to die Al Kidush Hashem and has time to prepare themselves what should they do, say etc?
My Answer:
More important than preparing to die Al Kiddush Hashem, is "living" Al Kiddush Hashem.
We are all here on this earth to be Mekadesh Shem Shamayim each and every day through our actions. You are a Jew. A child of Hashem. People look at you and observe your every move. Make sure your every move reflects the will of Hashem. Dress appropriately. Talk appropriately. Daven appropriately. Act appropriately.etc.
One who lives Al Kiddush Hashem, will always be ready to die Al Kiddush Hashem no matter when/if that time comes in their life.
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 is the Yahrtzeit of our teacher and master, Moshe Rabeinu, who was Hashem's messenger in giving us the holy Torah. Please learn today's Halachos in his merit.
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1) It is the prevalent Minhag in Klal Yisroel to "bang" or otherwise make a noise whenever the name of "Haman" is read in the Megilah.
This Minhag should not be discontinued, nor ridiculed, as it was not instituted for naught. (Ram"a 690:17). However, the banging should not go on for too long, otherwise the entire reading/listening of the Megilah will become confusing.
Musical instruments or similar loud noisemakers should not be used, rather a simple gragger, banging with the feet or similar gesture of "banging" should be used. (Mishna Berura 690:59. See also Sha'ar HaTzion ibid: 57)
If the Shul that one davens in doesn't comply with the above guidelines, and the entire Megilah reading turns into a "noise fest" with people competing as to who can make the loudest, longest and most disturbing noise, it is better to read the Megilah with a small minyan in your home than to rely on this noisy and confusing Megilah reading.
This is especially true for women, who will be unable to hear the Megilah properly in the women's section with all the tumult taking place. (Based on MaHar"i Algazi in Shalmei Chagiga, quoted in Sefer Hilchos Chag B'Chag. Also the ruling of the Aruch HaShulchan)
2) While the congregation is "banging", the Ba'al Koreh should be quiet, and only continue once the noise has subsided totally, otherwise some in the congregation may miss a few words of the Megilah.
It is a good idea for all the congregants to read the few words after each "Haman" by themselves from a Kosher Megilah [if at all possible] or from a Chumash, to ensure that not even one word of the Megilah is missed. (Mishna Berura 690:60)
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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 work in a school where the water fountain is right outside the bathroom. The actual toilets are in stalls. The stalls are probably 8 feet away from the fountain but the entrance to the bathroom is not.
Is this a problem considering one is not supposed to say/ think divrie kedusha within 8 feet of such tumah? or am i mistaken which is very possible.
My Answer:
As long as no smell is emanating from the bathroom, you may make a Bracha immediately outside of the bathroom. If there is a smell, you need to be 8 feet away from the smell in order to make any Bracha. In thatcase, you would need to fill a cup of water, and walk away to make the Bracha and drink it.
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 names of the ten sons of Haman HaRasha, until after the word "Aseres" after their names, must be said by the one reading the Megilah in one breath, to remember the fact that they were all hanged and died at one time (in other words, as the Talmud Megilah 16b explains, they all took their last breaths at the same instant).
L'Chatchilah this should start a few words earlier, and from "Chamesh Me'Os Ish" until "Aseres" should be said in one breath.
2) If these words were not read in one breath, even if one took a long break between them, B'dieved you are Yotzei. (Ram"a Siman 690:15) However, L'Chatchilah if they were not said in one breath, they should be repeated (Elya Rabbah ibid: 11)
The congregation need not read these names, and they can simply listen to the Ba'al Koreh. (Chayei Adam and Kitzur Shulchan Aruch) However, the prevelant Minhag is for the congregation to indeed read these names [in one breath] before the Ba'al Koreh reads it. (Aruch HaShulchan. The reason is possibly, that since the Ba'al Koreh reads it very quickly, the congregation may not hear it properly, thus developed the minhag of everyone reading it themselves)
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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 yotzei the mitzva of matanos l'evyonim when giving a check, as opposed to cash? And l'chatchila is one better over the other?
Plus, does the concept of hidur mitzvah apply to mishloach manos, meaning by getting nicer and fancier ones and coming up with a theme, or is that all just nonsense and shtick?
My Answer:
Matanos L'Evyonim has to be given with money that the poor person can use on Purim [to buy a Seudah]. If he has a way to cash the check on Purim, it is Ok to give a check, otherwise cash is better.
One of the main points of the Mitzvah of Mishloach Manos is to spread friendship among people (in fact it is more important to give Mishloach manos to people you are less friendly with than to close friends!). Therefore, it is definitely condusive to this objective to make it nice.
However, there is no inyan at all to have a themed Mishloach Manos, which often can cause friction amongst friends, peers, etc.
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 the accepted Minhag of all of Klal Yisroel, when reading the Megilah, that the Megilah scroll of the Ba'al Koreh is unfurled and folded like a letter before commencing the reading. The reason for this Minhag is that the Megilah is referred to in the Posuk as an "Igeres- a letter".
The congregation need not unfurl their personal Megilah (for those who follow along in a Kosher Megilah), though they may do so if they wish. (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch)
2) There are 4 Pesukim in the Megilah, which are referred to as "Pesukim Shel Geulah- Pesukim of redemption", and these Pesukim are customarily said aloud by the entire congregation, and afterwards read by the Ba'al Koreh. (The Mateh Moshe quotes the Ba'al HaTania that this is only if children are present, as it is done to keep them interested, thus if one is reading the Megilah for only adults, it needn't be done. According to the Gaon of Vilna though, it is done even if no children are present)
The 4 Pesukim are 1) Ish Yehudi Haya B'Shushan HaBirah... (Perek 2 Posuk 5) 2)U'Mordechai Yatza M'Lifnei haMelech B'LvushMalchus... (Perek 8 Posuk 15) 3) LaYehudim Hoysa Ohra V'Simcha... (Perek 8 Posuk 16) 4) Ki Mordechai HaYehudi...(The last Posuk of the Megilah)
If one does not have a kosher Megilah, he/she should have in mind not to be Yotzei the aforementioned Pesukim when saying them aloud, rather to be Yotzei with the Ba'al Koreh's reading like the rest of the Megilah. (Mishna Berura 690:58)
When the Ba'al Koreh reads the words "B'Laila HaHu Nadedah Shnas HaMelech(Perek 6 Posuk 1) he raises his voice, as that is the beginning of the miracle. (MaHaril quoted in Mishna Berura ibid. 52)
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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:
[You wrote, regarding women reading the Megilah] : "She may, however, read the Megilah for another woman. (Mishna Berura ibid: 7). However, according to some Poskim, a woman may not read the Megilah for an entire group of women. (Sha'ar Hatzion ibid.)
All of the above is B'dieved, as ideally (L'Chatchilah) a woman should not read the Megila herself, rather she should hear it from a man, if at all possible. (Mogen Avraham quoted in Mishna Berura ibid. 8)"
In our community there is a "Kri'at Nashim" where three or four women share the megilla reading for a group of women. This is in addition to the general minyan. Is this halacha saying we are wrong?
Our local (orthodox) Rabbi allows this. That is why I was surprised to read your halacha. There are a number of women here who initiated it. We also have a women's reading on Simhat Torah (without blessings I believe - I don't recall)
They have the Megila reading in both the evening and the morning.
My Answer:
After doing further research, I discovered that Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal (Halichos Shlomo page 330 in the footnotes #4) indeed maintained that a woman may read the megilah for a group of women. So, your rabbi is well within his right to pasken according to that opinion.
Thanks for your question, which led me to discover this new (to me) opinion.
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 Megilah should be read with the proper "Ta’amim" (Trop, or tune used for reading Torah Sh’Biksav).
However, reading it without the Ta’amim does not disqualify the reading, thus if no Ba’al Koreh is available to read it with the proper tune, it should be read anyway by someone in the congregation. (Mogen Avraham 691:10)
2) The Megilah must be read in order. If even one Posuk or letter was read out of order, the obligation to read the Megilah has not been satisfied, and it must be re-read from the Posuk that was read out of order until the end.
Likewise, if a Posuk was skipped, it must be re-read from that point until the end. (Mishna Berura Siman 690: 21 and 22)
The Megilah must be read from a Kosher Megilah. If part (up to half) of the Megilah was read from memory, without looking into the text, B’dieved you have satisfied your obligation. (Mishna Berura ibid. 7 and 8)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) If one who does not understand Lashon HaKodesh (Biblical Hebrew) hears the Megilah being read in Lashon HaKodesh, even though they do not understand what is being read, they have satisfied their obligation of hearing the Megilah, as long as they hear every single word. (Mishna Berura ibid. 26)
2) The Ba’al Koreh should recite the Brachos on the Megilah while standing.
Many have the custom that the entire congregation stands while the Brachos are being recited. (See Mogen Avraham beginning of Siman 690. Though from the Biur Halacha in Hilchos Sefiras HaOmer Siman 489 it seems that the congregation need not stand)
While reading the Megilah, the Ba’al Koreh should stand, as doing so is "Kavod HaTzibur- respectful to the congregation" (Thus one who is reading for a woman, or for a group of less than 10 people, may sit L’Chatchilah).
The congregation may sit while listening to the Megilah.
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Today’s Halachos have been sponsored by:
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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 Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today )
Reader’s Question:
If a man read the megillah in shul already, and then he comes to "lain" it for a group of women, does he repeat the brachos? Does he say all three (by day)?
My Answer:
Indeed, he may repeat all three Brachos when being Motzei them (See Shulchan Aruch 692:3 and Mishna Berura ibid.). According to many Poskim, if the women can, they should make the Brachos themselves (possibly with the nusach of "L’shmoa Megilah" as we discussed in the Halachos a while back). The Mishna Berura,however, seems to say that the custom is to be lenient and have the man make the Brachos for them.
If the women are making the Brachos, they should each make ot themselves (and not have one woman be motzei all of them, according to the Minchas Yitzchok Vol. 3 Siman 53 and 54. However Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach Zatzal paskened that one woman can and should be Motzei all the women. See Halichos Shlomo page 329)
The Bracha after the Megilah (...HaRav Es Riveinu) is not recited unless the Megilah was heard with a Minyan of 10 people(possibly even with 10 women, according to some opinions ), thus in most cases, women hearing the Megilah at home would not say the last 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 )
If the Ba'al Koreh missed even one word or even one letter, regardless if omitting that word or letter changes the meaning of the Posuk, he must go back to the place where the mistake was made and re-read from there again. (In certain instances, such as if the missed word changes the meaning of the Posuk, and he was Masiach Da'as from the Megilah, a new Bracha may be necessary too)
Similarly, one who is listening to the Megilah must be very careful not to miss hearing even one letter of the Megilah.
2) If one did miss hearing a word or letter of the Megilah (as is common when someone coughs, or is a child makes noise etc.) the listener must read the missed words by him/herself until he/she catches up to the Ba'al Koreh.
L'Chatchila, this should be done from a Kosher Megilah, or at least from a printed Chumash, but definitely not by heart. (See Mishna Berura Siman 689:19 and 690:19)
If a word was mispronounced, in such a way that the meaning of the Posuk was not changed, it need not be repeated L'Chatchila. If the mispronounced word does change the meaning of the Posuk, it is as if that word was skipped, and the Halachos of a skipped word apply.
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 Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
If one is fleishig can he eat parve products made with dairy equipment?
My Answer:
If the parve food cooked in the dairy pot is not a davar Charif (sharp food such as an onion, garlic etc.) it may be eaten even though you are fleishig.
If the food, however, is a davar Charif it becomes milchig according to all opinions if the pot was used within the past 24 hours, and according to some opinions even if the pot was not used in the past 24 hours, therefore it is best not to eat the food while you are fleishig. (Based on Pri Megadim brought in Darchei Teshuva Siman 89:42 and Yad Yehuda 89:5)
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) Upon the completion of the reading of the Megilah, it is customary to recite the Bracha of "Baruch Ata... HaRav Es Riveinu"
One who is reading the Megilah alone, and not with a Minyan does not recite this Bracha (Ram"a 692:1)
However, an individual may recite this Bracha if he wants to, without Shem U'Malchus (Hashem's name), as there are opinions that an individual does indeed recite it ( Elya Raba citing the opinion of the MaHaril and others. See Biur Halacha 692 Dibur Hamaschil Ela B'tzibur)
2) The one reading the Megilah must have in mind to satisfy his obligation to do the Mitzvah.
Likewise, he must have in mind to exempt those listening to his reading, with the Brachos as well as with the reading.
The ones listening must also have in mind to exempt themselves with the reading, and the Brachos, of the Ba'al Koreh.
If one came to Shul specifically in order to read or hear the Megilah even though he didn't have specific intent, we consider the fact that he came for this reason, as his Kavanah, and he has satisfied his obligation ,even L'Chatchilah according to some Poskim (See Mishna Berura Siman 589:16 and Siman690:49)
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 sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
Is one allowed to drink pure orange juice without a Hechsher (Kosher Certification)?
My Answer:
Although it is best not to eat or drink any processed product that does not have a Hechsher, according to many Kashrus agencies, 100% pure Orange Juice made in the USA doesn't require a Hechsher, due to the fact that if it wasn't 100% pure orange juice, it would not be able to be called "juice" according to USDA standards.
It is still best to seek out a brand with a Hechsher and not rely on this, as it is hard to know which machines it was packaged in etc.
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)When reading the Megilah on Purim eve, three Brachos are recited before the reading commences. The three Brachos are:
1) Baruch Ata... Al Mikra Megilah.
2) Baruch Ata... SheAsah Nisim L'Avoseinu...
3) Baruch Ata...SheHechiyanu V'KiYemanu...
These three blessings are recited regardless if the Megilah is being read with a minyan, in Shul or if it is being read by one individual by himself at home.
2) When reading the Megilah again on Purim day, most who follow Ashkenazic customs repeat all 3 Brachos (as per the Ram"a 692:1). Those who follow the Sephardic customs, as well as those who follow the Gaon of Vilna, do not repeat the third Bracha of "SheHechiyanu" at the day reading.(As per the Shulchan Aruch ibid. and Gr"a in Ma'aseh Rav)
Even those who do say the "SheHechiyanu" again, should have in mind when doing so that the Bracha should go on the other Mitzvos of Purim [i.e. Mishloach Manos, Matanos L'Evyonim and the Seudas Purim] as well as on the re-reading of the Megilah.
In many Shuls, the custom is for the Gabbai to indeed announce this intent before the reading of the Megilah starts.
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CLARIFICATION:
One of our daily readers, a big Talmid Chacham, emailed me yesterday pointing out (correctly) that something I wrote in this past Monday's email may be misleading, so I am pasting his email in its entirety here:
"[You wrote:] "Therefore, a woman who went to Shul to hear the Megilah but could not hear clearly, and missed a few [or more] words, should hear it again when she gets home [from a man reading from a kosher Megilah]."
You probably should have written, that if a lady missed a few words she should immediately read those words inside [by herself, even from a Chumash] (As most of the words she did hear...), [ otherwise] ladies may think if they miss a few words they should just go home, that is incorrect, you can read a few words that you missed & catch up to the Baal Koreh."
He is 100% correct, that a few words from a Chumash is acceptable in this case. Yasher Koach for pointing it out so I could pass it on.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
If a person said Hamotzi on bread and ate it, then a few minutes later he throws it up does he bentch [Birchas HaMazon]?
My Answer:
If you are certain that less than a Kzayis remains in your stomache, you do not bentch. If you are not sure, you also do not bentch.
The best thing to do is to eat another Kzayis and then bentch, or to listen to someone else bentch and be Yotzei with them. (See Kaf HaChaim Siman 184:34)
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 )
1)The obligation of Megilah for women is different than the obligation for men, in that women are only obligated to "hear" the Megilah, whereas men are obligated to "read" the Megilah.
In fact, according to many Poskim, when a man reads the Megilah for a woman, or if a woman reads the Megilah herself, the Bracha she recites is not "Boruch Ata Hashem...Al Mikra Megilah- on the reading of the Megilah" rather she says "Boruch Ata...LiShmoa Mikra Megila- on the hearing of the reading of Megilah" (Ram"a Siman 689:2 and Mishna Berura ibid.:8. This is also the opinion of the Chayei Adam. However, the opinion of the Gaon of Vilna (in Ma'aseh Rav) as well as the Pri Chadash 689:2 and others is that even women make "Al Mikra Megila")
Being that the obligation of women is not the same as men, a woman may not read the Megila for men.
She may, however, read the Megilah for another woman. (Mishna Berura ibid: 7). However, according to some Poskim, a woman may not read the Megilah for an entire group of women. (Sha'ar Hatzion ibid.)
All of the above is B'dieved, as ideally (L'Chatchilah) a woman should not read the Megila herself, rather she should hear it from a man, if at all possible. (Mogen Avraham quoted in Mishna Berura ibid. 8)
2) All the Halachos of reading the Megila (many of which we will iy"H learn in the near future) that apply to men, apply to women as well. Therefore, a woman who went to Shul to hear the Megilah but could not hear clearly, and missed a few [or more] words, should hear it again when she gets home [from a man reading from a kosher Megilah].
Alternatively, if the women possesses a kosher Megila, she should bring it to Shul and quietly read along as the Ba'al Koreh is reading, thus ensuring that she doesn't miss even one word. (Pri Megadim- Aishel Avraham Siman 689:11.)
However, one (man or woman) that does not have a kosher Megilah, and is following along in a printed Megilah, should not read along with the Ba'al Koreh. (Chayei Adam Klal 155:17)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
You mentioned in a previous halacha that if one's children are of marriage age, you can put aside Ma'aser for the wedding.
Many asked me why making a chasunah for ones children would be considered a Ma'aser cause? Also if it is indeed a Ma'aser cause, can the entire wedding expense (photographer, band) be paid for by maaser?
My Answer:
We are talking in a case where one doesn't have other money from which to pay for the wedding expenses, and therefore may pay with Ma'aser. Ones own children take precedence over other brides and grooms.
Please note that some Poskim indeed prohibit paying for wedding expenses for your children from Ma'aser, but many allow it as we have written.
(See Shu"t Mishna Halachos (second edition) Vol. 2 Siman 143. Also see Shu"t Teshuvos V'hanhagos Vol. 1 Siman 561.)
The things that are allowed are the basic necessitis of a wedding and an apartment for the newlyweds etc. However and "extras" which arent necessary may not be paid for with Ma'aser money. (e.g. a one man band can be paid for with ma'aser while a full orchestra cannot etc.)
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 Megilah of Esther, containing the events that lead up to the miracle of Purim, is read on Purim twice, once on the eve of Purim (Which comes out this year on Monday night March 9 2009) and once again on Purim morning (March 10 2009)
Every Jewish male and female must hear the Megilah being read, preferably in Shul. Children who are old enough to quietly listen to the entire Megilah should also come to Shul to hear the Megilah (Shulchan Aruch Siman 689:6. See Mishna Berura 689:18 that those who bring very young children to Shul for the express purpose of "banging" by Haman, and by doing so they disturb everyone else during the rest of the Megilah, are not being Mekayem the Mitzvah of Chinuch)
Once the time for the Megilah reading arrives, eating, sleeping or doing any work is prohibited before the Megilah is read, unless one must eat something for health reasons. Learning Torah is permitted before the Megilah is read. (Mogen Avraham Siman 692:7)
2) It is a Mitzvah -for both men and women- to hear the Megilah as part of a large congregation (B'rov Am Hadras Melech), as this way the "Pirsumei Nisa- the spreading of the miracle of Hashem" will be greater. Thus, one [who doesn't belong to any one Shul] should choose the largest Shul in his/her city or neighborhood and hear the Megilah there. (Mishna Berura Siman 687:7) However, if one is part of a Shul, and always davens there, there is no need to find a larger Shul (Chayei Adam quoted in Mishna Berura ibid.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
If a person keeps Rabbeinu Tam's Zman (waits 72 minutes after sunset before doing Melacha) on Motzei Shabbos but didnt make a neder to keep it would it be an aveira to break shabbos before Rabbeinu Tam [and wait an earlier zman such as 60 or 50 minutes after sunset]?
My Answer:
If a person does a good thing(Hanhaga Tovah) 3 times, it is as if he/she made a neder to do this, and would need to be Matir Neder before stopping to do it.
Thus, if you kept Rabbeinu Tam Zman, you must always keep it unless you are Matir the Neder.
Incidentally, after 120, if someone (G-d forbid) is judged to go to Gehinnom (hell), he/she gets a break from the punishment on Shabbos. When Shabbos is over, the torture continues.
When is Shabbos over for that person? The Seforim say that the amount of time that one waited in this world, is the amount of time he/she gets the reprieve in the next world! Every second of Gehinom is like years of suffering! So it is worthwhile to keep Shabbos until the latest Zman possible.
1) On Taanis Esther, before Mincha, It is customary to give a "Half" coin to Tzedaka to commemorate the "Machtzis Hashekel, the Half Shekel" that each Jew was obligated to give [in the times of the Bais HaMikdash] to the communal fund from which the Korban Tamid (sacrificial lamb that was offered each morning and evening] was purchased.
In the Parsha of "Machtzis HaShekel" (Parshas Ki Sisa)it says the word "Terumah" three times. Therefore, many have the custom to give 3 "Half coins". (Tashbatz Siman 173 based on the Mordechai in the first Perek of Maseches Megilah, also brought in Ram"a Siman 694:1). Others, however, have the custom to only give one "half" coin. (Opinion of the Gaon of Vilna)
2) The "Half" coin that is used varies from country to country. In the United States, the accepted custom is to use a "Half Dollar coin" (which is referred to as "Half a dollar). Each person should use the "Half" coin that is used in their respective country.
If one lives in a country that does not have a "Half" coin, he should give one(or 3, if following the Minhag to give 3)coin(s) and think in his mind that half of the coin(s) should be for the obligation of "Machtzis HaShekel" and the other half should simply be Tzedaka. (See Biur Halacha Siman 694 Dibur HaMaschil V'yesh Liten Shlosha. See also Shu"t Minchas Eluzer Vol. 1 Siman 30)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) The obligation to give Machtzis HaShekel is for all males over the age of 20, and according to some opinions for all males over the age of 13.
However, the prevalent custom is for every father to give a separate "Half" coin (or 3 coins) for each of his male children, and if his wife is pregnant, to give for the unborn child as well. (Mishna Berura 694:5)
Women are exempt from giving Machtzis HaShekel (Mishna Maseches Shekalim Perek 1:3)
However, some Poskim bring the custom to indeed give Machtzis HaShekel for the women [as well as the female children] in the household. (Leket Yosher. Levush Siman 686)
2) "Machtzis HaShekel" may not be given from Ma'aser money. (Shu"t Bais Dino Shel Shlomo Yoreh Deah Siman 1. See also Sefer Tzedaka U'mishpat Perek 6 footnote 37. See also Mogen Avraham Siman 694:1 in the name of the Shel"a HaKadosh)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
Why must one be silent after reciting HaMapil? It has something to do with the minute amount of death we experience while asleep, right?
My Answer:
No, it has nothing to do with death! (Though Chazal do say that sleep is a 60th of death)
It has to do with the fact that haMapil is a bracha on [going to] sleep and as such must be followed by [going to]sleep and no interruptions. (much as you must take a bite out of an apple after saying "HaEitz" lest it be a Hefsek and thus a Bracha in vain)
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 13th day of the month of Adar is known as Taanis Esther, the fast of Esther.
This fast day is in commemoration of the Jews' gathering on that day [in Teshuva and prayer] in preparation for defending themselves against the imminent threat of their annihilation at the hands of their neighbors at the behest of Haman and Achashveirush.
The fast was established as a reminder that Hashem always sees our individual [as well as our collective ]suffering, and will always come to our rescue if we return to Him with all our heart, as the Jews did at the time of the story of Purim. (Mishna Berura Siman 686:2)
2) This fast is not as stringent as other fast days, and in cases of necessity (such as pregnant or nursing women, or people with certain other hardships or non life-threatening sicknesses) one need not fast.
However, one who can fast, should not simply dismiss this fast and be different than the rest of Klal Yisroel. (Ram"a 686:1)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
A certain question came up [a while back]concerning peeled eggs, onions and such [which may not be used if left overnight, unless something was added to it]. I have a product in my fridge called "All Whites" 100% liquid egg whites certified by the O.U. By the nutrition facts the ingredients read: 100% liquid egg whites. It appears that nothing has been added, just the yolk has been taken away. Would this be considered as leaving eggs with out the peel overnight? I haven't used it yet but some people in my family did, if its a problem what should they do?
My Answer:
According to Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal, there is no problem at all with eggs that were manufactured specifically to be used for extended periods of time (such as for commercial use or in your case a container of eggs meant to be stored and used for more than one use) and you may safely eat them and not worry about any danger.
Only if you crack or peel an individual egg and leave it overnight is there a reason for concern. (Igros Moshe Yoreh Deah Vol. 3 Siman 20)
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)When hearing "Parshas Zachor" it is best to try and hear it in the dialect of Hebrew that you and your family speak. (E.g. Ashkenazim should not be Yotzei with Sephardic Havara (dialect) and vice versa).
However, if one did hear it in a different dialect, he has satisfied his/her obligation B'dieved. (See Mo'Adim U'Zmanim Vol. 2 Siman 170 and MikRaei Kodesh Siman 2 who are stringent in this. See Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 3 Siman 5 who is lenient for Krias HaTorah)
When reading the Posuk "Timche Es Zecher Amalek" within the reading of Parshas Zachor, there is a dispute amongst the Poskim as to the proper enunciation of the word "Zecher". Some opinions maintain that is to be pronounced "Zay-Cher", while others maintain that the proper way to say it is "Zeh-Cher". The prevalent minhag is to read the Posuk twice, once saying "Zay-Cher" and the second time saying "Zeh-Cher" (Mishna Berura Siman 685:18)
Care should also be taken to understand the meaning of the words being read (Pirush HaMilim), as understanding the words, and remembering the atrocities of Amalek and that we are commanded to eradicate their memory, is an integral part of the Mitzvah.
2) Many Gedolim (Such as the Gaon of Vilna as well as many Chasidic Rebbes) had the custom to read "Parshas Zachor" by themselves and not rely on simply hearing it from the Ba'al Koreh.
The reason for this is that it is a Mitzvah on every individual to read Parshas Zachor, thus "Mitzvah Bo Yoser M'Beshelucho- it is better to do it yourself rather than relying on a messenger (The Ba'al Koreh)". For the rest of the readings of the Torah throughout the year it isn't a Mitzvah to "read", rather the mitzvah is to "hear", so the above reasoning doesn't apply. (Sefer Mo'Adei HaShana page 306)
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A daily reader forwarded this to me the following email from the Chofetz Chaim heritage Foundation , and I thought it was important to pass along:
Three young Satmar Chassidim, on a promise of a free trip to daven in Lejensk, delivered a package to Japan- NOT KNOWING that a seemingly frum man would put their lives in danger by making them the transporters of illegal merchandise. And they were caught and imprisoned. Japan punishes their prisoners in a most harsh manner. The boys sit in separate, tiny cells, with no beds, no sunlight, no human interaction, no connection to the world for a day, another day of solitude, another 24 hours of loneliness, on and on and on...
It's been 11 MONTHS with no end in sight.
Yoel Zev ben Mirel Rissa Chava Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel Yosef ben Itta Rivka
NEED OUR TEFILLOS!! Don't forget them!
Don't forget about Yossi, the youngest, who was not even eighteen when he arrived in Japan. Alone in his cell, without nary a chair, without enough room to stretch his legs, the thin blanket to sleep on taken away every morning. Yossi, who looks forward desperately to his haircut every 2 weeks so he can see another human being, whose skin is shriveling, whom those involved declare that it's a miracle that he is still sane, who hasn't seen his family in half a year. Yossi, who doesn't know if he has any hope for a future...
It is up to us, to Klal Yisrael's tefillos, to save them!
NOW is the time to start being more careful in Shmiras Halashon as a Zchus for our suffering brothers. And don't forget to keep davening for their yeshua every day!!!!!!
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today )
Reader's Question:
I was just wondering......since one is unable to talk after HaMapil can the person still text message? I know it may sound silly but I get so curious when I get a text after I say HaMapil even though I know its probably not the best to do?
My Answer:
You are the second person to ask me this today! We definitely live in a different world than we did a few short years ago!
It is best not to text after HaMapil as it is a Hefsek. The best idea to not let curiousity get in the way is to shut the phone when you go to bed!
Not only will your phone recharge, you too will recharge and take a break from the 24/7 technology we sufffer from today!
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 third of the "Four Parshiyos" is "Parshas Parah [Adumah]", (which can be found in Parshas Chukas, Bamidbar 19:1-22). This Parsha (which will be read this year on Parshas Ki Sisa, March 14 2009) is read on the Shabbos preceding "Parshas HaChodesh" to commemorate the burning of the Parah Adumah [for its purifying ashes] which was performed in the desert prioir to Chodesh Nisan, in order to be used to purify the Jews after the Mishkan (tabernacle) was erected so they could be pure for the sacrificing of the Korban Pesach.
According to some Poskim, Parshas Parah is a biblical obligation, and according to these opinions, all the stringencies that are necessary for Parshas Zachor (as we discussed yesterday) apply to Parshas Parah as well. (See Terumas HaDeshen Siman 109 where he quotes the opinion of Tosefos Brachos 13a. See Aruch HaShulchan Siman 685:7)
Many Poskim, however, maintain that Parshas Parah is a rabbinic obligation (Mogen Avraham Siman 685 and others).
It is not customary for women to go to Shul to hear Parshas Parah.
2) The fourth ,and final, of the "Four Parshiyos" is 'Parshas HaChodesh" (which can be found in Parshas Bo, Shmos 12:1-20) is read on the Shabbos immediately before Rosh Chodesh Nisan (which this year will be on Parshas Vayakhel- Pikudei, March 21 2009) , as it contains within it the Mitzvah of Korban Pesach. (See Rashi to Megilah 29a and Aruch Hashulchan Siman 685). Another reason is that it contains within it the sanctification of Chodesh Nisan as it says "HaChodesh HaZeh Lachem Rosh Chadashim, This month (Nisan) should be for you the first of the cycle of months"
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today )
Reader's Question:
I was just wondering (because this has been coming up so much) - in reference to Havdala: I learned that women shouldn't be drinking the wine from havdala for various reasons... however, I also believe that I learned that the man/father has to drink enough wine/juice to make a bracha achrona - if every week my father only takes literally a sip, and when I mentioned that it might be better to drink more he asked if I can find out if I can drink it instead (but I remembered the whole idea that women shouldnt drink the wine of havdala) SO: is it better for him to drink just a sip and not make the bracha achrona or better that I drink it and make the bracha achrona?
My Answer:
I did some research into this, and it seems that though the prevelant Minhag is for women not to drink the wine of Havdalah, there were indeed many Gedolim and Poskim in years gone by that did indeed give their wives and daughters to drink from Havdalah, as it is a Kos Shel Bracha.
The best thing would be for him to drink a revi'is of the wine thus he would have to make a "Al HaGefen" and thus you would not have to drink from it and risk the many kabalistic reasons prescribed for women not drinking.
If that is impossible, it is better to have a boy drink the wine.
If that too is not an option, I would consult a Rav for final ruling. This is not a Halachic question, rather more a kabalistic/feelings type of thing, and I cannot advise you L'maaseh.
By the way, if you are ever in a situation where you have nobody to make Havdalah for you, you may make it yourself and then indeed drink the wine.
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 second of the "4 Parshiyos" is "Parshas Zachor" (which can be found at the end of Parshas Ki Teitzei, Devarim 25: 17-19) which commemorates the story of how the accursed nation of Amalek rose up against Klal Yisroel, and that we are commanded to eradicate them.
This "Parsha" is read the Shabbos before Purim(This year, Shabbos Parshas Tetzaveh, March 7th) in order to read it as close as possible to the reading of the story of the wicked Haman, who was a descendant of Amalek.
2) The reading of "Parshas Zachor" is a biblical obligation, which must be read once a year with a Minyan, from a kosher Sefer Torah.
All the congregants should concentrate on hearing every word from the Ba'al Koreh(as well as the Brachos before and after the Aliyah) and have in mind to satisfy their obligation to hear this Parsha.
The Poskim debate whether this obligation is incumbent on women as well. Though most Poskim are lenient and maintain that women have no obligation to hear it is Shul, the prevalent Minhag is for women and girls to indeed come to Shul [if possible]to hear Parshas Zachor.
If a woman cannot make it to Shul, she should read the Pesukim herself from a Chumash.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
Do woman also have to sleep on the left and wake up on the right in the morning like men? And it says that when taking of your clothes we should take of 1 at a time or we will forget [our learning] do women have to be careful in those areas? and with the shoes?
My Answer:
Women should also try and sleep on their left side. Though, the halachic stringency is more important for men, there are Kabbalistic as well as health reasons for this that apply to women as well.
The Poskim debate whether women need to be careful with all the things that "cause forgetfullness". Most contemporary Poskim say that they should indeed try to be careful for them, especially if the woman is pregnant.
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 )
B'Ezras Hashem, we now begin studying the Halachos of Chodesh Adar and the Yom Tov of Purim
1) The Gemara (Taanis 29a-b) tells us "Mishenichnas Adar Marbim B'Simcha- when the month of Adar arrives we increase our joy" as it says in Megilas Esther (9:22) "V'HaChodesh Asher NehePach M'Yagon L'Simcha...The month (Adar) that was turned from sadness to happiness"
If one has a courtcase with a non Jew, it is good to schedule it for the month of Adar.
2) Our holy sages, the Chazal instituted the reading of 4 special "parshiyos" in (or near) the month of Adar, as a commemoration of 4 special Mitzvos (which we will elaborate on a bit in the next few days)
The first of the "4 Parshiyos" is Parshas Shekalim (which we will iy"H be reading this coming Shabbos, and can be found in the beginning of Parshas Ki3 Sisa Perek 30 Pesukim 11 thru 16). This reading is to commemorate the Mitzvah of "Machtzis Hashekel", the half Shekel coin which every Jew was obligated to give each year to the special fund from which the daily Korban Tomid (sacrificial lambs that were offered in the Bais HaMikdash each morning and evening) was purchased.
Although we do not have a Bais HaMikdash today (an unfortunate fact which will change very shortly iy"H with the arrival of Mashiach), we "perform" this Mitzvah by reading about it in the Torah.
There are some opinions that this reading is a biblical obligation (Elya Rabba Siman 685 in the name of the Rashba to Brachos 13a who maintains that all 4 Parshiyos are biblical obligations). However, most Poskim maintain that it is a rabbinic obligation.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
I know that one should do negel vaaser in the morning before doing anything else, but what if one has to use the restroom? He is not allowed to say a bracha while having the urge to go to the bathroom but he also can not go to the bathroom without washing his hands first. What should he do?
My Answer:
I am not sure which specific Bracha you are referring to.
Modeh Ani may be said before washing Negel Vasser.
One should wash Negel Vasser and then use the restroom, and only after washing the hands (again) after using the restroom may the Bracha of Al Netilas Yadayim, Asher Yatzar and the rest of Birchas HaShachar be said.
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) Ma'aser money may be used to support "Kiruv" organizations whose mission it is to help our non religious brothers and sisters find their way back to our father in heaven. (Bais Dino Shel Shlomo. Dayan Yisroel Yaakov Fisher Zatzal even allowed using Ma'aser money to pay for "Kiruv" courses.)
Ma'aser money should not be given to charity organizations run by non religious Jews. (Psak of Rav Shmuel Auerbach Shlita)
2) A yeshiva or school that you or your children attended doesn't have halachic precedence for your Ma'aser dollars over a different school or Tzedaka. However, due to the Hakoras Hatov (appreciation) due the school, you should indeed financially support them over a different school. (Psak of Rav Asher Weiss Shlita)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
There are too many references in Chazal and the Poskim regarding the importance of giving Ma'aser to quote them all.
But, to end our study of this topic on a powerful note, I will quote a small sampling of their holy words regarding the "power" of Ma'aser:
Properly separating and giving Ma'aser causes a person to become wealthy (Talmud Shabbos 119b. See also Rabbeinu Yonah's commentary to Pirkei Avos Perek 3 Mishna 13)
Although it is prohibited to "test" Hashem, there is an exception when it comes to Ma'aser, as the Posuk (Malachi 3:10) states "V'Chanuni Na B'Zos amar Hashem- Test me with this, said Hashem" (see Malbim's explanation this Posuk. See also Me'iri to Taanis 9a. See Shulchan Aruch Y"D Siman 247:4 that this exception is only for Ma'aser and not all Tzedaka. Rabbeinu Bachya in the introduction to Parshas Ki Savo disagrees, and maintains that one may test Hashem with all Tzedaka)
In the merit of properly giving Ma'aser, a person's prayers will be answered (Mateh Moshe Vol. 2 Ma'alas Tzedaka Chapter 8 based on the Midrash)
Properly giving Ma'aser can help save a person from sicknesses (The Steipler Zatzal based on Midrash Bamidbar Parsha 9 Siman 671)
Properly separating Ma'aser can prevent miscarriages (Chazon Ish, story quoted in Sefer Maaseh Ish Vol. 1 Page 144. This is also the advice of Rav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Shlita to people who have a tendency to miscarry, and it has worked on countless occasions.)
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
there is something that always bothered me....
...I once learned that if a person has trouble sleeping, reciting the first parasha krias shema repeatedly is a remedy for this problem. Is this a minhag or a halacha? I have many sleepless nights. How many dozens of times should I be reciting the first parsha of krias shema?
My Answer:
True, the Rama (Siman 239) does say that one who has a hard time falling asleep should repeat the first Parsha of Shema ,"V'Ahavta Es..." over and over until he/she falls asleep. (Without the first Posuk of Shma ,which should never be repeated over and over. See Mishna Berura on the above Rama).
The Rama doesnt say how many times to do this, he just says "many times". The Kitzur Shulchan Aruch says to do this until you fall asleep (Siman 71:4).
Other things the Poskim say to do for insomnia is say various other Pesukim or think about a Torah topic.
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) One may give Ma'aser money to an organization that organizes Torah and Hashkafa Shiurim, and thus facilitates Torah learning.(Shu"t Bais Dino Shel Shlomo Y"D Siman 1) Similarly, one may use Ma'aser to pay for Torah, Hashkafa or Mussar shiurim for women, even though women are not obligated in Torah study, it is still a Mitzvah for women to occupy themselves with subjects of Mussar, fear of heaven, becoming closer to Hashem, as well as the many Torah topics that pertain to them. (Psak of Rav Asher Weiss Shlita, quoted in Hilchos Ma'aser Kesafim)
Ma'aser money may be used to support organizations that provide emergency first-aid, such as "Hatzalah" (Psak of Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky Zatzal in Emes L'Yaakov Y"D Siman 249)
It is a great Mitzvah to use Ma'aser money for "Pidyon Shevuyim- obtaining the release of prisoners". (For the guidelines of what is considered "Pidyon Shevuyim, see archives, Halachos for January 8 2009) (Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah Siman 252:1. See also Shu"t Bais Dino Shel Shlomo Y"D Siman 1)
2) According to some Poskim, it is permitted to use Ma'aser money to support non-Jewish charities (e.g. charities whose mission it is to research and develop medical cures etc.) (Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal quoted in Am HaTorah second Edition Choveres 11. Also opinion of Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky Zatzal in Emes L'Yaakov Y"D Siman 251. However, Rav Yaakov writes that even if halachically it is permitted, it is still best to refrain from doing so. Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal maintained that if it is an organization that can benefit Shomrei Torah U'Mitzvos (as is the case with medical research) then L'Chatchilah you can support them with Ma'aser money)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) 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 sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
If I put money in a pushka [each day] that I keep at home, and then submit it to the tzedaka organization a few months later when it's full, have I fulfilled the mitzvah of giving tzedaka each day, or only when I give the money to the organization?
My Answer:
Your question is a difficult one, and one that the Poskim deal with. The question is if by placing it in the Pushka it is merely considered that you said "Harei Zu L'Tzedakah" which is basically a Neder to give tzedaka, but not an actual giving of the Tzedakah, or is it already as if it is "in the hands of the Gabbai Tzedaka" and thus you were Mekayem your Mitzvah. (This would have reverse ramifications as well, if for example one wanted to "borrow" some money from the Pushka. See Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah Siman 259:1)
The best thing to do is to make a "Tnai" (stipulation) saying that you want your Pushka to be Koneh the money for the organization, and thus it would be a Kiyum of Tzedakah according to all opinions.(This stipulation would work in the reverse as well, if you dont want it to be Koneh until you transfer the funds to the organization. See Derech Emunah from Rav Chaim kanievsky Shlita, Hilchos Matnas Aniyim Perek 8 Ha'arah 121)
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) One may pay a non religious worker or employee, even if it is clear that he/she will not separate Ma'aser from their paycheck, and there is no problem of "Lifnei Iver Lo Siten Michshol- before a blind man do not place a stumbling block". (Psak of Dayan Yisroel Yaakov Fischer quoted in Sefer Hilchos Ma'aser Kesofim.)
2) One may use Ma'aser money to pay the cover charge for a "Dinner" or a "Melava Malka" or other function which is organized to benefit a Tzedaka organization.
However, the cost of the actual portion should not be paid with Ma'aser. (e.g. if a reservation to the dinner cost $180 and you would pay in a restaurant for a similar portion of food $20, you may pay $160 toward your dinner reservation from Ma'aser money) (Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky Zatzal in Emes L'Yaakov Y"D Siman 249)
(Note: In a few more days we will iy"H be finishing this topic and starting a new one. I have heard many different (and good) ideas from many readers as to what the next topic should be. However, before I make the final decision, I would like to hear from you which Halachos you would like to learn next. Please email me your requests at Halacha For Today . Thank you.)
IMPORTANT: If you submitted a suggestion yesterday and it bounced back to you or you didn't get a response from me, please re-submit today, as the email address given yesterday for submissions was inadvertently written out wrongly. Thank you.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today )
Reader's Question:
Can a girl (over Bas Mitzvah age) touch a boy younger than 11, in a non-chibah(non affectionate) manner (i.e.- helping a child button his coat, herding students along in a line for recess, etc.)?
My Answer:
According to Harav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Shlita, a female over Bas Mitzvah should not have any physical contact with any boy above the age of 9 for any reason. (Halichos Bas Yisroel)
Likewise, a male over the age of Bar Mitzvah should not have any physical contact with any girl over the age of 3 (Opinion of the Debreciner Rav Zatzal in Be'er Moshe Vol. 4 Siman 145). Some Poskim allow physical contact until the girl is 5 or 6 years old. (Opinion of Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal quoted by Rav Simcha Bunim Cohen in his sefer Children in Halacha page 32 footnote 14. See also page 30 footnote 4 for a lengthy discussion)
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) One, who in a time of distress or danger, promised to give money to Tzedaka, may not pay this promised money using Ma'aser money. (Shu"t Bais Dino Shel Shlomo, Hilchesa Pesikta)
One who sets boundaries for themselves (which is a good thing to do) and subjects him/herself to "fines" if they G-d forbid transgress an Aveira (e.g. "Every time I speak Lashon Hara I will give a dollar to Tzedaka" or "Every time I see something forbidden for Jewish eyes to see, I will put $10 in the Pushka" etc.) may not pay the "fine" using Ma'aser money. ( ibid.)
2) Someone who simply says "I promise money to Tzedaka", without having in mind to use Ma'aser money for this promise, may not fulfill the promise with Ma'aser money, as once it's a promise it is an obligation, and obligations may not be paid using Ma'aser as we have learned.
One who promises money to a Shul upon making a "Mi Shebeirach" after getting an Aliyah may use Ma'aser money according to some Poskim (Psak of the Chazon Ish Zatzal brought in Orchos Rabbeinu Vol. 1 Page 303.) Other Poskim are stringent and do not allow it. (Hilchos Ma'aser Kesafim quoting the Nehar Metzarim Y"D)
(Note: In a few more days we will iy"H be finishing this topic and starting a new one. I have heard many different (and good) ideas from many readers as to what the next topic should be. However, before I make the final decision, I would like to hear from you which Halachos you would like to learn next. Please email me your requests at Halacha For Today . Thank you.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) 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 sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
I'm a little confused about the halachos of folding clothes on Shabbos. Are you allowed to fold clothing on Shabbos? Can you fold clothes on the creases?
My Answer:
The general rule is that you may not fold clothing, Talleisim or tablecloths on their original folds (creases) on Shabbos.(There are certain conditions under which it would be permitted, but they are too lengthy to elaborate on here).
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
