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Question: For a Chabad House on campus, how early can we start Seder? Answer: Eating on Erev Yom Yov: One should not eat a meal from the 10th hour on Erev Pesach. You may serve light food… Question: For a Chabad House on campus, how early can we start Seder? Answer: Eating on Erev Yom Yov: One should not eat a meal from the 10th hour on Erev Pesach. You may serve light food up, not including matzah or mezonos (kosher lpesach), until Shkiah. Lighting candles on the first night: Must be after Plag Hamincha. Lighting candles on the second night: Although usually we light candles only after the Zman of Motzaei Shabbos, you can really light from Tzeis Hakochavim - Beinunim, when three medium stars appear. Kiddush: The order of…Show more
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Question: Is there a specific direction the oleh and baal koreh should face or look when saying chazak? Do we have any cheshash that people would say that chazak is written in the Torah, like the discussions we… Question: Is there a specific direction the oleh and baal koreh should face or look when saying chazak? Do we have any cheshash that people would say that chazak is written in the Torah, like the discussions we have about the brachos of Torah and megillah? Answer: While there are those who suggest that the Torah be closed first or at least that the baal korei and oleh face to the side, this is not practiced. Show more
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Questions: Is Maos Chitim only for Pesach food, or all expenses? Can I donate to someone who is eating out all Pesach but needs the money for other Pesach expenses? Can I use Maaser? Answers: Maos Chitim was… Questions: Is Maos Chitim only for Pesach food, or all expenses? Can I donate to someone who is eating out all Pesach but needs the money for other Pesach expenses? Can I use Maaser? Answers: Maos Chitim was originally instituted as a tax on every person to help those that are in need for Pesach with wheat or Matzos. Over time it has been extended to include food in general and even other Yom Tov necessities. Today this tax is not in effect but we still give sums of money to support those that need for Pesach. Maaser…Show more
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שאלה: מעשה שהיה בשבוע שעבר, שאחרי החופה טען אחד המשתתפים שברכו ברכה אחת פעמיים, ועל אחרת דילגו. כמובן שבתחילה לא האמינו לו. אח"כ הסתכלו בהסרטה של החופה וראו שהוא צדק. מישהו אמר שיכנסו לחדר יחוד עשרה אנשים עם כוס… שאלה: מעשה שהיה בשבוע שעבר, שאחרי החופה טען אחד המשתתפים שברכו ברכה אחת פעמיים, ועל אחרת דילגו. כמובן שבתחילה לא האמינו לו. אח"כ הסתכלו בהסרטה של החופה וראו שהוא צדק. מישהו אמר שיכנסו לחדר יחוד עשרה אנשים עם כוס יין, יברכו את הברכה החסרה, בופה"ג וישתו את היין. האם נכון? אם זה היה נודע אחרי הברכות של ברכהמ"ז, גם צריך לברך שוב ברכה זו, או שהברכות של ברהמ"ז מספיקות? מענה: אכן כן צריך לעשות. אלא שיש אומרים לברך תחילה בורא פרי הגפן ואחר כך ברכה החסירה. ואין להמתין ולסמוך על שבע ברכות שבברכת המזון. הטעם, שברכת חתנים אין…Show more
A guest who leads Birchas Hamazon (Grace after Meals, colloquially: bentching) bestows a brachah on his ba’al habayis (host) as part of the liturgy. In turn he is granted long life, the blessing returned to the one who… A guest who leads Birchas Hamazon (Grace after Meals, colloquially: bentching) bestows a brachah on his ba’al habayis (host) as part of the liturgy. In turn he is granted long life, the blessing returned to the one who blesses others. On the other hand, the Gemara warns—and so it is codified in Shulchan Aruch—a guest who refuses to lead Birchas Hamazon is withholding the brachah from the ba’al habayis and may suffer the opposite of that particular blessing, chas v’shalom (G-d forbid). If a person has legitimate reason for declining to lead the bentching (for example, he…Show more
The sawdust is there to add a smoky taste Answer: No. Wine soaked wood chips or charcoal briquettes that contain wine flavors or other kosher sensitive ingredients may not be used without proper certification. Generally, even flavored wood… The sawdust is there to add a smoky taste Answer: No. Wine soaked wood chips or charcoal briquettes that contain wine flavors or other kosher sensitive ingredients may not be used without proper certification. Generally, even flavored wood chips or briquettes, such as hickory or smoke, are pure wood and the flavor is from the specific type of wood that was used. Briquettes are mixed with other ingredients, however these ingredients usually are not kosher sensitive and therefore does not need a specific certification. Even if they might contain Kosher sensitive ingredients, we can assume they are kosher,…Show more
Question: I am asking for guidance on how to make an Eiruv Chatzeiros in a Jewish owned building that predominantly has non-Jewish tenants. Also, if there is an apartment that has changing tenants (for example unmarried girls or boys)… Question: I am asking for guidance on how to make an Eiruv Chatzeiros in a Jewish owned building that predominantly has non-Jewish tenants. Also, if there is an apartment that has changing tenants (for example unmarried girls or boys) that change every year, are they included in the Eiruv? Answer: First, one of the tenants should make a Sechiras Reshus by paying a dollar to the super or the owner to rent all the common areas. Then; Take some bread (challah or matzah) on behalf of all other tenants. The bread must be large enough to include at…Show more
Question: I have some beautiful songs that I play in my third-grade Kodesh class. They are usually about lessons that we learn the lives of the Avos. Can I play the audio in class to teach the songs during… Question: I have some beautiful songs that I play in my third-grade Kodesh class. They are usually about lessons that we learn the lives of the Avos. Can I play the audio in class to teach the songs during Sefiras HaOmer? I do not know the songs well enough to teach without the audio track. Thanks! Answer: Though there are some authorities that permit music which does not induce feelings of Simcha, this would have to be judged if in your case it is indeed so. Although children aren’t obligated in the laws of mourning, they should be…Show more
If a person is leaving on Erev Pesach to be somewhere else for Pesach and is selling their entire house to a goy for the duration of Pesach, they should make sure to exclude one room, and do… If a person is leaving on Erev Pesach to be somewhere else for Pesach and is selling their entire house to a goy for the duration of Pesach, they should make sure to exclude one room, and do Bedikas Chometz there on the night of Bedikas Chometz. If a person is leaving before the night of Bedikas Chomtez, they should do Bedikas Chometz after they arrive in the place where they are on the night of Bedikas Chometz. If they are staying at someone else’s house and have their own chometz there, they can do…Show more
Many poskim maintain that inedibles do not have to be kosher. What is considered inedible halachically, though, is not completely clear. It can range from something not usually served at a meal to an item that does not qualify… Many poskim maintain that inedibles do not have to be kosher. What is considered inedible halachically, though, is not completely clear. It can range from something not usually served at a meal to an item that does not qualify as food-grade. In the past, toothpaste and mouthwash were made with many non-edible components; today they are manufactured mostly of edible, palatable ingredients we eat on a daily basis. This change, many argue, make kosher toothpaste a requirement—while there are others who say we may nevertheless be lenient. Although they might be edible, toothpaste and mouthwash are not consumed intentionally.…Show more
Although there is a well-known principle of bittul b’shishim (that a lesser substance is considered halachically nullified when mixed into another substance that is sixty times greater in volume), there are a number of limitations to this principle, among… Although there is a well-known principle of bittul b’shishim (that a lesser substance is considered halachically nullified when mixed into another substance that is sixty times greater in volume), there are a number of limitations to this principle, among them: an ingredient that’s used for adding taste; or a davar hamaamid (an ingredient used to solidify a mixture) such as a coagulant, stabilizer, or thickening agent which, even if added in a minute amount, never becomes nullified due to its significance within the mixture. Moreover, ein mevatlin issur l’chatchilah (one cannot use the principle of bittul to preemptively and…Show more
Can I use Ma’aser Money for Other Tzedakah Commitments? There are times when a person may wish to give tzedakah in addition to ma’aser (one tenth of one’s earnings separated for charity) for an additional zechus (merit), be it… Can I use Ma’aser Money for Other Tzedakah Commitments? There are times when a person may wish to give tzedakah in addition to ma’aser (one tenth of one’s earnings separated for charity) for an additional zechus (merit), be it in during an eis tzarah (a time of need), when making a mi she’beirach (a blessing made in shul with a pledge of a donation), or sponsoring a kiddush in shul in honor of a simchah (happy occasion) or a yahrtzeit. The money pledged for any of the above may not come from one’s ma’aser money, mainly because it…Show more
Question: With regards to dating, what is forbidden to say because of the איסור שאילת שלום לאשה? Such as 'how are you doing,' 'how was Shabbos,' Or just saying 'hello'. What are the כללים in this? And are there… Question: With regards to dating, what is forbidden to say because of the איסור שאילת שלום לאשה? Such as 'how are you doing,' 'how was Shabbos,' Or just saying 'hello'. What are the כללים in this? And are there exceptions for dating? Answer: In general, although it is preferable to be stringent when practical, one may be courteous and use standard, everyday greetings that do not convey affection or closeness. With regard to dating specifically, there is greater room for leniency, since the woman is unmarried and one’s intentions are lesheim shamayim. Show more
Acceptable. Many argue that Virgin olive oil, or extra virgin olive oil needs no kosher suprevision. Look out for the certification from the a International Olive Oil Council. Still, since olive oil fraud is rampant, there is room for… Acceptable. Many argue that Virgin olive oil, or extra virgin olive oil needs no kosher suprevision. Look out for the certification from the a International Olive Oil Council. Still, since olive oil fraud is rampant, there is room for concern about fraud and a hechsher definitely alleviates this concern. Fine olive oil, however, needs a proper hecsher. #2990cShow more
Yes, there are issues. See here: https://www.star-k.org/articles/kashrus-kurrents/710/its-kosher-on-paper-only/ Silicone based parchment paper doesn't need a hechsher. Wax paper is often more problematic than parchment paper. #2990b
Raw unflavored honey which is 100% pure and filtered may be used without a Hechsher. However, retail size honey often goes through heating which can be a problem when using shared equipment. It is therefore recommended to purchase honey… Raw unflavored honey which is 100% pure and filtered may be used without a Hechsher. However, retail size honey often goes through heating which can be a problem when using shared equipment. It is therefore recommended to purchase honey only with a Hechsher. One must ensure that no other ingredients are added like alcohol and sweeteners. Additionally, the honey needs to be filtered very well from any pieces of the bees that can get mixed in it. #1110bShow more
Though it would appear that in this particular case, wine takes precedence, then olives then oatmeal, in practice it is best that you take one off the table, or cover it, and preferably also decide that you only want… Though it would appear that in this particular case, wine takes precedence, then olives then oatmeal, in practice it is best that you take one off the table, or cover it, and preferably also decide that you only want to eat the food on the table. Show more
For example - haircuts on Rosh Chodesh? Answer: There is a safek in this matter. Every case and every community should be assessed independently. In the example you mentioned, there is a disagreement as well.
The candles, at least two of them, should be on the table in the eating room. The custom is to cover that table with a white tablecloth. Many recommend to cover all tables, especially if it’s in the same… The candles, at least two of them, should be on the table in the eating room. The custom is to cover that table with a white tablecloth. Many recommend to cover all tables, especially if it’s in the same room we are eating, when possible. See more in the following links: https://asktherav.com/2941-what-is-our-custom-regarding-the-placement-of-the-shabbos-candles/ https://asktherav.com/26048-does-the-shabbos-tablecloth-have-to-be-white/ Show more
שאלה: זוג הגר במקום נידח, נסעו לחתונה מעבר לים באמצע שבעה נקיים. תיכננו להביא כתם לרב במקום שהגיעו. ושכחו להביא. ולכן, אין להם הכתם כעת, ונמצא מעבר לים. ויגיעו לשם אחרי שבוע. הבעל הסתכל על הכתם לפני הנסיעה. ונסתפק… שאלה: זוג הגר במקום נידח, נסעו לחתונה מעבר לים באמצע שבעה נקיים. תיכננו להביא כתם לרב במקום שהגיעו. ושכחו להביא. ולכן, אין להם הכתם כעת, ונמצא מעבר לים. ויגיעו לשם אחרי שבוע. הבעל הסתכל על הכתם לפני הנסיעה. ונסתפק אם יש שיעור גריס במראה, יותר נכון: אם החלק שבצבע לא טהור בגודל כגריס. האשה צריכה לטבול מחר בלילה. אין כאן דין של נאבד הכתם כשמסופקים בו, שנטו הפוסקים להתיר, שהרי נמצא במזוודה במקומם מעבר לים. וניתן לתאר מציאות - אחרת אבל דומה מאד מבחינה פרקטית - שמישהו היה בחופש במקום רחוק ועזב המקום והשאיר שם כתם. אין שכנים ממש…Show more
Question: Regarding kavanah in tefillin, specifically about the paragraph in the Siddur where it says that you should have that kavanah when putting on tefillin: To think about the content and meaning of that paragraph can take a noticeable… Question: Regarding kavanah in tefillin, specifically about the paragraph in the Siddur where it says that you should have that kavanah when putting on tefillin: To think about the content and meaning of that paragraph can take a noticeable while. It cannot be done on a whim. Furthermore, when we go on mivtzoyim we don't even say ANYTHING to the mekuravim about the kavanah and how this is essential to the kiyum hamitzvah, My question is: 1) Is Kavanah Meakev to the performance of the mitzvah of Tefillin, or just the physical act is enough to be yotze…Show more
שאלה: האם כשיש ברקים ורעמים ברציפות מברך בכל יום? ומה נקרא יום חדש? מענה: לא יברך רק אם נתפזרו העבים לגמרי.
The fundraiser for a non-profit organization is permitted to draw a salary from the organization according to halachah, even though he is involved in doing a mitzvah. It is considered schar batalah (or schar betailah, payment for “idleness”)… The fundraiser for a non-profit organization is permitted to draw a salary from the organization according to halachah, even though he is involved in doing a mitzvah. It is considered schar batalah (or schar betailah, payment for “idleness”) as compensation for his lack of gainful employment while working to raise funds. There are a host of (good) reasons why many non-profit organizations have changed to fixed salaries rather than paying their fundraisers on a commission basis. Nevertheless, poskim allow even commission-based earnings since it encourages the fundraiser to work harder at acquiring donations for the cause. What should…Show more
There are poskim who argue that seedless grapes are not considered part of the gefen species and we should therefore refrain from saying borei pri hagafen on their wine. The responsa of the Ohr Gadol of Minsk (19th century… There are poskim who argue that seedless grapes are not considered part of the gefen species and we should therefore refrain from saying borei pri hagafen on their wine. The responsa of the Ohr Gadol of Minsk (19th century halachic authority) is well-known, where he ruled that the wine in his community should no longer be produced from seedless grapes; he had wide support for this position among his contemporaries. Some authorities go so far as to argue that if a fruit does not have seeds, it is not a fruit according to halachah. This is based, in part,…Show more
Altering a Shul Structure’s Layout The space of a shul is sacred, which is why it is forbidden to reduce that area in any way. This includes dismantling any part of a shul, even an internal wall. Doing so… Altering a Shul Structure’s Layout The space of a shul is sacred, which is why it is forbidden to reduce that area in any way. This includes dismantling any part of a shul, even an internal wall. Doing so would only be permissible l’tzorech binyan, for the purpose of ultimately expanding or beautifying the shul, and if the tikkun (improvement) takes effect in the same spot of the temporary hashchasah (demolition) and will maintain the same level of kedushah (holiness). Based on this principle, the Tzemach Tzedek forbade the demolition of a wall separating the men’s and women’s…Show more
Question: AI coding tools ("agents") have improved considerably over the last year. A user can provide minimal instructions, and the agent will go ahead and build entire features mostly autonomously. The user might interrupt to make corrections, or once… Question: AI coding tools ("agents") have improved considerably over the last year. A user can provide minimal instructions, and the agent will go ahead and build entire features mostly autonomously. The user might interrupt to make corrections, or once the agent has finished, provide feedback for another round of changes. Most of the time, there is a human in the loop, but sometimes there isn't. Most of the time, the code stays private, but sometimes a user will publish it online under their own authorship. The code isn't usually used immediately, but there are scenarios where it could be…Show more
שאלה: נשאלתי במי שקנה כלי זכוכית לאצור בו יין מכוס של ברכה מאדמו"ר זצ"ל. אין בדעתו לשתות היין רק לשומרו בתוך ביתו כסגולה. האם צריך הכלי טבילה? תשובה: אין צריך טבילה. ובתנאי שאכן דעתו לעולם שלא לשתות היין.… שאלה: נשאלתי במי שקנה כלי זכוכית לאצור בו יין מכוס של ברכה מאדמו"ר זצ"ל. אין בדעתו לשתות היין רק לשומרו בתוך ביתו כסגולה. האם צריך הכלי טבילה? תשובה: אין צריך טבילה. ובתנאי שאכן דעתו לעולם שלא לשתות היין. ויש לציין, שבכלל עיקר סגולת כוס של ברכה לשתות מהיין. אבל אפשר להשאיר חלק לשמירה ולסגולה. Show more
שאלה: שנים רבות בהתוועדות פורים (שהתרחשה למעשה במוצאי פורים) הרבי הורה שלכה"פ אדם אחד יוציא את הציבור יד"ח עד דלא ידע. האם יש מקום לכך שעד דלא ידע יקויים במוצאי החג, ובכך יצא יד"ח למפרע (כמבואר בלקו"ש שעד דלא… שאלה: שנים רבות בהתוועדות פורים (שהתרחשה למעשה במוצאי פורים) הרבי הורה שלכה"פ אדם אחד יוציא את הציבור יד"ח עד דלא ידע. האם יש מקום לכך שעד דלא ידע יקויים במוצאי החג, ובכך יצא יד"ח למפרע (כמבואר בלקו"ש שעד דלא ידע הוא פרט במצוות משתה ושמחה והסעודה)? ובפרט לפי מנהג הרבי, שהתוועדות פורים היתה אחרי ברכת המזון ואחרי תפילת מעריב, (שכן אם זה היה באמצע סעודת החג (לפני מעריב) עוד היה מובן בדוחק, וכהוכחה לכך - במקרה כזה עליו לומר ועל הניסים בברכת המזון) אם כן השאלה: האם יוצא יד"ח מצוות משתה ושמחה של יום הפורים כאשר מקיים עד דלא…Show more
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