1) It is forbidden to assemble parts of a utensil in a firm way, even if they are not actually attached with anything and are simply held together by clinging snugly to each other.
This is a rabbinical prohibition enacted as we are concerned that if they are put together this way it will lead to fastening them together with a screw or other item which will then be a biblical transgression.
Thus, according to some Poskim there is no prohibition to disassemble such an item as there is no concern that doing so will lead to any biblical melacha. (See Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 313:22 and Chazon Ish Siman 50:10 Dibur Hamaschil Shabbos)
2) If the parts are assembled loosely it is permitted, even if the item is rendered useable only by virtue of being assembled, such as a folding chair or bed, as long as it is an item that is meant to assemble and disassemble regularly and is an item that is always assembled loosely. (See Talmud Shabbos 47b and Shulchan Aruch Siman 313:6. If the item is intended to remain assembled indefinitely it is prohibited, not due to Boneh but due to Makeh B'Patish. See Chazon Ish Siman 50:9)
The definition of firm or loose is determined by how easily the parts are attached to one another; if it takes some strength to disassemble the parts it is considered firmly attached whereas if it comes apart easily it is considered to have been attached loosely. (See Orchos Shabbos Perek 8:45)
An item that has never yet been assembled may not be assembled on Shabbos for the first time, even if it is done in a loose fashion, as even though there is no prohibition of Boneh with such a loose assembly, there still will be a biblical transgression of Makeh B'patish. (See Mishna Berura Siman 340:33)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) A screw that fell out of a temple on a pair of eyeglasses may not be reinserted on Shabbos even if only screwing in loosely, and doing so is a prohibition of the Melacha of Boneh.
Even if the screw did not totally fall out and only became undone partially, it may not be tightened on Shabbos.
If the screw that connects the temple to the eyeglass frame got lost, in situations where the temple does not become Muktzeh (such as if another suitable screw is not available and thus we are not concerned it may be fixed properly; See Mishna Berura Siman 308:69) a safety pin may be inserted to hold the frame in place until after Shabbos when it can be taken to the shop and fixed properly. (ruling of Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal quoted in Sefer M'Or HaShabbos Vol. 2 in a letter at the end of the Sefer 29:3)
However, it may not be attached with any adhesives or by inserting a metal wire in the screw hole.
2) A lens that fell out of a pair of eyeglasses due to the screw holding it in place becoming loose, may not be returned to the frame on Shabbos, even loosely, as we are concerned that when doing so the screw will be tightened and thus be a transgression of the Melacha of Boneh.
Furthermore, in this case the frame as well as the lens become Muktzeh and may not be moved on Shabbos.
If, however, the lens popped out due to the frame bending or stretching (common in frames that do not utilize screws to hold the lens in place), it may be replaced loosely for use on Shabbos but not inserted tightly as it would be during the week.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Why in the fourth bracha of birkas hamazon is there twice a mention of rachamim (heavenly mercy)? Wouldn't once suffice?
Answer:
There is no limit to the amount of Rachamim we need from Hashem.
That being said, I believe the Pshat is as follows: We all need Rachamim, hence we request it.
We follow that with a request for Parnassah. Once Hashem gives us bountiful Parnassah we tend to forget where our Parnassah came from and then we are in danger of slipping in our Avodas Hashem, thus we must once again request rachamim from Hashem to keep us on the right path despite being blessed with Parnassah.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
When the Almighty sends suffering, many become depressed and full of anxiety.
Your attitude towards suffering is a sign of your internalized belief in the afterlife.
Rabbi Zelig Pliskin in his book "Gateway to Happiness", quoting Rav Yerucham Levovitz Zatzal, Mashgiach of Mir
1)
A utensil which has a cover that is firmly screwed or otherwise
attached to it may be opened and closed on Shabbos as this is its
intended purpose, and we don't deem it as attaching and detaching every
time it is opened and closed. (See Mogen Avraham Siman 313:12 and Taz Siman 313:7)
2)
A utensil which is often totally disassembled and reassembled,
according to some Poskim it is not subject to the Melacha of Boneh and
may be taken apart and put together on Shabbos, as that is its normal
manner of use. (See Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 313:21)
Other Poskim, however, are stringent and prohibit disassembling and firmly reassembling even such a utensil. (See Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 50:9 Dibur Hamaschil V'Heenay)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Is a Kohen allowed to take out the garbage?
Answer:
One may not ask a Kohen to take out the garbage but there is no prohibition for him to do so on his own.
See
Mishna Berura Siman 128:175 where he clearly rules that it is forbidden
to ask a Kohen to do a chore that is disrespectful. (See also Shu"t
Yabia Omer Vol. 6 Siman 22)
However,
a Kohen himself has no Issur to do such a job as there is no source
anywhere prohibiting Kohanim from doing any jobs, especially when they
arent in the Bais Hamikdash and wearing their begadim. How else would
Kohanim's garbage be removed from their own homes?
In
fact if the Kohen offers to take out the garbage for you without being
asked, you may accept the offer, it's only the asking that is
problematic.
Thus if he
can do it for you, he surely can do it for himself. (See Aruch
Hashulchan Siman 128:71 and 72 and the Aishel Avraham (Butchatch) Siman
128:45)
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they
both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
1)
It is prohibited to connect two parts of a utensil to each other in a
way that will be considered strong and permanent, and doing so is a
biblical prohibition of Boneh [and/or Makeh B'Patish].
The definition of "permanent connection" is that the two individual pieces that were combined are now considered one unit.
Some
examples of prohibited connectors are screws, nails, tacks, glue or
similar items, and sometimes it can be prohibited without a connector
agent as well if the two parts are connected very with force to or into
each other in a way that it can stay connected permanently. (See Rashi to Shabbos 47b Dibur Hamaschil Yitoka and Rambam Hilchos Shabbos Perek 10:13)
2)
One who takes apart an assembled utensil (of a variety that is
prohibited to put together on Shabbos) has transgressed the biblical
Melacha of Soser, destroying, provided that the purpose of taking it
apart was to re-assemble it or for another nondestructive purpose.(See Rambam Hilchos Shabbos Perek 10:15 and Biur Halacha Siman 340:14 Dibur Hamaschil V'lo)
If
it was disassembled ina destructive fashion (mekalkel), although not a
biblical transgression, it is still prohibited rabbinically.
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
I
am looking for a little bit of the background or wording to the gemara
about how one can be mispallel for someone elses shidduch and that
someone can get engaged during times seemingly not appropriate for
engagement because "shemah yikadmu acher vyickach osah".
Answer:
Talmud Moed Katan 18b says "Mutar L'Ares Isha B'Cholo Shel Moed -One may get engaged to a girl on Chol HaMoed lest someone else come along and get engaged to her first"
The Talmud Yerushalmi Beitza Perek 5 Halacha 2 has the text as "shema Yekadmenu Acher B'Tefila- someone may get her first via prayer".
However,
the Talmud there says that one who usurps someone's intended wife via
prayer, the marriage will not last (i.e. one of them will die, as per
the commentary of the Korban HaEidah there)
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they
both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
1) Until now our discussion focused mainly on Boneh/Soser (building/destroying) as regards to adding on to a building or structure or as regards to items mounted to the ground or large items (that hold more than the volume of 40 Sa'ah) even if they aren't mounted to the ground, as these too are considered Mechubar L'Karka, attached to the ground for Boneh purposes.
Now we will begin discussing Boneh /Soser as they apply to Keilim, utensils.
The Talmud in a few places (including Shabbos 102b, 122b and Beitzah 11b) discusses whether the prohibition of Boneh/Soser applies only to building [or adding on to ] a structure or if it applies as well to utensils.
2) There is a dispute amongst the Rishonim as to how we rule in this matter.
Some Rishonim rule that there is a prohibition of Boneh/Soser in regard to utensils provided that the "building" was done in a way that will keep the pieces together strongly.
Furthermore, these Rishonim rule that initially creating or forming a utensil is also a prohibition of Boneh. (See Rambam Hilchos Shabbos Perek 10:13 and Tosafos Shabbos 102b Dibur Hamaschil Hai)
Other Rishonim, however, rule that there is no prohibition of Boneh/Soser at all in regards to utensils. (Rashi Shabbos 47a Dibur Hamaschil Chayav Chatas. This is also the ruling of the Gaon of Vilna quoted in Mishna Berura Siman 314:7)
However, even those who rule that there is no Boneh/Soser for utensils, agree that it is prohibited to initially create a utensil on Shabbos or strongly put together the pieces of a utensil to make it whole due to the Melacha of Makeh B'Patish. (See Rashi ibid.)
The Shulchan Aruch (Siman 314) rules that there is a prohibition of Boneh/Soser in regard to utensils, if certain criteria are met, as we shall detail in the coming days B'Ezras Hashem.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
If there is pilot light [in the oven] lit by a Jew, does it suffice for bishul akum purposes or must the Jew actually light the stove top?
Answer:
If the pilot light does not add any heat at all to the stovetop or to the pot then it is very questionable if it suffices and a Rav needs to be consulted.
If it does add some heat then it suffices.
It's always best, however, if the actual burner is lit by a Jew.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
In order for a person to maintain proper middos, he must put himself in another person's place. When someone does something that you consider wrong or improper, think about how many rationalizations you would have been forced to come up with to justify yourself had you done that very act.
Then, use the same rationalizations to give the other person the benefit of the doubt!
Rav Moshe Leib Sassover Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
1) It is prohibited to fold papers on Shabbos to produce distinct shapes, such as airplanes, birds or ships or other such shapes.
Likewise, it is prohibited to fold napkins into distinct and complicated shapes or designs in order to beautify the table on Shabbos, as doing so is likened to building.
However, simply folding them in half or in a simple shape [that isn't in the form of any particular item] is permitted. (Ruling of Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal quoted in Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek Perek 11:40 and Perek 16:19)
2) Snowballs or snowmen may not be formed on Shabbos, as doing so is a transgression of the Melacha of Boneh. (See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 16:44. Some Poskim rule that snow is Muktzeh to even touch in the first place, but Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal and others rule that it is not. We shall discuss this more at length when we cover Hilchos Muktzeh B'Ezras Hashem)
Snowballs that were formed from before Shabbos, according to some Poskim should not be thrown on Shabbos as doing so may be a transgression of Soser. (ibid. footnote 109.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
If I am already chewing on a piece of gum and I later put another piece in my mouth for taste, do I make another brocha?
Answer:
No, as long as the item you made the original Bracha on is still being eaten, no new Bracha is recited on another of the same food of that Bracha, be it another piece of gum or another similar SheHakol.
If it is a totally different item, however, from the original item(such as gum and chicken), then another Bracha is required unless you specifically had in mind at the time of the Bracha that you would also be eating the new item. (Mishna Berura Siman 206:21 and Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 206:9, See also Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 1 Siman 10)
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal and the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal. May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they both be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
At the beginning of Parshas Chayei Sarah, we find Avraham in an extremely difficult situation. He has just gone through the enormous stress of binding his son Isaac on the altar, followed by the emotional release of God's instruction not to go through with it in the end!
To compound his stress, Avraham returns home to find that his beloved wife Sarah has passed away. And on top of it all, Avraham now has to buy a gravesite from a man named Efron, who takes advantage of Avraham and charges an exorbitant price.
This is the epitome of a "bad day." And Avraham has every excuse in the world to be aggravated, to lose patience, and to lash out at Efron.
But Avraham - the expert in kindness - treats Efron with all the honor and dignity. Avraham understood that just because you're in pain, it doesn't give you the right to make the other person suffer.
The Talmud says that God gave Avraham 10 tests of character. It is generally understood that these tests were all designed to go against Avraham's natural inclination toward kindness - in order to strengthen his "weaker side" of strictness.
Thus the ultimate test was the antithesis of kindness, the binding of Isaac.
But one commentator, Rabbeinu Yona, says that buying the gravesite from Efron - where Avraham reached super-human heights of patience and kindness - was actually Avraham's greatest test of all.
The idea is that to become a truly great person, besides working on our weak areas, we mustn't forget to build our unique strengths, too.
Submitted by a daily reader; taken from www.aish.com
1) Many people use ear plugs for various reasons during the day or when they sleep to block out noise.
Regarding their use on Shabbos, it would depend on what kind of earplugs they are.
The kind that is like a small sponge which does not assume the shape of the inner ear when inserted and reverts back to its original shape upon being removed from the ear, may be used on Shabbos.
However, earplugs that are made from silicone, wax or similar materials which assume the shape of the inner ear that they are put in to and retain that shape when being removed may not be used on Shabbos, as doing so may violate the Melachos of Boneh/Tikun Maneh, Makeh B'Patish and/or Memarayach. (See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 14:39 and footnote 109 where he prohibits earplugs on Shabbos without specifying what type of earplug he is referring to. Rav Yehoshua Neuwirth Shlita, author of Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso later said that this ruling of Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal was referring only to the silicone type that retains its shape and not to the sponge type; See Orchos Shabbos page 276 footnote 43. See also Shu"t Az Nidberu Vol. 3 Siman 21)
2) Cotton balls may be inserted into the ears as long as they were set aside for such use before Shabbos. (See Mishna Berura Siman 328:152 and Sha'ar HaTziyun Siman 514:52)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
One thing I always get confused with- Sometimes it happens that my obligations to wash netilas yadayim after going to the bathroom and to wash netilas yadayim for hamotzi coincide.
What is the correct process? Do I wash my hands once or twice? Do I say Asher Yatzar first or al netilas yadayim first?
Answer:
There are a few different options regarding one who uses the bathroom and now wants to wash for bread.
The Shulchan Aruch (Siman 165:1) rules that the hands should be washed, Asher Yatzar recited and then the hands washed again and Al Netilas Yadayim recited.
The Mishna Berura explains the reasoning of the Shulchan Aruch as follows: If the hands are washed only once, if Asher Yatzar is recited first followed immediately by Al netilas Yadayim, it will be a Hefsek between the washing and the Al Netilas Yadayim. If Al Netilas Yadayim is said first and Asher yatzar said immediately afterwards, it will be a Hefsek between the Al Netilas Yadayim and the Hamotzi on the bread.
To say Al Netilas Yadayim, say Hamotzi and eat the bread and then say Asher Yatzar is also not proper, as Asher Yatzar should ideally be said immediately after exiting the restroom and washing the hands.
The Mishna Berura quotes some Poskim (including the Mogen Avraham) who say that the best thing is to wash the hands after the bathroom in a way that the washing will not be acceptable for eating bread (e.g. less than a revi'is, without a utensil etc.) and to recite Asher Yatzar and then to wash again a valid washing and recite Al Netilas Yadayim.
This option is the most commonly accepted option amongst contemporary Poskim, as doing so avoids all the problems of Hefsek and also satisfies the opinion of the Shulchan Aruch. (See Halichos Shlomo; Tefilah, Perek 20:26)
The Mishna Berura then quotes other Poskim that maintain that saying Asher Yatzar between Al Netilas Yadayim and hamotzi is not a hefsek, and thus if one already washed a valid washing upon exiting the restroom he can B'dieved say Al Netilas Yadayim followed by Asher Yatzar followed by Hamotzi.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
vast world of Hashem
AN OPEN LETTER FROM A FRUSTRATED SHADCHAN:
It's so hard to please anyone these days!!!
Here is a partial list of my clients .... I couldn't even get them one date, and that is why I am finally quitting and going into the pickle business.
Avraham Avinu: How can you recommend him to my daughter? Wasn't he involved in a family feud with his father over some idols? Then he left home without a GPS or a viable business plan!
Yitzchak Avinu: His brother is an Arab terrorist!!!
Rivka Imeinu: Sorry, she seems nice but did you hear about her mishpuche??? Her father's a murderer and her brother's a ponzi scam artist... .
Yaakov Avinu: Okay, he sits and learns all day... but his brother is a no-goodnik. And anyway, we heard he has a limp..... .
Leah Imeinu: Her father's a con artist, and she has ophtalmological problems. Maybe it's genetic?
Moshe Rabbeinu: Are you kidding? His parents are divorced! And worse.. they remarried! And we hear he's in speech therapy....
King David: How dare you suggest him to our yichusdike family? Our neighbor Yenti told us that his great-grandmother was a giyoret!!!
Chava: Do you know anything about her family? We never heard of them. No one knows where she came from and she can't come up with any referrals!
Please chevra, judge the person for him/herself - you're going to marry the person, not the family.
You're getting married to build your home, not to please your neighbors.
And finally, remember that if you are in this world, you are not perfect and neither is your spouse
1) A drain cover that does not have a handle on it may not be replaced or removed on Shabbos and doing so is a transgression of Boneh/Soser.
However, if the drain cover is equipped with a handle it may indeed be removed or replaced on Shabbos as the handle is an indication that it is meant to be removed and replaced and thus not a transgression of Boneh/Soser. (Much like a sink strainer which may be removed and replaced as that is its intended function.) (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 308:10 and Mishna Berura S"K 42)
2) A roof gutter that is filled with leaves and other debris and is thus blocking the rainwater from draining into the drainpipe may not be cleaned out on Shabbos as doing so will once again allow the drainpipe to work properly and is a transgression of Boneh [and possibly a transgression of Makeh B'Patish as well].
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) A piece of carpet which stretches from wall-to-wall in a room may not be laid in that room on Shabbos if the intention is to leave it there permanently, even it isn't tacked down to the floor, as doing so is considered adding on to the room and thus a transgression of Boneh.
2) If the piece of carpet does not reach the wall and is only placed in the center of the room, even if it covers a majority of the floor it is permitted. (See "The Shabbos Home; Volume two" by Rav Simcha Bunim Cohen Shlita, page 423 footnote 46)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
When a person sits shiva are they allowed to wear makeup? What about during the sheloshim?
Answer:
During Shiva, makeup is prohibited. After the Shiva, even before the Shloshim has been reached, it is permitted.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
A blessing is an expression of gratitude.
Jewish Tradition says to make 100 blessings a day.
Here's why.
While some of us complain about our meal...
Others are just happy to be eating.
While some of us are frustrated with our careers...
Others are just happy to be working.
While some of us complain about household chores...
Others know they are lucky to have a home.
While some of us get frustrated with our kids...
Others are just grateful to see them at all.
While some of us complain about seeing the doctor...
Others are just grateful to have care.
While some of us are jealous of our friends...
Others know luck comes in many forms.
While some of us feel lonely...
Others appreciate the people who are already there.
While some of us complain about the weather...
Others are just grateful to see another day.
While some of us are annoyed at the cost of things...
Others know the most joy often comes from things that are free.
While some of feel like failures...
Others know life takes ups and downs.
While some of us feel trapped...
Others are just happy to be free.
Submitted by daily reader, C.F.; Text Taken from an inspirational film at www.aish.com
1) A sink strainer that got filled with food particles, may be picked up, emptied into the garbage and returned to the sink, and doing so is not a concern of Boneh.
If the food particles are no longer suitable for consumption by animals they become Muktzeh and thus they should only be discarded via picking up the strainer (Tiltul Min HaTzad) and not by scooping out the actual particles.
2) A toilet that becomes clogged on Shabbos, according to many Poskim, may be plunged to unblock the blockage, as being clogged is a common occurence and does not render the toilet broken and thus plunging it is not deemed an act of repairing it. (Ruling of Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Shlita quoted in Sefer Ashrei HaIsh;Shabbos Page 226)
Some Poskim are stringent and prohibit using a plunger.
In cases where the toilet is easily back in order with a few light pumps of the plunger, the prevalent ruling is to allow it, whereas for more severe blockages, it is best to be stringent. (See Shu"t Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 4 Siman 40 and Shu"t Minchas Yitzchak Vol. 5 Siman 75)
All Poskim agree that that a snake tool may not be used, as that is considered skilled work and doing so would be a transgression of Boneh.
For Halacha L'Ma'aseh a Rav should be consulted.
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Please tell me what kind of brush for hair can be used on Shabbos?
Answer:
To use a brush on Shabbos, three conditions must be met:
1) It needs to have soft bristles so that pulling out hair is not guaranteed to happen.(No P'sik Reisha)
2) It must be used gently, as to avoid surely pulling out hair
3) It should be a designated brush for Shabbos use and not the same brush used in the weekday.
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva ,
HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
The following is an insight from Rav Shimshon Pincus Zatzal to distinguish between Tefilah and Bakasha - Prayer & Supplication.
Rav Shimshon Zatzal
would often say that we spend so much of our time in Prayer and it is
therefore imperative that we develop an appreciation for the "Art" of
proper prayer. "We Daven anyway" - he would say...so it is just a good
idea to work on our Tefilah.
He often mentioned
that one of the reasons we find it so hard to daven, is because when we
"roll out of bed" in the morning and into Shul, we estimate the power of
our Prayer with the way we actually feel when we begin to Daven! We
think to ourselves, how much does Hashem actually approve of this
Tefilah!? I'm tired, I'm restless, my concentration is weak and my eyes
are dry...surely this particular Tefilah cannot carry that much weight
in the heavenly spheres!
This is a big mistake!
Our Tefilos are
infused with the dynamite of its creators (our forefathers, Avraham,
Yitzhok and Yaakov, introduced Shachris, Mincha and Ma'ariv respectively
and the Anshei Knesses Hagdolah created our precious Siddur) and when
we pray, we are literally invoking their power to carry our Tefilos to
the Kisei Hakavod!
Moreover, when a
Jewish woman reads from a Sefer Tehilim, she needs to know that even if
her eyes are dry at that particular moment..and even if she cannot find
the ability to cry, the fact is, David Hamelech himself is reading her
words and infusing her prayers with his koach!
- As Chazzal teach us - the lips of the one who created the Sefer is moving in his grave when we repeat his teachings!
There is no such thing as a "dry" prayer!
Maybe we think it's
dry.....but that's only because we mistakenly believe that we are using
our own energies to bring the prayer to its proper place. However, when
we understand that our prayers are charged with the special power of its
creators, we realize that we can reach the heavenly throne by climbing
on their shoulders when we pray.
Another aspect to
understand, is that when we start working on the quality of our prayers,
the tears will come...it will happen, it just takes getting used to...
Then there is Bakasha - Supplication.
Supplication means begging from Hashem - constantly - and asking him to help you and guide you in all that you do.
Unlike Tefiloh which has set times of the day, Bakasha means reaching out to Hashem whenever, wherever and forever!
Rav Shimshon would
say that where he lived in Ofakim, it was like a "jungle" outside with
no less that "1000 cars" that his children would have to pass each
morning on their way to Cheder!
He once said the following:
"Do you know that
each one of those cars is like a wild beast, like a lion in its capacity
to cause harm chas v'shalom to our children"!...and what about the
spiritual beasts that our children encounter on their way to
school!!...filthy billboards..newspapers...bad friends.. etc!!
Parents need to be
constantly reaching out to Hashem in Prayer and supplication to watch
over the physical and spiritual welfare of their children!
1) There is a debate amongst the Poskim if a sink drain that got stuffed up on Shabbos may be unclogged by using a plunger.
Some Poskim allow it in cases of extreme necessity while others prohibit this in all instances as in their opinion fixing a pipe that was not functioning properly is a transgression of the Melacha of Boneh and/or the melacha of Makeh B'Patish. (See Shu"t Minchas Yitzchak Vol. 5 Siman 75 and Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 12:17)
2) If the blockage is extreme and can only be unclogged by using a snake tool, which is considered skilled work (Ma'aseh Uman) all agree that it is prohibited. (Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso ibid.)
Of course, actually unscrewing the blocked pipe in order to clean it as well as re-screwing it after it is cleaned is prohibited according to all opinions.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
I know its not a good thing to do, but is one allowed to scratch and peel at a scab on shabbos if you know it will not cause you to bleed?
Answer:
Yes, as long as no new blood is squeezed out. See Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 328:28, Mishna Berura S"K 90 and Sha'ar HaTziyun Os 67.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
Rashi says that the 127 years of the life of Sarah Imeinu were equally good.
The Telshe Rosh Yeshiva said that "GOOD" & "HAPPY" have different meanings.
"GOOD" is an accomplished day.
"HAPPY" can mean a day of fun and pleasure and not necessarily a true happiness.
Sarah's years were all good, all accomplished days not wasting any time.
1) In the event that a window breaks on Shabbos, it is permitted to cover the opening by draping a blanket, sheet or a towel over it and doing so is not an issue of Boneh. (Mishna Berura Siman 313:3)
However, the blanket, sheet or towel may not be tacked into the wall or window frame, as that indeed would be a prohibition of Boneh.
2) If after the window breaks, some pieces of the glass remain in the frame, they may not be removed from the frame as doing so would be a transgression of Soser, destroying.
However, if by leaving those glass pieces in the frame they will pose a danger to people, a non-Jew may be asked to remove them.
If a non-Jew is not available, the dangerous glass may be removed from the frame by a Jew if done in a non-regular fashion (K'Lachar Yad), i.e. by removing them with his foot instead of with his hands. (See Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 23:35 quoting Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
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.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
"People do not know how to enjoy their good fortune. Don't cry because its over, smile because it happened."
1) It is prohibited [for a Jew] to fix an Eiruv that requires repair on Shabbos.
This includes inserting or straightening the polls as well as tying on or fixing the strings or any other aspect of repair, and doing these actions is a prohibition of Boneh.
2) In certain situations where not repairing the Eiruv may lead to many people unsuspectingly carrying on Shabbos, it is permissible to request a non-Jew to repair the Eiruv. (See Mishna Berura Siman 276:25.)
Of course, a Rav must be consulted for Halacha L'Ma'aseh before requesting this of the non-Jew.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.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.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
Here is a small inspiring story about HaRav Yisroel Meir Kagan,
Zatzal, the holy Chofetz Chaim.
Once, a burly, gruff looking, man who had served in the Russian army,
entered a Jewish Inn and ordered a meal. When Jewish boys were drafted,
it was usually the end of Yiddishkeit, religious observance, for them.
The army brainwashed them to worship Mother Russia rather than G-d. He
plopped himself down and ate in a most disgusting manner - stuffing an
entire chicken down his mouth. It was revolting that this man, a Jew,
could conduct himself in so repulsive a manner.
The innkeeper and the others present were sickened and embarrassed by
this display; though none dared say anything.
The Chofetz Chaim happened to be a guest at that Inn. He saw the young man and slowly approached him. Everyone wondered, what would the Chofetz Chaim possibly say to this man.
What could he say?
Surely this oaf would not listen to any rebuke, even from such a holy man.
The Chofetz Chaim asked the man, "Is it true that you served in the
Russian army?" "Yes," snorted the man, bracing his defenses for the
oncoming tongue-lashing he was fully expecting.
"Tell me," began the Chofetz Chaim, "How did you manage to keep your
Jewish identity in those circumstances? So many Jewish boys entered the
army, only to eventually give up their Judaism. They are forced to
serve for 25 years without any kosher food, Jewish holidays, or any
other vestige of Judaism. Yet, when you could have easily gone to any Inn, you chose a
Jewish one. You still identify as a Jew. I don't know if I could have
done what you did. You are an inspiration. Where did you find the
strength?"
The soldier, caught off guard and clearly moved, looked straight at the
Chofetz Chaim, "It was so hard, they did everything to pound it out of
us - to make us denounce and forget that we were Jews."
The Chofetz Chaim responded, "It is a miracle that you made it through. Now you can begin to learn the Torah and observe mitzvos (religious duties) that you were deprived
of all these years."
"But Rebbi (teacher), how can I possibly do that," the soldier, now
sobbing bitterly, responded. He continued through his tears, "I want to
return to my heritage, but I am so far removed. Surely it isn't
possible for someone like me to learn."
"No," said the Chofetz Chaim, "It is still possible. It is always
possible. I can show you how."
As the soldier spoke to the Chofetz Chaim, the stones on his heart began to melt. Had the Chofetz Chaim not understood and appreciated this man's perspective, this amazing episode never would have occurred.
What did happen was: from that day on, the
former soldier began a path to repentance and as the years went by,
developed into an observant, well learned Jew.
1) A plastic hook that goes over the door and is used to hang clothing behind the door may be put on and removed on Shabbos as it is free standing and not connected to the door and thus not considered a part of the door.
2) A mezuzah cover that fell off the doorpost on Shabbos may not be replaced even if done in a loose manner.
Likewise, if one of the screws holding the Mezuzah in place falls out on Shabbos, it may not be replaced, even loosely, on Shabbos. (Besides for the prohibition of Boneh, the screw, as well as the cover that fell, is Muktzeh. See Mishna Berura Siman 308:35)
If the mezuzah cover got loose and the parchment fell out, some Poskim rule that the parchment may be returned to its place on Shabbos. (See Sdei Chemed: Mem; 115 for more details on why this may or may not be a problem)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Are there any heterim for sephardim to eat non kemach yoshon products?
Answer:
The Bet Yosef (whose rulings the Sephardim follow) rules pretty clearly in Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 489:10 and in Yoreh Deah Siman 293:2 that it is prohibited to eat Kemach Chodosh both in Eretz Yisroel and in Chutz L'Aretz.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
This is what I mean by inspirational.
Rav Nosson Tzvi Finkel was a regular American boy who came to learn at the Mir after spending his childhood in Chicago.
He became the Rosh Yeshiva of the largest Yeshiva in the WORLD, with over 7,000 students. (it had 400 students in 1990 when he assumed the mantle of Rosh yeshiva)
The Rosh Yeshiva is the epitome of a role model for everyone on how to aspire to greatness, even with the most distressing physical limitations.
He NEVER missed a Shachris at the Yeshiva!
His 68 short years on Earth impacted hundreds of thousands of people. And he wasn't a Gaon at age 5. He was an "ordinary" bochur who became an extraordinary Rosh Yeshiva.
We join Klal Yisroel in mourning the loss of the great Tzadik Harav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal, Rosh Yeshivas Mir Yerushalayim, a man who overcame all odds to reach his lofty potential; a man who lived not for himself but for Hashem and Hashem's holy children; a man who we should all emulate.
Today's learning is dedicated in memory of his pure and holy Neshama.
May we all be zoche to the speedy arrival of Mashiach Tzidkeinu
1) In many restrooms there is a toilet paper or tissue holder which hold the paper in place using an insert with a spring in it.
According to some Poskim, removing or inserting this spring into the paper holder is prohibited on Shabbos and doing so is a transgression of the Melacha of Boneh/ Soser.
Their reasoning is that this holder is considered a part of the structure, as it is always there and even when it is removed to fill the paper, it is immediately returned to its place. (Ruling of Maran haRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Shlita quoted in Orchos Shabbos page 271 footnote 26)
2) Other Poskim, however, maintain that removing and inserting this spring is not a transgression of Boneh/Soser as it is always looked at as an independent item and not part f the structure. (Ruling of Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal, ibid. footnote 27)
For Halacha L'Ma'aseh, as always, a Rav must be consulted.
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) In many public places, near the sink, they have a long towel hanging from a rod which turns so that a dry part of the towel can be reached in order to dry the hands.
If this rod is screwed closed, it may not be opened on Shabbos to remove the wet towel and exchange it with a fresh one, even if this screw is only loosely screwed in.
If, however, the rod is not screwed down at all, and is simply laying there on brackets, it may be opened and closed on Shabbos in order to change the towels. (Ruling of Maran Harav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Shlita quoted in Orchos Shabbos page 272)
2) The above remains permissible even if there is a lock preventing unauthorized individuals from opening the rod to remove the towel, as since it isn't screwed down it is not considered a part of the structure. (ibid.)
Likewise, the rod of a Paroches (curtain) that hangs in front of an Aron HaKodesh, which fell off, may be returned to its place if it is free standing on brackets and not screwed in.
If it was screwed in it is prohibited to return it to its place and doing so is a prohibition of Boneh, as we deem it as part of the Aron HaKodesh. (Besides for it being an issue of Muktzeh. See Mishna Berura Siman 308:35)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.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)
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
"Love is the pleasure one gets from focusing on the virtues of another"
1) A baby swing which is attached to the top of a door, and is commonly removed after each use, may be hung onto and removed from the door on Shabbos as we do not look at the swing as an addition to the structure, rather as an independent item which will soon be removed. (Ruling of Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal and YBL"C Rav Nisim Karelitz Shlita, quoted in Orchos Shabbos page 270 footnote 20)
2) A doorknob which fell off a door on Shabbos may not be reattached on Shabbos.
If the screw is reinserted along with the doorknob, it is a biblical prohibition; if it is inserted without the screw and is a bit wobbly it is a rabbinical prohibition.
However, if the knob is placed on the door in a way that it will inevitably fall off, no prohibition of Boneh is present. (See Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 50:10 Dibur Hamaschil Daf. There may be other reasons due to Muktzeh or other Gezeiros D'Rabanan why this may still be prohibited in some cases, and we shall discuss them in the near future , B'Ezras Hashem, more in detail.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
Often, I learn in a minyan factory [ a Shul 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.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
What is significant in the fact that man was created alone?
Unlike the animals and plants, which came into existence all over the world at once, Man was created alone.
This was done "so that every man should say: For me the world was created" (Talmud Sanhedrin 37a).
The distant star-nebulae consisting of millions of worlds, beyond millions of years of travel at the speed of light, were all made for one man!
Submitted by daily reader, C.; Taken from "Behold, A People" by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal
1) Magnets on a refrigerator, which keep papers and other items stuck on to the refrigerator, may be removed from and returned to the refrigerator and there is no concern of Boneh or Soser, as they aren't considered a part of the refrigerator.
Care should be taken though, if moving these magnets, that no papers which may be Muktzeh are moved along with them on Shabbos.
2) A picture that is freely hanging on a nail or on a hook on the wall, and is not in any way attached to the wall may be removed from and returned to the wall and is not a prohibition of Boneh.(See Mogen Avraham Siman 315:2 and Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 52:13.)
However, sometimes a picture or painting may be prohibited to move due to being Muktzeh because of its value or size, as we will B'Ezras Hashem discuss when we learn Hilchos Muktzeh, so this should be kept in mind before moving any paintings. (See Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 43:17 regarding a wall clock where he rules that it should not be removed or replaced due to concerns of Muktzeh, and not due to concerns of Boneh)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.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: Rav Shmuel Felder [Shlita, Dayan of Bais Medrash Govoha] told me that a pregnant woman should not go into a nail salon (where they give manicures, etc.)."
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
" WORRYING does not take away tomorrow's TROUBLES, it takes away today's PEACE.".
1) Attaching a suction cup hook -which is fastened by virtue of forming a vacuum - to a wall or window on Shabbos is prohibited, as doing so is considered adding on to the wall.
This is the case even if the hook will not stay there permanently but only a few hours. (As even if it lacks permanence to deem it biblical Boneh it will still be considered rabbinical Boneh if it stays there temporarily)
2) using a suction cup which is attached to the bottom of a child's bowl or plate in order to "fasten" it to the table is permitted, as doing so is not considered adding on to the table, rather it is done to prevent the contents of the bowl from spilling, and is removed immediately after the meal.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.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.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
"Friendship improves happiness and abates misery by the doubling of our joy and the dividing of our grief".
1) Shelves should not be removed from or replaced into a bookcase on Shabbos, even if they are not screwed in and simply lay upon pegs or dowels as is common in many bookcases, as they are meant to remain in the bookcase permanently and as such are deemed part of the bookcase.
The aforementioned Halacha applies only to large bookcases or even to smaller bookcases if they are mounted to the floor or the wall, as bookcases that are small (can hold less than the volume of 40 Sa'ah) and are not mounted to the wall or floor may have their [loose fitting, self-standing] shelves removed and replaced (as we shall B'Ezras Hashem discuss more in detail when we discuss Boneh in regards to Keilim, utensils)
2) It is prohibited to hang a curtain or drape onto its track or shaft on Shabbos [if it is to remain there permanently] as doing so is considered adding on to the structure.
If the curtain is only being hung temporarily according to some Poskim it is permitted, while other Poskim prohibit this as well. (See Rama Siman 315:1 and Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 52:13)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
You mentioned 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 two 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).
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
" When Hashem solves your problems, you have faith in HIS abilities; when Hashem doesn't solve your problems He has faith in YOUR abilities."
1) One who closes a window or a door and thus "adds on" to the structure by causing open space to be filled, nevertheless has not transgressed the Melacha of Boneh, even if the intention is to keep this window or door sealed indefinitely.
2) A drawer in a large dresser(or even a small dresser if it is mounted to the wall or floor) that slides on tracks should not be removed or inserted on Shabbos as doing so is a concern of Boneh or Soser according to some Poskim. (See Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 52:14 Dibur Hamaschil Kasav Od. Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal ruled that there is no concern of Boneh or Soser with removing and inserting drawers unless the track has a latch which locks it in place when opened to prevent it from easily coming out.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
[I live in Eretz Yisroel where V'sein Tal U'Matar is said starting on 7 Mar-Cheshvan, unlike in Chutz L'aretz where it isn't said until December 4th or 5th].
I'm currently in New York, so I asked before I left Eretz Yisroel: What do I, a Ben Eretz Yisroel in Chutz L'aretz for a month, do on 7 Mar-Cheshvan [and beyond]?
I was told to continue saying V'sein berachah" in Bareich Aleinu, and to add in Shema Koleinu "V'sein tal u'matar livrachah... kee Atah shomeiah...." ?
I'm sure your readers would want to hear about what to do if "out of position" on 7 Mar-Cheshvan [and beyond].
Answer:
The Psak you were given is indeed the ruling of Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal (quoted in Sefer Ishei Yisroel Perek 23:37, footnote 149)
The Mishna Berura Siman 117 S"K 5 brings two opinions, one that he should say as he does in Eretz Yisroel (assuming he is returning within the year), and one that he should follow the place he currently is in.
Of course, everyone should consult and follow the ruling of their own Rav
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
"Old Friends are Gold.
New Friends are Diamond.
If you get a Diamond, don't forget the Gold.
Because to hold a Diamond, you always need a Base of Gold!"
Today's Halachos dedicated by daily reader, R.L., L'Ilui Nishmas her mother Neche Bas Mendel Zalman A"H, whose Yahrtzeit is today 7 Cheshvan. May her Neshama continue to climb higher and higher in Gan Eden and may she be a Meilitzah Yeshara for her entire Mishpacha.
1) Mounting a faucet to a wall on Shabbos is a transgression of the Melacha of Boneh, as anything that is attached to a fixed structure (Mechubar L'Karka) is considered adding on to that structure.
If part of the piping, strainer or any other part of the faucet fell off on Shabbos, it is prohibited to reattach it, as since these are meant to always remain attached to the faucet it will be considered adding on to the structure if they are reattached. (See Chazon Ish Orach Chaim end of Siman 53)
2) Loosely placing a towel, washcloth or other item on top of the faucet is permissible, as since it is only there temporarily it isn't considered adding on to the structure.
Wrapping the towel firmly around the faucet, however, should be avoided as doing so is a concern of Boneh. (See Chazon Ish ibid.)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) Part of a structure or part of a utensil that became loose may not be tightened on Shabbos.
Thus, for example, a handle of a faucet or a knob of a dresser drawer or a doorknob that became loose may not be screwed on or otherwise tightened on Shabbos.
2) Digging a hole in the ground, for the purposes of placing things in it, is a transgression of the Melacha of Boneh, [as well as other transgressions]. (See Talmud Shabbos 102b)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
My friend recently stated that Sefardim are not allowed to mix Fish and Dairy products together and Ashkenazim are. Is that a true statement?
Answer:
Yes, your friend is correct in that many sephardic Poskim rule like the Bais Yosef (Orach Chaim Siman 173) that eating dairy and fish together is a health risk and thus prohibited.
Other Sephardic Poskim, including the Chida, maintain that the Bais Yosef never ruled this way for dairy and fish , rather it was only a ruling for meat and fish. The Kaf HaChaim (Yoreh Deah Siman 87:24) differentiates between milk and butter and also writes that the danger that existed in certain times and places from mixing milk and fish possibly no longer exists today.
Rav Ovadia Yosef Shlita (Yechaveh Da'as Vol. 6 Siman 48) is stringent and rules to avoid fish and dairy.
Ashkenazim follow the lenient view and rule that there is no problem and thus lox and creeme cheese (and any other fish and dairy) can be enjoyed without a problem.(See Shach Yoreh Deah Siman 87:5)
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
Bizback2
Nothing could be quite as exciting as getting out there with a few friends grabbing a few provisions and hitting the open road. Just picture it, the windows down, the wind in your hair.
Normally you wouldnt think of such an excursion as a great act of self-sacrifice and devotion to G-d.
Surprisingly, when Abraham was commanded by G-d to go on the road, it was considered an act of devotion. This is because Abrahams journey was different from your average road trip.
Abraham was being commanded to leave home for good. He was not just leaving his homeland physically. G-d commanded Abraham to psychologically leave his entire past behind and follow Him to a new life in a new land.
You can imagine how difficult an undertaking this would be for a man at the age of seventy-five. G-d had him do this because He wanted to reveal Himself to Abraham.
This revelation would be impossible at Abrahams current location due to the negative influence of the local idolaters. Rising to the occasion Abraham tore himself away from all that was familiar to him.
What does this have to do with us?
Everyone is influenced to some degree by his or her environment. Sometimes the environment we are in is a positive influence on us. Other times it is not. If there is no other choice we sometimes have to relocate in order to avoid a negative influence from effecting us.
Submitted by daily reader, Chanaleh; Written by Rabbi Shmuel Binder at www.Ohr.edu
1) Hanging a door or a window onto its hinges, or inserting them onto their tracks is a transgression of the Melacha of Boneh.
Thus, if a window or door fell off its hinges or out of their tracks, in a way that makes the window or door unusable or difficult to maneuver and use for its intended purpose, in most instances it would be prohibited to reinsert them into the hinges or tracks. (See Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman 50:10 Dibur Hamaschil Rav Meir)
A Rav must be consulted in each individual case to determine the Halacha.
2) It is prohibited to knock a nail into a wall on Shabbos.
Doing so, according to some opinions, is a transgression of the Melacha of Boneh. (See Talmud Shabbos 103b where there is a dispute if this is a transgression of Boneh or Makeh B'Patish. See also Mishna Berura Siman 314:8 where he rules that if the nail is knocked in as a hook to hang things on it is a transgression of Makeh B'Patish)
Likewise, any other items that are attached to an existing structure on Shabbos will be a transgression of Boneh, details of which we shall learn in the near future B'Ezras Hashem.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are 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@Gmail.com
Reader's Question:
I know that it is forbidden to call your parents by their first name, or even to refer to them by first name in conversation.
I, unfortunately, must daven for my sister, who was diasgnosed with [the dreaded disease], and my brother, who has just lost his parnasa, and I was wondering if I'm allowed to daven for them with my mother's name, or if there is something else I ought to say?
Answer:
When davening for a parent, the name of the parent should be said, just as Shlomo Hamelech prayed for his father saying "Dovid Avi, Dovid my father" (See Hagahos Rav Akiva Eiger to Shulchan Aruch 119:1)
Thus, when davening for a sibling, the mother's name may be said as well.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmas the late Telzer Rosh Yeshiva , HaRav Chaim Yaakov ben Rav Binyomin Moshe Stein Zatzal.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיק וקדוש לברכה
Know why a Car's WINDSHIELD is so large and the Rear view Mirror is so small?
Because our PAST is not as important as our FUTURE. So, Look Ahead and Move on.
Important Numbers
