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Answer: If you cannot find a Minyan either in Eretz Yisroel or in Chutz La'aretz to hear this Parasha, then there’s nothing else you can do about it. Follow up Question: If it’s OK with the Shul Rav,… Answer: If you cannot find a Minyan either in Eretz Yisroel or in Chutz La'aretz to hear this Parasha, then there’s nothing else you can do about it. Follow up Question: If it’s OK with the Shul Rav, can Shlishi, of Mincha on Shabbos afternoon, read till the end of the Parsha, so I can hear the whole Sedra? Answer: Yes. #4007Show more
Question: I used to join the late Minyanim for Mincha during the week and Friday in 770, since it is hard to get Shabbos prep done and be in Shul early many Fridays. Also, bad habits are hard to… Question: I used to join the late Minyanim for Mincha during the week and Friday in 770, since it is hard to get Shabbos prep done and be in Shul early many Fridays. Also, bad habits are hard to break. Where I live now, I would have to come on time to the only Mincha Minyan, some time before Shkia. There isn't even one minyan Mincha in entire city after Shkia. If the entire city has indeed a minhag/psak to daven before shkia, can Chabad have a different psak/minhag? Please advise me. Answer: There is a…Show more
:תשובה בשיחת י״ט כסלו תשמ״ז (סה״ש תשמ״ז א ע׳ 146 ובהערה 10) בקשר עם תליית שיר המעלות בבית הרפואה, נזכר בדרך אגב, ש״בימינו אלה מסיבות רפואיות יולדות הנשים בבית הרפואה דוקא״. ״ובמילא הרי זה (ע״פ) הוראת התורה״. לאידך, במענה… :תשובה בשיחת י״ט כסלו תשמ״ז (סה״ש תשמ״ז א ע׳ 146 ובהערה 10) בקשר עם תליית שיר המעלות בבית הרפואה, נזכר בדרך אגב, ש״בימינו אלה מסיבות רפואיות יולדות הנשים בבית הרפואה דוקא״. ״ובמילא הרי זה (ע״פ) הוראת התורה״. לאידך, במענה בגוכתי״ק לא׳ הרבנים [ומפי השמועה - המענה דן בנושא זה] (נדפס בבית משיח גל׳ 378 - כ״ד מנ״א תשס״ב. ולא בנוסח שהושמט בתפארת יהודה קלמן ע׳ 63. וכדי בזיון וקצף) ש״בדור שלא נשמע תמיד לפס״ד רבנים - הרי (לבד מהמפורש בשו״ע) יש להזהר ככל האפשרי מהכרזת איסורים שנתחדשו מפני השינוים בסדר החיים (ובפרט כשאין מודיעים טעם זה, ומעורר תמי׳ -…Show more
Question: I run a Chabad camp. We have many non-Chabad counselors. One of our counselors is not comfortable wearing socks and will only agree to wearing ankle socks. May I allow her to wear short socks, as that is… Question: I run a Chabad camp. We have many non-Chabad counselors. One of our counselors is not comfortable wearing socks and will only agree to wearing ankle socks. May I allow her to wear short socks, as that is what her family's standard is? Answer: If part of her leg will be showing, then this is a serious issue. It is a breach of Tznius. The counselors must be such a model of proper behavior and observance of Torah and Mitzvos completely. However, if she will be wearing long skirts such that her leg will not be showing…Show more
No. When the oven door is opened, the thermostat will detect the cold air that rushes in and will activate the heating element if it is off at that moment. It is forbidden to cause this to occur, even… No. When the oven door is opened, the thermostat will detect the cold air that rushes in and will activate the heating element if it is off at that moment. It is forbidden to cause this to occur, even if all the food will be removed all at once before the oven door is re-closed. [If the oven door is re-closed with some of the food remaining inside, there may be additional concerns of Bishul on Shabbos, depending on the circumstances.] See also here: https://asktherav.com/if-food-was-left-in-the-oven-which-is-on-to-continue-cooking-on-shabbos-can-i-take-out-the-food-from-the-on-oven-on-shabbos/ #4012Show more
Here are the links to the rolling pins I was considering to buy: First link. Second link. Answer: The information there is very limited and does not describe with what they are coated. If they are coated with… Here are the links to the rolling pins I was considering to buy: First link. Second link. Answer: The information there is very limited and does not describe with what they are coated. If they are coated with oil or a similar non-stick substance, you should wash it off with cold water and soap before the first use. If they are coated with paint or finish, it poses no problem Halachicly. If you doubt that you will be able to get all of the oil off, or if it will wash off at all, it is better not…Show more
In general terms, frozen fruit or vegetables with no additives may be eaten without a Hechsher, provided they are not from Eretz Yisroel or China, and provided there is no concern for infestation. Strawberries and blueberries can be infested.… In general terms, frozen fruit or vegetables with no additives may be eaten without a Hechsher, provided they are not from Eretz Yisroel or China, and provided there is no concern for infestation. Strawberries and blueberries can be infested. Frozen fruit shouldn’t have natural or artificial flavors, colors or grape juice. If the ingredients list “fruit juice”, they should not be eaten. However, frozen corn on the cob should not be eaten without a Hechsher, as there is concern for infestation and while frozen it is difficult to check. #4037Show more
If the potato Kugel is still warm then you may, if however the potato Kugel is completely cold then you are not allowed. #4050
Question: I am interested in converting to Judaism. However, I am transgender and I have done a lot of research as to whether this is accepted in Judaism, however I can't find any solid answer. Is it accepted in… Question: I am interested in converting to Judaism. However, I am transgender and I have done a lot of research as to whether this is accepted in Judaism, however I can't find any solid answer. Is it accepted in reform Judaism but not orthodox Judaism. Can you help me? Answer: It really depends what you mean when you say that you are transgender. In Judaism there’s a major distinction between emotions and behaviors. Well certain practices are forbidden according to Jewish law, the desires per se are not proscribed in the Torah. I suggest you discuss with the…Show more
It’s very hard to give advice about this matter because it really depends on the particular circumstances of the individual, his capacity etc. It is worthwhile talking with one of your teachers or mentors who knows you very well… It’s very hard to give advice about this matter because it really depends on the particular circumstances of the individual, his capacity etc. It is worthwhile talking with one of your teachers or mentors who knows you very well and can best assist you in this matter. I will only make here some general observations: Review of the material is affected by two fundamental variables, the level of understanding and the motivation. We are likely to remember better and longer if the information makes sense to us. Likewise, if we are very motivated to know this information we are…Show more
10% is Maaser. 20% or a fifth is Chomesh. The common practice (there is a Machlokes whether it is Min Hatorah, Miderabanan or a custom which was accepted and obligates us due to general Minhag, ancestors Minhag or it… 10% is Maaser. 20% or a fifth is Chomesh. The common practice (there is a Machlokes whether it is Min Hatorah, Miderabanan or a custom which was accepted and obligates us due to general Minhag, ancestors Minhag or it is like a Neder) is to give Maaser - Ten percent - of all income that one makes to Tzedaka. However some go beyond that and give a Chomesh - one fifth - of their income to Tzedaka. In general, the maximum amount one should give to Tzedaka is a Chomesh, one fifth of their income, however there are situations…Show more
No. See here about trusting a child, l'havdil. #4036
Question: What is the source in Halacha for wearing a Tichel and when this should be done? I learned that one's hair must be completely covered at all times so why would wearing a Tichel in the street be… Question: What is the source in Halacha for wearing a Tichel and when this should be done? I learned that one's hair must be completely covered at all times so why would wearing a Tichel in the street be not OK and at home it is OK? In short, when is a Tichel allowed, and under what conditions? Answer: Firstly, a Tichel is halachically fine as long as it covers all of the hair. The fact however is that this is rarely accomplished. Many a time, some of the hair is protruding from the Tichel. At times, there…Show more
שאלות: א. האם כשעונים באמצע בפסוקי דזמרה לקדיש או קדושה, צריך להיות בין שתי מזמורים, או שמותר וצריך לענות גם כשאוחזים באמצע הענין? ב. האם כשאוחזים לפני ברוך שאמר אפשר לדבר באמצע הפיסקה, או גם זה צריך להיות בין… שאלות: א. האם כשעונים באמצע בפסוקי דזמרה לקדיש או קדושה, צריך להיות בין שתי מזמורים, או שמותר וצריך לענות גם כשאוחזים באמצע הענין? ב. האם כשאוחזים לפני ברוך שאמר אפשר לדבר באמצע הפיסקה, או גם זה צריך להיות בין מקום אחד לשני? תשובות: א. יפסיק אפי' באמצע פסוק. מקור: שו''ע סו, ג. ב. לדבר אסור באמצע פיסקה גם לפני ברוך שאמר. שאלת המשך: א. האם לדבר על ענינים הקשורים עם התפלה מותר בדיעבד? (כמובן כשאין ברירה). ב. ולכתחלה למה אסור לפני ברוך שאמר? תשובות: א. אם הוא לצורך תפילה יש להקל בפסוקי דזמרה. אבל רק…Show more
מפורסם מנהגנו שבדרך כלל אין מברכים שהחיינו על בגדים חדשים ואפילו על טלית, כ״א על פרי חדש, אלא אם יש סיבה אחרת המחייבת (ראה לדוגמא שאלה #1533). יסודו בשו״ע רכג, ו, סדר ברה״נ יב, ה, שעל דבר שאינו חשוב… מפורסם מנהגנו שבדרך כלל אין מברכים שהחיינו על בגדים חדשים ואפילו על טלית, כ״א על פרי חדש, אלא אם יש סיבה אחרת המחייבת (ראה לדוגמא שאלה #1533). יסודו בשו״ע רכג, ו, סדר ברה״נ יב, ה, שעל דבר שאינו חשוב כ״כ כגון חלוק ואנפלאות אין מברכים. וראה ערוה״ש שם ח, דבעינן דבר הבא לעתים רחוקות ולא בדבר שתדיר הוא להתחדש. ובשו״ת מהרש״ג א, צה שמעולם לא בירך על בגד חדש, שאינו חשוב אצלו כ״כ. וראה בין השיטין לענין כלים חדשים 15561: https://asktherav.com/15561-can-i-purchase-a-new-kapota-for-shabbos-during-the-3-weeks/ ופוק חזי מאי עמא דבר, שלמעשה המנהג שאין מברכים על קניית ולבישת בגדים חדשים, רק בבגדים חשובים ביותר,…Show more
במקום אונס, אפשר להתפלל מעריב עד הנץ החמה. אבל אין אומרים השכיבנו. וכן אין להתפלל שמונה עשרה. ויש מתירים להתפלל שמונה עשרה גם כן. (ואף שהיא דעת יחיד, בדיעבד יתכן לסמוך על שיטה זו). הקורא קריאת שמע של ערבית… במקום אונס, אפשר להתפלל מעריב עד הנץ החמה. אבל אין אומרים השכיבנו. וכן אין להתפלל שמונה עשרה. ויש מתירים להתפלל שמונה עשרה גם כן. (ואף שהיא דעת יחיד, בדיעבד יתכן לסמוך על שיטה זו). הקורא קריאת שמע של ערבית אחרי עלות השחר, אין לו לקרוא קריאת של שחרית עד אחרי הנץ החמה. אבל אם לא היה אנוס לא יצא ידי חובתו. במקרה שהלך לישון ללא מעריב, אין זה אונס, ולא יצא ידי חובתו, וחייב להתפלל של שחרית שנים. מראי מקומות: ראה או״ח סרל״ה, משנ״ב וערוה״ש שם. והובאו בלקו״ש חל״ט ע׳ 282. קצוה״ש סכ״ז סקי״ג. ולכאו׳ יש למצוא סימוכין…Show more
I need to have open internet. I know the Rabbonim say that one must have a filter. I have heard that there is some type of filter where the internet is open just they send a list of websites you…I need to have open internet. I know the Rabbonim say that one must have a filter. I have heard that there is some type of filter where the internet is open just they send a list of websites you visited to someone you choose. I can't seem to find this. Would you know what this program is called? Answer: I am not sure why you believe you “need to have open Internet.” Perhaps you can explain your statement. As a general rule, virtually all the Rabbonim have ruled that is forbidden to have open Internet without a filter.…Show more
It depends what the purpose of filtering is. If it is in order to have cleaner water and one is not highly sensitive to the regular water (איסטניס) - then the water may be filtered on Shabbos. (Some question… It depends what the purpose of filtering is. If it is in order to have cleaner water and one is not highly sensitive to the regular water (איסטניס) - then the water may be filtered on Shabbos. (Some question the use of Brita filters for a different reason since the water mixes first with charcoal granules causing it to be inedible. Nonetheless, since the water inserted is clean and exits clean this doesn’t pose a problem.) However, if it’s in order to remove insects this may not be done on Shabbos. It should be noted that most pitcher filters…Show more
Some are concerned because they leave the eggs without their shell overnight. See here: https://asktherav.com/is-it-permissible-to-take-the-shells-off-of-eggs-before-shabbos-and-store-them-in-a-closed-box-to-be-eaten-on-shabbos/#.XNXpVyiX3Yw.link #3970
Question: Over Pesach I found some Kefulos and Nefuchos Matzahs - Was I supposed to burn them? I still have them. Should I burn them now? Throw them out? Eat them? Answer: If they were indeed Kefulah or… Question: Over Pesach I found some Kefulos and Nefuchos Matzahs - Was I supposed to burn them? I still have them. Should I burn them now? Throw them out? Eat them? Answer: If they were indeed Kefulah or Nefucha - there are specific guidelines what constitutes Kefulah or Nefucha - they were supposed to be burned, provided it was not Shabbos or Yom Tov. However, now after Pesach, there’s no need to burn them anymore and they may be eaten. מקור: שו״ע אדה״ז תסא, כא. שם כט. #3983 Show more
Ingredients are potato starch, potato flour, corn starch, Spanish powder, tomato paste, & assorted oil. Answer: It is the right thing to be stringent and require Bishul Yisroel. These chips are different than regular potato chips since during… Ingredients are potato starch, potato flour, corn starch, Spanish powder, tomato paste, & assorted oil. Answer: It is the right thing to be stringent and require Bishul Yisroel. These chips are different than regular potato chips since during the process they were already cooked like regular potatoes, even though they are dried afterward and made into starch. Thus, it is problematic even for those who would argue that potato chips are fine, since the original Issur when it was cooked by a non-Jew remains. Those who allow it use certain leniencies and some claim it’s better than potato…Show more
The answer below is in general terms only and not about your specific situation. Under ordinary circumstances, a Mosad would/should always ask local Rabbonim about such matters and share with all the teachers the identity of the Rav so… The answer below is in general terms only and not about your specific situation. Under ordinary circumstances, a Mosad would/should always ask local Rabbonim about such matters and share with all the teachers the identity of the Rav so everything should be transparent. Where a specific teacher is uncomfortable with a policy in the Mosad, he could be given the option to discuss it with the Rabbonim of the place/Mosad, thus avoiding anarchy. Bichlal, it’s Kedai to allow an individual to follow his personal religious preferences and not try to force upon him behaviors that are inconsistent with his…Show more
I’m assuming you are discussing preschool children. This is permissible for two reasons: Since they are below the age of Chinuch. Since it’s to put them to sleep. Still, it’s an educationally sound practice not to play music even… I’m assuming you are discussing preschool children. This is permissible for two reasons: Since they are below the age of Chinuch. Since it’s to put them to sleep. Still, it’s an educationally sound practice not to play music even for little kids though they haven’t reached the formal stage of Chinuch. There are other non musical options available out there. טעמים ומקורות: בנוגע לקטנים שלא הגיעו לחנוך - ראה בשאלה 3797. להרדים התינוקות - ראה כעי״ז משנ״ב תקס בשעה״צ כה - לענין כלי זמר אחר החורבן (אלא ששם צירף עוד טעמים לקולא. ואולי ס״ל שג״ז בגדר שמחה). ואפי׳…Show more
An additional covering is required L’Chatchilla. טעמים ומקורות: שוע"ר מ, ח שספרי קודש צריכים ב' כיסויים. ומשמע קצת שאין הכריכה נחשב הכיסוי אחד מסעיף ב' שם בענין ספרים הקבועים בלוחות שהלוחות אינן דומות לכיס לפי שהן מחוברות לסידור… An additional covering is required L’Chatchilla. טעמים ומקורות: שוע"ר מ, ח שספרי קודש צריכים ב' כיסויים. ומשמע קצת שאין הכריכה נחשב הכיסוי אחד מסעיף ב' שם בענין ספרים הקבועים בלוחות שהלוחות אינן דומות לכיס לפי שהן מחוברות לסידור והרי הן כסידור עצמו, ולכאו׳ י״ל דה"ה לכריכות. אבל ראה שאלה 1677. וש״נ. ולהעיר גם מאג"ק חי"א ע' שה. ולענין ההיתר באם יש בארון נפח מ' סאה (עיין משנ"ב מ, סקל"ג) - להעיר שאינו נזכר בשוע"ר סעיף ג. ויש לעיין אם יש היתר אם קבוע בכותל במסמרים ע"ד המתבאר בסעיף ה שם לענין מזוזה שמחלק רשות לעצמו (וראה משנ"ב שם).…Show more
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