Sunday
13 Nisan, 5771; 2 Days until Pesach
April 17 , 2011
Today's Halachos dedicated by daily reader, Y.B., L'Zecher Nishmas her dear father,Shmuel ben Gavriel Z"L, whose Yahrtzeit is today, 13 Nisan. May his Neshama climb higher and higher in Gan Eden and may he be a Meilitz Yosher for his entire Mishpacha. Please have in mind when learning today's halachos that they be in his eternal merit.
1) Yachatz: The middle of the three Matzos is broken in half; the bigger half is put away and will be eaten later on for Afikoman.
One reason for this broken Matzah is to signify "Lechem Oni, poor man's bread" which is usually a piece rather than a whole loaf, as Matzah is referred to in the Posuk (Devarim 16:3), to commemorate the Jews' slavery in Mitzrayim. (Mishna Berura Siman 473:57 based on Talmud Pesachim 115b)
Another reason cited for this "splitting" of the middle Matzah is to commemorate the "splitting" of the Yam Suf (the Red sea, which is probably an inaccurate translation, as it should properly be translated as "the Reed sea" or "The sea of Reeds"; see Rashi to Shmos 13:18) and the Yarden which took place on Pesach. (See Da'as Zekeinim L'Ba'alei Tosefos Shmos 12:8)
2) Some people have the custom to take the half of the Matzah that was broken off for Afikoman and place it on their shoulders or on their backs [and walk around the table] to commemorate the Bnei Yisroel leaving Mitzrayim carrying [what turned into] Matzah, [as well as other packages] on their backs. (Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 473:35 says "their backs" and Mishna Berura Siman 473:59 says "their shoulders")
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 regarding Shaimos (texts that have Torah writing on them)?
When do u need to bury things and when is it sufficient to just put into a bag and then place bag into garbage? This always comes up with notes in class, work sheets, handouts etc.
Answer:
Unless they have the name of Hashem written out, worksheets, notes, invitations, newspapers , Tzedaka letters etc. with Torah content written on them can be wrapped in a plastic bag and either discarded directly, according to many Poskim or left out at the curb for the trash collectors to discard so it will be done indirectly, according to the more stringent Poskim.
Seforim, Tefilin, or anything that has any of the the actual holy names of Hashem written out properly, require proper burial.
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 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 ME.
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
All of us, at some point or another have what is termed by some as " a faith crisis". For some it's stronger than others but for all it amounts to the same thing: The Yetzer Hara trying to ruin us.
This is nothing new and nothing unique to any one individual, this is how Hashem created His world. This is how He wants us to struggle. This is His way of giving us opportunities to "earn" our share in Olam Haba.
The Yetzer Hara in his cunning way usually springs on us right when we are davening, learning or otherwise doing something positive. We have to learn how to ignore him and be indifferent to his stupidity and remember that Chazal teach us that the Yetzer Hara, Satan and Malach Hamaves, are ONE AND THE SAME! HE causes us to sin, then HE goes and tells Hashem that we sinned and deserve punishment then HE gets to kill us for our sins. Quite a backstabber if there ever was one!
He is our enemy. We must internalize that and ignore his advances at all costs.
Do we fall? Yes. we all do.
Do we fail? Yes we all do.
Do we sin? Yes, we all do.
But the main thing is to get right back up again and continue with our Avodas Hashem. We grow not DESPITE our falls, rather we grow BECAUSE of our falls. Sheva Yipol Tzadik V'Kam (Mishlei Perek 24:16). A Tzadik USES his falls to his advantage. See Siddur HaGra, Pirush Siach Yitzchok on the Posuk (that we say daily in Pesukei D'Zimrah, fromTehilim 147) "Harofei Lishvurei Lev U'Mechabesh L'Atzvosam".
You must always believe in yoursef, as Rav Tzadok teaches us that just as one is obligated to believe in Hashem, so too one is obligated to believe in themself! (Tzidkas HaTzadik 154)
The more you grow and the closer you get to Hashem, the more pressure the lousy yetzer Hara will put on you to try to bring you down.
Just close your eyes for a few minutes a day and make a mental list of all the good that Hashem gives you on a daily basis. Do you deserve any of it? Have you really earned it? NO! It is only Hashem's endless kindness and love for us that causes Him to give, give, give and give us always.
He is our loving Father and if He ever gives us trials and tribulations, think of them as opportunities, not as punishments.
As the great Tzaddik Rav Avigdor Miller Zatzal used to say, There is no such thing as a bad situation; rather it's a difficult situation. Everything Hashem does is for our ultimate good. Everything. No exceptions.
The best way to try and get rid of "faith crisis" thoughts is to NOT THINK ABOUT THEM. Of course, adding Torah, Tefilah, Mussar etc. to your day is always a good thing to try and control the Yetzer Hara.
Of course, whenever any negative activity is overcome, it leaves in its place a void, which should be filled immediately with something positive , as the Yetzer Hara thrives in a vaccum.
And finally, keep your Simcha intact, as the #1 tool of the Yetzer Hara is making people sad, down andepressed. Avoid that at ALL costs.
Simcha Shel Mitzvah!
Always.
Excerpt from a recent response I emailed to a dear reader who was struggling with a temporary "faith crisis", which I felt perhaps others can benefit from reading.
1) Urchatz: Washing of the hands without reciting a Bracha.
The reason for this washing is due to a Halacha which for some reason has been forsaken by most people throughout the year, known as "Tibul B'Mashkeh". (See Taz Siman 473:6)
"Tibul B'Mashkeh" is literally translated as "dipped in a liquid", and refers to the halachic requirement to wash ones hands before eating any food that is wet with one of the following seven liquids: Wine, Bee's Honey, Olive oil, Milk, Dew, Blood, and Water. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 158:3. The acronym for these seven liquids is YaD (Yayin, Dvash) SHaCHaT(Shemen, Chalav, Tal) DaM(Dam, Mayim)
Thus, being that we are about to eat Karpas, a vegetable dipped in [salt] water, we must first wash our hands.
2)There are various explanations given for perhaps not being stringent with this Halacha nowadays, which we will not get into at this time, but on the night of the Pesach Seder when we all endeavor to do everything properly and be on a loftier level than usual, all people are careful with this washing.
Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal explains that the reason this washing is referred to as a command, "Urchatz, and you shall wash" rather than the simpler "Rachtzah, washing" is due to the fact that this Halacha is overlooked the rest of the year by many people, we need to "command" everyone to do it this night.
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) For the washing of "Urchatz" it isn't necessary for women to remove their rings (as is recommended when washing for bread, see Mishna Berura Siman 161:19) as by "Tibul B'Mashkeh" since many people do not do it year round, we do not impose stringencies on the women this night. (See Halichos Shlomo, Pesach, Dvar Halacha footnote 53)
If one mistakenly recited the bracha of "Al Netilas Yadyim" on the washing of "Urchatz", it is possible that he may not require a new washing when it comes to "Rachtzah" later on in the Seder.
Thus, the best thing to do is to use the restroom or otherwise touch a covered part of the body or scratch the scalp in order to necessitate a new washing with a Bracha for the Matzah. (Halichos Shlomo, Pesach, Perek 9:26)
2) Karpas: A vegetable (celery, potato, scallion, or other vegetable, depending on each family's minhag) is dipped in saltwater and eaten.
When reciting the Bracha of "Borei Pri HaAdama" on the Karpas one should specifically have in mind that this Bracha should exempt the Maror that will be eaten later on. (See Mishna Berura Siman 473:55)
If one did not specifically have this in mind, the Bracha still works to exempt the Maror and no new "Borei Pri HaAdama" is made when eating the Maror.
The prevalent custom is to eat less than a Kzayis of Karpas. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 473:6 and Mishna Berura S"K 56.)
The Gaon of Vilna ruled like the Rambam that a Kzayis is indeed required, and those who follow the Gra's minhagim do take a Kzayis
However, even if a Kzayis is eaten no Bracha Achrona is recited, as the Birchas Hamazon later on will exempt this eating as well. (As quoted in Ma'aseh Rav. This was also the minhag of the Chazon Ish and the Brisker Rav Zichronam L'Vracha)
The prevalent custom is to eat the Karpas without Heseiba, leaning.
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 wanted to know why a man in Shana Rishona (the first 12 months after his marriage) does not wear a Kittel at the Pesach Seder but after that time period, does.
Answer:
One of the reasons for wearing a Kittel (which is like the white Tachrichim, shrouds, in which Jews get buried) at the Pesach Seder is that we should damper the extreme Simcha a bit lest it lead to Kalus Rosh. It is for this reason that the Taz (Siman 472:3) allows an Avel, a mourner, to wear a Kittel atthe Seder.
(See also Mishna berura Siman 472:13 where he brings the opinions of other Poskim that an Avel should not wear it)
Thus, a man in his first year of marriage is commanded to be extremely happy and not to damper the Simcha at all, and thus many people's custom is to not wear a kitel during their first year of marriage. (See Ta'amei HaMinhagim 503 in Kuntres Achron)
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 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 ME.
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"A doctor must undergo rigorous training in order to qualify for his title. He must have hands on experience prior to actually practicing medicine. All this is necessary in order to become an expert in the field of medicine.
Similarly, a person who wishes to become an expert in the field of Jewish law, must excel in the mitzvos governing man's interaction with others.
One must have "hands on" experience in order to gain expertise. For how can one understand the Torah's laws and carry them out properly without having empathy for a fellow Jew?"
HaRav Yerucham Levovitz Zatzal, Mir Mashgiach, quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
Thursday
10 Nisan, 5771; 5 Days until Pesach
April 14 , 2011
1) When doing Heseiba, the proper time for leaning begins after the Bracha has been recited on the wine (or the Matzah), but during the recital of the Bracha one should not lean, as it isn't respectful to recite a Bracha while leaning. (See Halichos Shlomo, Pesach, Perek 9:20 and footnote 44)
2)Women are not obligated to lean, though many have the custom to do so. (Rama Siman 472:4)
Although women need not lean, they should be seated when drinking the Arba Kosos (as well as when eating the Matzah or any other foods that require Heseiba for men) as if they are standing there is a possibility that they have not satisfied their obligation.
Additionally, even women that do not lean should try to have a comfortable chair as their expression of "freedom". (See Halichos Shlomo, Pesach, Perek 9:19 ands Moadim U'Zmanim Vol. 3 Siman 257)
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:
Is a bracha acharona required after completion of the consumption of the hard candy, or lollipop?
Answer:
Being that it is less than a kzayis, and even if it is a Kzayis, it is consumed in more time than Kdei Achilas Pras, no Bracha Achrona is recited.
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 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 ME.
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"Hashem places the heaviest burden on those who can carry its weight."
Wednesday
9 Nisan, 5771; 6 Days until Pesach
April 13 , 2011
1) It is best to drink the entire cup, or at least the majority of the cup of each cup of the Arba Kosos. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 472:9 and Mishna Berura S"K 30)
Those who find it difficult to drink wine should rather use a smaller glass that holds a little more than a Revi'is and finish the entire cup rather than using a much larger cup and then not be able to finish all or most of it.
Children [who are of age for Chinuch] need only drink a cheek-full of wine. (See Mishna Berura Siman 472:47)
2) The Arba Kosos must be drunk B'Heseiba, while leaning on the left side. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 472:3)
Even left handed people lean to the left side.
There are two reasons for not leaning to the right side. One reason is that doing so will prevent the person from eating comfortably with his right hand. (Mishna Berura Siman 472 S"K 10)
According to this first reason alone, we may think that a left handed person would need to lean to the right side.
However, there is another [and more important] reason for leaning to the left, because a person's food pipe (esophagus) is to the right and the air canal (trachea) is to the left, and when leaning to the right there is a chance that the cover of the air canal will open and the food may get lodged in the wrong pipe and cause choking Chas V'Shalom. (Mishna Berura ibid.)
If a left handed person leaned to the right, B'dieved he has satisfied his obligation. (Mishna Berura ibid.)
If a right handed person leans to the right, according to some Poskim it is acceptable B'dieved, and according to others even B'dieved he has not satisfied his obligation. (Mishna Berura ibid. See also Kaf HaChaim Siman 472:23 and 48. See also Shu"t Hisorerus Teshuva Vol. 2 Siman 49)
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 asked by someone the following question[which I am forwarding to you]:
"I go to the beach with a bunch of young married couples. The women go with shorts and tank tops. Some of them cover their hair, I don't.
It makes me feel uncomfortable that they do this. How could one dress like this and thencover their hair. It's a chilul Hashem"
(and I quote..She wants me to ask a Rav). She said...
"I would never dress like this way in the frum communities but I feel for the beach it's appropriate dress."
I don't know what to say.
Answer:
It is forbidden for men and women to go to the beach together.
It is forbidden for men to see women unless all areas of Erva are covered. (This includes knees, elbows, neck line and hair [of a married woman])
The fact that it is on the beach and everyone is in a playful mood makes it all the worse, and there is absolutely no Heter for this.
The Torah commands us to keep our camp holy (V'Haya Machanecha Kadosh!). If we ignore this commandment, only tragedies and misfortune will continue to befall our nation. The way a Jewish man or women dresses, acts, speaks, thinks etc. must be refined and holy.. There is no difference if they are at home, on vacation or on the beach!
Hashem sees everything we do, no matter where we are.
That being said, if they will be doing so anyway in disregard of Halacha, they will be transgressing a sin for each additional Erva that is not covered. Thus, at least covering their hair would make the transgression less severe for a few reasons.
1) The fact that the hair is covered is a "sign" of sorts to the men there that she is off limits.
2) The fact that her hair is covered eliminates the seeing of an extra Erva.
3) Just because one transgresses one sin doesnt mean that another sin should be transgressed.
4) Similar to Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal's Psak about NOT removing a yarmulka when going into a movie theater, a bare head and uncovered body at the beach in front of men is an extreme Chilul Hashem, and as such should be avoided at all costs.
To say that covering the head at a beach is chilul Hashem, is just a rationalization for living life on their own terms, and not on Hashem's terms. (See Parshas Netzavim Perek 29 Pasuk 18 and 19 for a sampling of this attitude and R"L the severity of its punishment)
It is exactly the opposite! If she is worried about Chilul Hashem, she should not be there inthe first place, but if she is, at least minimize the chilul Hashem by dressing appropriately!
Chazal have taught us, and the Gedolim throughout the ages have been telling us that the arrival of Mashiach is being delayed in large part due to the laxity in observance of Hilchos Tznius. I can think of no worse laxity than "couples" mingling at the beach in various forms of undress Rachmana Litzlan.
May Hashem give us all the strength to stand up to the Yetzer Hara and refrain from all transgressions especially those involving the un-holiness of lack of Tznius/ Arayos that continue to cause Mashiach to not arrive.
There is a lot more to write on this topic, but I will leave it at this, feelings that come from my heart which will hopefully go into the hearts of those fellow Jews amongst us who truly do want to improve in this crucial area of Tzniyus.
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 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 ME.
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"...If statistics are right, the Jews constitute but one percent of the human race. It suggests a nebulous dim puff of stardust lost in the blaze of the Milky way. properly, the Jew ought hardly to be heard of, but he is heard of, has always been heard of. He is as prominent on the planet as any other people, and his commercial importance is extravagantly out of proportion to the smallness of his bulk. His contributions to the world's list of great names in literature, science, art, music, finance, medicine, and abstruse learning are also away out of proportion to the weakness of his numbers. He has made a marvelous fight in this world, in all the ages; and had done it with his hands tied behind him. He could be vain of himself, and be excused for it.
The Egyptian, the Babylonian, and the Persian rose, filled the planet with sound and splendor, then faded to dream-stuff and passed away; the Greek and the Roman followed; and made a vast noise, and they are gone; other people have sprung up and held their torch high for a time, but it burned out, and they sit in twilight now, or have vanished. The Jew saw them all, beat them all, and is now what he always was, exhibiting no decadence, no infirmities of age, no weakening of his parts, no slowing of his energies, no dulling of his alert and aggressive mind. All things are mortal but the Jew; all other forces pass, but he remains. What is the secret of his immortality?"
- Mark Twain
(Excerpt from an article entitled "Concerning The Jews," Harper's Magazine, 1899 )
"... The secret, Mr. Twain, is no secret at all. The secret is our Father in heaven's promise that the flame of His children, the Jews, the flame of His Torah will never be distinguished for all eternity."
Tuesday
8 Nisan, 5771; 7 Days until Pesach
April 12 , 2011
1) It is a Mitzvah to use red wine for the Arba Kosos, the four cups at the Pesach Seder. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 472:11)
It is ideal for men not to use Grape juice for the Arba Kosos.
If someone cannot drink wine, it is best for some wine to be mixed into the grape juice to the point that the wine can be tasted.
Of course, if due to health or other reasons, one is unable to drink even a little bit of wine , then grape juice should be used, and the obligation of the Arba Kosos will be fulfilled L'Chatchila. (See Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 2 Siman 243 where he writes that the Chazon Ish, Brisker Rav, Techibiner Rav Zichronam L'Vracha and other Gedolim used grape juice at the end of their lives when they were unable to drink wine.)
Women and children can use Grape Juice L'Chatchilah.(ibid.)
2) If one has white wine that is a better quality wine than the red, it's better to use the better wine. (Rama Siman 472:11)
One of the reasons for opting for red wine is to commemorate the "Jewish blood" that was spilled by Pharaoh in Mitzrayim. (Mishna Berura Siman 472:38)
Thus, what many people who want to drink white wine do, is to add some red wine to it to turn the mixture red.
However, adding red wine or grape juice to white wine for the purpose of coloring the white wine is problematic, as even though the prohibition of "coloring" on Shabbos and Yom Tov usually does not apply to food, here where the whole purpose of the mixing is to "color" the drink, it may indeed be a prohibition of Tzvia, coloring. (See Halichos Shlomo, Pesach, Perek 9:5 and footnote Dvar Halacha 11)
The better option when doing this is to pour in the red wine first and then add the white wine to the red. (Based on Sha'ar HaTziyun Siman 318:65 where he writes that when done this way, according to all opinions, it isn't considered coloring.)
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 is the general rule regarding brushing ones teeth on shabbos ?
Answer:
If the teeth need to be brushed, it may only be done softly, with a dry brush which is designated for shabbos use. (according to some authorities, it has to even look different than the regular weekday toothbrush. (See Shu"t Minchas Yitzchok Vol. 3 Siman 50 ), in a way that will not cause bleeding.
Toothpaste may not be used according to Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal ( Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 112) and most contemporary Poskim.
They do have some sort of new Shabbos Toothbrush/tooth wash on the market which is OK, if necessary.
Mouthwash is OK to use.
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 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 ME.
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
WEEKLY "DAVENING CORNER" FEATURE!
This segment was compiled by daily readers of "Halacha For Today", Moshe Weiss, S. Weiss, and E. Willner of Brooklyn, NY.
Approximately 250 years ago, the Yesod VeShoresh HaAvoda wrote a will wherein he discussed the importance of davening correctly. He wrote that Eliyahu HaNavi attributes the length of the exile to the fact that we, as a nation, are not careful to enunciate the words of our tefillos properly.
He explains that our prayers, which offer praise to HaShem, when not pronounced correctly, are not complete and never really leave our mouths properly. The words of our davening are exact, and are intended to be pronounced accurately. Just as when speaking to a human being we are careful to use proper diction, so, too, and how much more important it is, to say the words the sages intended us to use carefully and properly.
Further, often the words that are mispronounced, sometimes entirely change the meaning of what we are saying. Punctuation, as well, can change the meaning of our words and phrases, so that putting a pause, or comma, in the wrong place can also change the meaning of the tefillah.
GENERAL RULE: Emphasis (shown here by bold and italics) is usually on the last syllable. Look for a vertical line in (most) siddurim if the emphasis is on a different syllable.
WEEK FOUR:
In shemoneh esrei, it is "mi chamocha ba-al gevuros. . .", Who is like you, Master of strength. If we mispronounce "ba-al" as one syllable (bal), it means without strength (chas veshalom). Similarly, we should be careful to say ba-al properly wherever the word appears in davening, such as at the end of Retzei in birkas hamazon (twice).
Previous Lessons
WEEK ONE:
Modeh (fem. = modah) ani lefanecha, melech chai vekayam, shehechezarta bi nishmasi bechemlah. (Pause) Rabah emunasechah.
Translation: You have returned my soul within me with compassion. (Pause) Abundant is your faithfulness! These last two words form an independent phrase. If you attach Rabah to the previous phrase, then you have the last word alone which doesn't mean anything by itself. So the full meaning is: I thank you HaShem for returning my soul with compassion. Why did you do it? Because your faith in me is great that I will spend my day productively doing the right thing and sanctifying Your name.
WEEK TWO:
The word/name is Yisraale (not Yisroel). It has a kamatz, not a cholam. As with most words in Leshon HaKodesh, the emphasis is on the last syllable. Note, too, that the nekuda under the aleph is a tzeirei [ai sound] and not a segol [eh sound]).
WEEK THREE:
Sometimes the emphasis actually changes the meaning of a word.
Example: VeAhavta - and you shall love, future tense vs. mispronunciation VeAhavta - and you loved - past tense. Emphasis is on last syllable. In Shema, this is a command for the future. You shall love HaShem with all your heart and soul. We would never mean to say chas veshalom, that we loved HaShem in the past. Note: the word after VeAhavta is ais (tzeirei), not es (segol).
For questions and comments on this segment please contact mw@mosheweiss.com
Monday
7 Nisan, 5771; 8 Days until Pesach
April 11, 2011
1) Kadesh: Kiddush and the first of the four cups of wine.
Every Jewish adult male and female is obligated to drink four cups of wine over which the Hagadah was recited. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 472:8 and 14)
Minor boys and girls who have reached the age of Chinuch (Around five or six years of age, depending on each individual child's level of maturity and comprehension) should be given 4 cups of wine as well. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 472:15)
The prevalent custom is to place a glass of wine in front of all the children, even those that are not yet of Chinuch age.
2) There is a debate amongst the Poskim as to the exact amount of fluid that makes up a "Revi'is".
For Mitzvos D'Oraysa (biblical commandments) the Poskim are stringent and require the larger amount of approx. 4.5 ounces, while for Mitzvos D'Rabanan (rabbinic ordinances) the smaller Shiur of 3.3 ounces (According to Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal) suffices.
The 4 cups of wine at the Pesach Seder are a Mitzvah D'Rabanan and thus would only require 3.3 ounces for each of the 4 cups. (If the first night of Pesach falls out on Friday night, then the first cup, which is also the cup of Kiddush, a biblical commandment, will require the larger amount.)
If one is able, of course, it is best to try and drink the 4.5 ounces even for Mitzvos D'Rabanan. But if one has a hard time drinking that many cups of wine, the smaller Shiur may be relied upon.
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 would like to know, when we got the Torah did it come in a sephardic way, ashkenaz way, chassidic way or it just said straight out the halachos and everyone just keeps it their way, and if that's how it is then which way is best?
Answer:
There was only one Torah, and there still is only one Torah, and there will always be only one Torah.
Over the years certain things were forgotten or translated differently, so there developed different schools of thought about what certain things mean, how certain things are done etc. However, all the different cultures and groups are doing the same thing...in their unique way.
Hilel and Shamai, Rav Akiva and Rav Elazar, Rav Meir and the Chachamim, The Gaon of Vilna and the Ba'al HaTanya, Rav Akiva Eiger and the Chasam Sofer, Rav Avrohom Yitzchak Kook and the Brisker Rav, The Chazon Ish and Rav Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld, Rav Moshe Feinstein and the Satmar Rav Zichronam Livracha, Rav Ovadia Yosef shlita and Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv shlita...and all the sages throughout the ages always had (and will have, until Mashiach comes) differences of opinion in halacha, hashkafa, etc....but were all striving for the same truth! The truth of the holy Torah.
We serve the same Hashem and keep the same holy Torah, and are reaching for the same goal of earning Olam Haba...we just take different paths sometimes to get there.
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 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 ME.
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
Question:
Prove Clearly that there is a G-d.
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
That's a question that I like to hear. I'm going to prove it clearly right now to you; I won't charge you extra for it. Now some of our people here are veterans, but bear with me for the benefit of the newcomers.
One night I slept in the country and outside my window was a wild cherry tree. Now for months the wild cherries have been available only to birds. If you couldn't fly or if you didn't want to climb the tree you couldn't get them. But that night - all night I heard the pit-pat of falling cherries. All night - pit-pat - as they were falling on the lawn -pit-pat pit-pat - all night. I was thinking, "Why all of a sudden is it coming down? It was holding on tightly all the spring months, what is it that makes it get loose and come down?" If you study a little bit of botany you know that a fruit doesn't fall by accident, because then why doesn't it fall at the beginning of the season? It first has to become ripe, it has to become sweet. And at the same time it has to acquire a pleasant color. And then certain cells start developing. In the stem, where the stem of the fruit is connected with the twig of the tree, certain abscission cells start developing and these cells cause the fruit to fall.
So the question is, why is it that when the fruit is unripe it doesn't fall down? That's a question that we have to face. Now don't try to dodge that question, because that question is of the utmost consequence - why does the fruit let go only when it's ripe? We're not talking about when a hurricane comes and blows down unripe green fruits - it will blow down a tree, too! But why does the fruit fall only when it's ripe? And the answer is: because we can't get up to it otherwise. The tree knows that we don't have wings. The main eaters, the most important eaters, don't have wings. And that's why the tree lets go when the fruit is ripe.
Now pay attention - why is it that before the fruit is ripe it's always green? All unripe fruits are green. Whether the fruit eventually becomes bright yellow like a banana, or an orange or bright blue like grapes, or bright red like apples, whatever happens, before it's ripe, it's always green. Why is that? Why isn't it something else? Why isn't it bright yellow when it's unripe, why isn't it bright blue when it's unripe? All over the world wherever you go you won't find a single fruit that when it's unripe has any color but green. Do you know why? Because green is the color of the leaves, and the fruit is hiding among the leaves. When it's unripe the fruit says,"Don't look at me, I'm not old enough yet." And it doesn't fall down it's holding on tight; it's not fit to eat yet. Even if you shake the tree it wouldn't come down. Maybe one sick fruit would, but all the healthy fruits hold on tight. It's only when the fruit becomes ripe, then it acquires an attractive color. Now it says, "Look at me, and look at the tree." And you look at the miracle - who hung all those beautiful balls of luscious food on the tree?! And they're packaged in such gay colors! Now if you never saw an apple tree before... I was a city boy, the first time I saw an apple tree full of apples, it was an apparition to me. A tree with apples on it! I never saw apples before, only in a basket. Apples hanging on a tree and all brightly colored! And if you give the tree a little shake it starts tumbling down.
So the question now is, why is it that this series of adjustments took place? That all the fruits when they're unripe are all green? It happens by accident that green is the color of the leaves? It happens by accident that the fruits can hide among the leaves? And why is it that when the fruit is ripe, and only then, does it acquire a conspicuous color? By accident apples become red, by accident bananas become golden yellow, by accident grapes become blue or whatever they are? Why is it? And why is it that when they're ripe they are ready to come down?
And if you want some more why-is-its - why is it that when you finish eating the apple, you come to the inside, there's an area that's hard to eat, you're discouraged from eating it? That's the ovary where the seeds are. Because the ovary has in it some plastic pieces, that if you swallow it, it sticks in your throat, sticks in your gums; it's not edible. So why is it that when you walk, you sometimes see apple cores scattered everywhere? Had it been not a paved street but an earth and field, it would've taken root eventually. What is it that makes people spare the seeds and spit it out for next year's planting? It's like eating a box of cereal and when you get down to the bottom of the box, there's a coupon entitling you to another free box. So when you spit out the seeds - you always spit out the seeds. And if you don't spit out the seeds they spit themselves out. Try to eat a piece of watermelon and the seeds shoot in all directions. They're made slippery for that purpose. Now the question is why is it that you have seeds in the apples? Why is it that you have seeds in every living thing? And what is a seed? A seed is also a question; a little question. A seed has in it 100,000 details all in blueprint in the seed's chromosomes, telling it how to make another apple tree, and to produce leaves, and to produce sap and bark, and all kinds of flowers, and to produce more apples. All these plans are in the blueprint. So the question is how is it?
And therefore if you look at a red apple, that's enough proof for anybody. Nobody can dispute this proof; that there is a creator with an intelligence that's vastly beyond the ability of all the scientists put together to understand.
The number "15" is significant in that it correlates to the "15" "Shir HaMa'alos" psalms which were composed to correspond to the "fifteen" steps in the Bais Hamikdash. (Additionally, Hashem created the world with the letters "Yud" and "Hay"; Olam Hazeh with the "Hay" and Olam Haba with the "Yud". Put these two letters together and you get the name of Hashem, "Kah" which add up to "15".)
What does the Bais Hamikdash have to do with Pesach?
Everything!
The first night of Pesach each year always falls out on the same day of the week that Tisha B'Av falls out; the two days are connected.(See Shulchan Aruch Siman428:3)
2) The Jewish people are currently in Galus, exile, and do not have a Bais Hamikdash and until Mashiach's arrival (very soon hopefully) we bemoan this sad reality on Tisha B'Av, the day of its destruction.
Pesach, the celebration of Geulah, redemption, is a day when we commemorate our physical and spiritual redemption from Egypt, and prepare ourselves for the final redemption which Chazal tell us will take place in this time period.
Thus as we sit down to the Pesach Seder it is important to keep in mind that the aura of the evening should be kept sanctified and holy as we have the power in our hands to unleash the final Geulah via our conduct at this table; we can facilitate the necessary zechusim to ensure that Tisha B'Av this year will be a day of dancing and jubilation and no longer be a day of disappointment and tears.
Our "15" steps of the Seder can facilitate the rebuilding of the Bais Hamikdash with its "15" steps and thus return the world which was created with the letters that add up to "15" to its intended purpose: The glorification of our "Kah" Hashem.
Over the next few days we will discuss various halachos and minhagim regarding the Pesach Seder.
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 will not be home for Pesach. Am I exempt from Bedikas Chometz?
Answer:
If you will be away for Pesach, ideally it would be best to leave after doing Bedikas Chometz in the proper time on the eve of 14 Nisan.
If that is not possible, the Bedika can be done on an earlier night but without a Bracha.
It is better to do the Bedika on the closest "night" to the 14th of Nisan, rather than do it by day on 14 Nisan, as the Takana of Bedikas Chometz was instituted to be done at night.
If one will be away for the entire Pesach, he can technically sell his entire house and thus be exempt from Bedikas Chometz, but it is best to leave over one room unsold in which to make a Bedikah, as it is a Mitzvah, and we don't want to "get out" of doing Mitzvos.
If one will be at someone else's home for Pesach (e.g. parents or in-laws ) and they have a designated room where they will be sleeping for Yom Tov, if they are there already by the eve of 14 Nisan, they are obligated to do Bedikas Chometz in that room with a Bracha. If they arrive on Erev Yom Tov, if the room was not checked they should check itthen withouta Bracha.
If one is in a hotel for Pesach, the room should be checked without a Bracha, as we assume that hotel rooms are cleaned well and free of all food. (unless they were there from before the 14th of Nisan and ate Chometz in the room, in which case a Bracha should be recited if done on the eve of the 14th)
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 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 ME.
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
While I was a young man learning in kollel, I found out that Amazon.com
was going public. I had been a fan of Amazon for many years, and I was intrigued by their business model. Every order was delivered on time, every time - exactly as promised. It seemed to be a company poised for success.
Still, my wife and I were newly married and money wasn't plentiful, so when I discussed the idea with her, she was a bit hesitant, but said, "If you feel it's a good idea, go ahead." So we agreed that the next day I would invest two thousand dollars in the initial public offering.
That night, for some reason, my wife turned to the business section of Newsweek and read an article about Amazon. "Jeff Bezos has a million dollars in personal credit card debt...He is asking fifteen dollars a share...The company has nowhere near that market value..." On and on, the article ragged against the stock.
My wife brought the piece to me. "What do you want to do?" she asked.
"What do you want to do?" I responded.
"I think it's just too risky."
"OK, fine."
And I didn't purchase the stock.
Let's imagine for a moment that I had. And let's say that I had held onto those shares till today. The last time I counted, those two thousand dollars were worth 1.4 million dollars. 1.4 million dollars is a tidy sum of money! Not that we lack, but I can think of some clever things to do with 1.4 million dollars. Aw, shucks!
Aw, shucks is a lack of bitachon. Aw, shucks means, "If only I would have convinced her. Why didn't I push harder? I could have, should have, would have ..."
However, if I accept that every Rosh Hashanah HASHEM decrees how much money I will make that year - that means that I accept that HASHEM decrees how much money I will make that year. A lot or a little. A huge fortune or whatever. But that is the point. HASHEM is in charge. He runs the world. He knows what is best for me and He orchestrates events the way He sees is for the best.
And so, for some strange reason, my wife just happened to read that section of Newsweek the very night before I was to buy those shares. Even though she doesn't normally read the business section. And even though Time magazine had a very different take on the situation, and had she read that article, she would have had a different opinion. But she read the Newsweek article at that time, and brought it to my attention because that money wasn't supposed to be part of our future.
This is a critical factor in learning to trust HASHEM. Whether I recognize it as good or not, I trust that HASHEM knows better than I, and HASHEM orchestrates the events of my life for my good.
In this case, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to recognize why a young fellow in kollel might be better off without 1.4 million dollars. But that is the point. One who trusts in HASHEM has no regrets. No could have, should have, would have. "Oh, I should have invested in real estate in the eighties!" "Why didn't I buy gold when it was up!?" "Why didn't I get out of the market a year earlier?" All of these are the words of a person who is in this world on his own - a man who enters the uncertainty of a volatile marketplace, alone. And then he suffers regrets. Regret that he didn't buy more. Regret that he didn't get that lucky break. Regret that he chose what he chose.
If I wasn't sensible or if I didn't do my due diligence, then there is plenty of room for regret. But that regret is because I failed. I wasn't wise. I didn't act as I should have. But assuming that I was judicious and prudent, then I have full trust in HASHEM. HASHEM directs every transaction. HASHEM knows better than I what is for my best, and HASHEM orchestrates events towards that end. And therefore, there is no remorse, no regret.
Submitted by daily reader, A.C., taken from www.theshmuz.com
1) It is forbidden to do "Melacha" (things referred to in halacha as "work"; for the purposes of earning profit or even if done for free in certain instances where the 'work' is deemed Melacha Gemura) on Erev Pesach after Chatzos, Halachic midday. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 468 1 and 2)
One who does forbidden Melacha at this time will never see Siman Bracha (positive fruits of their labor) from that work. (Mishna Berura Siman 468:2)
Any types of Melachos that are permitted on Chol Hamoed are permitted after Chatzos on Erev Pesach. (See Mishna Berura 468:7)
A Rav should be consulted to determine the permissibility of any specific 'work'.
2) Simple ironing of clothing (to remove creases, as opposed to ironing to form pleats) and polishing shoes is permitted. More complicated ironing is prohibited, but may be done by a non Jew.
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) It is best not to get a haircut on Erev Pesach after Chatzos, even if the barber is a non Jew. B'Dieved, if a non Jew gives the haircut, it's OK. (See Mishna Berura 468:5)
It is best to cut nails before Chatzos. B'Dieved if it wasn't done before, it may be done after Chatzos. (ibid.)
2) If one needs to mend an article of clothing, sew on a button, or similar "fixing" that is needed for Yom Tov, it is permitted. (See Mishna Berura Siman 468:8)
Laundry should not be done after Chatzos. (Unless in necessary instances where it would be permitted on Chol HaMoed.)
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 we have whole wheat grains, should it be thrown as chometz, or we can keep it together with kitnios and sold?
Same question for kasha grains, barley grains.
Answer:
Many grains and flours sold today are soaked in water or other solutions before being packaged. Therefore, they should be treated as Chometz.
A competent Kashrus agency should be consulted for halacha L'Ma'aseh on any specific product.
(As an aside, Kasha, buckwheat, contrary to popular belief, is not a grain. It is Kitniyos. Its Bracha is HoAdama and its after Bracha is Borei Nefashos. See Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 65 and Yoreh Deah Vol. 2 Siman 25)
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 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 ME.
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"A person who seeks honor and recognition may believe himself to be independent and self sufficient. Yet, where would he be without others to supply his ego needs? He is the most dependent person in the world!
- RavYisrael Salanter Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin -
1) It is a Mitzvah to burn at least a Kzayis of Chometz on Erev Pesach.
Therefore, it's important to leave over a Kzayis for this purpose.
If all the Chometz was discarded before the burning, it is best to buy or acquire a Kzayis of Chometz from somebody in order to perform this Mitzvah. (See Mishna Berura 445:10)
2) It is customary to recite "Kol Chamira V'Chamia etc." at Biur Chometz to once again proclaim that all Chometz that may be in your property should be nullified.
This should only be said after a Kzayis of the Chometz that you threw into the fire has burned, otherwise it will be nullified before it has a chance to burn, and you will not have satisfied the mitzvah of burning "your own" Chometz. (See Mishna Berura 434:7)
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 remember learning that there is a minhag not to use garlic on Pesach. If so, what is the reason? Is this minhag still continued to be practiced?
Answer:
Some people refrain from using garlic on Pesach. This minhag is brought in the Pri Megadim, Aishel Avrohom Siman 464:1. He writes that he doesnt know the reason, but still one should be stringent.
The Chayei Adam (Klal 127:7), however, writes that there is no basis to this minhag and it is permissible to eat garlic on Pesach.
Of course, every family should hold on to their Mesorah, their traditions that were handed down to them from their ancestors.
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 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 ME. THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"The posuk says 'V'rapo Yirapei'; Hashem gives permission to a doctor to treat patients.
But while the doctor can heal, he does not have a right to despair about a person's recovery.
Although a doctor might see from his experience that people in certain situations do not recover, Hashem has the final say about the reality of any person's outcome.
One should never give up hope. There are plenty of people who have lived for many years after doctors have said that they would not get well."
Today's halachos dedicated by a daily reader as a zechus for Zev Binyomin Ben Baruch. May Hashem give him the strength and Siyata D'shmaya to succeed B'Ruchniyos and B'Gashmiyos.
1) Erev Pesach is a Ta'anis (fast day) for Bechorim (first born) in commemoration of their being spared by Hashem in Mitzrayim, while the Egyptian firstborn were killed.
The prevalent Minhag is for first born males to participate in a "Siyum Mesechta" or other Seudas Mitzvah, and thus they aren't obligated to conclude their fasts. (Mishna Berura Siman 470:10)
L'Chatchilah the firstborn must hear the Siyum, and not simply partake of the food that is being served. B'Dieved, even if the Siyum wasn't heard, he may eat. (See Halichos Shlomo Perek 8:1 and Shu"t Minchas Yitzchak Vol. 9 Siman 45)
2) There is a dispute amongst the Poskim if a firstborn that was born via caesarian birth is required to fast. Therefore it is best if he partakes in a Siyum.
A firstborn under Bar Mitzvah does not fast. However, it is customary for his father (or his mother, if the father is a Bechor himself) to fast (or participate in a Siyum) on the child's behalf. (Rama Siman 470:2)
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:
Besides for a candle, are the wooden spoon, feather, or anything else required when searching for chametz? Can we just sweep things up with a tissue, rag, or clorox wipe-if we see something?
Answer:
There is a custom to have a wooden spoon and a feather present when reciting the bracha over bedikas Chometz.
In the actual cleaning/checking there is no requirement to use them as their modern replacements (i.e .vaccuum cleaners,brooms, clorox wipes etc.) are sufficient.
The spoon and feather, along with the candle and the chometz pieces should be burned the following morning at Biur Chometz.
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 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 ME. THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
WEEKLY "DAVENING CORNER" FEATURE: WEEK THREE
This segment was compiled by daily readers of "Halacha For Today", Moshe Weiss, S. Weiss, and E. Willner of Brooklyn, NY.
Approximately 250 years ago, the Yesod VeShoresh HaAvoda wrote a will wherein he discussed the importance of davening correctly. He wrote that Eliyahu HaNavi attributes the length of the exile to the fact that we, as a nation, are not careful to enunciate the words of our tefillos properly.
He explains that our prayers, which offer praise to HaShem, when not pronounced correctly, are not complete and never really leave our mouths properly. The words of our davening are exact, and are intended to be pronounced accurately. Just as when speaking to a human being we are careful to use proper diction, so, too, and how much more important it is, to say the words the sages intended us to use carefully and properly.
Further, often the words that are mispronounced, sometimes entirely change the meaning of what we are saying. Punctuation, as well, can change the meaning of our words and phrases, so that putting a pause, or comma, in the wrong place can also change the meaning of the tefillah.
GENERAL RULE: Emphasis (shown here by bold and italics) is usually on the last syllable. Look for a vertical line in (most) siddurim if the emphasis is on a different syllable.
WEEK ONE:
Modeh (fem. = modah) ani lefanecha, melech chai vekayam, shehechezarta bi nishmasi bechemlah. (Pause) Rabah emunasechah.
Translation: You have returned my soul within me with compassion. (Pause) Abundant is your faithfulness! These last two words form an independent phrase. If you attach Rabah to the previous phrase, then you have the last word alone which doesn't mean anything by itself. So the full meaning is: I thank you HaShem for returning my soul with compassion. Why did you do it? Because your faith in me is great that I will spend my day productively doing the right thing and sanctifying Your name.
WEEK TWO:
The word/name is Yisraale (not Yisroel). It has a kamatz, not a cholam. As with most words in Leshon HaKodesh, the emphasis is on the last syllable. Note, too, that the nekuda under the aleph is a tzeirei [ai sound] and not a segol [eh sound]).
WEEK THREE:
Sometimes the emphasis actually changes the meaning of a word.
Example: VeAhavta - and you shall love, future tense vs. mispronunciation VeAhavta - and you loved - past tense.
Emphasis is on last syllable.
In Shema, this is a command for the future. You shall love HaShem with all your heart and soul. We would never mean to say chas veshalom, that we loved HaShem in the past.
Note: the word after VeAhavta is ais (tzeirei), not es (segol).
For questions and comments on this segment please contact mw@mosheweiss.com
Tuesday
Rosh Chodesh Nisan, 5771
April 5, 2011
1) It is a custom to place 10 pieces of bread throughout the home, which the one doing Bedikas Chometz should "find".
Be careful not to "hide" them to well, lest they be forgotten and left in the home throughout Pesach.
The lights in the room may be left on during the Bedikas Chometz. (See Halichos Shlomo, Pesach, Perek 5 Dvar Halacha Os 19 and footnote 57)
2) After Bedikas Chometz is finished, it is important to "Nullify" any Chometz that may be in your property. There is a special text of nullification that should be said, which is printed in most Siddurim.
It is important to understand what you are saying and not just say the Aramaic words in the Siddur with no clue that you are nullifying and making your Chometz Hefker, as simply saying the words as a "Tefilah" and not understanding them is worthless, even B'dieved.
The text may be said in English or any other language, as long as the one saying it understands what they are saying. (See Rama Siman 434:2 and Mishna Berura S"K 9)
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:
Can one sell chametz to a non-Jewish woman? If so, are there any special rules/conditions?
Answer:
Yes, Chometz may be sold to a non Jewish woman. No different rules than selling to a Non Jewish man. (Of course the sale should be done via a Rabbi to ensure it's done properly)
The Pri Megadim (Mishbetzos Zahav Siman 448:4) discusses that a Jew who became irreligious and married a non Jewish woman (Rachmana Litzlan) is best not to sell her the Chometz, unless there is no other Non Jew available. We can extrapolate from there that to another non Jewish woman it is perfectly acceptable to sell Chometz to her.
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 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 ME. THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"It's not about the chometz in the kitchen as much as the chometz in the head"
Today's Halachos dedicated by a daily reader, Rabbi O.B., with thanks to Hakadosh Baruch Hu upon the birth of a grandson. May Rabbi B. and his entire family have much Nachas from all their children and grandchildren and together merit greeting Mashiach Tzidkeinu B'Meheira.
Rabbi B. also wants to remind us all that it is incumbent on every Jewish husband to purchase a gift of clothing or jewelry for his wife L'Kavod Yom Tov! (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 529:2 based on Talmud Pesachim 109a)
1) All rooms where Chometz may have been brought into must be checked.
One's office, car and clothing must also be checked if there is a chance that Chometz was placed there. (Regarding the pockets of clothing see Shu"t MaHari Weil Siman 193, also quoted in Gilyonei HaShas to Shabbos 12b)
2) Before starting Bedikas Chometz the Bracha of "Baruch Ata Hashem Elokeinu Melech HaOlam Asher Kidshanu B'Mitzvosav V'tzivanu Al Biur Chometz" is recited.
After reciting the Bracha the searching should begin immediately, and no talking or interruptions should take place between the Bracha and the starting of the search.
It is best not to talk or make interruptions throughout the entire Bedikas Chometz process.
Talking for the purpose of the search at hand is permitted.
If one uses the restroom during the Bedikas Chometz, he may recite "Asher Yatzar" afterwards, and it isn't considered an interruption. (Psak of Maran Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Shlita)
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:
As I clean my house for Pesach, my husband makes me throw out any real Chometz that we will not be able to finish before Pesach, as he doesnt sell such Chometz.
Is this an issue of Ba'al Tashchis as this food is perfectly fine?
Answer:
There is no issue of Ba'al Tashchis as the Torah commands us to get rid of this Chometz. Even though it can halachically be sold and bought back after Pesach, it isn't the best thing to do for real Chometz as this "selling" is a bit deceptive. (Psak of Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky Zatzal, Sefer Emes L'Yaakov Siman 448 footnote 437)
Of course, for Halacha L'Ma'aseh about what you may or may not sell, a Rav should be consulted.
Another good option might be to give any Chometz in sealed containers to a Chesed organization that accepts such donations, as advertised in many communities.
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 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 ME. THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
How can a person refrain from speaking Lashon Hora without becoming a social outcast?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
That means this person thinks in order to be M'Urav Bain Habrios, to be acceptable to people, you have to speak Lashon Hora. Not true. On the contrary, you'll be more acceptable when people see that you guard your tongue against criticism. You don't belittle anybody; people will like you for that. You should know that the man who shows good character, a woman shows good character, is well liked.
If a woman speaks on the telephone and is catty, and talks against people, so although the other party may be polite to her, but she is thinking, "What a nasty person she is". And therefore Midos Tovos always pay off, good character pays off. And so the question is entirely out of place. By refraining from Lashon Hora, you become socially acceptable and popular and people will love you.
Of course if you'll keep your mouth shut when you should say kind words, then of course you're not M'urov Bain Habrios. When people are in distress, you should say a few kind words. You should encourage somebody even if they didn't ask you for it, encourage people! Kind words always are in place. And therefore, silence sometimes is required when there's a peril that you might be saying the wrong things, but when the right thing is required, words are certainly rewarded by Hakadosh Baruch Hu.
1) On the Eve of the 14th of Nisan, Erev Pesach, every Jewish homeowner is required to perform "Bedikas Chometz- The search for unleavened bread".
This search must be done at the beginning of the night (according to some opinions soon after sunset, and according to other opinions after Tzeis HaKochavim, the emergence of 3 stars).
2) From half an hour before sunset, no eating or other chores may be started.
The Bedikas Chometz must be done via the light of a single wick candle and not with a cluster of candles or a torch.
Today's days it is permissible to use a single beam flashlight for Bedikas Chometz, and this may even be better than using an actual candle, as many people are afraid to go to close to the place they are searching with a candle, and thus will do a more thorough job with a flashlight.
However, the Bracha on Bedikas Chometz should be made while holding a candle and the search should begin with the candle for a bit and only then switch over to the flashlight. (Psak of Rav Moshe Feinstein and Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zichronam L'Vracha and others. Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv shlita, however, maintains that in places where one isn't afraid to use a candle, L'Chatchilah it is better to use a candle the entire time and not a flashlight as not to change from the Minhag Yisroel.)
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 want to better understand the concept of "baking" matzos and why is that considered a mitzva.
In the Torah, the mitzva is to "eat" matzos during Pesach or the first night. Where does it state that baking matzos is a mitzvah?
Answer:
Of course the primary Mitzvah is to eat Matzah, However, the preparation of the Mitzvah, the grinding the flour, the making the dough and the entire process of baking Matzos is a Mitzvah in its own right.
See Shulchan Aruch Siman 460:2 and Mishna Berura S" K 5-7 for the following reasons to bake Matzos yourself.
1) Mitzvah Bo Yoser M'Beshelucho, it's a greater Mitzvah when done by yourself as opposed to having others do it.
2) MaHaril rules that this applies to all Mitzvos, not just baking Matzah for Pesach.
3) We don't rely on women or less learned people (who commonly bake) to be careful in the many aspects and intricate halachic requirements of Shmura Matzah baking
4) According to the Arizal, sweating and getting "into it" during the baking of the Matzos is a Tikun (spiritual remedy) for the "great sin" i.e. Hotza'as Zera L'Vatalah.
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 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
After saying the yehi ratzon following tekias shofar, the tzaddik Reb Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev once cried out to Hashem, "Sweet Father! If the malochim that were created from my קשר"ק(the תקיעה, שברים, תרועה, and תקיעה) are weak, then let the holy and healthy malochim created by the yidden's hard work before Pesach, (in קראצן, שארן, רייבען, and קשר'ן)-(scratching, scraping, scrubbing and kashering), come in their place."
In the home of the tzaddik Reb Osher of Stolin, much effort was expended to properly clean out the chometz from the cracks in the tabletops. The chassidim suggested to their Rebbe that it would be easier to get new tables. The tzaddik responded, "If I buy new tables, with what will Reb Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev defend the Yidden?"
Submitted by daily reader, M.F. ; Taken from the
Agudas Avreichei Lubavitch weekly email. To subscribe email info@lmaanyishmeu.com
**********
The Aneinu monthly Tehillim teleconference for women and girls will take place at 1:00 PM Eastern Standard time TOMORROW, Monday, April 4th.
Mrs. Debbie Greenblatt will deliver Divrei chizuk. She lectures world-wide and is a popular GATEWAYS speaker.
Call 212-990-8000 then enter PIN: 6060#
They will be saying Perokim #20, 83, 121, 130, 142 and 100.
1)As Pesach preparations get into full gear, it is the time of year when it is very common for new dishes, silverware, pots and pans to purchased.
Whenever purchasing new dishes, glasses, silverware pots or any other utensils that will come in contact with food, it must be determined if the manufacturer and/or the seller of these utensils are non-Jews, as if the utensils were manufactured or owned by a non-Jew they require Tevilah (immersion in a Kosher Mikvah) before being fit for use in a Kosher kitchen. (A Rav should be consulted regarding which utensils require a Bracha )
2)It is best to Tovel these utensils as soon as possible after purchasing them, as putting it off until a later date when they are ready to be used can often lead to mistakes and the use of these utensils without Tevilah. (Such as a sudden need for the extra dishes, or when needed on Shabbos or Yom Tov when Tevilah isn't possible)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) If the items acquired were previously used (e.g. by relatives, friends or purchased at a garage sale, estate sale or on eBay or similar site), it must be determined who used them and in which manner, as besides for Tevilah they may also require Koshering, a process necessary for utensils used for non Kosher, Chometz and/or Basar B'Chalav uses.
One who purchases or otherwise comes into possession of utensils that previously belonged to a non Jew, even if they were only used for cold uses, should kosher them in boiling water, even if they will only continue to be used for cold uses
These utensils should be koshered immediately and not even be used temporarily until they are Koshered [and Toveled]. (See Shulchan Aruch and Rama Yoreh Deah Siman 121:5 and Siman 122:10)
2)This Koshering should be done before they are Toveled in a Mikvah.
If they were mistakenly Toveled first before koshering them, they should be re-Toveled without a Bracha. (Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah Siman 121:2 and Shach S"K 5. For more on this see Aruch HaShulchan 121:9 and Pischei Teshuva 121:3)
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 asked, if one did bitul (annulment) and bedika on their chametz, and after Pesach they found chametz is it allowed to be used?
I told them that if they sold their chametz to a non Jew it was certainly allowed.
If they did not make a mechira, rather only bitul and bedika, bidieved is the chamatz truly allowed after Pesach?
Answer:
This is a Machlokes HaPoskim. The Shulchan Aruch (Siman 448:5) rules stringently that it is prohibited to eat or derive any pleasure from it.
Many Poskim, including the Chak Yaakov and Tashbatz are lenient at least in regard to selling it and deriving pleasure from the money.
The Mishna Berura (S"K 25) rules that if the amount of Chometz in question would be a Hefsed Meruba, a substantial loss, we can be lenient and allow it to be sold or given to a non Jew and then buy it back and use. If it isn't a substantial loss it is best to be stringent.
__________
Clarification regarding feeding Basar B'Chalav to pets:
The prohibition to derive pleasure from meat and milk, according to many Poskim is in effect when dairy is mixed together with the meat of a Kosher species of animal (e.g. cow, sheep etc.), even if the actual meat is not kosher to eat, i.e. it wasn't slaughtered properly (Neveilah) etc.
Some Poskim, however, based on the Rambam in his commentary to Mishnayos Krisus Perek 3, quoted in the Dagul Mervava (Nodeh B'Yehuda) to Yoreh Deah Siman 87:3 maintain that there is no prohibition to derive pleasure from milk mixed with the meat of a Neveilah, as being that it is already prohibited to eat due to its being a Neveilah, thus Ain Isur Chal Al Isur, a new prohibition cannot replace the original prohibition and thus it does not fall into the prohibition of Basar B'Chalav for eating and by extension for deriving pleasure from it as well.
It is best to be stringent and not derive pleasure from any mixture of milk and meat of a kosher species.
See Pischei Teshuva Yoreh Deah Siman 87:6, Shu"t Chasam Sofer Yoreh Deah Siman 92 , Chazon Ish Yoreh Deah Siman 22 and Sefer Badei Hashulchan Siman 87:25.
For halacha L'Maa'seh a Rav should be consulted.
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 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
" Remember, The people you gossip to, gossip about you."
*****
The Aneinu monthly Tehillim teleconference for women and girls will take place at 1:00 PM Eastern Standard time this coming Monday, April 4th.
Mrs. Debbie Greenblatt will deliver Divrei chizuk. She lectures world-wide and is a popular GATEWAYS speaker.
Call 212-990-8000 then enter PIN: 6060#
They will be saying Perokim #20, 83, 121, 130, 142 and 100.
Thursday
25 Adar II, 5771
March 31, 2011
1) The month of Nisan is a very opportune time to increase one's giving of Tzedakah, charity.
The Tzedakah given in the month of Nisan helps accelerate the acceptance of our Tefilos by Hashem. (Shla Hakadosh beginning of Maseches Pesachim. See also Kav Hayashar Siman 88)
2) Giving Tzedakah is especially worthwhile on each of the first twelve days of the month, when the Parsha of the Karbanos brought by the twelve Nesi'im is read in many congregations on each day respectively.
According to Kabbalistic sources , it is a proper custom to set aside thirteen coins for Tzedakah on Rosh Chodesh Nisan, as thirteen is the numerical value of the words "Echad" and "Ahava", signifying the great love that Hashem Echad has for His beloved children, Am Yisroel, and thus hopefully help bring the final Geulah and Mashiach Tzidkeinu this month. (Moed L'Kol Chai from Rav Chaim Pal'agi Zatzal 1:3 quoting Sefer Ma'aseh HaTzedaka Siman 64)
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 one has a dog, what about feeding the dog? Since dog food is traif (non Kosher) are you allowed to buy it and feed it to the dog or must only kosher food be purchased, I guess the same question would apply to fish, snakes, rodents, cats, etc.?
Answer:
Animals do not need to eat kosher food.
However, there are certain non kosher foods which one may not derive any benefit from and thus would be forbidden to feed to his/her pets.
They are Chometz on Pesach and milk and (kosher)meat that was cooked together.
Therefore, on Pesach one may not feed his/her pet any chometz.
And a whole year round one may not feed their pets any food that may contain cooked (kosher) meat together with milk or milk products.
Other non kosher pet food is 100% acceptable to feed all pets. (See Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah Siman 87:1-3)
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 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"In Ofakim where we live, there is a big playground for children right outside our window. This park is literally in the courtyard of many of the frum familes living in our enclave. On Shabboss afternoon, the park is full of Yiddisher Kinderlach, Kein Yirbu!
One day a member of our Kehilla approached me with a complaint. It seems that his window overlooks the park downstairs and he could not take his Shabbos afternoon nap without being awakened by the noisy children!
I told him - Baruch Hashem the children are playing loudly and boisterously! When the children are playing loudly, we (as parents) can be comfortable with their interaction. However, when they are (all) gathered together and "shushking' and talking silently amongst themselves, that is when we need to start worrying about what it is they are discussing etc!"
Heard From Rav Shimshon Pincus Zatzal; taken from www.OhrShimshon.com
"Rebbi Yehoshua says, in [Chodesh] Nisan we were redeemed [from Egypt] and in [Chodesh] Nisan we will be redeemed [from our current Galus with the arrival of Mashiach]"
Although the arrival of Mashiach can happen at any given moment throughout the year and indeed it is incumbent on every Jew to anticipate, and fervently pray for, his imminent arrival, the month of Nisan is particularly destined and ripe to be the month of the final Geulah. (For a deeper understanding of this distinction see Turei Even Rosh Hashana 11b, Shu"t Teshuva M'Ahava Siman 211and Peleisi end of Siman 110)
2) Techiyas Hameisim, the Resurrection of the Dead which will take place at some point during the period of Mashiach's arrival (May it be soon) will take place in the month of Nisan. (Tur Siman 490 quoting Rav Hai Gaon, He also writes there that the war of Gog U'Magog will take place in the month of Tishrei)
One of the reasons cited for the white garment known as a Kittel being worn at the Pesach Seder is to have a palpable reminder that Techiyas Hameisim will take place on Pesach, at which time the Talmud (Kesubos 111b) tells us that all Tzadikim will rise fully clothed. (See Sifsei Chachamim Megilah 31a Dibur Hamaschil Afturei B'Pesach at length for more connections between Techiyas Hameisim and Nisan/Pesach)
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:
Can a microwave be Koshered for Pesach?
Answer:
Koshering a Chometz microwave for Pesach use is something that should ideally not be done unless extremely necessary.
If being Koshered, the following procedure should be employed:
The microwave should be totally cleaned.
A cup or bowl of water should be placed inside and the microwave turned on for approximately 10 minutes. The bowl with water should then be placed in a different spot in the microwave, and the microwave should be turned on for an additional 5-10 minutes.
If there is a glass plate in the microwave, a Rav should be consulted regarding if it is able to be Koshered, and if so, how. (See Piskei Teshuva Orach Chaim Simon 451 for more on this topic)
If there are any plastic components on the inside surface of the microwave, a Rav should be consulted to determine if it is possible to Kosher.
If the microwave has a browning element or is a convection oven, it needs to be cleaned, and then turned on to its highest setting for 45 minutes, in order to reach its highest heat and thus render the oven Koshered.
There are certain models that do not reach the required temperature to effect a proper Koshering, so it's important to check with a Rav regarding your particular model.
The food being warmed up in the microwave on Pesach should be double wrapped, even after Koshering. (See Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 2 Siman 212 and Yalkut Yosef Vol. 5 page 360)
1)The Bracha on seeing blossoming trees is only recited on fruit trees, and only when the buds/flowers are seen in the early stages of blooming, and not on trees where only leaves are seen and not on trees where the fruit has already completely developed. (See Mishna Berura Siman 226:2 and 4. See also Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 6 Siman 53:4)
If one saw such a tree and did not recite the Bracha, it may be recited at the next opportunity. ( Mishna Berura Siman 226:5 and Sha'ar HaTziyun S"K 3. Some Poskim, including the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 60:1 and Kaf HaChaim Siman 226:9 and 10 rule that if it wasn't recited upon seeing it the first time, it is no longer recited at all. See also Shu"t Shevet Haleivi ibid.)
2) According to the Sifrei Kabala, reciting this Bracha, is a big Tikkun (spiritual repair) for the Neshamos that are hovering between the two worlds as Gilgulim (reincarnated souls) in the barks of trees, and it's important when saying this Bracha to have in mind to bring heavenly mercy onto these hovering souls and allow them to be freed from their pain and allow them to return to their place in Olam Haba (See Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 1 end of Siman 191 and Kaf HaChaim 226:8. The Kaf HaChaim 226:4 goes so far as to give another reason for this Bracha not being said on Shabbos, as doing so will be "Borer", separating the "sparks of Kedusha" of the Neshamos from the trees!)
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 once heard that there is a mitzvah to own your own wine for kiddush and the Daled Kosos (4 Cups of wine by the Pesach Seder). My father in law wants to buy me wine, and I want to pay him back... but he will only accept it if I show him the source for this. Do you know the source for this? I remember the Gemara in Pesachim about a person will rather use his own money to do a mitzva and there is an iyan of "Lachem" by Lulav... but what about Daled Kosos?
Answer:
There is a chumrah by Matzah to make it "Lachem", but I do not believe this Chumrah exists by wine for the 4 Kosos. Also, even if it would require "Lachem", getting it as a gift suffices. (See Halichos Shlomo, Pesach, page 206)
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 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"True Joy is found in controlling one's Yetzer Hara"
1) Some people have the custom after reciting the Bracha on seeing blossoming trees to add additional Mizmorim of Tehillim and other texts praising Hashem for the trees.
Some people try to say this Bracha with other people, as a group.
Some even have the custom to give Tzedakah before reciting this Bracha.
Each person should do as their customs dictate. (See Kaf HaChaim Siman 226:7 and 8. See also Shu"t Minchas Yitzchak Vol. 10 Siman 16)
2) This Bracha may only be recited once a year, and according to some Poskim only during the daytime (Mishna Berura 226:3. See also Shu"t Har Tzvi Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 118 and Shu"t Tzitz Eliezer Vol. 12 Siman 20:6)
The Bracha on seeing a blossoming tree should ideally not be recited on Shabbos, as we are worried that one will touch the tree and/or pluck a branch from it, as well as for Kabalistic reasons (which we will discuss tomorrow B'Ezras Hashem).
However, if it is seen on Shabbos and it will be the last opportunity to recite the Bracha, it may indeed be recited according to many Poskim. (See Kaf HaChaim 226:4 and Shu"t B'Tzel HaChachma Vol. 6 Siman 37. See also Shmiras Shabbos K'Hilchaso Perek 26 footnote 72 and Shu"t Yechaveh Da'as Vol. 1 Siman 2)
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:
Before Pesach I get many letters from various Tzedaka organizations requesting money for their cause.
Say I get about 100 letters in the mail this month. Is it better to give to one organization $100 or $1 to 100 organizations?
Answer:
It is better to spread the wealth rather than give all your Tzedaka dollars to one place. This doesnt mean you cant give more to causes you feel for and not at all to a cause that doesnt touch your heart,it just means that it is praiseworthy to spread it out. (See Rambam to Pirkei Avos Perk 3 Mishna 15 ).
There are also halachic guidelines about who takes precedence over others, as we have discussed in Hilchos Maaser Kesafim.
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 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
"You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you."
Today's Halachos dedicated by a daily reader, Gershon M., in memory of his father Yerachmiel Lazar ben Shlomo A" H , whose Yahrtzeit is today 21 Adar. May his Neshama continue to climb higher in Gan Eden and may he be a Meilitz Yosher for his entire family. Please have in mind when learning the halachos today that they be L'Ilui Nishmaso.
1) One who sees fruit trees that are beginning to bloom, in the [beginning of the] month of Nissan, or at any other time when it's the season for the trees to bloom, recites the following Bracha: Baruch Ata Hashem Elokeinu Melech HaOlam Shelo Chisar B'Olamo Klum U'Vara Vo Beriyos Tovos V'Ilanos Tovos (or "Tovim"; See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 60:1) Lehanos Bahem Bnei Adam- Blessed are You Hashem, Our G-d, Master of the Universe, who ensured that nothing is lacking in His world and Created in it good creations and good trees in order to pleasure mankind with them. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 226:1 and Mishna Berura S"K 1. See also Aishel Avraham Butshatsh that only in Nissan may the Bracha be recited with Shem U'Malchus. However, the prevalent Minhag is to say the regular Bracha as long as the tree is still in the blooming stage, even if this is past Nissan. See Chayei Adam Klal 63:2 and Aruch HaShulchan 226:1 regarding climates where the blooming season is not in Nissan (e.g. Australia or South Africa). See also Shu"t Har Tzvi Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 118 and Shu"t L'Horos Nosson Vol. 5 Siman 7)
2) Preferably this Bracha should be said on two or more trees [in a field]and not on a solitary tree. However, if it was recited on a solitary tree it is acceptable. (See Kaf HaChaim Siman 226:2 and Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 1 Siman 191. The prevalent Minhag is indeed to say it on a single tree)
Women are obligated in this Bracha just as men are. ( See Shu"t Har Tzvi Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 118 and Shu"t Tzitz Eliezer Vol. 12 Siman 25 for the reasoning behind this and why it isn't considered a Mitzvah She'Hazman Grama, as it is seemingly a time-bound Mitzvah)
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:
Can Maos Chitim be given with Ma'aser money or is there a minimum amount that cannot be taken from Ma'aser money?
Answer:
Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach Zatzal (in Halichos Shlomo, Pesach perek 2:2) rules that today's days one may give Maos Chitim from Ma'aser, as since there is no set amount that must be given and there is no organized system for enforcing that each person give, it isn't considered a "Chov Gamur, a total obligation".
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 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
Question:
There has developed a tendency among the Yeshivas to take only the best type of boys, who are sharp minds and successful in learning, because the credit goes to the Yeshiva and it acquires a better name. However, there is a certain public, a Frum public, good sincere boys who are not sharp minded and they are therefore neglected.
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
Now the truth is, there still are institutions that take them in, I don't want to mention their names, but there are places that take them in, even today. However, I want to tell you something about my experience. Boys that seem to be poor grade boys when they were little, when they were young, many times surprised us later in life. I can tell you a number of stories about boys who seemed to be failures when I knew them at the age of eighteen! Eighteen is an advanced age already, and I met them later in life, and it's remarkable what a change took place in them.
Some of them became great men in the world of Torah, and even if they didn't excel in Torah they became great as examples of outstanding good Jews. I know one fellow who was a failure in everything in learning, and he became one of the most important supporters of a certain Yeshiva, very active and outstanding supporter of the Yeshiva and he's an example of a patron of Torah.
And therefore it's very important for us to know we cannot afford to neglect any Yeshiva man. And even though he seems at the moment to be of inferior quality, he might turn out later in life to be one of the best.
Erev Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Shemini; Parshas Parah
19 Adar II, 5771
March 25, 2011
Today's Halachos dedicated by a daily reader, M.Z.,in honor of Mazal Tov bas Farcha whose birthday was 18 Adar. Happy Birthday, Mazal Tov! Ad Meah V'Esrim Shana Mitoch Nachas U'Briyus!
DOUBLE PORTION L'KAVOD SHABBOS KODESH
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1) Some people refrain from eating Matzah starting 30 days before Pesach, in order to properly enjoy the Matzah on Pesach.
Others have the custom to stop eating Matzah from Rosh Chodesh Nissan.(Chok Yaakov Siman 471:7 quoting the Shiyarei Kneses Hagedolah)
2) On Erev Pesach it is forbidden to eat Matzah according to all opinions. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 471:1. See also Shu"t Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 155 regarding if this prohibition is the entire day or if it starts only after Chatzos)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) Tachanun is not recited for the entire month of Nisan.
One reason cited is that the Nesi'im brought their Karbanos for the first 12 days of the month and thus was considered a Yom Tov, plus Erev Pesach, Pesach and Isru Chag are Yomim Tovim, and once most of the month was holy, the entire month was given a status of holy.(Shulchan Aruch Siman 429:2 and Mishna Berura S"K 7)
Likewise, "Tzidkascha Tzedek" at Shabbos Mincha, the "Yehi Ratzons" after Krias HaTorah on Mondays and Thursdays are not recited for the duration of Nisan. (ibid.)
2) The custom amongst Ashkenazim is that no fast days are held during the month of Nisan, including private fasts such as on the Yahrtzeit of one's parents or other fasts done in the pursuit of Teshuva. The exceptions to this rule are a "Ta'anis Chalom, a fast for disturbing dreams" , the fast of a Chasan and Kallah on the day of their wedding and the fast of the firstborn on Erev Pesach, which may be held even in Chodesh Nisan. (Rama ibid. and Siman 573)
Sephardic Jews who follow the rulings of the Bais Yosef may hold private fasts as the Mechaber rules that only public fast days are prohibited in Nisan. (See Mishna Berura Siman 429:9)
Another reason cited for the holiness of this month: The dedication of the Bais Hamikdash Hashlishi which will be rebuilt with the coming of Mashiach (may it be soon) will take place for seven days immediately following Pesach, thus the aforementioned restrictions continue even after Pesach is over for the duration of the month. (See Ma'aseh Rokeach beginning of Mishnayos Pesachim quoted in Shu"t Chasam Sofer Siman 103)
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 many tehilim names that I daven for every day. For most of the names that I have, I do not know what the status is, like if the person is still sick chas veshalom etc. Is there a problem with saying tehilim for these names anyway, even if they have had a refuah shleima, or are no longer with us?
Answer:
There is no problem per se with saying Tehilim for these names. However, the Seforim do say that it is best to only say names thatyou personally know, or know about, and not to say the names of lists that you have no idea about. All the Cholim that you don't know should be included in the "B'SochShaar Cholei Yisroel" you say after the names that you do know.
*************
Please pray for the following victims of yesterday's Jerusalem bombing:
Odelia Nechama bat Michal - suffered serious head injuries and is in intensive care. Her life is still in danger.
Natan Daniel ben Shulamit- a 17-year-old student who is in serious condition. He suffered massive internal injuries and has had a number of internal organs removed.
Leah Bracha bat Shoshana- is a 19-year-old seminary student from Cleveland Ohio. She suffered burns to her legs and arms as well as serious shock.
David Amoyal - David is the owner of the snack stand next to the bus stop. He told everyone to run away and then called the police, and was on the phone with them when the bomb exploded. He suffered injuries to his legs and feet and lower body. He is in moderate condition.
Sasson ben Shulamit - This is the second time Sasson has been injured in a terrorist attack in Jerusalem . He suffered lower body injuries and serious post-traumatic symptoms.
Ad Shapira - Ad is 18 years old and just about to complete high school. She suffered light orthopedic injuries and is in good condition in hospital.
Shilo ben Ofra - Shilo is 15 years old, and suffered burns and fractures to his legs and lower abdomen. He is sedated in intensive care.
Daniel ben Nurit - Daniel is 13 years old, and suffered lacerations and shrapnel injuries to his lower extremities, and is likely to be released from the hospital before Shabbat.
Elchanan ben Alona - Elchanan is 14 years old, and suffered serious injuries to his feet. One ankle and three of his toes were crushed. He has had one operation and will require more surgery. He will likely be in the hospital at least 2-3 weeks.
Netanel ben Shlomit
- Netanel is 18 years old and works as a security guard at the bus station. He was injured in the abdomen had surgery. He is now recuperating in the hospital.
May all Cholim experience a Refuah Shelaimah, IY"H.
Submitted by a daily reader who maintains a Cholim email list. To join the list email Ryr613@aol.com
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 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 ME. THANK YOU AND TIZKEH L'MITZVOS!
אל תתיאש מן הרחמים
Chizuk Corner
Any animal that has a cloven hoof that is completely split into double hooves, and which brings up its cud, that one you may eat. But these you shall not eat among those that bring up the cud and those that have a cloven hoof: the camel, because it brings up its cud, but does not have a [completely] cloven hoof; it is unclean for you."[Vayikra 11:3-4] "And the pig, because it has a cloven hoof that is completely split, but will not regurgitate its cud; it is unclean for you." [Vayikra 11:7]
(From Ha'aros, by Moreinu v'Rabbeinu Rav Zeidel Epstein, zt"l.)
Why did the Torah have to accent the feature of the pig that it has a cloven hoof, which is completely split? A cloven hoof is not indicative of prohibition, but rather of kashrus. It should have been mentioned incidentally. The sign of tumah, that it does not chew its cud, should have been accented instead. This is the sign of tumah by all the animals.
Chazal explain (Vayikra Rabba 13:5) that the Torah is telling us a fundamental trait of the pig. It sticks out its hoofs as if to proclaim to the world, "Look at me. See! I'm kosher!" The pig uses its kosher feature to publicize its kashrus. Rav Shlomo Harkavi, zt"l (Mashgiach of the Grodno Yeshiva) used to say that this is worse than an animal that has absolutely no kosher characteristics. At least, then, it is obvious to everyone that he is tamai and thus they know to keep away from him. But when he has some kosher sign which he can show off to everyone, sometimes he can influence others to believe that really he is kosher. Therefore the Torah equated his kosher characteristics to his treif characteristics. This possuk is teaching us beware from such combination: half kosher, half treif.
Chazal relate (Sota 22b) that King Yannai warned his wife, "Don't be afraid of the Rabbis; nor of those who aren't Rabbis. Rather be aware of the hypocrites. They look like the Rabbis, but they act like Zimri and want reward like Pinchas.
When a person's real self is apparent to all, then people can protect themselves and realize the person is not so kosher. Such a person is not so dangerous. The hypocrites are the real menace. They look kosher and yosher and so are very dangerous.
A ben Torah once went to one of the American Gedolim (at a time when there were no yeshivos in his city) and asked, should he send his son to public school where he will mix with the goyim. Or should he register him in the Jewish private secular school where at least he will be among Jews. The Gadol told him that it is preferable to learn in public school. At least there it is obvious that the other children are goyim and you can warn the child not to mingle and learn from their bad ways. You are Jewish and they are goyim. The distinction is clear.
However to be among secular Jews is worse. They are also Jewish and it is impossible to explain to a child not to mingle with them. They will have a very strong influence on your son.
Written by Rabbi Eliezer Parkoff Rosh Yeshiva Yeshiva Gedolah Medrash Chaim. To subscribe to his weekly Chizuk email send request to Weeklychizuk@shemayisrael.com