Wednesday
September 15 2010
7 Tishrei 5771; 3 Days to Yom Kippur
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1) After receiving forgiveness from the people that we hurt, there are still 24 things (Brought by Rabbeinu Yonah in Sharei Teshuva, end of Sha'ar Rishon in the name of Chazal. They can also be found more at length in the Rambam Perek 4 of Hilchos Teshuva. The original source for this seems to be a Tosefta) that are Me'Akev - that prevent- proper Teshuva from being attained. Obviously it is best to try and make sure that we don't have any of these impediments in our day to day lives, so we can assure that our Teshuva is easily attained and properly accepted by Hashem.
Most of these things are probably not relevant to most of the people reading this, but it is still Halacha, and can be used as a catalyst for Teshuva in the area in which we do indeed need rectification.
2) The 24 obstacles to Teshuva are: (Loose translation. It would be too lengthy to delve into the details of each one. If you have any questions as to the definitions, or details of each one, please feel free to contact me)
1) One who frequently spreads Rechilus (slanderer)
2) One who regularly speaks Lashon Hara (Gossiper)
3) One who gets angry quickly
4) One whose bad (impure) thoughts control him
5) Being connected to a Rasha (evildoer)
6) Taking from food that isn't sufficient for its owner
7) Gazing at Arayos (members of the opposite gender, including iproper photos, websites etc. with sinful intent)
8) Partnering with a thief
9) One who says "I will sin and repent afterwards" or " I will sin and Yom Kippur will atone for the sin"
10) One who derives honor [and pleasure] from his fellow man's humiliation.
11) One who separates him/herself from the Tzibbur (congregation).
12) One who ridicules his forefathers and/or teachers
13) One who curses the public
14) One who prevents a group of people from doing a Mitzvah
15) One who causes another Jew to leave the good path and take a bad path [of living not according to the Torah]
16) One who uses the pillow of a poor person [i.e. causes a poor person to lose the use of any of his meager possessions]
17) One who accepts bribes in order to skew and distort justice from prevailing.
18) One who finds a lost object and doesn't [try and] return it to its proper owner.
19) One who sees their child going off the [Torah] path, and doesn't admonish them. (A Rav should be consulted for the best way to deal with each specific child.)
20) One who eats [i.e. usurps] the food [i.e. livelihood] of poor people, orphans or widows.
21) One who argues [and does an action] against the will of the sages.
22) One who accuses good people of doing wrong [without proper proof or reason]
23) One who hates [and cannot accept constructive] criticism.
24) One who ridicules all or some of the Mitzvos of the Torah [or those instituted by the sages]
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Do men have halachos of Tzniyus (modesty)?
Is having sheva brachos (or other gathering) with men and women who arent married not at separate tables halachicaly wrong or is it just a sensitivity?
Answer:
Of course men have Hilchos Tzniyus!
It just manifests itself in different ways than women. (See Halachos for August 13 2008 and on)
Tzniyus is an attitude.
Tziyus is a way of life.
Tzniyus is in how we act, how we talk, how we interact with one another, how we behave in public, how we behave in private, how we think, how we dream, who we are friends with, who our role models are, who we respect, who we look up to, how we raise our children, which music we listen to, which publications we bring into our home and read, etc. etc.
Regarding the Sheva Brachos, men and women, should not sit at the same tables, and should preferably have a Mechitza (or at least some visible separation such as a buffet table etc. dividing them).
Though this isn't necessarily strict Halacha, it can definitely lead to many Halachic problems if they arent separated properly.
Also, even if it's only a "sensitivity" issue, it should still be avoided for that reason.
Tzniyus issues apply to single people as well as to married people, perhaps even more so.
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Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Question: What should we think when we see the fish during Tashlich?
Answer from HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
You know what I think?
When you pass a fish store and see the fish in the window, there's a good time to stop and look, don't wait for Tashlich. The fish in the window come from the ocean. That fish comes together without Shadchonim, they're Porim V'rovim Bayom, they get married in the ocean and they produce offspring, and it's for one purpose, to give us more fish to eat. It's a Nes, how fish meet each other in the depths of the ocean and they're able to copulate, and produce some more fish, it's a Niflaos Haborei, you have to marvel at it.
The fish doesn't have any air and still it breathes with its lungs. It's able to take out from the water the dissolved oxygen, fish must have oxygen. They are so built that they can use oxygen dissolved in the water and it lives without lungs, except the lungfish. And so when you look at a fish, it's a special Briah, Chesed Hashem.
Fish of course is a Taanug, that's why all Jews eat fish on Shabbos, it's part of the happiness of Shabbos in order to learn the Chesed Hashem.
And so I say, you don't have to wait for Tashlich, when you pass a fish store and see big juicy fish lying there, a big carp, a big salmon, a big trout, take a half second and take a look. AAH; what a wonder it is that it happened in the middle of the ocean, they came together and produced such tasty tidbits for the people to enjoy and to appreciate the Chesed Hashem.
Taken from the weekly "A Moment with Rav Avigdor Miller" email. To subscribe Click 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. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
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Tuesday
September 14 2010
6 Tishrei 5771; 4 Days to Yom Kippur
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A special thank you to the many readers who generously responded to my Pre- Rosh Hashana Tzedakah appeal.
If you have not yet done so, you can still take part in this great Mitzvah and have the merit of true Tzedakah accompany you into Yom Kippur!
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1) It is a few days until Yom Kippur, and the order of the day, of course, is Teshuva.
We all want Hashem to forgive us for any sins we may have transgressed against Him or against our fellow Jews.
As we mentioned a few days ago, sins against our fellow Jews cannot be forgiven by Hashem until forgiveness is sought from the one who we offended.
2)When forgiving someone, it is extremely important to verbalize this fact by saying "I am Mochel you with my whole heart". (Rabbeinu Bechaya Bereishis 50:17 explains that Yosef was Mochel the Shevatim in his heart, but never verbalized this thought, thus the Asara Harugei Malchus and many other Tzaros needed to befall Klal Yisroel over the ages. There is a lengthy discussion about this, but this forum is not the place)
Even if one can't bring themselves to be mochel another person with their full heart, it is still worthwhile to verbalize forgiveness and then work on oneself to forgive with a full heart; doing so will help us merit forgiveness from Hashem for our own iniquities. (Based on the teachings of Rav Yisroel Salanter Zatzal)
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
If someone forgot to make an Eruv Tavshilin, would that person be permitted to light shabbos candles while it is still Yom Tov on Friday?
Answer:
The Shulchan Aruch (Siman 527:19) brings two opinions; one that allows the candle lighting, and one that forbids it. It is best L'Chatchila to be stringent like the the second opinion.(See Mishna Berura S"K 55)
According to the opinion that forbids it, it may be permissible to light one candle only, but better to gift your candles to someone else who did make an Eiruv Tavshilin and have them light on your behalf. (Mishna Berura ibid.)
If one is only making an Eiruv Tavshilin in order to light candles, but will not be cooking anything for Shabbos, the Bracha should not be recited on the Eiruv, rather only the text setting the Eiruv aside should be said.
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Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Rav Moshe Weinberger Shlita
A Jew should never be embarrassed to stand before Hashem ever, especially when doing Teshuva during these days of repentance.
The Yetzer Hara will try everything in the book to convince us otherwise that "who are we to stand before Hashem and ask Him to forgive us, especially when we misbehaved and didn't do what we were supposed to do all year long".
But that's precisely the point of Teshuva: the pasuk says "V'shavta Ad Hashem Elokecha"-shavta means to return, but you can interchange the shoresh of the word to spell boshes-to be embarrassed.
The whole point of Teshuva is to show us that even though we are embarrassed to stand before Hashem, we have to recognize that He is our Father, and doesn't care about what we did in our past-He wants us to come home now, as the pasuk says: "Banim Atem L'Hashem Elockeichem"-we are all Hashem's children, and we should never be too embarrassed to enter before Hashem, no matter what took place beforehand, as a parent's love for His child never changes.
And should we still feel such hesitation, we should always keep in mind the following story with the holy Baba Sali ZT"L:
The Baba Sali was having Seudah Shlishis with the community, and one person was crying to the holy Tzadik that he has been going through tough times with health and Parnassah.
In the middle of the meal, Rav David, the Baba Sali's son-in-law walked in and all of a sudden the Tzadik screamed at him and said "Who called you in here?! Who told you that you can come in? Who called you in here?!"
Rav David was so shaken and frightened he remained silent, and everyone in the room was speechless. All of a sudden the Baba Sali gets up, walks to the corner of the room, and starts to scream to Hashem that just like his son in law is considered like his own child, and therefore doesn't need permission to enter into his father's room, so too, we, Klal Yisroel don't need permission to enter into Hashem's presence, as we are his children and He will take us in no matter what.
He continued to daven there for about an hour, and came back to the table, and told the Yid who was complaining to him about his problems that he davened to Hashem, and that his Tefilos were answered.
But he then made his son-in-law repeat after him over and over again that children don't need permission to enter into Hashem's presence...we are His children, and all He wants of us is to keep that relationship with Him, hence we should never feel we are not worthy of standing before Hashem! Never!
Rav Yisroel Abuchatzeira Zatzal, the holy Baba Sali
Submitted by E.K. based on a talk by Rav Moshe Weinberger Shlita of Khal Aish Kodesh in Woodmere, NY
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Help us Spread the Word Of Hashem! Donate Today!
Make a Donation
Monday
September 13 2010
5 Tishrei 5771; 5 Days to Yom Kippur
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1) Although it may usually be better (in order to concentrate better ) to daven Shemona Esrei with closed eyes, in Aseres Yemei Teshuva it is advisable to daven from a siddur, as this way it is less likely to forget the additions that must be added to the Shemona Esrei (Zachreinu L'Chaim, Mi Komocha, Hamelech HaKadosh, Hamelech Hamishpat, U'Ksov and B'Sefer Chaim). (This is practical advice and not a Halacha per se).
2) If Zachreinu L'Chaim, Mi Komocha, Hamelech Hamishpat, U'Ksov and/or B'Sefer Chaim were mistakenly skipped, and the next Bracha was already started , there is no need to repeat the Shemona Esrei.
However, if "Hamelech HaKadosh" was forgotten and you signed off the Bracha of Ata Kadosh with "HaKeil HaKadosh" like it is said the rest of the year, one must indeed repeat the Shemona Esrei, as the main point of these Yomim Noraim is to realize that Hashem is our King and to accept His Kingdom (and all the Mitzvos that come along with it) upon ourselves.
Thus forgetting "Hamelech HaKadosh" is forgetting the essence and "missing the point" of these significant days, and therefore must be repeated.
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
What's the halacha if the Baal Tefila forgets to say Hamelech Hakodosh or Hamelech Hamishpat. Does he have to start again?
Answer:
According to the Rama and Mishna Berura (Siman 582) If Hamelech Hamishpat was forgotten, it never has to be repeated by anyone.
For Sephardic Jews who follow the Shulchan Aruch, it must be repeated (582:1)
If the Baal Tefilah forgot Hamelech HaKadosh by his quiet Shemonah Esrei he can rely on his Chazaras Hashatz to be his "davening over".
If He forgot it during Chazaras Hashatz, he must go back.
The question in the Poskim though is where he has to go back to. Some maintain that he just has to go back to "Atah Kadosh" (Rav Ovadia Yoseph shlita and others) while others hold he must start from the beginning of Shemona Esrei again.(Mateh Ephraim and Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal).
The practical difference would be regarding the Tzibbur repeating Kedusha again. As if he must start from the beginning, then kedusha must be repeated too.
The prevelant Minhag amongst Ashkenazim is to start from the beginning, while the Sefardim only go back to Atah Kadosh.
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Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Rav Avigdor Miller Zatzal
These days between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, the Aseres Yemei Teshuva, besides being days of introspection , are days to aim and reach higher within ourselves to try and attain greatness.
The following story illustrates true greatness, and we can all try and emulate the lesson contained in it in our own life situations.
TO ALL EXTREMES
Rav Avigdor Miller Zatzal, the world renowned rav and noted author, received the news
. The fainting spells he had been experiencing had finally been diagnosed, and the doctor decided that surgery was needed.
Rav Miller did not agree to the surgery immediately, despite the doctor's warnings. But after spending some time thinking it over, he agreed to the operation.
The surgery went well, and before long Rav Miller was back to his usual hectic schedule.
A few days after the surgery, R' Simcha Bunim Cohen [ A prominent Rav and author of several works on hilchos Shabbos and other areas of halacha, and a grandson of Rav Miller through marriage] paid Rav Miller a visit.
"You know," Rav Miller remarked, "I had complete faith in HaShem that I would be fine, and I really didn't need the surgery. But I decided to go through with the opieraton for my rebbetzin's (wife's) sake."
Rav Miller went on to explain that every morning, his wife would wake up early to escort him down the steps on his way to davening. She was afraid that her husband might faint and hurt himself.
"I can't practice my emunah on my wife's account," Rav Miller concluded. "So I agreed to have the operation."
"One has to extend himself so far for his wife -- even to the point of undergoing major surgery?" R' Cohen exclaimed.
"For a wife," Rav Miller emphatically stated, "one must do far more."
Submitted by C.S., Taken from Visions of Greatness, Vol. IV, by Rabbi Yosef Yona Weiss, pp.146-7
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Help us Spread the Word Of Hashem! Donate Today!
Make a Donation
Sunday
September 12 2010
4 Tishrei 5771; Fast Day: Tzom Gedaliya
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1) The Aseres Yemei Teshuva, and particularly Erev Yom Kippur, is the ideal time to apologize, beg forgiveness and ask for Mechila from anyone that we may have slighted in any way throughout the previous year (or longer).
Sins that require Mechila from another human being will not be wiped away with Teshuva alone, until forgiveness is sought. If one asks you for Mechila, you should find it in your heart to forgive them.
The Poskim say that if the one who wronged you does not come to you to ask for Mechila, then you (the victim) should go to him/her and present yourself to him/her in such a way to encourage them to ask you for forgiveness (Mateh Ephraim, Kitzur Shulchan Aruch and others based on Gemara in Yoma 87a).
The Seforim compare this to us and Hashem. In the Yemei HaTeshuva Hashem comes down from Shamayim and makes it easy for us to ask - and receive- His divine forgiveness, as it says in the Posuk "Dirshu Hashem B'HiMatzo- Seek out Hashem when He is near".
2) Asking Mechila in a general way (e.g. "Are you Mochel way for anything and everything I may have done etc.) is sufficient for minor infractions only. However if you wronged someone in a significantly harmful way (spoke scandalous Lashon Hara about them, caused them significant monetary damage etc.) you must beg their forgiveness specifically for that infraction, and must verbalize the details upon asking.
However, if you spoke Lashon Hara about somebody and they don't know about it, and by revealing it to them (in order to ask forgiveness) you will cause them additional pain and anguish , it is better not to detail what was spoken, but rather to simply ask Mechila for speaking badly about them (Psak Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal)
Of course, when asking for forgiveness it must be sincere and you must genuinely regret what you did and resolve not to do it again. Simply mouthing the words "Are you Mochel me?" isn't sufficient. Likewise, the one who says "I am Mochel you" but doesn't really mean it, and continues to bear a grudge, is doing a disservice for all parties involved.
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Today I toveled a coffee pot.
Before I dipped it I checked and made sure there were no stickers or anything on it.
When I came home and took it out of the bag I had it in, I realized there was a little strip of sticker on the bottom of the pot.
My question Is if it's okay to use, since most likely but not 100% that the sticker was from the bag it was in, and if it was not from the bag, and I just didn't notice it, is it okay since it was only on the bottom of the pot, which is not where the coffee would be touching anyways ?
Answer:
If there is a Chatzitzah between the utensil and the water, the Tevilah is not valid and must be redone (and a new Bracha recited if there was a Hefsek)
That being said, if the Chatzitzah is insignificant and in a place that most people wouldn't care if it remains there, the utensil is Ok to use B'dieved.
Thus in your case , if it's not a big deal to remove and re-tovel, do so. If it is a big bother, you can use it as is, especially given the fact that there is a possibility that it was indeed not there at the time of the Tevilah.
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Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room.
One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs.
His bed was next to the room's only window.
The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back.
The men talked for hours on end.
They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs, their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation..
Every afternoon, when the man in the bed by the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things he could see outside the window.
The man in the other bed began to live for those one hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and colour of the world outside.
The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake.
Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Young lovers walked arm in arm amidst flowers of every colour and a fine view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance.
As the man by the window described all this in exquisite details, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine this picturesque scene.
One warm afternoon, the man by the window described a parade passing by.
Although the other man could not hear the band - he could see it in his mind's eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words.
Days, weeks and months passed.
One morning, the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths only to find the lifeless body of the man by the window, who had died peacefully in his sleep.
She was saddened and called the hospital attendants to take the body away.
As soon as it seemed appropriate, the other man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch, and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone.
Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look at the real world outside.
He strained to slowly turn to look out the window besides the bed.
It faced a blank wall..
The man asked the nurse what could have compelled his deceased roommate who had described such wonderful things outside this window.
The nurse responded that the man was blind and could not even see the wall.
She said, 'Perhaps he just wanted to encourage you.'
Epilogue:
There is tremendous happiness in making others happy, despite our own situations.
Shared grief is half the sorrow, but happiness when shared, is doubled.
If you want to feel rich, just count all the things you have that money can't buy.
'Today is a gift, that is why it is called The Present .'
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
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Today's Halachos are dedicated by a daily reader, M.B., L'Zecher Nishmas his father Ashe Ben Ezra. May his Neshama continue to go higher and higher in Gan Eden and may he be a Meilitz Yosher for the entire family.
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SPECIAL QUADRUPLE PORTION L'KAVOD ROSH HASHANA AND L'KAVOD SHABBOS
Halachos for Wednesday, Erev Rosh Hashana
1) If one doesn't understand the meaning of the words of Hataras Nedarim (as it is printed in the Siddur or Machzor in Hebrew) it isn't valid. Therefore it is better to say it in English or any other language that you understand, or to read it and its translation beforehand so you will know what you are saying when you say it. (Chayei Adam and Kitzur Shulchan Aruch)
2) Women do not have the custom to say Hataras Nedarim (One of the reasons for this is that doing so in front of 3 men is not Tzniyus). Rather, a married woman should have her husband say to the "Bais Din" that his wife appointed him a Shliach (messenger) to annul her vows, and they in turn say " Mutarim Lah- it is annulled".
Some Poskim (Rav Moshe Sternbuch in Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol 1 Siman 338 , the Steipler and others) say that women can rely on the communal Hataras Nedarim recited at Kol Nidrei at the onset of Yom Kippur, and this is indeed what many women (especially single girls and women) rely on.
3) It is customary [for men] to immerse in a kosher Mikvah on Erev Rosh Hashana, regardless if they are impure or not, in order to spiritually purify themselves in preparation for the holy day. The accepted custom is to immerse in the Mikvah three times to signify the 3 times it says the word "Tahara- purity" in the Pasuk "V'Zarakti Aleichem Mayim Tehorim. U'Tehartem MiKol Tumoseichem U'Mikol Giluleichem Ataher Eschem- [Hashem says] I will sprinkle purified water upon you, and purify you from all your impurities; and from all your filthiness I will purify you" (Yechezkael 36:25) (Sefer Chasidim, Mateh Ephraim and others).
There are other Minhagim regarding how many times to immerse. Some do it once, some do it 7 times, others do it 12 times etc. If you don't have an established personal custom regarding this, rely on the above and do it three times.
The earliest time for going to the Mikvah is an hour before Chatzos, midday.(Which is around 1:00pm)
4) One should constantly have "Teshuva" on his/her mind throughout the day on Erev Rosh Hashana (Chayei Adam)
Many have the Minhag to go to a grave of a Tzaddik and daven there that Hashem should have mercy on us and forgive our sins and grant us a good year in the merit of the Tzaddik. If a no Tzaddik's grave is accessible, the Poskim recommend going to any Jewish cemetery to daven. (Some even say that if no Jewish cemetery is available, one should go to the outside of a non Jewish cemetery, as just going to any cemetery reminds us that we will not live forever, and that we better start doing Teshuva before it's too late)
One who is impure (due to nocturnal emissions) should preferably not visit a cemetery, especially on Erev Rosh Hashana, as it can be harmful to him. (The Gaon of Vilna and others were extremely stringent about this). It is also better to visit the cemetery before eating, thus many have the Minhag to go immediately after Shacharis.
It is a good custom to give Tzedakah to poor people prior to praying at the grave of the Tzadik (In fact it is best to give Tzedakah prior to praying anytime, as the Pasuk says "Ani B'Tzedek Echezeh Panecha- with the Zechus of Tzedaka will I approach Hashem [to pray]. (see Talmud Bava Basra 10b)
Halachos for Thursday, First day of Rosh Hashana
1) When entering the Shul on the eve of Rosh Hashanah (or when getting ready to daven, for women, or anyone else davening at home) one should enter with a feeling of fear, trepidation and trembling [before Hashem] as the time has arrived for each of us to take the defendant's seat to be judged by the supreme judge (Hashem).
2) It is extremely important to daven with Kavanah (concentration; understanding and meaning the words) on Rosh Hashanah. (Chayei Adam)
3) Although the entire year the Shemona Esrei is recited quietly as not to disturb the concentration of people standing near you, on Rosh Hashanah [and Yom Kippur] many have the Minhag to recite it louder than usual, as this brings them to be able to concentrate better.
4) Being that everyone has a Machzor on these days, we aren't concerned that reciting Shemona Esrei will cause the people near you to lose concentration. However, even if reciting it louder than usual, it should still not be recited too loud, and if one can concentrate fully even when davening low, as is done the whole year, that is still ideal.( Mishna Berura, Shel"ah and others)
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, Second day of Rosh Hashanah
1)The Arizal says that one who does not cry on these days can be sure that his/her Neshama isn't worthy and/or complete, and he/she should exert extra effort to atone for their sins, which are preventing the Neshama from reaching its potential. (Brought in Mateh Ephraim. The Chida maintains that even if one isn't really crying, he/she should still force himself to daven in a crying voice.)
The Gaon of Vilna was of the opinion that one shouldn't cry on Rosh Hashanah, as we must be confident that we will come out of the judgment exonerated based on the Pesukim in Nechemia (Perek 8, Pesukim 9-11) [which were said to the Jews on Rosh Hashanah of that year] "V'Al Tivku...Ki Kadosh HaYom...V'Al TisAtzvu- Do not cry...for today is a holy day... and do not be disheartened"
Does the Gaon of Vilna contradict the Arizal? The answer is no, and the explanation is as follows:
There are two kinds of crying. If one forces himself to cry from fear of a bad judgment even the Arizal would agree to the Gr"a that it is not in the spirit of Rosh Hashanah, and shouldn't be done. However, if one's soul causes them to cry involuntarily from within him/herself [during the prayers], even according to the Gaon of Vilna, he will agree to the Arizal that there is no problem at all, with such an "inspired" prayer and it is actually commendable. (See Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhogos from Rav Moshe Sternbuch Shlita Vol. 2 Siman 268 for a more lengthy elucidation of the above explanation)
2) After Maariv on the first night of Rosh Hashana it is customary to bless everyone you meet with a special greeting of "L'Shana Tova Techasev [V'Techasem] [L'Alter] U'Lchaim Tovim]-To a good year may you be written and signed immediately for a year of good life". (opinion of the Magen Avraham)
"V'Techasem-and signed" is omitted, as the final signing of the decree happens on Yom Kippur and not on Rosh Hashanah. (Opinion of the Gaon of Vilna, the Ram"a M'Panu and the Levush) (Even though Tzadikim Gemurim and Reshaim Gemurim are signed on Rosh Hashana, that is only for their heavenly reward, but for "life" on this world, even Tzadikim are only signed on Yom Kippur, according to the Gaon of Vilna's explanation)
A third opinion is that it is OK to say V'Techasem, as it is referring to the Chasima- the final ruling- which will take place on Yom Kippur. However, according to this opinion, the word "L'Alter- immediately" should be omitted. (Opinion of the Kaf HaChaim, Mateh Ephraim, Kitzur Shulchan Aruch)
3) Gam Atem- you too", V'Chain L'Mar- So too [should the blessing go] for you", or some other variation of such a response. (Some people refrain from using the term "V'Chain L'Mar" on Rosh Hashana as "Mar" also means bitter and we are careful to only use words, eat foods, and convey feelings of sweetness on Rosh Hashana.)
On the second night of Rosh Hashana according to the Taz and other Poskim the same greeting as the first night is said. However according to the Elya Rabbah, Pri Megadim, Gr"a and other Poskim, it is not recited. The prevalent Minhag is like the latter opinion.
4) The blessing of "Gmar Chasima Tova- A good final judgment" is customarily said instead of "Kesiva V'Chasima Tova" when greeting people anytime from the second day of Rosh Hashana until Hoshana Rabbah.
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1)The day after Rosh Hashanah, 3 Tishrei is known as "Tzom Gedaliah- The Fast of Gedaliah".
When the 3rd of Tishrei falls out on Shabbos, as it does this year, the fast is postponed until Sunday, 4 Tishrei.
It is a fast day that was instituted by the Nevi'im (prophets) to commemorate the death of the prophet Gedalia the son of Achikam, who was the leader of the Jewish people in the period after the destruction of the first Bais HaMikdash. After his assassination at the hands of rival Jewish factions, thousands of Jews who still remained in Eretz Yisroel after the destruction of the Bais HaMikdash, were then driven out by Nebuchadnezzar HaRasha into Galus(exile), and thousands more were killed.
Eretz Yisroel remained desolate and barren, and thus this fast day was established for all of Klal Yisroel throughout the ages.
2) Rabbeinu Yeruchambrought in the Bais Yosef 549, and others)say that Gedaliah was actually killed on Rosh Hashanah, but as not to institute a fast on Rosh Hashanah, it was pushed off to the next day. Many Poskim (Elya Rabbah, Mateh Ephraim, and others), therefore, are more lenient on this fast day regarding nursing and pregnant women, mildly ill people, fathers making a Bris etc., as they maintain that this fast day always has the status of a "fast that was pushed off".
Others (Taz, Be'er Halacha) argue, and maintain that since it was originally instituted on this day (as well as the fact that many Meforshim ,based on the Gemara Rosh Hashanah 19a, and the Rambam Perek 2 of Hilchos Taanis, maintain that he was indeed killed on 3 Tishrei, and not on Rosh Hashanah), it has all the Halachos of the other fast days.
A competent orthodox rabbi should be consulted to determine if any individual with any special situation may in fact be lenient on this fast.
3) The main point of this fast [and all fast days] is to bring our hearts to Teshuva. (See Rambam Hilchos Teshuva 5:1 and Mishna Berura 549:1). It is good to increase on a fast day the amount of Tzedakah one gives. Many have the custom to calculate the amount that their meal(s) (that they aren't eating today) would have cost, and give that amount to poor people instead.
4) It is worthwhile to minimize working on Tom Gedaliah, as well as the entire Aseres Yemei Teshuva, to the best of one's ability, and to try and spend more time learning and davening in Shul and/or the Bais Hamedrash (Chayei Adam)
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
[You wrote in the halachos of Tefilah]"All the Halachos of Chazaras HaShatz apply as well to the Bracha M'Ein Sheva that is said by the Ba'al Tefilah on Friday nights after Maariv (Baruch Ata...Mogen Avos B'Devaro...Mekadesh HaShabbos") (Kaf HaChaim Siman 124:16)"
Does this apply as well that the SHATZ should keep both feet together? Bow during 'Boruch Ata'? as a regular Chazaras Hashatz?
Answer:
This is a machlokes HaPoskim.
The Mekor Chaim, Tzitz Eliezer and others hold that he should bow.
Other Poskim including Shaarei Zevulun, Yabia Omer, Shu"t Zeh HaShulchan hold that it is forbidden to bow then.
The Shu"t B'Tzel HaChachma Vol. 4 Siman 111 says the Machlokes is if we hold it is exactly like Chazaras HaShatz (and thus should bow) or it is not exactly like Chazaras HaShatz (and thus may not add extra bowings beyond Shemona Esrei).
I didn't see anyone discuss what position the feet must be in, but that again would probably be dependant on the above Machlokes.
Therefore, according to the Kaf HaChaim that I mentioned in the Halachos, it would be required to keep feet togetehr and bow at "Baruch Ata".
This seems to be how most contemporary Poskim say to do it. I saw in the Sefer "Tefilah K'Hilchaso" that he quotes Rav Elyashiv shlita that M'Ikar HaDin it shouldn't be done, but since this is the Minhag of most of Klal Yisroel, it should not be stopped.
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rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Question:
Why doesn't Yom Kippur come first, Rosh Hashana is Yom Hadin and it's a great Sakona, a great danger, we might be inscribed without doing proper Teshuva?
Answer from HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
And the answer is as follows. There's a Klal and there are Protim. There's a general principle we have to learn, and there are details in that principle. The number one principle that includes everything else, is Emunah in Hashem. What will it help a person to say Al Chait Shechotosi L'fonecho, if he is lacking in Emunah. And therefore Rosh Hashana is dedicated to one purpose, Hashem Melech, all day long. We have to shout again and again. Melech means, He is the One that owns the world. Why does he own the world? Hayom Haras Olam, this is the birthday of the world, on Rosh Hashana He created the world out of nothing.
The whole world is nothing but the imagination of Hashem. Wherever you look it's nothing but Hashem on all sides. And this Klal, this general rule, is the fundamental Teshuva. Of all kinds of repentance, this is the most important and that's most urgent. First and foremost to feel the presence of Hashem in the world, He is the owner, Lashem Ha'aretz Umlo'oh, the whole world belongs only to Him. If we concentrate on that one subject, if we utilize Rosh Hashana properly then we start talking about the Protim, the details. Al Chait Shechatanu L'fonecho on this and on this and on this...
But remember the most important Teshuva, is the Teshuva of not being aware of Hashem Melech.
From the "A moment with Rav Avigdor Miller Zatzal" weekly email. To subscribe Click 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. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Help us Spread the Word Of Hashem! Donate Today!
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Tuesday
September 7 2010
28 Elul 5770; 2 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771; 3rd Day of Selichos
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1) In the davening of the Yamim Noraim we say many lofty piyutim (liturgies) which were composed by extremely holy individuals (Tanaim, Gaonim and even Rishonim the likes of Rashi and the Baalei Tosafos).
Just to give you an idea of the holiness we are talking about here, the Magen Avraham (Siman 68) quotes the Ariza"l who says that when Rav Elazar HaKalir (who was either a Tana or a Rishon, and one of the preeminent writers of our Kinus, Selichos and Piyutim) was composing a certain piyut for the Musaf of Rosh Hashanah ,that begins "V'Chayos Asher Heina M'Rubaos Kisei etc.") a ring of [heavenly] fire encircled his entire body.
Many of these piyutim are written in very complex language (done so purposely, according to the Sh"ut Shaar Ephraim, so the non Jews wouldnt "Steal" them and use them in their prayes in their Bais Avoda Zara), and comprised with references to many sources throughout the revealed and hidden Torah. (In fact in over 50 places, the Baalei Tosafos bring proofs to their opinions from stanzas in these piyutim!)
Therefore, the average person will have a very hard time understanding the piyutim and Tefilos of the Yamim Noraim unless they spend some time beforehand studying and analyzing them, which is exactly what the Poskim say each Jew should do a few days before Rosh Hashanah. (Today many Machzorim make it a lot easier to do this, as they have translations and/or explanations on the page. However, it is best to read them before Rosh Hashana if possible, and not during the actual davening. See also Mishna Berura Siman 100 in the name of the Ta"z)
2) It is also important to learn the Halachos of and meaning behind Tekias Shofar prior to Rosh Hashanah, as well as to learn Sifrei Mussar which will cause a person's heart to "wake up" and fear Hashem, as well as bring a person to grasp the reality of Hashem's greatness as He is about to judge all of mankind (Kitzur Shulchan Aruch)
3) It is the accepted Minhag in Klal Yisroel to say Hataras Nedarim (annulling of vows) once a year in front of another 3 individuals (who act as a Bais Din), usually on Erev Rosh Hashana.
This serves to annul our vows (that are able to be annulled) so we can enter Rosh Hashana without the sin of unfulfilled vows, or the sins of not maintaining the performance of good deeds and customs that we have done 3 times or more, which would then in effect give them the status of something that was accepted as a vow. (This is why it is so important to always say "Bli Neder" when promising to do something or when doing something new which you aren't sure if you are able to always do).
4) I heard the following fascinating insight from Rav Yissocher Frand shlita in the name of Rav Yosef Dov Solveitzik Ztz"l, to explain why we place such importance on annulling vows on Erev Rosh Hashana, and then do it again at the onset of Yom Kippur (with Kol Nidrei), when seemingly there are more important things to focus on at this most elevated time.
The correct definition of the word Teshuva (which is what we are all working so hard to attain at this time) is "Return" and not "Repentance" as is commonly used.
Teshuva means "returning to Hashem" and "Turning back the clock" to before we sinned, and erasing the sin from our slate. This idea of "annulling" our sins and making them disappear is similar to what takes place when we annul our vows!
When one annuls his vows, the Halacha is that he has to be able to say that he never meant to make the vow in the first place, and that would he have known then what he knows now, he never would have done it.
Thus, we show Hashem that we are sorry for all the vows we didn't fulfill, and they were all made "by mistake" and therefore we annul them.
This explains the connection between Nedarim and Teshuva! They work exactly the same way!
We tell Hashem that we want to "return" to Him, and that all our sins were done "by mistake" and we didn't mean to do them, and therefore Hashem goes ahead and annuls them.
This also explains the sequence of Kol Nidrei at the onset of Yom Kippur:
a) We start with Kol Nidrei (We tell Hashem that we regret all the vows-and all our sins)
b) We then say The Pasuk "V'Nislach L'Kol Adas Bnei Yisroel...Ki Kol Ha'Am Bishgaga" (which alludes to the fact that all our vows- and our sins- now attain the status of having been done "Bishgaga- by mistake")
c) We recite the Bracha of "SheHechiyanu V'Kimanu V'HiGiyanu..." (Hashem annuls our vows- and our sins- thus we say the Blessing which is recited when one experiences a situation of extreme joy, and is there a greater joy than Hashem accepting us back, and allowing us to return to Him?)
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
I am confused with the halacha you wrote on Dec. 7 2008 about how many people must answer to each brocha [of Chazaras HaShatz].
I daven at an early minyan each morning where due to the rush of the people to get to work, the minyan moves at a very fast pace.
Part of this speed is due to the fact that the shliach tzibur was told that only 6 people, yes only 6 people need to have finished their silent shemona esrei before the shliach tzibur starts chazaras hashatz.
Yet you are saying that 9 or more people must be ready to answer amen.
What is the bottom line? 9,8,7,6 ??
Answer:
Yes, although this is something that many people do, it is questionable if this practice is according to Halacha. Allow me to elaborate a little bit:
The Shulchan Aruch Siman 55 says that if one of the Minyan is in middle of Shemona Esrei, he is still counted as part of the ten. The Mishna Berura says that as long as 6 are not in middle of Shemona esrei, the other 4 are Mitztaref (counted as being part of the minyan)
BUT...
The problem is, that this Halacha is said regarding saying Kadish or a different Davar Sh'Bekedusha, that only requires ten people to be together, but not necessarily 10 people "answering"
The question is if this Halacha applies to Chazaras HaShatz as well?
The Shulchan Aruch HaRav (Siman 55:7) says explicitly that this only works for Kadish and Barchu etc. but for Chazaras HaShatz, anything less than 9 answering is a Bracha L'Vatalah. The Kaf HaChaim Paskens like this as well as do many other Poskim.
Some Poskim maintain that the opinion of the Maharil was to indeed allow even Chazaras HaShatz with only 6 people of the 10 answering. (The Maharil does not say this clearly, rather they deduce that this is what he would have held. The reasoning and proofs that apply to and against this opinion are too lengthy a discussion for this forum)
Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal maintained that even if the Maharil was lenient, the Shulchan Aruch wasn't and he paskened that for Kadish and Barchu 6 is enough, while for Chazaras HaShatz nine people answering is required.
Some Poskim allow the starting of Chazaras HaShatz with only 6 people answering, B'Sha'as HaDchak- in extreme situations, but not as a rule to be relied on daily.
For Halacha L'Maaseh please consult your Rav, and do not rely on what any Shliach Tzibbur "was told" to do by someone who may not know the real Halacha.
*******************
Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Rav Huna said in the name of Rav who said in the name of Rabbi Meir, and so says Rabbi Akiva: A person should make it a habit always to say:
"Everything Hashem does, He does for good."
(Talmud Brachos 60b)
Even when it seems otherwise.
Even when things seem bad.
Even when we feel like we can't handle it anymore.
Even when we feel like throwing in the towel.
Even when we feel like giving up the battle.
Even when we can't fathom how any given situation is good. Even when we have reached the end of our rope.
Even when we feel like the world is against us.
Even when we don't feel worthwhile.
Even when feel wronged.
Even when it may be easier to turn our back on our friends, family and/or our Yiddishkeit.
Even then!
Yes, Even then we must rememebr that There is Hashem.
The ONE.
The ONLY.
The all compassionate.
The most loving Father in heaven who loves each and every one of His children.
Yes, He loves us and is waiting for us to return to Him.
Now. Now my dear brothers and sisters.
Now is the time for Teshuva, Tefilah and Tzedaka.
Now.
Yes, the Yetzer Hara will try and convince us out of it.
"It's too hard" he will say.
"It's too late" he will say.
"It's a waste of time" he will say.
"Hashem isn't interested in you getting close to him" he will say.
"Hashem threw you away ages ago" he will say.
he is wrong. dead wrong.
The gates of Teshuva are never closed. never.
Hashem is waiting for us to take that first baby step.
Not tomorrow. Not next week or next year.
Today. Now.Now.Now.Now.Now.
Hashem is waiting.
אין עוד מלבדו
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Help us Spread the Word Of Hashem! Donate Today!
Make a Donation
Monday
September 6 2010
27 Elul 5770; 3 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771; 2nd Day of Selichos
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1) Many Poskim (based on the writings of the MahaRal of Prague and others)are of the opinion that Tefilos such as "Machnisei Rachamim" at the end of Selichos, which is basically a Tefilah directed at the Malachim (angels) beseeching them to take our prayers, tears and shouts and bring them to Hashem, should not be said, as it isn't proper to direct our prayers to angels, rather our prayers should be directed directly to Hashem.
As a proof to this opinion, these Poskim cite the 5th Ani Ma'amin of the Rambam (13 principles of faith written by Maimonides) which explicitly says "I believe...that only to Hashem is it proper to daven and not to anyone else".
Accordingly, these Poskim frown upon those who frequent graves of Tzadikim and daven there, as it may seem as if they are davening "to" the Tzadik, as opposed to asking the Tzadik to be a "Meilitz Yosher- a good advocate" for them in Shamayim.
However, many Poskim (Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach and others) are of the opinion that it is OK to beseech the "Machnisei Rachamim- the angels whose specific task it is to bring the requests for mercy before Hashem" to do their task and take our prayers to Hashem. We aren't praying to the angels, rather we are asking them to be our messengers to properly place our prayers in the right sequence and at the right time to Hashem.
They do point out that only when beseeching the angels whose task it is to bring these prayers to Hashem (like by Machnisei Rachamim) is it OK.
It is not OK to simply lift your eyes to the heavens and pray to an angel, or even ask "the angels" to bring your Tefilos to Hashem, as it may not be their task to do so.
The prevalent Minhag is to say these Tefilos and to visit the graves of Tzadikim and ask them to be meilitzei Yosher for us
(see Talmud Sotah 34b regarding Kalev, and it is also well known that Rochel Imeinu was buried on the road to Bais Lechem so her children, Am Yisroel can pray at her graveside. There are many more proofs for this being OK, as well as proofs for the other side, but this isn't the place for this lengthy discussion now)
2) Another example of Tefilah that may be affected by the above Machlokes (dispute) is the Shalom Aleichem Malachei HaShareis" which many say Friday night before Kiddush.
Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach maintains that for the last 3 stanzas (i.e. BoAchem L'Shalom, Barchuni L'Shalom and Tzeischem L'Shalom) we say "Malachei HaShalom" as opposed to "Malachei HaShareis"(like we say in the first stanza) to show that we are only asking them to do their task of bringing Shalom-peace into our homes, in their capacity as Malachei HaShalom, and not praying to them in their capacity as "Malachei HaShareis".
Some have the minhag not to say "Shalom Aleichem" at all on Friday night.
In The siddur Avodas Yisroel (written by a disciple of the Gaon of Vilna) it states that one needs to be extremely careful when saying "Shalom Aleichem...Malachei Elyon MiMelech Malachei HaMelochim..." not to pause between the words "Elyon" and "MiMelech" as to ensure that it is clear that the Malachei Elyon are emissaries from Hashem, and not a higher power on their own.
3)Even though one must wash "Negel Vasser" before Selichos ,the hands must be washed again after Alos HaShachar. (As one of the reasons we wash Negel Vasser is because it's a new day, and we are a new creation [see archives of Hilchos Tefilah , Halchos for Aug 15 2008 ] and the new day happens regardless if we are up or sleeping, and regardless if we washed our hands already or not.)
This Halacha applies any time one is up before Alos HaShachar, not just during Selichos.
If Alos HaShachar arrives during Selichos, it isn't necessary to stop reciting the Selichos to go wash your hands, rather Selichos may be finished, and then the hands should be washed.
It also isn't prohibited to walk 4 Amos before the second washing nor is it prohibited to touch the eyes, clothing and the rest of the prohibitions that are usually forbidden before Negel Vasser.(Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Rav Chaim Kanievsky and others)
4) The Baal Tefilah (one who leads the prayers in Shul) for Selichos, and for all the Tefilos during Yomim Noraim, should have as many of the following qualifications as possible:
a) Be a pious Jew who fears Heaven and who pours his heart out to Hashem from the depths of his heart.
b) Be a father of young children.
c) Be a bearded person.
d) Be at least 30 years of age (according to some opinisons, 60 years of age.See sha'ar HaTziyun Siman 581:22)
e) Should be married
f) Be a person who is learned in Torah and does good deeds.
g) Be a humble person.
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QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
I was raised to believe that Al Pi Halacha, tattoos are forbidden.
In fact I learned that if someone had a tattoo in order to be buried in a Jewish cemetery it had to be removed ( I understand a very painful process) before they died.
My son maintains that this is not Halacha. He cited the numbers that Nazis YM"S tattooed on the Jews in the concentration camps.
Please tell me-what are the facts?
Answer:
Although tattoos are forbidden according to halacha (see Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah Siman 180), there is no halacha that I am aware of that forbids one with a tattoo from being buried al pi halacha in a Jewish cemetery, especially if the tattoo in question was acquired against his will (like in the case of the Nazis Yemach Shemam) or at a time in a person's life before he/she was Chozer B'Teshuvah.
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rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
AN IMPORTANT LETTER FOR EVERY JEW
To my star pupil,
I am writing this letter to let you know what I think of you. Up here in heaven things are not like they are down on Earth. Over there, people only know what they can see. If they see a person is "successful", they think that he is the greatest guy. When they see somebody struggling, they think he might be one of the weaker elements.
Let me tell you something. Hashem gives every person certain abilities that nobody knows about down where you live. Some people are capable of tremendous things, while others were put there for much smaller purposes. Only Hashem in His infinite wisdom is able to give every person exactly what he needs, to reach his potential.
I am very misunderstood. Most people hate me, and I don't really blame them. Most people think that my job is to make sure that they fail in all aspects of Mitzvos, and that I rejoice every time they sin. This is the furthest thing from the truth. Did you ever watch a boxing coach train his student? It is really a funny sight. The coach will put on gloves, and fight against his student. At first, he won't hit him so hard, or throw his best punches. But, as the student gets better and better, the coach will start to fight him harder and harder. He does this so that the student will improve his skills, and become the best boxer he can be. This is where it gets strange. Every time the coach knocks down the student, the student gets yelled at!! But finally, when the coach threw everything he has at his student, and not only does he withstand the beating, but he knocks the coach down, there is nobody in the world happier then the coach himself!
This is exactly how I feel. If you fail right away, and don't even try to fight back, I see that there is not much talent to work with, and so I take it easy on you. But if you get back up swinging, I realize that I may have a real winner here, and so I start to intensify the beating. With every level that you go up, I increase the intensity of the fight. If you finally deal me a blow that knocks me out, I will get up and embrace you and rejoice with your success.
Sometimes my job is very disappointing I see a person with a lot of potential and I start right in on him. He fights back for a while, but when the fight gets too tough, he quits and just remains on whatever level he was on. (And he usually ends up going down!) I feel like yelling at him, "Get up you fool! Do you have any idea how much more you could be accomplishing?!" But I am not allowed to do so. I just leave him alone, and go try to find another promising candidate.
If I have chosen you to be the target of my more fierce battles, it was not for no reason! You have tremendous ability! You were born into a very special family, you have Rabbeim who really care about you, and parents who would help you grow in Torah and Mitzvos. You are a very respectful and kind person.
I am writing to you now, because I have a very serious request to ask of you. Please don't step fighting! Don't give up! I have been beating too many people lately, and I am losing patience, Believe in yourself, because I would not be involved with you as much as I am if I didn't think you could beat me. Know what your strengths are! A great Rabbi once said: "Woe is to he who doesn't know his weaknesses. But, 'Oy Vavoy' to him who doesn't know his strengths - for he will not have anything with which to fight."
Always remember one thing: you have a secret weapon at your disposal. I shouldn't really be telling you - but I will anyway. Hashem himself is watching our "training" sessions very closely. I'm pleased to inform you that He's rooting for you! If things should ever get tough, almost too tough to bear, just callout to Him with a prayer, and He will immediately come to your aid. I wish you the best of luck, and I hope that after 120 years when your time is up in that world of falsehood, you will come up here to the world of truth, where I will be waiting for you with open arms, to congratulate you on your victory, and personally escort you to your place next to the Kisey HaKavod.
Sincerely, and with great admiration I remain,
Your Yetzer Hara
Taken from www.divreichizuk.com
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
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Sunday
September 5 2010
26 Elul 5770; 4 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771; First Day of Selichos
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For the next few weeks, before beginning a new topic, we will revisit some timely halachos relevant to the month of Tishrei and its many Yomim Tovim.
1) In anticipation of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, special prayers, known as Selichos, are said in the early hours of the morning (Preferably at the end of the night, before Alos HaShachar,daybreak, although most Shuls say it a half hour or so before the regular time for Shacharis) to beg Hashem for forgiveness for our sins of the past year, and to beseech Him to inscribe us all in the book of the Tzaddikim Gemurim, for life.
Some communities (including the Sephardim) have the custom to begin to say Selichos from Rosh Chodesh Elul until Yom Kippur.
Others begin saying Selichos from the 15th of Elul until Yom Kippur.
The prevalent Minhag, however, is to begin saying Selichos from the Sunday (or Motzai Shabbos as is the custom in many Kehilos) before Rosh Hashana.
The reason for this is that we require at least 4 days of Selichos before Rosh Hashana. A Korban (sacrifice) in the Bais HaMikdash required 4 days of examinations to ensure it was blemish free and acceptable for the Mizbeach (altar).
So too each Jew should consider themselves as a Korban Olah on Rosh Hashana and be ready to sacrifice themselves in atonement before Hashem, and thus utilize these 4 days (or more) to examine their deeds and do Teshuva for their sins (blemishes) and thus be pure when approaching Hashem on Rosh Hashana.
2) When one rises early for Selichos, even though it is still before daybreak, he must still wash his hands and recite the blessing of "Al Netilas Yadayim" as well as the rest of Birchas HaShachar. (Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zt"l and others mantain that if one knows that he will need the bathroom after Selichos, before Shacharis, he may wait until then to recite "Al Netilas Yadayim")
Birchos HaTorah should also preferably be said before Selichos, as many of the Selichos contain references to Pesukim.(Some Poskim maintain that even though we are saying Pesukim, it isn't considered Torah learning, rather prayers, and thus no Birchos HaTorah is required. It is best to be stringent)
After Selichos (which was started before Alos HaShachar) one must re-wash their hands like Negel vasser again, without a Bracha.
3) One who cannot make it to Shul (or one who came late, and missed the minyan) may say Selichos on his own. However, the "Sh'losh Esrei Middos- the Tefilah enumerating the 13 attributes of Hashem's mercy" as well as any Selichos that mention them (e.g. U'Zchor Lanu HaYom Bris Sh'losh Esrei...") may not be said without a Minyan.
However, if they are read with the tune (Trup) used to read the Torah, then they may be said.
Women who say Selichos at home, should never say the Sh'losh Esrei Middos, as they aren't usually familiar with the tune used to read the Torah (Psak of Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Shlita)
Likewise, any parts of the Selichos that are written in Aramaic (e.g. Machei U'Masei..., Maran Di B'Shmaya...) should not be said without a Minyan. Saying these with the tune used for Torah reading wouldn't help, as they aren't Pesukim in the Torah.
One who is an Avel (a mourner during the first week after the passing of a close relative) may not leave his home to go to Shul for Selichos, and should recite it alone, or with a Minyan that comes to his home. (except for Erev Rosh Hashana, when he may go to Shul, if he cannot get a Minyan to come to his home).
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
May one make a Jigsaw puzzle on Shabbos?
Answer:
Some Poskim (including Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal and YBL"T Rav Yosef Shalom Elyasiv Shlita) rule that all puzzles are prohibited to make on Shabbos.
Other Poskim allow all puzzles to be made on Shabbos. (See Shu"t Ohr L'Tziyon Vol. 2 Siman 272 and Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 6 Siman 26; This is also the opinion of Rav Chaim Pinchos Scheinberg Shlita as quoted in "Children in Halacha" Page 140 footnote 25).
Other Poskim differentiate between puzzles that are in a frame and are stuck together very tightly, which they prohibit, and puzzles thathave no frame and are looser, which they permit.(Opinion of Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal quoted in Shemiras Shabbos K'hilchasa Perek 16:23)
I have also seen an opinion in the Poskim that prohibit puzzles that form words and permit puzzles that form pictures.
For Halacha L'Ma'aseh a Rav must be consulted.
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rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Rav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita, learning Torah while traveling.
Question:
What is the fastest acting spiritual vitamin one can take for an instant spiritual pick-me-up?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
The Gemora says, Im Roeh Adam Sheyitzro Misgabair, if a man sees that his Yetzer Horah begins to overpower him, he should do this: he should learn Torah... Nitzcho, if it helps, Mutav, good, if not he should do something else. Finally after nothing helps, Yazkir Lo Yom Hamoves, he should remind himself of the day of death. So the day of death is the most effective means of combating the Yetzer Horah.
Lev Chachomim B'bais Ha'aivel, the heart of the wise is in the house of the mourners. He doesn't have to be there, but his heart, his mind is there. And therefore, sometimes it's necessary to use the most extreme methods.
L'chatchila, the Torah doesn't want you to think of the day of death, because the day of death has side effects. Sometimes when people think of death they say it's no use learning, why should I start learning? I won't be able to finish the Mesechta, if I die I'll take it into the grave with me, and you'll forget about Olam Habah.
Death you know is a big Stira(contradiction) to Olam Habah in Emunah, so therefore it's not necessarily good to think of the day of death.
Only, when somebody is in an emergency, he wants a quick pick me up, so he should go to the cemetery and stand there and look at the graves. It has a very good effect on people to give them a recognition of the transitory nature of the things of this world.
However, it doesn't mean it's the best thing.
The best thing is to get a Sefer of Midos, or a Sefer of Yiras Shamayim and get the vitamins that teach you how to live properly, without recourse to thinking of morbid things like death.
From the weekly "A moment with Rav Avigdor Miller" email
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
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Erev Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Netzavim- VaYeilech
September 3 2010
24 Elul 5770; 6 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771; Today is the LAST EREV SHABBOS of the Year!
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SPECIAL DOUBLE PORTION L'KAVOD SHABBOS KODESH
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1) It is customary at weddings to have the Chupah (canopy) be outside or at least under an opening in the ceiling.
The reason for this is that having it under an open sky is a good sign for the newly married couple to be blessed with children like the stars in the sky (i.e. to produce good children) (Rama Even HaEzer Siman 61:2)
2) While standing under the Chupah, the Choson (groom) should stand to the left of the Kallah (bride) to symbolize that his soon to be wife will be his "right hand". (Based on a Posuk. See Be'er Heitiv Even HaEzer Siman 61:7)
There is no difference if the Choson and/or Kallah are right or left handed regarding this Halacha, as the Choson always stands to the left of the Kallah. (See Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 2 Siman 2:4)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) While under the Chuppah, the Choson places a ring on the finger of the Kallah, and pronounces her his wife by saying "Harei At Mekudeshes Li B'Taba'as Zu K'Da'as Moshe V'Yisroel, Behold, you are married to me with this ring according to the mandate of Moshe and the Jewish nation" (i.e. according to both Torah and rabbinic law) (See Shulchan Aruch and Rama Even HaEzer Siman 27:1)
2) It is customary for the Choson to use his right hand to hold the ring and to place it onto the right index finger of the Kallah.
If either the Choson or the Kallah are left handed, there are some opinions that rule that the Choson use his "stronger" hand (i.e. his left if he is left handed) to place the ring on the "stronger" hand of the Kallah (her left hand, if she is left handed)
Other Poskim, however, rule that regardless it should be placed on the Kallah's right hand. (See Shu"t Be'er Moshe ibid. See also Ben Ish Chai Parshas Shoftim Siman 1:7)
For Halacha L'ma'aseh, as with everything, a Rav must be consulted.
This brings us to the end of our coverage of the Halachos of "Lefties and Righties". I hope that we have become enriched by it and now have a better understanding of this topic.
Before we begin a brand new topic, We shall B'Ezras Hashem Revisit some of the Halachos of Selichos, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Sukkos that we have covered in years past, and hopefully , as we go along , also touch upon some new areas that we have not yet discussed.
Wishing all of my dear readers a kesiva V'Chasima Tovah to you and your families.
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
It is said very often on a daily basis and it puzzles me as to what the term "B'chochma" in the Bracha of Asher Yotzar refers to.
Is it referring to the Ribono Shel Olam that He utilized wisdom in creating us or that the Ribono Shel Olam created or instilled wisdom in the human being?
Answer:
There are different Pshatim in the Meforshim if the "B'Chochma" is going on Hashem's Chochma, that He created us with wisdom, only after having prepared food in the world, otherwise we wouldnt be able to survive. (See Talmud Brachos 60b and Tosfos there and see Talmud Sanhedrin 38a. Also see Bach Siman 6 ).
The MaharSha, Levush and others learn that B'Chochma is going on that He created mankind with wisdom, unlike the rest of the animal kingdom. (See also Aruch HaShulchan Siman 6)
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Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
There was a couple who used to go to England to shop in a beautiful antique store.
This trip was to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. They both liked antiques and pottery, and especially teacups. Spotting an exceptional cup, they asked, "May we see that? We've never seen a cup quite so beautiful."
As the lady handed it to them, the tea cup spoke. "You don't understand," it said, "I have not always been a tea cup. There was a time when I was just a lump of red clay. My master took me and rolled me pounded and patted me over and over and I yelled out, 'Don't do that. I don't like it! Let me alone,' but he only smiled, and gently said, 'Not yet!'
"Then. WHAM! I was placed on a spinning wheel and suddenly I was spun around and around and around. 'Stop it! I'm getting so dizzy! I'm going to be sick!', I screamed. But the master only nodded and said, quietly, 'Not yet.'
"He spun me and poked and prodded and bent me out of shape to suit himself and then....then he put me in the oven. I never felt such heat. I yelled and knocked and pounded at the door. 'Help! Get me out of here!' I could see him through the opening and I could read his lips as he shook his head from side to side, 'Not yet.'
"When I thought I couldn't bear it another minute, the door opened. He carefully took me out and put me on the shelf, and I began to cool. 'Oh, that felt so good! Ah, this is much better,' I thought. But, after I cooled he picked me up and he brushed and painted me all over. The fumes were horrible. I thought I would gag. 'Oh, please; stop it, stop it!!' I cried. He only shook his head and said. 'Not yet!'
"Then suddenly he put me back in to the oven. Only it was not like the first one. This was twice as hot and I just knew I would suffocate. I begged. I pleaded. I screamed. I cried. I was convinced I would never make it. I was ready to give up.
"Just then the door opened and he took me out and again placed me on the shelf, where I cooled and waited and waited, wondering, What's he going to do to me next? An hour later he handed me a mirror and said 'Look at yourself.' And I did.
"I said, 'That's not me; that couldn't be me. It's beautiful. I'm beautiful!' "Quietly he spoke: 'I want you to remember, then,' he said, 'I know it hurt to be rolled and pounded and patted, but had I just left you alone, you'd have dried up. I know it made you dizzy to spin around on the wheel, but if I had stopped, you would have crumbled. I know it hurt and it was hot and disagreeable in the oven, but if I hadn't put you there, you would have cracked. I know the fumes were bad when I brushed and painted you all over, but if I hadn't done that, you never would have hardened. You would not have had any color in your life. If I hadn't put you back in that second oven, you wouldn't have survived for long because the hardness would not have held. Now you are a finished product. Now you are what I had in mind when I first began with you."
G-d knows what He's doing in each of us. He is the potter, and we are His clay. He will mold us and make us, and expose us to just enough pressures of just the right kinds that we may be made into a flawless piece of work to fulfill His good, pleasing and perfect will.
So when life seems hard, and you are being pounded and patted and pushed almost beyond endurance; when your world seems to be spinning out of control; when you feel like you are in a fiery furnace of trials; when life seems to "stink", try this:
Brew a cup of your favorite tea in your prettiest tea cup, sit down, and have a little talk with the Potter.
From the daily "Parnassah List" email. To Subscribe contact
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
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Thursday
September 2 2010
23 Elul 5770; 1 Week to Rosh Hashana 5771; Today is the LAST THURSDAY of the Year! (See Today's Chizuk Corner Below)
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1) When visiting a grave, some have the custom to say "Yehi Ratzon Sh'tehey Menuchaso Shel Ploni Po B'Kavod U'Zechuso Ya'amod Li, May it be the will [of Hashem] that the resting of the person here be with dignity and may his/her merit be beneficial for me." (Be'er Heitev Orach Chaim Siman 224:8)
The custom that people have to rip out some grass or pick up a stone and leave it on the Kever, is a show of respect to the one laying there, as it shows that people came to visit and pay their respect. (ibid.)
While there it is proper to place one's hand on the Kever. (ibid. The Arizal held that one should never go within 4 Amos of a grave, besides during the time of burial. See Mishna Berurah Siman 559:41. The Vilna Gaon, in the Igeres HaGra, wrote that people should not go to cemeteries at all, especially women. The prevalent custom, however, is that we do in fact go to cemeteries, and do in fact go within 4 Amos and even touch the Kevarim. However, women while they are a Niddah customarily do not go. See Mishna Berurah Siman 88:7 and Bais Baruch to Chayei Adam Siman 3:38)
2) The hand that should be placed on the Kever is the left hand. (See Kaf HaChaim Siman 224:42. The reason for this is kabalistic.)
There is no difference between left handed and right handed people regarding this, and both should only place their left hand on a Kever. (See Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 2 Siman 5:11b)
It is important to remember when davening at a grave, especially that of a great Tzadik, to be extremely careful not to Chas V'Shalom pray "to" the Tzadik.
Rather, we Jews only pray to Hashem to answer us in the merit of the Tzadik, or, alternatively, we ask the Tzadik to go before the Kisei HaKavod and be a Meilitz Yosher (an advocate) for us and our families.
Ain Od M'Levado.
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
I have been under the impression for quite some time that it is proper to stand for Chazoras Hashatz and Krias HaTorah. Is this incorrect?
Answer:
1) It is best to stand by Chazaras HaShatz. If one is older or if it's physically hard to stand they can be lenient and sit, as there are opinions that mainatain that one can indeed sit, and that it's only a Chumrah to stand.
On Yomim Noraim when it is hard to stand for the entire Chazaras Hashatz, Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Shlita permits even healthy and strong people to sit.
Within 4 Amos of the Shliach Tzibbur according to all opinions you may not sit.
(See Rama Siman 124:4 and Mishna Berura there S"K 20 and Biur HaGra 124:4 and Halichos Shlomo Chapter 9 Ha'arah 35 what he brings from the Me'iri in Sotah 40a)
2) There is no Chiyuv to stand by Krias HaTorah M'Ikar Hadin.
However, it is praiseworthy to indeed stand for Krias HaTorah (See Mishna Berura 146:19).
However when the Mevarech is saying "Borchu" and while the Tzibbur is answering "Baruch Hashem Hamevorach" it is required to stand.
*******************
Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
The holy Sefarim (Rav Yonasan Eibeshitz Zt"l , The Shlah Hakadosh and others) teach us that the last week of the year (which begins today) is very unique in that it has very strong powers of Kaparah- atonement.
Each "last" day of the year can atone for each matching day of the whole year.
For example: Today, Thursday, if utilized properly can atone for all the "Thursdays" of the entire year past.
Tomorrow, Erev Shabbos Kodesh, can atone for all the "Fridays" of the entire year, and so on.
It is very worthwhile to try and use this last week and infuse it with Torah, Tefilah, Teshuva, Tzedaka and as many good deeds as possible.
This sentiment is echoed by our holy sages, the Chazal, who taught us "Hakol Holech Achar HaG'mar- everything is [judged] based on the end[ing]"
May Hashem bless us all to realize the gift of Teshuva- that it exists and that it works- and to utilize it to the best of our ability.
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Help us Spread the Word Of Hashem! Donate Today!
Make a Donation
Wednesday
September 1 2010
22 Elul 5770; 8 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
To See Today’s Yahrtzeit’s CLICK HERE
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1)The Mezuzah, besides for being a commandment in the Torah to place on the doorpost, is also a Shmira, protection for the home from harmful elements. (See Talmud Menachos 33b and Rashi there Dibur Hamaschil D’Tintarei. See also Rashi ibid. 32b Dibur Hamaschil Sakanah and Rashi to Pesachim 4a Dibur Hamaschil Chovas. See also Talmud Yerushalmi Peah Perek 1:1. ). According to the Rambam (Hilchos Mezuzah Perek 6:13, based on Talmud Menachos 43b) it is also a protection to prevent from sinning.
The Talmud (Avoda Zarah 11a) relates the story of how the Roman Caesar sent his soldiers to capture Onkeles (Who was the nephew of the Roman Caesar who became a convert to Judaism and subsequently one of the greatest Jews who ever lived. His Targum (translation) of the Torah is printed in virtually every Chumash and each week all male Jews are required to read the Torah of the week twice with his translation once) and each time as they tried to take him out of his home he placed his hand on the Mezuzah upon leaving and upon explaining his actions to the guards that he trusts in Hashem who protects His people, they converted as well.
Every Mezuzah has the name Shin Daled Yud written on the outside, which besides being a name of Hashem is an acronym for "Shomer Diras Yisroel, protector of Jewish dwellings" (Darchei Moshe Yoreh Deah Siman 288:3 quoting the Kol Bo. Similarly, in the Siddur of the Arizal it is written that it stands for "Shomer Dalsos Yisroel, protector of Jewish doors". See also Zohar Parshas V’Eschanan page 266b in the old prints)
The Rama (Yoreh Deah Siman 285:2, based on the Gemara above as well as on a Midrash Bereishis Rabbah end of Perek 35 )writes that when one leaves their home or enters their home they should place their hand on the Mezuzah and say a certain Posuk for shmirah.
Some people have the Minhag, before going to bed, to go to the door of their room, place their hand on the Mezuzah and say certain Pesukim for Shemirah. (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 71:4)
Most Poskim do not write anything about "kissing" the mezuzah and simply write that it is a good thing to place one’s hand on it, as in the story of Onkelos it makes no mention of any kissing.
However, the Chida (in Birchei Yosef to Yoreh Deah 285) quotes the Arizal that "one should place a finger on the ’Shin Daled Yud’ that is on the mezuzah and kiss the finger and daven to Hashem for protection and to be saved from the Yetzer Hara", and seemingly many people have adopted this minhag (at least the kissing the finger part)
The Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 11:24 also writes that the Mezuzah should be kissed when entering and leaving the home. However in Siman 71 that we referenced earlier regarding touching the Mezuzah before bed, he does not write anything about kissing it and only writes to place the hand on it so seemingly he holds that kissing is only necessary when entering or leaving the room.
2)A right handed person should touch [and kiss] the mezuzah with his/her right hand. (See Yesod V’Shoresh H’Avodah Sha’ar 2 Perek 8)
A left handed person should touch [and kiss] the Mezuzah with his/her left hand.
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren’t my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader’s Question:
I have a question concerning the Halacha of adding requests during Shema Koleinu.
Does it have to be in Loshon Hakodesh?
I once heard that Tefillos in Loshon Hakodesh and Yiddish(!) are preferable than any other language... is it true? and would it be possible to know where its brought down?
Answer:
Though the best language to daven is Lashon Kodesh (See Mishna Berura and Biur Halacha Siman 62 and Aruch HaShulchan Siman 101:9), Tefilos may be said in any language that you understand, as long as they are heartfelt Tefilos from the heart (See Mishna Berura Siman 122:8).
This is true for all Tefilos no matter if they are B’Tzibur or B’Yechidus.
The only exception is the Aramaic language , as Tefilos may not be said in Aramaic unless one is davening B’Minyan (Therefore B’Yechidus one doesnt say Yekum Purkan, Brich Shemei or other Tefilos that were written in Aramaic).
Yiddish is no better than English or French regarding these Halachos. There are 3 categories: 1) Lashon Kodesh 2) Aramaic 3) ALL other languages.
For a more in depth treatment of these halachos see archives of Hilchos Tefilah, beginning with the halachos of Oct. 20 2008.
*******************
Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R’ Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B’soch Sha’ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B’Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד’, חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד’
Chizuk For Today:
HOW TO STAY SAFE IN THE WORLD TODAY
* Avoid riding in automobiles because they are responsible for 20 percent of all fatal accidents.
* Do not stay at home because 17 percent of all accidents occur in the home. (That’s 37% already)
* Avoid walking on streets or sidewalks because 14 percent of all accidents occur to pedestrians. (Now that’s 51%)
* Avoid traveling by air; accidents involve these forms of transportation. (That’s 67%)
* Of the remaining 33 percent, 32 percent of all deaths occur in hospitals. Above all else avoid hospitals.
You will be pleased to learn that only 0.01 percent of all deaths occur in a synagogue, and these are usually related to previous physical disorders.
Therefore, logic tells us that the safest place for you to be at any given point in time is in Synagogue services. Torah Study is even safer. The number of deaths during Torah Study is too small to register.
For safety’s sake, go to Shul as often as possible, and attend Torah Study. It could save your life!
Submitted by C.S.
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L’Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Help us Spread the Word Of Hashem! Donate Today!
Make a Donation
Tuesday
August 31 2010
21 Elul 5770; 9 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
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1)When a woman nurses her son, she should begin on the left side, which is closer to the heart. (Tzava'ah of Rav Yehuda HaChasid, Tzava'ah 55. This is based on the Talmud Brachos 10a and Niddah 48b. See Shmiras HaGuf V'hanefesh Siman 146 that this applies only to nursing a male child and does not apply to a baby girl. Other Poskim, however, maintain that this applies to baby girls as well. See Likutei Halachos on Tzava'as Rav Yehuda HaChasid written by Rav Shabsi Vigder Shlita, page 169-170)
2)There is no difference in regard to this Halacha between left handed women and right handed women, as it is due to the fact that the heart is on the left side. (Ruling of Rav Chaim Kanievsky shlita)
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
In the Halachos of November 25 2008 you said you can add a personal tefilah into Shemona Esrei.
For example, if someone wants to request of Hashem to help him/her with Parnassah, the place to ask for that is in the Bracha of "Bareich Aleinu".
When exactly do you say your requests ? do you actually say it or just think it?
Answer:
Yes, you can actually say your personal Tefilah to Hashem, in your own words, asking Him for whatever you need.
He is our father and He listens to our Tefilos!
The right place to add it is right before the Chasimas HaBracha (ending of the Bracha) of "Baruch Ata Hashem Mevarech HaShanim"
*******************
Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
The Zohar states that whenever it is said the words vayehi hayom, and it was the day, that day was Rosh HaShanah.
The simple meaning of this statement is that "the" day is Rosh HaShanah, the first day of the year and a very significant day in the Jewish calendar.
Perhaps, however, there is a deeper meaning to the word hayom, the day. It is said (Devarim 11:13) vihayah im shamoa tishmiu el mitzvosai asher anochi mitzaveh eschem hayom, it will be that if you hearken to My commandments that I command you today. Rashi writes that the word hayom teaches us that the Torah and the mitzvos should be new to us as if we have received them today.
The Medrash (Pesikta § 40) states that regarding all the sacrifices that were offered on the holidays it is said vihikravtem, you shall offer, whereas regarding the sacrifices of Rosh HaShanah it is said (Bamidbar 29:2) vaasisem, you shall make.
This anomaly teaches us that on Rosh HaShanah one becomes like a new person, i.e. a "self-made" person.
This, then, is the meaning of the Zohar. Whenever it is said vayehi hayom, and it was the day, was Rosh HaShanah, as on Rosh HaShanah we view ourselves as if we have just been created and we are fresh and determined to study Torah and perform the mitzvos.
Written and Submitted by Rabbi Ben Adler.; taken from his blog
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Help us Spread the Word Of Hashem! Donate Today!
Make a Donation
Monday
August 30 2010
20 Elul 5770; 10 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
Today's Halachos dedicated by Lakewood's List
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1)When giving Tzedaka, based on the Arizal and other kabalistic sources the money should be given with the right hand.
There is no difference between right handed and left handed people regarding this Halacha. (Ruling of Rav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita)
2) Sifrei Torah, Tefilin and Mezuzos must be written with the right hand. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 32:5 and Yoreh Deah Siman 271:6 and Siman 288:12)
A left handed person should write Sifrei Torah, Tefilin and Mezuzos with his left hand, which is considered his "right hand". (See Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim ibid. and Shach Yoreh Deah 271:12. See also Ben Ish Chai in Shu"t Rav Pa'alim Vol. 2 Siman 9 and Shu"t Ohr L'Tzion Vol. 2 Siman 83:3 regarding Tefilin and Mezuzos written by a left handed person as there are some kabalistic reasons that may frown upon using them.)
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
From what I read, during davening Shemone Esreh one, who lives in galus - should face Eretz Israel, one who lives in Eretz Israel - should face Jerusalem and one who lives in Jerusalem - should face Western Wall.
If this is correct, should Americans face South and not Mizrach (East) ?
Answer:
The ideal direction to daven is towards Eretz Yisroel, and not necessarily towards Mizrach, as most of us commonly do!
The Rama (Siman 94:2) says that the reason we (meaning those in Cracow, where he resided, as well as the rest of European Jewry) daven towards Mizrach is because we reside to the west of Eretz Yisroel."
In the USA, we are not to the exact west of Eretz Yisroel, and thus should not face "Mizrach" precisely according to halacha, yet that seems to be the prevelant Minhag. See Aruch HaShulchan Siman 94:4.
Please consult your Rav before making any personal changes regarding which direction you daven.
If you go to the MyZmanim website and enter your zip code and scroll to the bottom of the page, they will provide you the exact direction you should face from your location.
*******************
Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
The Torah commands us, "ולא תתורו אחרי לבבכם ואחרי עיניכם וגו'", we should not follow our heart and eyes. Rashi writes that the two are related, "The eye sees, the heart desires and the body then commits wrongdoings."
(שלח טו, לט, רש"י שם)
The Navi Yeshaya praises one "who closes his eyes from seeing bad" and promises that he will be protected and not lack sustenance, his children will develop properly and he will merit to see the glory of the king.
Chazal explain that this refers to one who does not gaze at the women washing clothes by the river. The Gemara explains that when there is an alternate route, one is obligated to take it and is not deserving of any special praise for doing so (for otherwise he is a Rasha.) The Navi is speaking of one who must take this route, yet forces himself with great difficulty to turn his eyes away.
(ישעיהו לג, טו-יז, בבא בתרא נ"ז ע"ב, שו"ע אהע"ז סי' כ"א ס"א)
The Medrash says that whoever restrains himself in the area of tznius is called Kadosh. The Navi Elisha is described by the woman of Shuneim as "Kadosh", for throughout the time he was there, he never looked at her.
(ויקרא רבה כ"ד ו׳)
The Medrash tells of the great kedusha of Yosef Hatzaddik who controlled his eyesight and guarded it. Potiphar's wife tried to entice him to look at her, even putting an iron rod under his neck, but despite all she did, he did not look. Later when Yosef, newly chosen as second to the king, was led throughout Mitzrayim, the princesses endeavored to look at his face, yet he did not glace at any of them. Yosef therefore merited success in עולם הזה and עולם הבא.
(בראשית רבה פ"ז י"א, ילקוט שמעוני ויחי רמז קס"א)
The Gemora relates how the wife of און בן פלת stopped her husband from joining Korach's campaign against Moshe Rabeinu. She positioned herself at the entrance of her tent and uncovered her hair, saying to herself "Now I know they will not approach the tent, for even these רשעים are careful to guard their eyes."
(סנהדרין ק"ט סע"ב)
A talmid of the Baal Shem Tov once requested his Rebbe's advice on guarding his eyes from seeing bad. The Baal Shem Tov advised him to travel to a particular city and stay at a certain individual's home where he will learn the proper conduct. Arriving at his destination, the talmid was very surprised to find that his host was a simpleton who worked most of the day at the port.
Some days later, alone in his host's home, he noticed a window high up near the ceiling. Being very curious, he placed one table atop another, piled a third above those two, and climbed up. Moving aside the curtain to look out, he was shocked and disgusted to see some neighbors behaving inappropriately. When his host returned, the talmid asked him, "I'm surprised at you! How can you live near such bad neighbors?!" and related what he had seen through the window. The host replied, "The question is on your behavior! I have been living here for twenty years and have never considered checking to see what my neighbors are doing, and you're here for only a couple of days, yet you could not restrain yourself from climbing up to look..."
(רשימות דברים ח"א ע' ד)
Submitted by M.F.; taken from the Agudas Avreichei Lubavitch weekly email.
In the zechus of all of us- both men and women- trying to guard our eyes better in the coming year may we be zoche to "see" Mashiach Tzidkeinu real soon!
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
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Sunday
August 29 2010
19 Elul 5770; 11 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
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1)When pointing to something written in the Torah or another Sefer containing Divrei Torah, the index finger (also referred to as the pointer) of the right hand should be used, as that is the finger with which Hashem wrote the Luchos (K'Vayachol). (See Sefer Chasidim Siman 693 (in the new prints). Although, as we wrote earlier in the Halachos for July 26 2010, that Rashi to Brachos 62a learns that this is referring to using the fingers to show the Ta'amei HaTorah (the Trup) to the Ba'al Korei reading from a Sefer Torah, the Poskim say that it refers as well anytime one is using his finger to point out Divrei Torah. See Sefer Yemin Moshe page 48 footnote 72)
2)Thus, there is no difference between left handed and right handed people, as they both should use the finger that Hashem used, which is the pointer of the right hand. (Ruling of Rav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita. See also Mishna Berura Siman 282:1)
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Are there any Halachic opinions to rely on that a pet dog is not muktza, and that one can pet or play with a pet dog on Shabbos?
Answer:
Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal(in Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol 4 Siman 16) rules that pets, like other animals, are Muktzah.
Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal and YB"L Chacham Rav Ovadiah Yosef Shlita also rule stringently. (See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchasah Perek 27 footnote 96).
There are Poskim that rule leniently in certain cases where touching the pet has a necessary purpose.
A Rav must be consulted for Halacha L'Ma'aseh.
*******************
Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
Teshuva Image
Question:
How does one repent for certain sins, that he knows he will repeat?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
That's a question that is being always asked. And the answer is as follows. If a man smokes forty cigarettes every Shabbos, and he decides he's going to smoke only thirty nine, that's a fortunate man. That's called a Miktzas Teshuva. A little bit of Teshuva, which is the easiest thing to do, is the biggest obligation. To stop all forty, not so easy for him, but to stop the fortieth, YES. And therefore, if you can stop even a little bit of your sin, then you must do it, and it's the biggest obligation, that's the easiest thing to do.
And so any sinner, even though he's a confirmed Chotai, if he's able to make a resolve, at least one little bit of that sin he won't do anymore. Let's say, he does a sin ten times a week, now he'll do it nine times a week; he makes up his mind no more then nine times, he is a LUCKY man. If he neglects that opportunity, he's in great sakona; Hashem is very angry at him. The tenth time was easy to avoid. And so everybody can do a Miktzas Teshuva.
That's why we say Hashivainu Avinu Lesorasecho, Hashem bring us back to your Torah, that's Teshuva we are asking for, Teshuva, for repentance. Then we say, V'Hachzirainu B'sehuva Shelaima, then we're asking for a perfect repentance. First we are asking for a little bit of repentance, any kind of repentance, a little bit at least. Then once you ask for a finger, you ask for the whole hand, too! Then we say give us a full repentance.
To sign up for the weekly "A moment with Rav Avigdor Miller" email, click here.
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Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
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Erev Shabbos Parshas Ki Savo
August 27 2010
17 Elul 5770; 13 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
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SPECIAL DOUBLE PORTION L’KAVOD SHABBOS KODESH
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1) After reciting the Bracha on the Arba Minim, and then again during the recitation of Halel, the Lulav and Esrog are shaken three times per direction to and fro in all four directions and up and down. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 651:8 and 9)
There are various different customs as to the order of which direction to follow.
The Shulchan Aruch rules to shake to the east, south, west, north, upward then downward. (Siman 251:10. This is also the ruling of the Derech HaChaim and the Chayei Adam. See Mishna Berura S"K 47)
The reason for this order is based on the principle of "B’chol Pinos SheAta Poneh, Tifneh L’Yemin, whenever you have a choice to go to the right or to the left, always choose to go to the right".(See Maseches Midos Perek 2 Mishna 2 and Talmud Yoma 15b and Sotah 15b)
Thus, since we are standing facing east, the direction to follow is a circle to the right. (Mishna Berura ibid. quoting the Mogen Avraham 651:21)
2) The Arizal had a different order to shake the Lulav, as follows: South, north, east, upward, downward then west. (See Be’er Heitev 651:20. See also Sha’arei Teshuva 651:10 for additional variations in the order of directions that other Poskim followed. Of course, every individual should follow their own accepted custom.)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) Regardless which minhag any one individual follows in regard to the directions to shake the lulav, there is no difference between a left handed person and a right handed person regarding the order to be followed. (Mogen Avraham ibid.)
The person shaking the Lulav does not need to actually turn around in all the directions, as long as the Lulav is shaken in the proper directions it suffices. (Mishna Berura ibid.)
2) When circling the Bimah during the recitation of Hoshanos each day of Sukkos (and seven rounds on Hoshana Rabbah) the circle should begin from the right side of the Bimah. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 660:1 and Mishna Berura S"K 3)
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren’t my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader’s Question:
where does the expression A"mush (Ad Meah V’esrim Shanah, may you live until 120) originate from?
Is it not a bit of a (chas v’shalom) klallah (curse) when one says this, since it is limiting the person’s lifespan to 120 years?
Answer:
Well, Hashem limited a man’s lifespan to 120 years (See Breishis 6:3).
The reason for this was that when mankind lived longer it lead them to sin, thus limiting their lifespan made man realize that he/she does not live forever and thus must do the correct things in their short lifespan in order to earn eternal life in the real world, world to come.
Thus, we are blessing the person to live to the maximum amount of years on this world as possible.
*******************
Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R’ Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B’soch Sha’ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B’Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד’, חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד’
Chizuk For Today:
The Satan (AKA, Yetzer Hara and Malach HaMaves) is referred to by seven names:
Hashem refers to him as "Ra, evil".
Moshe Rabbeinu refers to him as "Arel, supurfluous".
Dovid Hamelech refers to him as "Tamei, impure".
Shlomo Hamelech refers to him as "Sonei, enemy".
Yeshaya the prophet refers to him as "Michshol, stumbling block".
Yechezkel the prophet refers to him as " Even, Stone".
Yoel the prophet refers to him as "Tzefuni, hidden[mischevious one]. (Talmud Sukkah 52b)
Whatever name you call him, avoid him as he is enemy #1!
He not only accuses Klal Yisroel falsely and tries to get Hashem to punish us, he even accuses us of things we only did due to HIM tricking us into doing in the first place!
Hashem created him as a tool for us to be tested, and hopefully pass the tests and earn Olam Haba, and yes Hashem will slaughter him very shortly with the arrival of Mashiach. (Talmud ibid.)
Hashem loves His Jewish children and is always looking for ways to "cover up" their sins and see only their good, much like any father turns a blind eye to his children’s sins and looks for ways to excuse them and grant forgiveness, as the Posuk says (Mishlei 10:12) "Al Kol Peshaim Yechaseh Ahava, all sins can be covered up and erased if there exists a love between Hashem and the Jews"
V’Ahavta Es Hashem Elokecha; let’s work on increasing our love for our Father in heaven and thus merit a Kesiva V’Chasima Tova!
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L’Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Help us Spread the Word Of Hashem! Donate Today!
Make a Donation
Thursday
August 26 2010
16 Elul 5770; 14 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
To See Today’s Yahrtzeit’s CLICK HERE
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1) When setting up and holding the Arba Minim, the three Hadasim (myrtle) should be tied onto the right side of the Lulav and the two Aravos (willow) should be tied onto the left side of the Lulav. (Mishna Berura Siman 651:12)
For kabalistic reasons, the Hadasim should be tied slightly higher than the Aravos. (Rama 651:1 and Mishna Berura ibid.)
2) Left handed people should also set up their Lulav with the Hadasim on the right side and the Aravos on the left. (This is how the Pri Megadim, quoted in Mishna Berura ibid. rules)
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren’t my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader’s Question:
Some people in shul answer Amen prematurely.
They say Amen sometimes two or even three words before the chazzan has actually finished the bracha. Is this OK?
The same is done during Kaddish.?
Answer:
No, it’s not OK.
Answering Amen before the one reciting the Bracha has completed the entire Bracha is referred to in halacha as an "Amen Chatufah" and is prohibited. (See Mishna Berura Siman 124:30. See also Talmud Brachos 47a where it describes the not so pleasant consequence of one who regularly answers such Amens)
*******************
Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R’ Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B’soch Sha’ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B’Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד’, חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד’
Chizuk For Today:
After receiving forgiveness from the people that we hurt, there are still 24 things (Brought by Rabbeinu Yonah in Sharei Teshuva, end of Shaar Rishon in the name of Chazal. They can also be found more at length in the Rambam Perek 4 of Hilchos Teshuva. The original source for this seems to be a Tosefta) that are Me’Akev - that prevent - proper Teshuva from being attained. Obviously it is best to try and make sure that we don’t have any of these impediments in our day to day lives, so we can assure that our Teshuva is easily attained and properly accepted by Hashem.
The 24 obstacles to Teshuva are: (Loose translation. It would be too lengthy to delve into the details of each one. If you have any questions as to the definitions, or details of each one, please feel free to contact me)
1) One who frequently spreads Rechilus (slanderer)
2) One who regularly speaks Lashon Hara (Gossiper)
3) One who gets angry quickly
4) One whose bad (impure) thoughts control him
5) Being connected to a rasha (evildoer)
6) Taking from food that isn’t sufficient for its owner
7) Gazing at Arayos (members of the opposite gender, etc.with sinful intent)
8) Partnering with a thief
9) One who says "I will sin and repent afterwards" or " I will sin and Yom Kippur will atone for the sin"
10) One who derives honor [and pleasure] from his fellow man’s humiliation.
11) One who separates him/herself from the Tzibbur (congregation).
12) One who ridicules his forefathers and/or teachers
13) One who curses the public
14) One who prevents a group of people from doing a Mitzvah
15) One who causes another Jew to leave the good path and take a bad path [of living not according to the Torah]
16) One who uses the pillow of a poor person [i.e. causes a poor person to lose the use of any of his meager possessions]
17) One who accepts bribes in order to skew and distort justice from prevailing.
18) One who finds a lost object and doesn’t [try and] return it to its proper owner.
19) One who sees their child going off the [Torah] path, and doesn’t admonish them.
20) One who eats [i.e. usurps] the food [i.e. livelihood] of poor people, orphans or widows.
21) One who argues [and does an action] against the will of the sages.
22) One who accuses good people of doing wrong [without proper proof or reason]
23) One who hates [and cannot accept constructive] criticism.
24) One who ridicules all or some of the Mitzvos of the Torah [or those instituted by the sages]
May Hashem give us all the strength and intelectual honesty to do proper Teshuvah; and may our Teshuvah be accepted by Hashem.
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L’Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Help us Spread the Word Of Hashem! Donate Today!
Make a Donation
Wednesday
August 25 2010
15 Elul 5770; 15 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
To See Today’s Yahrtzeit’s CLICK HERE
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1)On each of the seven days of Sukkos (besides for Shabbos) we take and shake a Lulav and an Esrog. (Vayikra 23:40)
The Lulav(branch of a palm tree) has three Hadasim (myrtle) and two Aravos (willow) tied onto it, and is held upright in the right hand and the Esrog (citron) is held in the left hand. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 651:2)
According to the Mechaber (Rav Yosef Cairo, author of the Shulchan Aruch) a left handed person follows the same procedure and holds the Lulav in the right hand and the Esrog in the left hand, as since the Lulav has in it three Mitzvos (i.e. 3 of the 4 species) and the Esrog is only one Mitzvah, the item with more Mitzvos is held in the more highly regarded hand. Most Sephardic Jews follow this ruling. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 651:3 and Mishna Berura S"K 18)
However, the Rama (ibid.) rules that left handed people should switch the order and hold the Lulav in their strong hand (left) and the Esrog in their weaker hand (right). Most Ashkenazic Jews follow this ruling.
2)An ambidextrous person should take the Lulav in his right hand and the Esrog in the left hand. (ibid.)
If the Lulav was held in the wrong hand, the obligation has been satisfied (Rama ibid.)
However, if it was taken in the wrong hands it is best to be stringent and take the Lulav and Esrog again in the correct hands without reciting a new Bracha. (Mishna Berura S"K 19)
Many left handed people are stringent after taking the Lulav in their left and the Esrog in their right (or vice versa) to repeat the process the other way around (without a new Bracha) to satisfy the rulings of both the Shulchan Aruch and the Rama. (See Kaf HaChaim 651:38. See also Orchos Rabbeinu Vol. 2 page 288 that the Steipler Zatzal, who was a lefty and an Ashkenazi, followed the ruling of the Shulchan Aruch regarding this Halacha and not the Rama)
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
question
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren’t my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader’s Question:
Often, I learn in a minyan factory [where there are constantly minyanim in progress].
Do I have to stop learning to answer [each] Kedusha, Modim, Aleinu , Kadish or Amen?
Answer:
The Poskim discuss this and it seems that the consensus is that you do not need to interrupt your learning to respond to every Amen, Barchu, Kaddish etc. if doing so will lead to Bitul Torah.
Kedusha, however, where it will be blatantly noticeable that you are not joining the Tzibbur, you should stand up and respond. (See Shu"T Teshuvos V’Hanhagos Vol. 2 Siman 75 for more details)
*******************
Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
rAV sHACH SPEAKING
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R’ Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B’soch Sha’ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B’Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד’, חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד’
Chizuk For Today:
א ני ל דודי ו דודי ל י
I am to my Beloved [Hashem] and my beloved [Hashem] is to me.
The word Elul is comprised of two words, Lo and Lo.
One is written with an aleph, and means no, and the other is written with a vav, and means to him.
It is said (Tehillim 100:3) diu ki HaShem hu Elokim hu asanu vilo anachnu amo vitzon mariso, know that HaShem, He is G-d; He made us and we are His, His people and the sheep of His pasture.
The Sfas Emes quotes the Chidushei HaRim who said that the word vilo is written with an aleph and read with a vav. Thus, we are saying that by negating ourselves (vilo with an aleph), we are His (vilo with a vav). This, says the Sfas Emes, is the meaning of Elul, when we negate ourselves to become His.
The Shem MiShmuel writes that the word Elul itself is derived from the word Elil (Iyov 13:4) which means no value. Thus, our approach in the month of Elul should be that we are insignificant before the Master of the world, and then we can merit to be vindicated on Rosh HaShanah, the Day of Judgment.
Submitted by R’ Binyomin Adler; taken from his blog www.doreishtov.wordpress.com
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L’Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Help us Spread the Word Of Hashem! Donate Today!
Make a Donation
Tuesday
August 24 2010
14 Elul 5770; 16 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
Today's halachos are dedicated by a daily reader, C.S., L'zechus Refuah Shelaima of Sima bas Chaya Rochel. Please daven and learn on her behalf B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel.
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1)When saying Vidui (Admitting our sins before Hashem, Ashamnu, Bagadnu, Gazalnu etc.), when saying "Al Cheit" on Erev Yom Kippur and on Yom Kippur, and also during the Bracha of Selach Lanu each weekday in Shemona Esrei it is customary to lightly pound the heart with the fist of the right hand. (Based on the writings of the Arizal; as if to say that the heart led us astray and caused us to sin)
A left handed person also pounds his heart with his right hand.(ruling of Rav Chaim Kanievsky shlita)
It is brought in the Sefarim not to pound the heart by Selach Lanu on days that Tachanun is not recited. (MeKor Chaim and Siddur Ya'avetz in the name of the Shl"a HaKadosh)
2) Parenthetically, one of the reason that the classic Vidui of Ashamnu, Bagadnu, Gazalnu etc. follows the order of the Aleph Bais is to imply that when we sin we cause destruction to the world which Hashem created utilizing the 22 Hebrew letters, thus we say Vidui utilizing the order of those same holy letters and thus help repair the world that we damaged with our sins. (Based on the teachings of MaRa MiPano and other kabalistic sources; based on the Sefer Yetzirah's discussion of Hashem creating the world and its contents with the Aleph Beis. See also Talmud Shabbos 104a and Rashi to Bereishis 2:4)
Similarly, along the same lines, over the course of Yom Kippur we say Vidui ten times to rectify the sins we did which caused destruction to Hashem's world which He created with ten utterances. (See Pirkei Avos Perek 5 Mishna 1)
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
In regard to the halachos about pregnant women not stepping on nails, I'm curious if a pregnant woman would be allowed to get a manicure/pedicure in a nail salon where there are probably nails on the floor.
Is the halacha that one should be careful to dispose of one's nails properly? Or is the halacha that a pregnant woman should be careful not to step on nails?
Answer:
The halacha is for both the person cutting the nails to be careful, but also for the woman to avoid walking there and endangering her unborn child.
I received the following email from a reader: "A point about nails: R' Shmuel Felder [Shlita, Dayan of Bais Medrash Govoha] told me that a pregnant women should not go into a nail salon (where they give manicures, etc.)."
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Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
As we stated in the previous emails, There are 3 main Yesodos (foundations) necessary to accomplish true Teshuva, and the 3 are broken down (by Rabeinu Yonah in Sefer Shaarei Teshuva) into 20 Ikarim (more detailed), different aspects to achieve a proper and everlasting Teshuva.
The 3 main Yesodos are 1)Charata (regret), 2)Vidui (verbally enumerating one's sins), and 3) Azivas HaChet (Letting go of the sin and resolving to never repeat it).
The final 5 of the 20 Ikarim are as follows:
#16) Repair your wrongs. Return the stolen items if you stole, or beseech your friend for forgiveness if you spoke Lashon Hara (evil gossip) about them or embarrassed them or other similar sins against your fellow man, as there can be no atonement from Hashem until you secure forgiveness from your friend.
#17) Seek and do acts of kindness (e.g. Tzedaka and Gemilas Chasodim) and give support to people who advance truth such as Talmidei Chachamim and Torah scholars, and stay away and shun falsehood.
#18) The [details of your] sin should remain in your mind always until the day you die (as to remember not to repeat them)
#19) Let go of the Sin. If the opportunity arises again to do the identical sin, conquer your Yetzer Hara and run away from the [place of] sin, as you would run away from a sword that was pursuing you, because of your fear of Hashem. And even if the same opportunity of sin does not present itself again, have in mind during Krias Shma, when saying the words "B'Chol NafShecha" that you are willing and ready to give up your life in order not to transgress the 3 cardinal sins (murder, idolatry and sexual immorality), and it will be considered as if the opportunity arose, and you withstood the test and didn't transgress.
#20) Facilitate the repentance of others. Causing others to sin is one of the worst things to do, and on the other hand, causing others to do good deeds and/or repent is one of the most worthy things a Jew can do, and is also very vital to his/her own Teshuva.
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Monday
August 23 2010
13 Elul 5770; 17 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
Today's Halachos are dedicated by a daily reader, R.H., a beloved grandaughter, Liluy Nishmas Yosef ben Yechiel Dovid A"H,and Rachel bas Dovid Halevi A"H her beloved grandparents"
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1)During the Aseres Yemei Teshuva, and specifically on Erev Yom Kippur, there is an age old, established minhag to do "Kaparos", whereas we "transfer" our sins to a chicken which each individual twirls over their head while saying certain Tefilos, and is then given to poor people to eat. (See Mishna Berura Siman 605:2 that we should think that all that is happening to this chicken should really happen to us, but since we are doing Teshuva Hashem in His infinite kindness transfers the verdict from our heads to the chicken, similar to how a Korban in the Bais HaMikdash worked )
Some Poskim maintain that instead of a chicken, a fish or money should be used that will then be given to Tzedaka (Mishna Berura ibid. See also Chayei Adam Klal 144:4 who was against the practice of using chickens ,especially on Erev Yom Kippur,as, they were slaughtered in haste and thus were eaten un-kosher. He says that it is better to use money or a fish, where there is no issue of eating neveilos etc. He elaborates on this, and it would be worthwhile to take a look.)
Also, the Sefarim say that even when using a chicken for the actual kaparos ritual, it is better to give the money that the chicken is worth to a poor person rather than the actual chicken, which he may not need, and which may not be kosher (as above), which may also be where the minhag to use money originated.
When using money for Kaparos, it may not be taken from money designated for Ma'aser.(Shl"a Maseches Yoma Amud HaTeshuva Dibur Hamaschil B'Erev Yom Kippur)
2)When doing Kaparos (regardless if money, a fish or a chicken is used) right handed people should hold it and twirl over their head with the right hand.
According to some Poskim, left handed people should also use their right hands for Kaparos, while other Poskim maintain that lefties should use their left hands.
For Halacha L'ma'aseh,as always, a Rav should be consulted.
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
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We are pleased to announce the release the new Halacha Sefer written by one of our daily readers, Rabbi Ari Enkin, "Halacha Bilvad: Insights & Responsa".
Halacha Bilvad discusses over 100 contemporary halachic issues in a very clear manner and cites poskim from across the orthodox spectrum. The style is very clear, articulate, and engaging. There are over 2000 maarei mekomot! It's been called "An experience and education in Halacha like no other"
Hardcover / 305 pp.
Only $25 INCL. Shipping!
This sefer will NOT be available in stores or on-line.
Checks can be sent to him at the following address :
Rechov Nachal Dolev 31/15
Ramat Beit Shemesh
ISRAEL
[no zip needed]
Rabbi Enkin can be reached at rabbiari@hotmail.com
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
Why do we not make a brocha when giving Tzedaka (charity)?
Answer:
The Rashba (in Teshuvos Vol. 1 Siman 18) says that any Mitzvah that isn't 100% in the hands of the one doing it does not receive a Bracha as there is a chance that it won't be fulfilled and thus be a Bracha L'Vatalah.
Thus he writes that by Tzedakah, there is a chance that the one you are giving to will not accept, or disappear,and you will be left holding the money and left with a Bracha L'vatalah would you have recited a Bracha.
(See also Shu"t Binyamin Zev Vol. 2 end of Siman 169)
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Halacha For Today emails are best read using internet explorer, as other browsers can sometimes cause all or part of the email to disappear. I apologize for any inconvenience.
CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
As we stated in theprevious emails, There are 3 main Yesodos (foundations) necessary to accomplish true Teshuva, and the 3 are broken down (by Rabeinu Yonah in Sefer Shaarei Teshuva) into 20 Ikarim (more detailed), different aspects to achieve a proper and everlasting Teshuva.
The 3 main Yesodos are 1)Charata (regret), 2)Vidui (verbally enumerating one's sins), and 3) Azivas HaChet (Letting go of the sin and resolving to never repeat it).
The next 5 of the 20 Ikarim are as follows:
#11) Search your soul and make an accounting of your actions, so you will recall all your forgotten iniquities, so you will be able to say Vidui for them, humble yourself because of them and resolve never to repeat them.
#12) Investigate the magnitude of each of your sins. Determine which punishment you deserve for each of them [Malkos- 40 lashings, Kareis- heavenly death penalty or Misas Bais Din- capital punishment meted out by a rabbinic court of law. (Though Malkos and Misas bais Din aren't in effect today, as we are in Galus, variations of them are meted out through the heavenly court for those who deserve them) ] and do the appropriate Teshuva for each of them.
#13) Consider even the seemingly insignificant sins as grave sins in your own eyes; don't dwell on the smallness of the sin, rather dwell on the greatness of the king [Hashem] who commanded you to do His will.
#14) Explicitly enumerate each and every one of your sins (Vidui) as well as the sins of your forefathers.
#15) Pray to Hashem and beg Him to have mercy on you and forgive you and erase your sins and purify you from their harmful effects.
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Sunday
August 22 2010
12 Elul 5770; 18 Days to Rosh Hashana 5771
To See Today's Yahrtzeit's CLICK HERE
Your donation of $5, $10, $18, $36, $54 or ANY AMOUNT will make a BIG difference in keeping HALACHA FOR TODAY going and helping us reach more and more Jews around the globe!
To dedicate the learning of a day of HALACHA FOR TODAY, or to make a much appreciated donation to please CLICK BUTTON BELOW.
Thank you and Tizkeh L'Mitzvos!
If you are just joining us today, please see ARCHIVES so you can review the previous Halachos on this and other topics.
1) On Rosh Hashana, when blowing the Shofar, the Ba'al Tokea should place the Shofar on the right side of his mouth, if possible. (Rama Siman 585:2)
The reason for this is that the Satan, who is looking to accuse the Jewish nation, stands on the right side, and thus the Shofar which is a tool to combat the harmful intentions of the Satan is blown "in his face". (See Mishna Berura 585:7. This is based on kabalistic sources quoted in the Shl"a HaKadosh.)
Another reason cited is that Tefilin is laid on the left hand and thus protects the left side of a person, so the Shofar should be blown from the unprotected right side and thus we will be fully protected. (See Sha'ar HaTziyun Os 18)
2)According to the second reason a left handed person (wears Tefilin on his right arm) should place the Shofar at the left side of his mouth.(Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal ruled this way in Halichos Shlomo Vol. 2 Perek2:5 See also Mogen Avraham 585:4)
However, due to the first reason, and due to the fact that it may not mean that each individual's Tefilin protects him, rather the collective Mitzvah of Tefilin protects Klal Yisroel from the Midas Hadin (which is represented by the "left side"), many Poskim rule that all people blow with the Shofar on the right side of their mouth. (Sha'ar HaTziyun ibid. See also Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 2 Siman 3:21)
No matter which side of the mouth the Shofar is placed, it is the prevalent custom to hold the Shofar with both hands when blowing it.
For Halacha L'ma'aseh, as always, each individual must consult their Rav.
For archives of Halachos of Chodesh Elul and the Yamim Noraim CLICK HERE
************
We are pleased to announce the release the new Halacha Sefer written by one of our daily readers, Rabbi Ari Enkin, "Halacha Bilvad: Insights & Responsa".
Halacha Bilvad discusses over 100 contemporary halachic issues in a very clear manner and cites poskim from across the orthodox spectrum. The style is very clear, articulate, and engaging. There are over 2000 maarei mekomot! It's been called "An experience and education in Halacha like no other"
Hardcover / 305 pp.
Only $25 INCL. Shipping!
This sefer will NOT be available in stores or on-line.
Checks can be sent to him at the following address :
Rechov Nachal Dolev 31/15
Ramat Beit Shemesh
ISRAEL
[no zip needed]
Rabbi Enkin can be reached at rabbiari@hotmail.com
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Reader's Question:
You mentioned the other day that when one makes hamotzi, all their fingers need to be touching the bread.
Is that just for on Shabbos with Lechem Mishna, or is it during the week as well, when eating any bread?
Answer:
This applies anytime bread is eaten, weekday and Shabbos alike.
The reason for this is that there are 10 Mitzvos that are associated with the process of making bread (During the plowing of the field: 1) an ox and a donkey may not be used together, during the planting phase: 2)one may not plant 2 different species together, During the reaping phase: 3) Leket, 4)Shikcha and 5)Peah,6) the ox that is used may not be muzzled while working, After the baking phase:7)Teruma to the Kohen, 8) Ma'aser Rishon to the Levi, 9) Ma'aser Sheini and 10) Challah to the Kohen)
It is for this reason that there are 10 words in the Bracha of Hamotzi and 10 words in each of the Pesukim that refer to the bread of mankind (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 167:4 and Mishna Berura 167:23 ad 24. The verses are: 1) V'Yiten lecha H'Elokim... (Bereishis 27:28) 2) Eretz Chita U'Seora... (Devarim 8:8) 3) Matzmiach chatzir L'Behaima... (Tehillim 104) 4) Einei Kol Ailecha yesabeiru...(Tehillim 145, better known as the psalm of Ashrei)
Some people have a Minhag on Shabbos not to place their fingers directly on the Chalos, rather to place their hands on the Challah cover. However, the prevalent minhag according to most Poskim is to place all 10 fingers on the Chalos, even on Shabbos. (See Mishna Berura 271:41, Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 6 Siman 134 and Sefer Minhag Yisroel Torah Siman 271).
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CHIZUK CORNER
As a Zechus for the Refuah Shelaima of one of the Gedolei HaDor, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Stein Shlita, R' Chaim Yaakov ben Chasya Miriam, B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel, we will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short Chizuk thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
קוה אל ד', חזק ויאמץ לבך, וקוה אל ד'
Chizuk For Today:
As we stated in the last email, There are 3 main Yesodos (foundations) necessary to accomplish true Teshuva, and the 3 are broken down (by Rabeinu Yonah in Sefer Shaarei Teshuva) into 20 Ikarim (more detailed), different aspects to achieve a proper and everlasting Teshuva.
The 3 main Yesodos are 1)Charata (regret), 2)Vidui (verbally enumerating one's sins), and 3) Azivas HaChet (Letting go of the sin and resolving to never repeat it).
The next 5 of the 20 Ikarim are as follows:
#6) Be tremendously embarrassed and immensely shamed before the king of kings, Hashem, and be afraid to lift your eyes to appear before Him.
#7) Humble your heart and be self-effacing in the knowledge that one who rebels against the great king [Hashem], surely will lose some of his status and will be ridiculed in his own eyes and in the eyes of others and unless you repent you will be relegated to being treated like a leper, despised and detested by society.
#8) Act humbly by always keeping your eyes focused downwards, speaking in low tones, and not speaking harsh words.
#9) Break your material Ta'vos (lusts and material desires). Lessen your enjoyments of pleasures and don't stuff yourself with food more than is necessary for satiation and to sustain your life, and avoid [excessive] marital relations with your spouse (besides what is necessary to fulfill the Mitzvah of Pru U'Revu, or other spousal obligations)
#10) Rectify the particular areas in which you have sinned with their good alternatives. Some examples: If you gazed at immodest images, train your eyes to always avoid inappropriate sights, and let your eyes gaze at the light of the Torah (by reading Torah texts or gazing into the Sefer Torah by Hagbah etc.). If you used your feet to run to sin, train them now to always run to do Mitzvos. If your tongue was accustomed to uttering falsehoods and/or foul language, train your mouth to only speak good and wise things. If you used your hands to spill blood, or for stealing which is tantamount to spilling blood, train your hands to provide for poor people, orphans and widows, as well as saving people from being taken advantage of financially by unscrupulous people. If your heart was always filled with heretical thoughts, train and purify your heart to understand the greatness of our Creator [Hashem]. If you were involved in spreading Machlokes (disputes) between friends, train yourself to seek peaceful resolutions and pursue peace always.
Do YOU have something meaningful to submit for this section? Please email to HalachaForToday@Yahoo.com
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות
- one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (Talmud Niddah 73a)
Please visit my website www.HalachaForToday.com for archives, Kosher links, Questions and Answers,and other features. Halachos are for study purposes only, and should not be relied upon for final Psak. See Halacha L'Maaseh Disclaimer Here. I welcome all questions on any topic, anytime! Help spread the word of Hashem!
Please Tell your friends about this list and have them sign up too!
Important Numbers
