1) One, who in a time of distress or danger, promised to give money to Tzedaka, may not pay this promised money using Ma'aser money. (Shu"t Bais Dino Shel Shlomo, Hilchesa Pesikta)
One who sets boundaries for themselves (which is a good thing to do) and subjects him/herself to "fines" if they G-d forbid transgress an Aveira (e.g. "Every time I speak Lashon Hara I will give a dollar to Tzedaka" or "Every time I see something forbidden for Jewish eyes to see, I will put $10 in the Pushka" etc.) may not pay the "fine" using Ma'aser money. ( ibid.)
2) Someone who simply says "I promise money to Tzedaka", without having in mind to use Ma'aser money for this promise, may not fulfill the promise with Ma'aser money, as once it's a promise it is an obligation, and obligations may not be paid using Ma'aser as we have learned.
One who promises money to a Shul upon making a "Mi Shebeirach" after getting an Aliyah may use Ma'aser money according to some Poskim (Psak of the Chazon Ish Zatzal brought in Orchos Rabbeinu Vol. 1 Page 303.) Other Poskim are stringent and do not allow it. (Hilchos Ma'aser Kesafim quoting the Nehar Metzarim Y"D)
(Note: In a few more days we will iy"H be finishing this topic and starting a new one. I have heard many different (and good) ideas from many readers as to what the next topic should be. However, before I make the final decision, I would like to hear from you which Halachos you would like to learn next. Please email me your requests at Halacha For Today . Thank you.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
(Reader Submitted Questions of interest (on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topics) and my Answers taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Today website. For study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be sent to Halacha For Today)
Reader's Question:
I'm a little confused about the halachos of folding clothes on Shabbos. Are you allowed to fold clothing on Shabbos? Can you fold clothes on the creases?
My Answer:
The general rule is that you may not fold clothing, Talleisim or tablecloths on their original folds (creases) on Shabbos.(There are certain conditions under which it would be permitted, but they are too lengthy to elaborate on here).
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות - one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Important Numbers
