Halocho #532 - Is January the first month?

This Shabbos we take out 2 Sifrei Torah. In the first we will read the double Parsha of Vayakel-Pekudai and in the second we will read Parshat Hachodesh (Exodus Ch. 12, Verses 1-20).

Parshat Hachodesh reminds us of the following upcoming Mitzvot:

- The month of Nissan (which begins on Tuesday) is the first month on the Jewish calendar, as the opening words of Parshat Hachodesh proclaim: "This month is for you the first month".

- The laws of Korban Pessach; sacrificed on Erev Pessach in the afternoon, it had to be roasted whole and then eaten on the first night of Pessach with Matza and Marror (bitter herbs).

- Leftovers had to be burnt on the first day of Chol Hamo'ed.

- Matza needs to be made carefully to ensure it doesn't become Chametz (leaven).

- The first and last days of Pessach are Yom Tov.

- One may not own Chometz, nor eat it, during Pessach.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 140:2

Shabbat Shalom uMevorach

- Danny
Thursday, 25 Adar 5770