Current Topic:
Review of Halachos of Elul & Yamim Nora'im
***
1) In anticipation of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, special prayers, known as Selichos, are recited in the early hours of the morning (Preferably at the end of the night, before Alos HaShachar, daybreak, although many Shuls say it a half hour or so before the regular time for Shacharis) to beg Hashem for forgiveness for our sins of the past year, and to beseech Him to inscribe us all for life in the book of the Tzaddikim Gemurim, righteous individuals.
Some communities (including the Sephardim) have the custom to begin to reciting Selichos from Rosh Chodesh Elul until Yom Kippur. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 581:1)
Some communities used to begin saying Selichos from the 15th of Elul until Yom Kippur. This custom is not in practice today. (See Mateh Ephraim Siman 581:11 quoting the Abudreham)
2) The prevalent Minhag amongst Ashkenazic Jewry is to begin reciting Selichos from the Sunday morning (or Motzaei Shabbos, as is customary in many communities) before Rosh Hashana, unless Rosh Hashana falls out on a Monday or a Tuesday, in which case Selichos begins a week earlier, as we require at least four days of Selichos before Rosh Hashana.(Rama Siman 581:1. This year Rosh Hashan is on Monday and Tuesday. September 17 and 18, thus Selichos begins on Sunday September 9)
The reason for this requirement: Since a Korban (sacrifice) in the Bais Hamikdash required four days of examinations to ensure it was blemish free and acceptable for the Mizbeach (altar), so too each Jew should consider themselves as a Korban Olah on Rosh Hashana and be ready to sacrifice themselves in atonement before Hashem, and thus utilize these four days (or more) to examine their deeds and do Teshuva for their sins (blemishes) and thus be pure when approaching Hashem on Rosh Hashana. (See Mishna Berura ibid. S"K 6 for this and another reason as well)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
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 and tooth wash on the market which is ok, if necessary.
Mouthwash is ok to use.
The brush may not be rinsed off after use, as doing so is preparing it for the next use, which will be after Shabbos.
CHIZUK CORNER
[1.0579710144927536] Bizback2
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
QUESTION:
Why should we ask Hashem in our tefilos every day for the same thing? Doesn't Hashem know what we should have? Doesn't He know what we need?
ANSWER BY HARAV AVIGDOR MILLER ZATZAL:
Our tefilos are not to tell Hashem what we need, but l'hispallel, which comes from the word pe'lillim, which means to think, to make us think. We should know that Hashem is the giver of all that we get. That's the importance of tefila. And therefore we go to Him in order to demonstrate that we know He is the giver.
Now why every day? The answer is: auf'rious ha'chumrous ga'as, the Mesilos Yesharim says. The materialism is a very heavy thing in this world, and little by little it enters the minds even of tzadikim, - gashmius. And they must constantly reiterate and remind themselves, v'yodata ha'yom va'hasheivoso el le'vovecha, again and again, ki Hashem hu Ho'elokim. We have to remind ourselves constantly, and davening is not enough! Not that we daven too much, we don't daven enough.
All day long we have to say, baruch ato Hashem, only You, in order to remind ourselves constantly. Otherwise in between there's darkness; the choshech of olam hazeh comes into our mind. Therefore it's never enough to remind ourselves, baruch ato Hashem gomel chasadim tovim le'amo Yisroel. As much as possible a person is mechuyov.
To subscribe to the weekly 'A moment with Rabbi Miller' email Click HERE
Current Topic:
Review of Halachos of Elul & Yamim Nora'im
***
The days from Rosh Chodesh Elul until after Hoshana Rabba are days of Hashem's Rachamim (mercy), Selicha (forgiveness) and Ratzon (goodwill). They are an extremely opportune time for Jews to find it within themselves to repent and atone for the sins that were transgressed in the past year and to accept it upon themselves to live better lives, according to Halacha- the will of Hashem, in the year ahead. Hashem is always waiting for his children to repent, but in Elul He is even closer to us and Teshuva is a lot easier.
It is never too late to jump on the bandwagon and start our journey of return to our father in heaven, and hopefully, together, bring about the final redemption with Mashiach Tzidkeinu.
1) From Rosh Chodesh Elul until Shemini Atzeres we add Tehilim (psalms) Chapter 27, "L'Dovid Hashem Ori" to our davening each morning (after Shacharis) and each evening (Nusach Ashkenaz adds it after Ma'ariv while Nusach Sefard adds it after Mincha). (Mishna Berura Siman 581:2)
Throughout the month of Elul, the Shofar is blown each morning after Shacharis to awaken people to do Teshuva. The Shofar is not blown on Erev Rosh Hashana. (Rama Siman 581:1 and Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 128:2)
2) It is a worthwhile minhag when signing off a letter to a friend, or even a phone call or any conversation from Rosh Chodesh Elul until after Yom Kippur to add a blessing for the inscription in the heavenly book of life.
The accepted words to use until Rosh Hashana are "Kesiva V'Chasima Tova- [may you be] inscribed and signed for life".
From Rosh Hashana until Yom Kippur the accepted custom is to use the words "Gmar Chasima Tova- [may you merit] a final signature for life" (See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch ibid.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
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 -for eternity- 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.
Hillel 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, Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Zichronam Livracha, and YBL"T Rav Ovadia Yosef 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 (which has 70 facets of deep interpretation)
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.
As the Talmud (Eruvin 13b) states regarding the often fierce Machlokes between Bais Shamai and bais Hillel, "Eilu V'Eilu Divrei Elokim Chaim, both schools of thought are the true word of the One living G-d"
CHIZUK CORNER
[1.0579710144927536] Bizback2
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
The greatest of all virtues is the attainment of the Ayin Tova, i.e., a "good eye".
That is, a completely positive view of others - to see the good in every human being.
If a person sees someone act improperly and thereby invalidates that person, he has weakened the bond of brotherhood - the very fabric of community. Since there is no human being that does not have some flaw, one who has a tendency to judge others, will find some blemish in everyone.
Therefore, we should be aware that while the essence of the human being is good, nevertheless, he is still vulnerable to the influence of the negative impulse. However, if a person acts inappropriately, rest assured that he regrets his lack of discretion.
In addition, let's consider that if we were in his shoes, we might have acted worse than him. Therefore, we should never invalidate another person, regardless of what they have done.
King Solomon said (Mishlei 22:9): "One who has a 'good eye' will be blessed." Thus one who maintains a positive view of others will be blessed - continuously and abundantly - throughout his entire life. Just as he wishes for the good and rejoices in the success of others, so too, HaShem will bless him with countless blessings, success, and abundant happiness. Indeed, he will never lack anything for the 'kindness of HaShem will surround him'.
Regarding the 'good eye' there is no middle ground. If we do not view others in a positive light, then by force of human nature, we will see them unfavorably.
Therefore, we should attach ourselves - exclusively - to the trait of a 'good eye'. By viewing our brethren in positive way, the wonderful treasures of HaShem will flow into our lives and illuminate our souls with joy and peace.
[Based on Har Yira, of Rav Arye Finkel, Rosh Yeshiva Mir Yerushalayim]
Submitted by daily reader, A.C.; Taken from an email by the Salant Foundation,
salantorg@gmail.com
1) If two individuals come forward claiming the lost item is theirs, and they both bring witnesses testifying to this effect, the item remains with the finder until Eliyahu Hanavi arrives to reveal the identity of the true owner. (Rama Choshen Mishpat Siman267:8 and Sm"a Os 11)
2) If they both bring witnesses and one of the individuals also gives the correct Simanim, according to the Rama (ibid.) he still does not get the item, as once there are witnesses involved the Simanim are worthless. (See' Shach Os 6 where he isn't convinced that this is the correct ruling)
If one brings witnesses and the other gives Simanim, even strong Simanim, the item goes to the one who brought the witnesses, even if all they testify is that the item belongs to the individual, but do not know that he lost it. (Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman267:9 and Shach Os 7 and 8)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) If upon returning the lost item to the owner, the owner claims that part of the item is missing (e.g. a wallet with $50 in it is returned and the owner claims there was $100 in it or if the owner claims that the item being returned was firmly attached to another item and thus the finder must be returning only half of what he found) the finder is believed that what he is returning is exactly what he found and he does not need to swear or otherwise prove it. (Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 267:27)
2) If the owner claims that he saw the finder pick up two items attached to one another and now he only returned one of them, some Poskim require the finder to swear that he is returning all that he found, while other Poskim maintain that even in this case the onus is not on the finder to prove that he returned all that he found. (See Sm"a Siman 267 Os 42 and Pischei Teshuva Os 4)
This concludes Part 1 of the Halachos of Hashovas Aveidah.
Starting next week we will, B'Ezras Hashem, begin reviewing the timely halachos of Chodesh Elul and Yamim Noraim.
We will,B'Ezras Hashem, return for Part 2 of Halachos of Hashovas Aveidah after the Yomim Tovim.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
With regard to Ikar and Tafel, you gave an example of eating cheerios with milk and stated that one only says Mezonos.
What if one is generous with the milk and will drink the remaining milk after the cheerios have been eaten (whether actually drinking or spooning the milk after the cheerious were already eaten). In such a case would one make a shehakol after the cereal was finished and before eating/drinking the milk?
ANSWER:
If the extra milk was put in initially because it was specifically wanted as a drink, it will require its own Bracha of SheHakol right away and won't be a Tafel to the cereal in the first place.
If, however, the milk was put in as a Tafel to the cereal, then he leftover milk may be drunk, and no new Bracha is required, as it retains its status as a Tafel even after the Ikar has been consumed.
CHIZUK CORNER
[1.0579710144927536] Bizback2
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Question:
How does suffering improve a person?
Answer:
There's an endless well of greatness in mankind, only it slumbers within him. Vicissitudes are like salt that sweetens man. Undergoing difficulties in life stirs this greatness to the surface.
Today's Halachos dedicated by daily reader, A.K., as a merit for the Refuah Shelaima of
Bracha bas Chaya Rochel
B'soch Sha'ar Cholei Yisroel
Current Topic:
Halachos of Hashovas Aveidah
***
1)
If, upon announcing the finding of a lost item, two individuals come
forward and both give the same or similar correct Simanim, the finder
does not give it to one or the other.
Rather, one of them must relinquish his claim to the other, or they can make a compromise amongst themselves. (See Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 267:8 and Shach Os 5)
If one of them brings witnesses to support his claim the item can be returned to him based on their testimony. (Rama ibid.)
2)
If the two individuals gave different Simanim, the item should be
returned to the one whose Simanim were of the stronger variety (as we
discussed yesterday), as determined by a Dayan, a Halachic judge. (See Shach Siman 267 Os 10 and 12)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
Wouldn't
mezonos rolls be considered 'Maaris Ayin' since someone may see you eat
one without washing and assume it's regular bread?
ANSWER:
Well, first of all, "Mezonos Rolls" that are eaten as a meal
require Netilas Yadayim and HaMotzi and Birchas Hamazon anyway,
according to virtually all Poskim.
That being said, if
you are eating it as a snack or other method where it is definitely
Mezonos, how would the people seeing you know if you have washed or not?
It
is just as possible that you did indeed wash in another room and come
here to eat your "Hamotzi roll" If they heard you say the Bracha
Mezonos, then there is no Maris Ayin either.
And if the above for some reason does not work, you can always tell them that it is a Mezonos roll, which is a common item.
All
in all, I don't think any Ma'aris Ayin would apply to this situation.
That being said, a Jew should always strive to act in a way that people
who see him/her say how fortunate it is to be a Torah Jew! (See Talmud
Yoma 86a)
Of course, a Rav should be consulted for Halacha L'Ma'aseh..
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek
HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
What do you tell someone who feels hurt if he's not liked by people?
ANSWER BY HARAV AVIGDOR MILLER ZATZAL:
Tell him it's not so;
it's imagination. Everybody is liked by people. Only, if you're going to
eat garlic all the time, people can't get close enough to tell you that
they like you. If you keep on fighting with people, they won't be able
to tell you that they like you. So stop fighting with them, stop being
mean to them, stop looking cross-eyed at them, and then you'll discover
that people like you. The fact is human beings like each other; it's
natural.
Human beings are
what you call gregarious, means we travel in packs. We don't live like
lone wolves all by ourselves; we live in packs. Why? Because it's the
nature of people to like each other, only you have to give the other
party a chance. And one of the most important ingredients in giving a
chance is what it says in Mishlei: ka'mayim ha'panim el ha'panim. A face
to another face is like a mirror, mayim means [looking in the] water.
Suppose you're looking in the water and you want to see a handsome face.
You can't scowl; you scowl into the water, that's what you're going to
see! You have to smile pleasantly into the water to see a nice face.
If people pass you
by on the street and are unfriendly, first ask yourself, what's my face
look like? You can be 100% sure that your face is unfriendly. If you
pass with a pleasant face, people are going to react, and that's a
fundamental teaching. A lot of people feel lonesome in this world, they
don't realize it's the garlic on their faces that drives others away.
He'vei me'kabel es kol adam bi'seiver panim yafos, greet everybody with a
pleasant cast of countenance. You have to practice that. You have to
aware of your duty no matter how you feel, no matter how unimportant
that person is.
You have to be noheg
kovod bi'chol adam, honor every person, make him feel good by showing
him a friendly face. Show him you're glad to see him, welcome him by
your face; you don't have to talk. Even your wife, when you come in from
work, you're tired, and the boss was mean today, you had tough
customers... Come in with a friendly face. And also a wife should greet
her husband with a friendly countenance. The face is all important, and
you'll be surprised how it pays off not only in good business - you get
customers - it pays off not only that people honor you, but it's good
for your health.
You perk up and
become a different man after a while, and many things that bothered you
-psychosis, worries, disappear when you start a career of greeting
everybody with a pleasant cast of countenance.
To subscribe to the weekly "A moment with Rabbi Miller" email Click
1)
As we learned, before giving back a lost item, the owner has to provide
a Siman, an identifiable sign, to prove the item is indeed his.
There are three basic types of "Simanim" described in the Poskim: A strong Siman, a medium Siman and a weak Siman. (See Sm"a Siman 267 Os 7)
2) A strong Siman
is a marking that exists only on this particular item, such as a hole
in a certain place, a particular stain on a garment, a name written on
the item or another similar Siman. (See Aruch HaShulchan Choshen Mishpat Siman 267:5)
Upon
giving a strong Siman, there is a biblical obligation to return the
item to the owner, according to many Poskim even if this particular
owner is a known swindler or an otherwise unscrupulous person.
(Ruling of the Rama Siman 267:6 and Shach Os 3 and 4, Biur HaGra Os 16
and Aruch HaShulchan Siman 267:6. The Mechaber, however, rules that a
swindler will require witnesses in order to retrieve his item, even with
a strong Siman. The Taz rules like the Mechaber.)
A medium Siman
is knowing how many of a particular item were in the bundle, knowing
the size of the item, its exact weight, the exact location where it was
found (only if the item seems to have been placed there intentionally) , knowing the color of the bow or other wrapper in which the item was found, and similar Simanim. (See Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 262:3)
Although
biblically there is no obligation to return an item based on a medium
Siman, the Rabbis (Chazal) instituted that such a Siman is acceptable,
unless the claimant is a swindler. Thus a Talmid Chacham is believed if
he presents such a Siman. Likewise any person who brings character
witnesses that he isn't a swindler is believed with such a Siman.
(See Shita Mekubetzes to Bava Metzia 27b and Sm"a Siman 267 Os 10. The
contemporary Poskim are lenient and do not require witnesses and rule
that doing research and determining the good character of the claimant
is sufficient. See Hashovas Aveida K'Halacha page 54 footnote 8)
A weak Siman
is knowing the color of the item; even if the item was multi-colored,
giving a Siman that isn't unique to this item and can be found on other
similar items, such as the manufacturers size of a garment or the size
or thickness of a ring, or similar characteristics of the item which are
shared with others like it.
There is no obligation to return an item based on a weak Siman. (See Sm"a Siman 267 Os 7and Aruch HaShulchan Siman 267:6)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
Is it considered Yichud if there is a baby, under the age of Chinuch, present with the man and woman?
ANSWER:
In order for a child to be considered a Shomer to prevent
Yichud, a girl must be at least 3 years old according to all Poskim, and
according to others the girl must be five.
According to
Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal, the girl must be seven years old in order to
serve as a deterrent. For young boys the age is at least five yeras
old, and according to Rav Moshe Zatzal, here too the boy must be at
least 7.
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek
HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
HaRav Chaim Pichas Scheinberg Zatzal engrossed in learning Torah
Question:
Is there pleasure in the Afterlife even for lowly people?
Answer:
Alas for the man who
permits himself to be deluded by the darkness of the Evil Inclination!
Such men are not able to enjoy the Afterlife, for they are not
prepared, they have accustomed themselves to delight in the false
pleasures of the body. The conditions which made the righteous happy in
the Afterlife, make the unprepared unhappy.
Today's Halachos are dedicated by the Merenstein Mishpacha, L'Zecher Nishmas their grandmother
יענטע חיה בת ר נחום ע"ה
May her Neshama climb higher and higher in Gan Eden an may she be a Melitzah Yosher for her entire Mishpacha.
Current Topic:
Halachos of Hashovas Aveidah
***
1)
One who finds a lost item must care for it and protect it, in the
accepted and customary manner of protection and care for each specific
item, until its rightful owner is found. (Simply placing it
amongst his personal items is not necessarily an adequate protection.
See Shulchan Aruch HaRav Hilchos Metzia U'Pikadon 29)
The
finder is responsible to take the necessary steps to ensure that the
item does not get ruined due to not being used, being used improperly or
due to other outside elements. (Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 267:17)
Thus,
for example, one who finds woolen garments should shake them out once
every thirty days, one who finds [aged] books should air them out
periodically, one who finds utensils should use them in a minimal way to
ensure they don't get ruined from non-use, etc. (See Shulchan
Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 267 from S'if 17 and on for many more
examples; every item should follow what is customary for that item in
the society in which it is found.)
2)
Unless using the item is beneficial to its protection, it is prohibited
to make use of the found item. This is the case even if the finder is
certain that the owner would not care if his item is used, and even if
he is certain that the owner would be happy when he finds out that his
item was used. (See Shulchan Aruch HaRav Hilchos Metzia U'Pikadon 4)
If
the finder was not negligent in watching the item and it nevertheless
got lost or stolen, he is not obligated to reimburse the owner for its
value. (Ruling of Shach Siman 267:14 and Sm"a Siman 267:17
based on Rama Siman 267:16 that the finder is akin to a Shomer Chinam,
and not like the ruling of the Mechaber who deems him a Shomer Sachar)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
If
I made a Bracha on coffee in my office and then went with the coffee to
my car to go somewhere, do I make a new Bracha when I drink in the car?
If
a very short while later I return to my office, still with the coffee,
do I make a Bracha when I continue drinking in the office where the
first Bracha was made?
ANSWER:
Yes, when you leave the location where you made the Bracha
(besides for HaMotzi and Mezonos which have their own set of guidelines)
it stops working and a new Bracha is required in the new location and
then again when you return to the first location.
There
are a few exceptions to this rule, such as if you were eating a whole
time you were changing locations (such as gum or a candy) or if you run
out for a few minutes and people are still at the table and you return,
no new Bracha is required to continue eating in the first location.
Another
exception may be if you really planned to only eat/drink in the car,
and while waiting to go to your car you made the Bracha in your home or
office, the bracha may still work when you get to the car. (as he is
considered a traveler, and travelers are not subject to the above
halachos)
What is considered a "change of location" and
some other details of this halacha are beyond the scope of this email,
as it is a very detailed set of halachos, many of which we covered in Hilchos Brachos.
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek
HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
Although
when we suffer we should try to find areas in which we can improve
ourselves spiritually, when someone else suffers it is improper to judge
him negatively that he is suffering because of his sins.
1)
After the owner of a lost object is identified he should be notified
and asked to come and retrieve his item; there is no obligation for the
finder to go to the owner to return the item to him. (Ruling of
the Chazon Ish Zatzal, HaRav Moshe Feinstein and Maran HaRav Yosef
Shalom Elyashiv Zichronam L'Vracha, quoted in Hashovas Aveida K'Halacha
page 47 footnote 18)
2)
Furthermore, the finder can give the owner a specific and reasonable
time frame in which to retrieve his item. In the event that this period
of time passes without the owner coming to retrieve his item, the finder
may place the item outside of his home or otherwise cease to guard it
as it now has a status of Hefker. (Ruling of HaRav Nissim Karelitz quoted in Hashovas Aveida K'Halacha page 48 footnote 19)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
My
wife is an aveilah (in mourning) for her father. One of my mechutanim
is making an aufruf in a couple of weeks. They invited us for the
Shabbos meal after the aufruf. Is my wife permitted to attend the
Shabbos meal?
ANSWER:
The acepted custom is indeed for an Avel not to eat any social
meals outside of their home, unless not doing so will cause distress to
the person who invited the Avel, or if the Avel has no other place to
eat.
That being said, many Poskim make exceptions for relatives and
friends for meals on Shabbos, where the absence of the Avel would be
noticed, and thus be an expression of Aveilus on Shabbos, which is
prohibited. (See Igros Moshe Yoreh Deah Vol. 3 Siman 161)
Also,
some Poskim allow for the Avel to attend if he/she does not sit down,
but stands around and/or helps serve the food etc. A Rav should be
consulted for Halacha L'maashe to discuss your particular situation.
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek
HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
There is no enterprise that yields profit like preparation for the Day of Atonement.
Through studying Mussar and reflecting on how to improve one's ways, a person is
inspired on Yom Kippur to make resolutions for the future. Even the smallest, most
minute preparation to enhance one's Yom Kippur experience is invaluable, bringing
boundless blessings of success. It saves one from many troubles - and there is no
greater profit than this."
(Ohr Yisrael, Letter Seven, p. 193)
What exactly is Mussar and what does it have to do with my preparation for Yom Kippur?
Mussar is the systematized collection of the ethical teachings of the Torah. The
principles of Mussar are drawn from the Chumash, the Prophets, the works of King
David and King Solomon, the Talmud, the Midrash, and the Zohar.
Some of the classic Mussar works include: Mesillas Yesharim, by the Ramchal; Chovos
HaLevavos, by Rabbeinu Bachya; Ohr Yisrael, by Rabbi Yisrael Salanter; Tomer Devorah,
by Rabbi Moshe Cordovero, and Orchos Tzaddikim, of unknown authorship.
These books were written by great men - righteous Torah sages - for the purpose of
helping the people of Israel understand and internalize the meaning and the ways of
avodas Hashem (service of G-d).
Rav Yisrael Salanter (1810-1883) devoted his life to teaching klal Yisrael (the Jewish
nation) the importance of learning Mussar and the obligation to set aside daily times to
do so. He refined the concepts of Mussar and developed a methodology which could
be practiced successfully by every person.
THE ABOVE IS TAKEN FROM 'STEPPING STONES TO REPENTANCE'
A THIRTY-DAY PROGRAM BASED ON OHR YISRAEL
THE CLASSIC WRITINGS OF RAV YISRAEL SALANTER
PREPARED BY RABBI ZVI MILLER
TRANSLATOR AND ANNOTATOR OF THE ENGLISH EDITION OF OHR YISRAEL
If anyone would like to be added to an email list to receive a daily lesson from Stepping Stones to Repentance, please email tizku.lmitzvos@gmail.com with "Subscribe: Teshuva 5773" as the subject line
1) It is permissible to give a lost item to the police department's 'lost & found' bureau, provided that it is known that they watch over the lost items properly and that they return items to people only after ascertaining, via Simanim, that the item is truly theirs. (Ruling of Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Zatzal quoted in Hashovas Aveida K'Halacha page 46 footnote 11)
If it isn't clear that the 'lost & found' bureau follows the proper procedures, the lost item may not be given to them. However, the details of the object can be told to them and they in turn can direct anyone that comes to claim the item directly to the person who found it. (ibid.)
2) If one finds an item on a public bus or in a taxi cab, he may hand over the item to the 'lost & found' department of the bus or cab company, even if they don't properly watch over the lost items and even if they don't properly ascertain, via Simanim, that the person claiming the item is truly the owner.
The reason for this is that, unlike the aforementioned Halacha regarding a police station, all passengers riding public transportation do so with the understanding that if they lose something it will most likely end up in the 'lost & found' of that company.
Additionally, anyone who loses something in a public transportation vehicle, where one is expected to keep an extra eye on his items to prevent their being lost or stolen, is deemed to have not properly watched his item, and as such we are not obligated to care for an item in a more secure way than the owner himself cared for it. (Hashovas Aveida K'Halacha page 47 footnote 16)
However, the item may not just be placed near the bus driver with the hope that the owner will come back to look there; it has to be placed in the actual 'lost & found'. (ibid. based on Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 267:1that it must be placed in a secure place)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
A question I am curious about: on Friday night when singing 'Shalom Aleichem', why do we (not all people, but most people) say each line 3 times?
ANSWER:
The "Shalom Aleichem" was authored based on the Talmud (Shabbos 119b) that says that each person has 2 malachim (angels) escort him home from Shul each Friday night, one a good angel and one a bad angel.
When they enter the home they check for three things: 1) candles burning 2) the Shabbos table set and 3) the beds are nicely made up.
If the three things are found as they should be, the good angel blesses the home that it should be this way the following week as well, and the bad angel is forced to answer "Amen" to this Bracha. If the three things are not found, the bad malach curses the home, saying that it should be unready for shabbos the following week as well, and the good angel is forced to answer "Amen".
The "3" times we repeat each verse of the Shalom Aleichem are symbolic of the "3" things above that each Jewish home should have prepared in honor of the holy shabbos day. (Based on the writings of the Ya'avetz in his siddur)
CHIZUK CORNER
[1.0579710144927536] Bizback2
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Messages are sent down from shamayim to us each and every day, but we don't see them, because we are so busy.
If you want to see them, here are some great things to do.
1. Be calm-slow down, appreciate life.
2. Be thankful to Hashem throughout the day (no matter how small).
3. Be mispalel to Hashem to let you see it.
4. Smile.
5. Open your eyes to want to see it.
6. Say "I Love You Hashem' at least once a day.
7. Go through the day knowing Hashem is holding you.
1) One who finds a lost object which has a Siman is obligated to publicize that he found it so that the owner can learn of this information and reclaim his item. (Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 262:3)
The Poskim discuss various acceptable ways of achieving this "making public" of the finding of the object; all are methods commonly noticed by many people. (See Igros Moshe Choshen Mishpat Vol. 2 Siman 45)
2) Some of these methods include:
* Hanging a notice in a Shul in the area where the item was found. (ShulchanAruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 267:3. It isn't necessary to hang it in every Shul inthe area. See Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 5 Siman 9:8. If it is evident that the item that was lost belongs to a female, the sign should also be placed in the Ezras Nashim. Also, if the item was found in a public place such as a wedding hall, shopping mall or on the beach there is no need to place notices in nearby Shuls, as that is probably pointless. See Hashovas Aveida K'Halacha page 46footnote 8)
* Hanging a notice in the place where the lost object was found, as that is akin to notifying the owner's neighbors that his item was located. (Ruling of HaRav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal, based on Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 267:3,quoted in Hashovas Aveida K'Halacha page 45 footnote 5)
* Placing an advertisement in a local newspaper. However, even though this is an acceptable method, one is not obligated to pay money to place such an ad, unless it is a valuable item and we can assume that the owner will be willing to reimburse the finder for the cost of the advertisement. (See Shu"t Chasam Sofer Choshen Mishpat Siman 122 , Igros Moshe Choshen Mishpat Vol. 2 Siman 45and Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos V'Hanhagos Vol. 3 Siman 464. See also Shulchan Aruch HaRav Hilchos Metzia U'Pikadon 33)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1) When posting a notice about the lost item it should include general information as to what kind of object was found (e.g. jewelry, clothing etc.) (Shulchan AruchChoshen Mishpat Siman 267:4)
There is no need to worry about fraudsters taking advantage of this information, as the real owner will have to identify actual Simanim before being able to claim the item. (ibid.)
Of course, too much identifiable information should not be written in the notice ,as this can lead to unscrupulous people taking advantage of this information.
2) The notice should remain in place for a decent amount of time, enough that wecan reasonably assume that everyone in the area had a chance to see it. (See Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos V'Hanhagos Vol. 3 Siman 464 where he says "a week" is adequate time. HaRav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal ruled that the longer it can remain there, the better.)
After this amount of time has passed, if the notice falls off or is removed, there is no obligation to replace it.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
Is there any significance to saying "Zecher Tzaddik L'vracha" or "Alav/Aleha HaShalom"?
Does it to anything to the Neshama? Are we obligated to say that?
ANSWER:
Yes, whenever a Tzadik's name is mentioned the words Zecher Tzadik L'Vracha" should be added, to bless his/her soul, and whenever a rasha's name is mentioned the words "Shem R'shaim Yirkav or Yemach shemo" should be mentioned.
This is based on a Posuk in Mishlei Perek 10:7. See Rashi there. See also Talmud Yoma 38b.
CHIZUK CORNER
[1.0579710144927536] Bizback2
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
HaKadosh Baruch is the Kindest Teacher there is as He gives us the answers to the test prior to administering the test.
If we, His students, would only study those answers...
1)
A Kohen that spots a lost object in a cemetery may not enter in order
to retrieve it, unless it is more than four Amos away from any grave and
also in a spot where there are no trees or any other overhang between
the graves and where he will walk. (Hashovas Aveida K'halacha page 38 footnote 32 based on Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah Siman 371:5)
2)
One who willingly throws away his item into a public domain as well as
one who is notified about an item belonging to him being in a non-secure
place yet he doesn't make any attempts to retrieve it, has renounced
his ownership of the item and it is deemed Hefker and anyone can pick it
up and keep it. (Rama Choshen Mishpat Siman 261:4. Although
the Mechaber argues, most Poskim rule like the Rama in regard to this
Halacha. See Shach S"K 3, Shu"t HaBach Siman 97 and Bach on the Tur
Choshen Mishpat beginning of Siman 273 and Shulchan Aruch HaRav Hilchos
Metziah U'Pikadon 16)
However,
if one leaves his item in a manner that is minimally secure, even
though it can be more secure, such as leaving a baby stroller in the
shared entranceway of a building or leaving a bicycle in front of one's
home or leaving building supplies in front of a home being constructed
and similar cases, it is not deemed Hefker and may not be taken.
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
What do you regard as the minimum kavanah for the four-letter name of Hashem and for Elokim in davening and brachos, etc.?
Some
rabbis I've spoken to say there are no shortcuts. Having in mind "The
Master of Everything" is insufficient, but perhaps better than nothing.
Rabbi
Simcha Bunim Cohen's book references Reb Moshe Feinstein's Teshuvah
regarding Shma, which seems to say "Gott" (G-d) is good enough, but it's
from a chelek of Igros Moshe that some seem to deem less than
authoritative or authentic.
What do you think? I'm having trouble with kavanah for these names during a fast minyan!?
ANSWER:
The minimum for Hashem is "Adon HaKol- Master of everything" and if possible to also think "Haya Hoveh and Yihyeh- was, is and will always be".
The
minimum for Elokeinu is "Ba'al HaYecholos/Kochos Kulam" or "Kol Yachol"
the One who can do anything. If possible, also think " Mashgiach Oleinu
B'Pratus" the One who is involved in every small detail in our lives.
This is most important by Shema and the first Bracha of Shemona Esrei, but should ideally be done by all Brachos.
There
is an opinion of the Aishel Avrohom and the Ben Ish Chai that the first
time every day when Hashem's name is uttered you should have in mind
that for the rest of the day whenever I say this name the Kavanah should
mean what I am thinking now! This is indeed a leniency, but it is at
least a way to make it doable for many people.
Although
some don't consider the last volume of Igros Moshe as authorative as
the rest of the volumes [as it was published after Rav Moshe's passing],
many do indeed rely on it. Also the fact that Rav Cohen, who is a
talmid of Rav Moshe Zatzal quotes it gives this psak credence, any you
can rely on it.
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek
HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
When a Jew is
asked how things are going for him, and he replies that everything is
good, even when it is not, Hashem looks down and says: "you think this
is good?! I'll show you what real good is!"
Submitted by daily reader, D.W.; Attributed to Rav Nachman of Breslov Zatzal
Today's Halachos are dedicated in honor of daily reader, C.S., with extreme thanksgiving to Hashem, Who heals all flesh and is wondrous in His acts.
HODU LASHEM KI TOV, KI L'OLAM CHASDO
Current Topic:
Halachos of Hashovas Aveidah
1)
If a Talmid Chacham, respectable elderly person or another respectable
person who isn't obligated to pick up, carry and return a lost item,
wants to go beyond the letter of the law and return it anyhow, according
to some Poskim he may do so, as although it is indeed beneath his
dignity it isn't an affront to the honor of the Torah as he is doing so
L'Sheim Shamayim in order to fulfill the command of Hashem.
(Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 263:3 based on opinion of the
Rambam Hilchos Gezeila V'Aveida perek 11 halacha 17. See also Bais Yosef
on the Tur end of Siman 263)
2)
However, some Poskim prohibit a Talmid Chacham from returning an object
if doing so is beneath his dignity, as although a Talmid Chacham may be
Mochel, forgo, on his own honor, he may not forgo on Bizayon HaTorah,
disgrace of the Torah. (Rama ibid. based on the opinion of the
Rosh Bava Metzia Perek 2 Siman 21 and also quoted in Tur Choshen Mishpat
beginning of Siman 272. See also Prisha Siman 272 Os 9. This does not
apply to a respectable elderly person or another respectable person, as
all agree that they may return the item if they so desire, as by them
there isn't an issue of Bizayon HaTorah. See Aruch HaShulchan Siman
263:4)
According
to the opinions that forbid him from returning the item, if he still
wants to go beyond the letter of the law, if he knows who the owner of
the lost object is, he can pay the owner its value in lieu of
returning the actual item. (Rama ibid.)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
I was
wondering if it is permissible to make a bracha when hearing thunder,
even without seeing lightning? Are the two brachos dependent on one
another?
ANSWER:
Ideally, the Bracha
on lightning (Oseh Ma'asei Bereishis) should be made first and then the
Bracha on thunder (SheKocho U'gevuraso Malei Olam).
However, if thunder
is heard and no lightning is seen, the Bracha can be made on the
thunder, and then if lightning is seen afterwards, its bracha can be
made.
If
the thunder was heard and the lightning was seen simultaneously, one
Bracha of Osei Ma'aseh Beraishis is recited on both. If the Bracha of
Shekocho U'Gevuraso was recited on both, you are also Yotzei. (Mishna
Berura Siman 227:5)
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek
HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
If
a face is considered so important as an image of Hashem, why does it
say ossur l'histakel bifnei rosho, it's prohibited to look in the face
of a wicked person?
ANSWER BY HARAV AVIGDOR MILLER ZATZAL:
Imagine a screen,
and on this screen there once portrayed beautiful pictures, pictures of
nature, fields, gardens, and somebody came along with a low grade video
and he played it on the same screen. Now the screen is not to blame,
it's a noble screen, but the pictures are no good.
A rosho, although
he's capable of greatness - if he would do teshuva, the greatest rosho
can become a very great tzadik - but right now his mind is casting low
grade images on his face, and as you look at his face it registers on
your mind and on your neshomo, no question about it.
The emotions of a wicked person are demonstrated on his face, and it influences those that look at him.
To subscribe to he weekly "A Moment with Rabbi Miller" emails, click HERE
1)
If the person who finds the lost object is a respectable elderly
person, a Talmid Chacham (Torah scholar) [or another person of stature,
be it familial or societal], for whom picking up and carrying the lost
object is beneath his dignity, it is permitted for him to turn his eyes
away from it and not pick it up. (Mishna Bava Metzia 29b, Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 263:1 and Shulchan Aruch HaRav Hilchos Metziah U'Pikadon 36)
2)
Since this can be an arbitrary classification which people can wrongly
rely on to not return lost objects, Chazal instituted the following
guidelines to follow before determining if one's stature absolves him
from picking up a lost object:
How
would he act if it were his own item? If indeed he would not pick up
and carry the item, even if it was his own due to it truly being below
his dignity and an act that would cause him, or the Torah he represents,
embarrassment, then he is absolved from picking up a similar item that
belongs to someone else. (Shulchan Aruch ibid.)
However,
in a case where a person would indeed not pick up his own item, but the
dignity he is protecting is not authentic (rather due to his Ga'avah,
haughtiness, where he imagines himself to be more dignified than he
actually is, but other people would not see it as below his dignity to
pick up an item, carry it and return it) it does not absolve him from
the obligation to return someone else's lost item. (Shulchan Aruch HaRav Hilchos Metziah U'Pikadon 36)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
Would a divorced
man or woman that was getting remarried (to a NEW person) be required
to make a new birchas "Shehechiyanu" on their 2nd marriage (in-spite of
having already made this bracha at their 1st wedding), or perhaps a
bracaha of "H'atov V'hamaytiv" or neither (i.e. is there just a once in a
lifetime "Shehechiyanu" requirement for this typically once in a
lifetime event OR would it be perceived more along the lines of buying
an additional suit/clothing etc.)
ANSWER:
Why do you assume that on a first marriage the bracha of shehechiyanu is recited?
In fact, according to
virtually all Poskim, for various reasons, the Bracha of Shehechiyanu is
not recited upon getting married.
At most, if a Shehechiyanu is recited on a new fruit, it can exempt the new marriage as well.
Therefore, on a second
marriage it is surely not recited, but can be exempted with a new fruit
or new garment if so desired. (See Shu"t MaHarik 128:2 and Shu"t Chasam
Sofer Orach Chaim Siman 55 and Kaf haChaim Siman 223:25).
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek
HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
We're put in this world to
be formed into something beautiful. And so a tumult here . . . and a
knock here . . . and a punch here. We think it's all a waste.
We would like to get along
without it, but that's making us, it's rounding us out, and it's
smoothing us. It's making us into what we are supposed to become.
Part of our being in this world is involuntary perfection.
1) A Jew who eats non-Kosher [or does other sins] as an act of rebellion against Hashem (Mumar L'Hachis), does not believe in Hashem or desecrates the Shabbos publicly is akin to a non-Jew and we are not obligated to return his lost items. (Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 266:2)
However, one who eats non-Kosher [or transgresses other grave sins] due to craving and being unable to control his desires (Mumar L'Te'avon), although he is a Rasha, he is still considered a Jew and we must return his lost items to him. (ibid.)
2) One who finds a lost object in an area where most of the passersby are non-observant Jews, if the object is not valuable there is no obligation to pick it up and search for the owner, even if the object has a Siman.
If the object is valuable, according to some Poskim all the Halachos of Hashovas Aveida apply, while some Poskim are lenient and do not necessitate picking it up and trying to find the owner. (Ruling of HaRav Nisim Karelitz Shlita and HaRav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita, their reasoning being that the owner most likely had Yi'ush being that most non-observant Jews are not scrupulous to return lost items. However, Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Zatzal ruled that if the lost item was money indeed they aren't scrupulous to return it, but if it's another valuable item many indeed do drop it off at a local police station, and thus we can't assume that the owner had Yi'ush immediately, unless in an area where most of the people are rebellious sinners (Mumarim L'Hachis) as then we can assume they won't hand over to the police either. Quoted in Hashovas Aveida K'Halacha page 36 footnote 17)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
Does a person have to to teshuva for a sin that was done unintentionally (B'Shogeg)?
ANSWER:
Yes. In fact, the Korbanos Chatos, the sacrafices that were brought in the Bais HaMikdash were ONLY for sins that were done unintentially.
Sins that were purposely committed need a much more stringent Teshuva.
The main thing is to regret that it happened, ask forgiveness from the person you sinned against, accept to be careful not to do the sin again, and say Viduy for the sin.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Question:
What reveals a person's real values?
Answer:
That which excites a man, serves as a test by which his worth is recognized. When after a banquet one man is enthusiastic over the words of Torah which had been spoken, another praises the songs, and the third lauds the food.
1) When determining if the area where a lost object was found has a majority of Jews or non-Jews, it is defined by the majority that passes through the area and not by the majority of the residents in the area. (Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 259:3)
Thus, for example, a lost object which was found in the Rova HaYehudi, the Jewish quarter located in the southeastern part of the Old City of Yerushalayim, may be kept by the finder, as although the residents of the Rova Hayehudi are mostly Jewish, the majority of people who pass through there each day aren't Jewish. (This ruling with the example was given by Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Zatzal, quoted in Hashovas Aveidah K'Halacha page 35 footnote 9)
A lost object found in a building whose inhabitants are mostly Jewish, even if the building is situated on a street that has a non-Jewish majority, is subject to all the Halachos of Hashovas Aveidah, as most of the people who pass through that building are Jewish. (Ruling of HaRav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal quoted in Hashovas Aveidah K'Halacha page 35 footnote 10).
2) Even though there is no obligation to announce the finding of a lost object found in an area that is mostly non-Jewish and no obligation to return it, if a Jew approaches the finder and provides an adequate Siman it is proper to go beyond the letter of the law (Lifnim Mishuras Hadin) and return it to him. (SeeShulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 259:5 and Sm"a S"K 12)
If the finder is a poor person and the lost item belongs to a wealthy person, there is no obligation to go beyond the letter of the law. (Rama ibid.)
However, if the finder is wealthy (or even of average means, according to some Poskim) and the owner of the lost object is poor, we compel the finder to go beyond the letter of the law and return it. (See Shach Choshen Mishpat Siman 259 S"K 3. See Pischei Teshuva Choshen Mishpat Siman 12:6 that according to most Poskim this "compelling" is only done verbally and not forcibly.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
Some well-intentioned yidden, in the stressful moments before the bakery closes on Erev Shabbos, have the unfortunate practice of pushing ahead in line.
Can Hamotzei be recited on challah which has been purchased by "stealing" a place in line?
And what about if they have, more directly, "stolen" the last Challah (because they bought the last one) - can they even recite hamotzee now?
ANSWER:
Although the practice of cutting a line or making a dash to buy the last Chalah when someone else was first is a rude and wrong practice, it does not make the Challah purchased a "stolen" Chalah, and a bracha must be receited when eating the challah.
CHIZUK CORNER
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Worrying does not take away tomorrow's Troubles; it takes away today's Peace.
1) The obligation to return a lost item to its rightful owner applies only to a lost object belonging to a Jew.
If
it is known that the item belongs to a non-Jew it is forbidden to
return it, and if he does return it he has transgressed a sin.
(Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 266:1, based on Talmud Bava Kama
113b. See also Sm"a S"K 2. See also Be'er Hagolah on the Shulchan Aruch
ibid. Os 2 where he writes that based on the Rambam's interpretation of
the sin, it would only apply to non-Jews who do not believe in Hashem as
the Creator of the world. See also Bais Yosef beginning of Siman 266)
2)
In the event that not returning it to the non-Jew would result in a
Chilul Hashem, for instance if it was found in an area that has a
majority of Jews and thus the non-Jew who lost it there will think that a
Jew stole it, then it must indeed be returned to the non-Jew.(Shulchan
Aruch ibid. and Sm"a S"K 3. See also ben Ish Chai; year 1 Parashas Ki
Savo Siman 8 that in this case it would then be a biblical obligation to
return it.)
Likewise,
if one returns the item to the non-Jew with the intention to cause a
Kiddush Hashem, i.e. to cause the non-Jew to praise the integrity and
honesty of Jewish people, it is then indeed praiseworthy to return the
item. (Shulchan Aruch ibid.)
Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh
1)
A lost object that is found in an area that is inhabited mostly by
non-Jews, even if it has an identifiable Siman, may be picked up and
kept by the finder.
The
reason for this is that we assume it was lost by a non-Jew and thus
needn't be returned. Additionally, even if it were a Jewish person's
object, being that it was lost amongst non-Jews we assume the owner had
Yi'ush. (Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 259:3, Taz there and Sm"a S"K 9. See Also Ben Ish Chai; year 1 Parashas Ki Savo Siman 4)
2)
The exception to the above rule is when the item that is found is a
Sefer or any other Tashmishei Kedusha (e.g. Tefillin or even other
Judaica items), as even when they are found in a predominantly
non-Jewish area, they must be picked up and returned to their rightful
owners. (Rama Choshen Mishpat Siman 259:3)
The
reason for this is that with such items we know the owner is most
likely Jewish, and furthermore being that it's such an item, which has
little interest to non-Jews, the owner does not have Yi'ush and assumes
that non-Jews will ignore it and a Jew will eventually find it and
return it. (Rama ibid. and Sm"a S"K 8. See also Rama Siman 236:8)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
you wrote about achila gasa.
When
it comes to melaveh malka, I've seen written that if it would be achila
gasa then one can fulfill the obligation with mezonos or fruits.
What is the achila gasa line?
And is eating mezonos or fruit a heter or l'chatchila?
ANSWER:
Yes, if one cannot wash for Melava malka he/she should at
least eat some Mezonos or fruit, and drink something hot. It is
obviously, L'Chatchila, better to wash on bread if possible. See more
detailed Halachos of Melava Malka here.
There are 2 kinds of Achila Gasa.
One is when
someone is so stuffed that if he eats another morsel of food he will be
repulsed. This, in halacha, is not considered eating.(See Gemara Yoma
80b, that eating in such a manner on Yom Kippur isn't considered
eating).
If, however, the person is full, yet if he eats
something else he will still enjoy the taste, it is a lesser level of
achila gasa, which should be avoided, but is still considered eating.
In
the latter case, on Motzei Shabbos a fruit or small piece of cake
should still be eaten. (See also Talmud Nazir 23a and Tosefos Dibur
Hamaschil Pesach and see Rashbam beginning of Pesachim 107b)
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek
HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
1) If one finds two lost objects, one belonging to his father and another belonging to his Rebbi (Torah teacher), and he can only retrieve one of them at this time, if his father is as learned in Torah as his Rebbi, his father's item takes precedence. (Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 264:2)
2) However, if a) his Rebbi is his "Rebbi Muvhak", the one who taught him most of his Torah knowledge, and b) he is also greater in scholarly stature than his father, and c) the Rebbi taught him Torah without being monetarily compensated by the father or someone else, the Rebbi's item takes precedence. (Shulchan Aruch ibid. and Shach S"K 1 and Sm"a S"K 5)
Practically, nowadays when most people learn most of their Torah from various Rebbeim, and also from the multitudes of Seforim that are available today, the concept of a "Rebbi Muvhak" hardly exists, and almost always the father's lost item will take precedence over a Rebbi's item.
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
I'm curious to know what exactly is the story with strawberries?
I heard there's something wrong with eating them but I never got it straight. Who said there's something wrong with them and what is wrong, then? Is it all strawberries, or certain types?
Is there any way of cleaning/ checking them that will make them permissible to eat? Is it ossur to eat them?
ANSWER:
A while back , the kashrus agencies let it be known that strawberries had a problem with bugs in them and needed special checking. This applies only to fresh strawberries and not frozen ones, which may be purchased with a reliable Hechsher.
The Star K Kashrus agency, on their website states the following:
Fill basin with water and mild soap or special veggie wash (such as Tsunami 100).
Note: When using soap, use only a food grade cleanser that meets all federal, state, and local regulations. The water should have enough soap to make it feel slippery.
Soak strawberries while agitating the water.
Rinse strawberries under a stream of water.
It is preferable to cut off the top together with a small amount of the flesh.
Strawberries may now be used.
CHIZUK CORNER
[1.0579710144927536] Bizback2
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
Hope is like a balloon; it can't soar to the heavens if you hold it by the string...
1) If one finds two lost objects, one belonging to him and another belonging to someone else, and he can only retrieve one of them at this time (e.g. it was a heavy item) , Al Pi Din he is not obligated to retrieve the other person's item first. (Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 264:1. See Sm"a S"K 1)
Even if the other person offers to pay for the value of the finder's item, if he returns his item instead of retrieving his own, he is still not obligated to do so as he may say "I'd rather have my actual item than its value". (See Sm"a ibid and S"K 18)
2) Although the Halacha is that one's item comes before another person's item, as we just learned, it is still proper to act "L'Fenim Mishuras Hadin, beyond the letter of the law" and indeed worry about the other person's item before worrying about one's own item, unless he is surely going to incur a significant loss by returning the other person's item first. (Shulchan Aruch ibid.)
Moreover, if one consistently acts in such a way (i.e. worries about himself and his possessions more than about others and their possessions) he is considered to have removed the "yoke of Gemilus Chasadim, performing kindness" from himself and will lead to him ultimately needing to come onto others for sustenance. (Shulchan Aruch ibid. See also Sm"a S"K 3 where he explains that it is Midah K'Neged Midah, measure for measure: A person who is always worried about losing his money and possessions, so much so that he abandons doing Mitzvos and Chesed in his quest to not lose his money, will ultimately indeed lose the money and possessions via heavenly retribution.)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
Does a bracha Rishona have to be made on gum and if so, what about a bracha acharona?
ANSWER:
Yes, a Bracha Rishona is required since the sugar gets swallowed and causes pleasure to the throat. (See Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 2 Siman 57 and Shu"t Ohr L'Tzion Vol. 2 14:8. There is a minority opinion that argues, but the prevalent ruling is to require the bracha)
No Bracha achrona is made, as not enough was eaten in the required amount of time ( as a Kzayis within 3-6 minutes is required).
CHIZUK CORNER
[1.0579710144927536] Bizback2
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
THANK YOU AND תזכו למצות!
זכר צדיקים וקדושים לברכה
We must know as a big principle that there is a fountain of Simcha in the human mind.
"Ushavtam mayim b'sasson mimayanei hayeshua--there are fountains of Yeshua (salvation)."
Now of course there are various kinds of Yeshua, but there's a very great Yeshua of Simcha in a man's own heart. It's such a deep fountain that there's no bottom to it, only very few people have lowered the bucket into this to draw out some of the simcha.
But once you begin priming the pump, you begin drawing out simcha that is inherent in the human soul, you're going to discover that it's almost endless.
There is so much that it's enough not only to pour out as an artesian well, a gusher for you, but it's for the rest of mankind too. The world will benefit from your character. Because there's so much in every human being that it's unfathomable how deep that well of Simcha is.
Therefore Hashem says, if you choose to draw on that well of Simcha that's in you and you're going to utilize it for the various stimuli that I supply in this world--eating, drinking... all the other phenomena that cause satisfaction to mankind--and you enjoy these things, you're happy with them, then I'm going to open up the fountain, and you're going to gush with happiness all the days of your life.
But you must know an important principle: There's a very big principle involved here and that is that the happiness in this world is only a rehearsal and a beginning for the happiness of the world to come.
Today's Halachos are dedicated by daily reader, I.T., L'Ilui Nishmas his dear father
Yaacov ben Mazal HaCohen Z'L
who passed away on 16 Menachem Av 5765.
May his Neshama continue to climb higher and higher in Gan Eden and may he be a Meilitz Yosher for his entire family.
Current Topic:
Halachos of Hashavas Aveidah
1)
One who finds an object in a place that is only a semi "safe place"
(Hashamur K'Tzas), such as behind the fence of a row of homes, in the
corner of a playground, regardless if it looks like it was placed there
intentionally or not, and even if it has a Siman, it would depend on
what kind of item it is.
For
example, if it is an item of little value, such as a Yarmulka (Kipah), a
sock, a piece of a board game or similar item which generally will not
be claimed by the owner even if the find is announced, then there is no
obligation to pick it up and try and find the owner. (Ruling of
Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Zatzal, quoted in Hashovas Aveida
K'Hhalacha page 27. He explained that the Torah wants the lost object to
find its way to its owner, thus in this case there is a bigger chance
that the owner will come back to that spot to find his item rather than
respond to any announcements about its being found, as due to its
insignificant value as soon as he doesn't see it where he left it he
will promptly forget about it and not pay any more attention to it
anymore.)
If, however, the item is valuable, and has a Siman, it should be picked up and efforts made to locate the owner. (Rama Siman 260:10 and Sm"a S"K 47)
If it does not have a Siman, despite its value there is no obligation to pick it up and expend efforts to locate its owner. (As is the Halacha for every lost item)
2)
If one picked it up despite not being obligated to do so, he may not
change his mind and put it back; if it has a Siman he must now try and
locate the owner. (Rama ibid.)
If
it has no Siman, some Poskim rule that he may keep the item while
others rule that he must now hold on to it until Eliyahu Hanavi arrives. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 260:9 and Rama and Sm"a ibid.)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
I do not normally daven in a minyan, as I am a girl, but I never know how to approach Tachanun.
If I daven at home, which is clearly not in front of a Sefer Torah, am I obligated to put my head down for Nefilat Apayim?
Is
there a difference between Shacharis and Mincha? What about on days
where "V'hu Rachum" is said- should I say the entire Tachanun?
Also, if I happen to be in a shul, should I put my head down for Nefilat Apayim?
ANSWER:
When saying Tachnun in a place with no sefer Torah, the head is not put down.
When
you daven in Shul, although you don't have to say it all (as the
prevelant custom is for women not to recite Tachnun, as per the
Artscroll women's siddur quoting Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv
Zatzal), you may put your head down and say it.
V'Hu Rachum may be said at home. The only thing in Tachnun that requires a Minyan is the "13 Midos HaRachamim".
***
After responding the above answer, a reader emailed me the following, written by Rabbi Daniel Travis atwww.Torah.org
It
is not customary for women to recite Tachanun. Some explain that the
reason for this is similar to the reason that women do not recite
Maariv. Since they were both originally optional prayers, women did not
accept them upon themselves (Tefillas Bas Yisrael 2,12).
Others
explain that Tachanun creates a situation where we pray in every
possible position. Pesukei D'zimra and Shema are recited mostly while
seated, Shemoneh Esrei while standing, and Tachanun in a bowed position.
Since many halachic authorities rule that women are not obligated to
say Pesukei D'zimra and Shema, they do not recite Tachanun either
(Machzeh Eliyahu 20).
We may add
that throwing oneself to the floor may be immodest for a woman. Since
Tachanun originally involved falling before Hashem, women did not say
this prayer.
Even today, when the custom is to recite Tachanun while leaning on one's arm, women still do not say this prayer.
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek
HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
People
are strange. They beg and plead that Hashem should give them fear of
Heaven and Hashem, when this is something that is entirely in the
individual's control.
Yet when it comes to their livelihood, their business and their money, they image that they are in charge.
Rav Chanoch H. of Alexander Zatzal quoted in Sefer Torah Tavlin
Today's Halachos are dedicated by daily reader, Y.D., in memory of her dear husband
Asher Anshel Ben Nachum Arieh A"H
whose Yahrtzeit is today, 18 Menachem Av.
May his Neshama rise higher and higher in Gan Eden and may he be a Meilitz Yosher for his entire Mishpacha.
Halachos of Hashavas Aveidah
1) One who finds an object in a "safe place" such as in a flower pot, a crevice in a wall, a telephone booth, electricity panel, or any other place where it was seemingly placed there intentionally, even if it is questionable if it was placed there intentionally, it is prohibited to touch the item. This applies even if the item in question has a clear Siman, identifiable sign. (See Shulchan Aruch and Rama Choshen Mishpat Siman 260:9 and 10)
2) If one did not follow the aforementioned Halacha and indeed took the object from its place, if he just picked it up but did not walk away from the immediate area [or even if he walked away and appointed someone to stay there and inform him that the owner did not come to retrieve his item during the time that it was gone] he should put it back where he found it and be on his way. (Rama Choshen Mishpat Siman 260: 10 and Taz there, also quoted in Aruch HaShulchan Choshen Mishpat Siman 260:20)
If he already took it home, he should not go back there and put it back in the place where he found it.
Rather, if it's an item with a Siman, he should announce and let it be known that he found the item, if it does not have a Siman, he must hold on to the item until Eliyahu Hanavi arrives to identify the owner. (Rama ibid. See also Sm"a S"K 48. We will discuss the concept of "Holding the item and waiting for Eliyahu Hanavi" B'Ezras Hashem in the near future)
QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
These Q&A are taken from the Q & A pages on the Halacha For Today website.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
I'd like to know if it's permitted to use a dishwasher on shabbos if its goes on automatically (with a timer) in middle of the night (so nobody hears it), the dishes are the dishes that were used on shabbos and they will then be used again on shabbos?
ANSWER:
No, it is not permitted to have a dishwasher go on automatically with a time clock, nor is it permitted to have a non Jew turn on the dishwasher on Shabbos. (See Shemiras Shabbos Kehilchasa Chapter 12:35.)
According to Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal, no appliances may be operated via a time clock on Shabbos (Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 4 Siman 60) .
Though many Poskim are more lenient than Rav Moshe Zatzal for certain things, all agree that a dishwasher is not one of them.
CHIZUK CORNER
[1.0579710144927536] Bizback2
This section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL FOR THIS SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL IT TO HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
The Talmud (Sanhedrin 26b) states" Torah mateshes kocho shel adam, the Torah weakens a man's strength.
Why should this be?
Answer by HaRav Avigdor Miller Zatzal:
The Torah gives strength to a man. If you read Mishlei, you'll read that Torah is a man's life, eitz chaim he la'machzikim bo; it's a tree of life. It states, v'yosifu lecho sh'nos chaim, the Torah adds years of life to you. All of Mishlei is full of declarations that by learning and keeping the Torah, men are made more successful and happier in this world. So what does the gemara mean that Torah weakens a man's koach?
It means this: We were given energy. Food creates energy, and the purpose of gaining energy is to utilize it for good purposes. Now what is the purpose that uses up a man's energy most purposefully? That's the study of Torah.
If you're going to eat a meal and then you're going to learn, the bread and the meat or whatever you put inside of you, is now being put to the best possible use. Torah is weakening a man because it requires yegiah. Torah requires labor, and the labor of Torah utilizes your energy, but it doesn't mean you remain weak. You become tired, naturally; from working you become tired, and so you replenish that energy. But in the meantime when a man works off the energy from having good things to eat, he works it off on Torah, he doesn't have surplus energy to work off on wrong things.
Here you have a youth, walks out at night in the streets, they're full of food, they're full of candy and ice cream, they're full of nosherei, and now they have a lot of excess energy. So they want to work it off on the most useless and harmful things. Somebody told me, Mexican children don't swarm in the streets at night, because they're working hard all day long in order to have enough to eat. At night they're happy to go home and hit the hay. But America ruins youth, they have so much extra energy, eating all day long, so they go out into the streets looking for a thrill, and then they finally get ruined.
But if a person goes after a good meal to the third seder in the yeshiva, he works off the energy, Torah mateshes, it takes off the energy that could be turned into yetzer horah. The energy that you have from olam hazeh is transformed into Torah energy!
That's the very best way. In the end, he goes the sleep, the next day he's not going to be a weakling, he'll get up the next day healthier than the bums and tramps who wasted their evenings by superfluous food and drinks and maybe things much worse than that and going to sleep late at night.
Even a person that goes late to sleep because of learning Torah, that's the wonderful thing about Torah, you never overdo it. When it comes to learning Torah you never overdo it, you know when to go to sleep.
Therefore Torah doesn't weaken anybody, Torah nosenes chaim l'oseha, gives more life.
To subscribe to the weekly "A moment with Rabbi Miller" email Click Here.
Today's Halachos are dedicated by daily reader, D.G., as a merit for the Aliyah of the Neshama of
Chaim ben Simcha Dov A"H.
May his Neshama climb higher and higher in Gan Eden
Current Topic:
Halachos of Hashavas Aveidah
1)
The obligation to pick up and return a lost object is in place even if
the owner does not bother to look for it, hang up signs about it, or if
it's an item of little value that people generally do not bother
searching for when it gets lost, as not looking for it is not
necessarily an indication of Yi'ush. (Ruling of Maran HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Zatzal quoted in Sefer Hashovas Aveida K'Halacha page 25)
However, if the value of the lost item is less than a "Perutah" there is no obligation to pick it up to return it. (See
Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 262:1. A Perutah is an amount of
money that is able to purchase something. Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal, in
the 1970's or 80's, ruled that in the USA a nickel is a Perutah as it
is almost impossible to purchase anything for a penny; nowadays it's
probably a little bit more than a nickel.)
2)
Even if the owner of the lost item has insurance on his item, and thus
will be compensated for his loss, all the Halachos of Hashovas Aveidah
still apply. (See Shu"t MaHarsham Vol. 4 Siman 7)
QUESTION&ANSWER CORNER
Reader
Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we
covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers.
Although
the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei
HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes
only, NOT for Psak Halacha. Questions can be emailed to HalachaForToday@Gmail.com
QUESTION:
Is liquid soap allowed to be watered down on shabbos?
ANSWER:
Preferably it should be done before Shabbos. (See Shu"t Az Nidberu Vol. 10 Siman 16)
CHIZUK CORNER
This
section is dedicated L'Ilui Nishmos the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav
Chaim Yaakov Stein Zatzal , the Mir Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Noson Tzvi
Finkel Zatzal and the Rosh Yeshiva of Torah Ohr, the great Posek
HaRav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg Zatzal.
May we all strive to follow in their ways and may they be Melitzei Yosher for all of Klal Yisroel.
We
will B'Ezras Hashem post here each day a short inspirational thought to
help us all improve our lives and grow in our service of our Father in
heaven, HaKadosh Baruch Hu.
Important Numbers
