Halocho #1254 - Banana peels

It is forbidden to throw items into the street - or anywhere that people walk - if it could cause damage.

This includes glass items and slippery items. 

If one dropped something dangerous one is responsible for the damage it causes and one has an obligation to clean it up.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 184:3

- Danny
Tuesday, 28 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1253- What Bracha on an Eclipse?

There is no special Bracha said on seeing an eclipse, though on meteors and comets one says "Oseh Ma'ase Breishis":

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה', אֱ-לקֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם

 עוֹשֶׂה מַעֲשֶׂה בְּרֵאשִׁית

Blessed are You... Who makes the work of creation.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 60:2

 - Danny
Monday, 27 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1252 - Noise pollution

If one has a neighbor who suffers from headaches caused by noise, one must make sure to take them into account; one may not use a hammer if the neighbor will hear it and suffer.

The same would apply to loud music during siesta or after they have put their kids to bed.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 184:4

- Danny
Sunday, 26 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1251 - Foggy windows on Shabbat

Writing and drawing is forbidden on Shabbat - even if it's temporary.

One may not use one's finger to write or draw on the condensation a window.

One may not write or draw using the water that spilled on a table.

One may not use one's nail to make a mark on page, to enable one to find the place again, or for any other reason.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 80:62

Shabbat Shalom
- Danny
Thursday, 23 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1250 - Socializing before morning prayers

One may not go to a friend's house before Shacharit (morning prayers), even if one only plans on wishing them a "good morning".

If one happens to meet a friend before Shacharit one should not use the standard greeting, as a reminder to oneself not to get distracted before prayers.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 9:5

- Danny
Monday, 22 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1249 - Hitting as an educational tool

One is not allowed to hit one's servants, even as a means to force them to obey.

One may hit one's own children - including adopted children - if done in a way that will educate them to be upright people.

Before hitting, one should first try explaining the issue; if that fails and one must resort to hitting, one must be careful not to be cruel; one may not beat up a kid to vent one's anger.

It is forbidden to forewarn a child that they will be hit later, as this can traumatize a child. If hitting is called for, one either hits or one keeps quiet about it. 

It is forbidden to hit children who will hit back - even if they are not yet Bar Mitzva - since one causes them to sin.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 184:2, 143:18: 165:1

- Danny
Tuesday, 21 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1248 - Is boxing a Kosher sport?

It is forbidden to hit a fellow Jew.

One who hits another Jew has transgressed a Torah prohibition.

Even one who simply lifts his hand with the intent to hit is called "wicked" as we learned in last week's Parsha (Shmot); "[Moshe] said to the wicked one: Why are you going to hit your friend?" - even before he hit, he was referred to as the wicked one.

Hitting back in self-defense is permitted, if there are no other options.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 184:1

- Danny
Monday, 20 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1247 - Long time no see

If one is happy when seeing a very dear friend (including spouses, parents, siblings and teachers) after not seeing them for at least 30 days, one makes the Bracha of Shehechiyanu:

"Blessed... who has kept us alive, sustained us and permitted us to reach this occasion."

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה', אֱ-לֹקֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם

 שֶׁהֶחֱיָינוּ וקִיְּמָנוּ והִגִּיעָנוּ לַזְּמָן הַזֶּה

One can make this Bracha even if one received letters from them during this time.

If one has not seen them for more than 12 months one makes this Bracha instead:

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה', אֱ-לֹקֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם

מְחַיֵּה הַמֵּתִים

"Blessed... who revives the dead".

The reason being that anything 12 months old is considered to be forgotten. Therefore, if one communicated with them - or received regards from them - during the past 12 months, one says Bracha of Shehechiyanu.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 59:20

- Danny
Sunday, 19 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1246 - Dissolving ice and fat on Shabbat

One may put congealed fat onto hot food on Shabbat even though it will dissolve. 

One may not crush snow or ice in order to help them melt faster. 

One may put ice into liquids in order to chill them, even though the ice will melt. 

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 80:13

Shabbat Shalom,

- Danny
Thursday, 16 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1245 - Davening in transit

Even while travelling one has to pray at the correct times. 

Men need to put on Tallit and Tefillin even when praying in transit.

When travelling by foot, one should stand still for the first 2 verses of Shma, if possible. (Shma Yisrael and Baruch Shem)

When travelling in a vehicle one should stop, alight and stand for the Amida. If one is in a hurry, then one should do so at least for the first 3 and last 3 Brachot.

If alighting is not an option, one can daven the Amida while seated.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 68:8

- Danny
Wednesday, 15 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1244 - Eating in transit

If you ate while walking, you may say Birkat Hamazon while walking.

If you sat while eating you have to sit while saying Birkat Hamazon

If one didn't eat in a house - or one ate in the house of a non-Jew, one replaces the 6th הָרַחֲמָן with:

הָרַחֲמָן הוּא יִשְׁלַח לָנוּ בְּרָכָה מְרֻבָּה בִּמְקוֹם הֲלִיכָתֵנוּ וּבִמְקוֹם יְשִׁיבָתֵנוּ עַד עוֹלָם

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 68:9, 10

- Danny
Tuesday, 14 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1243 - Travel preparations

Before leaving on a trip one should give charity.

Since one should learn Torah or say Tehilim while traveling, one should remember to take along a Sefer.

One should never go on a trip - even a short one - without taking along food.

Men should also take along spare Tzitzit in case the one they are wearing rip and become Pasul (unfit), as well as their Tefillin if there's a chance they won't be back home before the morrow.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 68:6

- Danny
Monday, 13 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1242 – Washing with Snow

If no cup is available for washing one's hands, one can immerse them into a river or into snow, if there's enough snow on the ground to fill a Mikve. (About 500 litres/130 gallons of water.) 

This applies to washing three times after arising as well as washing before eating bread. 

Source Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 2:6, 40:7

- Danny, in snowy Jerusalem
12 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1241 - Is tomorrow's fast (עשרה בטבת) mentioned in the Bible?

The prophet יְחֶזְקֵאל was told to record the 10th day of the 10th month (Tevet, counting from Nissan) as the day the the siege started:

 וַיְהִי דְבַר ה' אֵלַי בַּשָּׁנָה הַתְּשִׁיעִית, בַּחֹדֶשׁ הָעֲשִׂירִי, בֶּעָשׂוֹר לַחֹדֶשׁ, לֵאמֹר.   בֶּן-אָדָם, כְּתָב לְךָ אֶת-שֵׁם הַיּוֹם--אֶת-עֶצֶם, הַיּוֹם הַזֶּה: סָמַךְ מֶלֶךְ-בָּבֶל אֶל-יְרוּשָׁלִַם, בְּעֶצֶם הַיּוֹם הַזֶּה. 

 יְחֶזְקֵאל פרק כד:א-ב

The prophet זְכַרְיָה prophesied that the fast of the 4th month (Tammuz, counting from Nissan), the fast of the 5th month (Av) and the fast of the 10th month (Tevet) will be turned into days of joy.

 כֹּה-אָמַר ה'... צוֹם הָרְבִיעִי וְצוֹם הַחֲמִישִׁי וְצוֹם הַשְּׁבִיעִי וְצוֹם הָעֲשִׂירִי יִהְיֶה לְבֵית-יְהוּדָה לְשָׂשׂוֹן וּלְשִׂמְחָה, וּלְמֹעֲדִים, טוֹבִים; וְהָאֱמֶת וְהַשָּׁלוֹם, אֱהָבוּ. 

זְכַרְיָה פרק ח:יט

Tomorrow's Mincha consists of אַשְׁרֵי,  half-Kaddish and Torah reading. The 3rd Aliya also reads the Haftarah (דִּרְשׁוּ from יְשַׁעְיָהוּ) . Only somebody who is fasting should be called up to the Torah on a fast day. 

After the 3 Brachot following the Haftara (until מָגֵן דָּוִד) , the Torah is returned to the Aaron HaKodesh followed by half-Kaddish and the Amida.

During the Mincha Amida, individuals add the "עֲנֵנוּ" prayer into the 16th Bracha; שְׁמַע קוֹלֵנוּ. If one forgot, one does not need to make amends. 

The Chazzan adds עֲנֵנוּ during both Shacharit and Mincha, as a separate Bracha before רְפָאֵנוּ. 

Even at Mincha he adds Birkat Cohanim (or בָּרְכֵנוּ בַּבְּרָכָה הַמְשֻׁלֶּשֶׁת) after Modim. 

The final Bracha is שִׂים שָׁלוֹם , since there was Torah reading.

The repetition of the Amida is not followed by אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ nor by Tachanun, as it's Erev Shabbat. One ends with Kaddish and עָלֵינוּ .

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 23:15, 19:14, 20:8, Rambam הלכות תעניות פרק ה,

Shabbat Shalom,

- Danny, from snowy Jerusalem.
Thursday, 9 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1240 - When does the fast start on Friday?

On Friday will be the fast of 10 B'Tevet.

No eating and drinking is allowed from dawn (4:54 in Jerusalem) to nightfall (17:03 in Jerusalem).

One may eat before dawn if one had the intention of doing so before going to sleep the night before.

If one always drinks when one gets up, then one can drink before dawn even of one didn't think about it when going to bed.

Pregnant and nursing mothers as well as people who aren't feeling well do not need to fast if fasting will cause them discomfort. Anybody who isn't healthy shouldn't fast. When in doubt, consult your LOR (Local Orthodox Rabbi).

Children are not allowed to fast.

Those who may eat, as well as children, should not indulge in food. If possible they should limit themselves to bread and water.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 121:8, 8

- Danny
Wednesday, 8 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1239 - Don't drop the Sefer Torah

If - Gcd forbid - one drops a Sefer Torah, one needs to fast.

This is true even if the Sefer Torah was in its cover.

The Minhag is that those who saw the Sefer Torah fall, also fast.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 28:12

- Danny
Tuesday, 7 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1238 - Asara B'Tevet on Friday

In the year 3,338 the wicked King Nebuchadnezzar laid siege against Jerusalem which culminated in the destruction of the first Bet Hamikdash, a year and a half later. As a result we will fast this Friday.

Asara B'Tevet is the only public fast that can fall on a Friday. (The "Firstborns Fast" is on a Friday when Pessach starts on Friday night.)

Pregnant and nursing mothers do not fast, as well as anybody unwell, after consulting with a Doctor.

Keep in mind that Mincha will be earlier than usual, since it includes the Torah Reading and Haftara for fast days.

One gets ready for Shabbat as usual:

• One may shower as usual, but one should not rinse one's mouth, if possible.
• One can cut one's nails.
• One puts on Shabbat clothing before candle lighting, which is at the regular time; 20 to 40 minutes before sunset depending on your communities custom.

However, one may not eat until after nightfall; even if one has already finished Ma'ariv prayers.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 121

- Danny
Monday, 6 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1236 - Chanukah leftovers

Oil that was put in the Chanukah Menorah and was not burnt, as well as wicks that were used and candles that didn't burn fully should be burnt after Chanukah.

Since they were set aside for the Mitzva of Chanukah they cannot be used for any other purpose.

If one had the explicit intention to use the left-overs, then they need not be burnt.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:20

Shabbat Shalom

- Danny
Thursday, 2 Tevet 5774

Halocho #1235 - Fire and rain on Zot Chanuka

On Wednesday night - the  8th night of Chanukah  - we start praying for rain in the 9th Bracha of the weekday Amida - Barech-Aleina - בָּרֵךְ עָלֵינוּ - in the Diaspora.

Ashkenazim will add וְתֵן טַל וּמָטָר לִבְרָכָה in the 9th Bracha of the weekday Amida - בָּרֵךְ עָלֵינוּ.
Sefardim will say בָּרֵךְ עָלֵינוּ  instead of בַּרְכֵנוּ as the 9th Bracha.

In Israel we started this on the 7th of Marcheshvan.

For more details see Halocho #668 - Ask for rain http://halocho.blogspot.com/2010/10/halocho-668-ask-for-rain.html

The Torah Reading for tomorrow - the last day of Chanuka - has 39 verses.

It starts from בַּיּוֹם הַשְּׁמִינִי in Parshat נָשֹׂא and continues all the way past the end of the Parsha and ends with the first paragraph of Parshat בְּהַעֲלֹתְךָ which talks about the daily lighting the 7-branched Menora in the Mishkan and the Bet HaMikdash.

The last paragraph of Parshat נָשֹׂא starts with the words זֹאת חֲנֻכַּת הַמִּזְבֵּחַ- as a result the last day of Chanuka is often referred to as Zot Chanuka.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch  139:23

Chodesh Tov! Don't forget Ya'aleh Veyavo and Al Hanisim in the Amida and Birkat Hamazon.

- Danny
Wednesday, 2nd day Rosh Chodesh Tevet 5774

Halocho #1234 - The Chanukah Menorah in shul

In order to publicize the miracle of Chanuka, the Menora is lit - with the correct Brachot - in the synagogue, between Mincha and Ma'ariv.

The person who lit the Menora in shul has to light again at home, with the correct Brachot.

A mourner should not light the Menora in shul on the first night of Chanuka, since it's inappropriate for him to say "Shehechiyanu" in public. At home a mourner does say "Shehechiyanu" on the first night.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:15

Chodesh Tov! Don't forget Ya'aleh Veyavo and Al Hanisim in the Amida and Birkat Hamazon.

- Danny
Tuesday, 1st day Rosh Chodesh Tevet, 5774

Halocho #1233 - Rosh Chodesh and Chanukah

Tomorrow (Tuesday) and Wednesday is Rosh Chodesh Tevet. 

Rosh Chodesh Tevet is the only time the full-Hallel is said on Rosh Chodesh. (Usually on Rosh Chodesh we leave out 2 half-paragraphs.)

Between Shacharit and Mussaf we will take out 2 Sifrei Torah. First we call up 3 people to the Torah for Rosh Chodesh and then - in the second Sefer Torah - a fourth person for Chanukah.

We then daven Mussaf for Rosh Chodesh, with Al Hanisim.

Starting tonight - Monday night - don't forget Ya'aleh Veyavo and Al Hanisim in the Amida and Birkat Hamazon.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:24

- Danny
Monday, 29 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1232 - Using the light of the Chanukah Menorah

Each night of Chanukah one adds an extra light, starting at 1 and ending at 8.

Besides for the nightly number, the custom is to add an extra candle each night - known as the Shamash.

This is ensure that one doesn't accidentally use the light from the actual Chanukah lights, which is forbidden.

After the Chanukah Menora has been burning for half an hour after nightfall, one may derive benefit from the lights of the Chanukah Menora.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:14

- Danny
Sunday, 28 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1231 - Motzai Shabbat and Chanuka; which comes first?

On Motzai Shabbat - the  4th night of Chanukah this year - one first makes Havdalah and then lights the Chanukah Menorah.

In Shul the Menorah is lit after the full-Kaddish - before  וְיִתֶּן לְךָ  - on Motzai Shabbat.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:18

Some have the custom of lighting the Menorah before making Havdala, since one already heard Havdalah in shul. (Source: רמ"א 581:2)

The Haftara this week is the Chanuka one (רָנִּי וְשִׂמְחִי בַּת צִיּוֹן  from Zecharia 2:14)..

Shabbat Shalom uMevorach, Rosh Chodesh will be on Tuesday and Wednesday.

- Danny
Thursday, 25 Kislev 5774

Quick recap of the laws of Chanuka:

 (All times mentioned are for the year 2013 in Jerusalem.)

The earliest time to light the Menora is at Plug-HaMincha - which is at 15:30 - but the Menora has to burn until 30 minutes after dark.

On weekdays, the preferred time is at sunset (16:40) or nightfall (17:10) depending on family custom. 

You can light any time after this - but you cannot make the Brachot then, unless somebody else is awake in the house with you - or you live on a busy street and people are still walking outside and they can see your Chanuka Menora.

The latest time to light would be 4:15 the next morning - 30 minutes before dawn.

Once it's time to light the Menora, one should not do anything else except get organized to light. Even learning Torah and eating is not allowed; though one can have a light snack (fruit or similar).

The only exception is: one can first Daven Maariv - תפילת ערבית - if one lights at nightfall.

After candle lighting one can do anything. However, there is an ancient custom that women do not do any work for the first 30 minutes, to commemorate their pivotal role in the Chanuka victory. ("Work" being anything they cannot do on Yom Tov.)
The custom is to spend these 30 minutes singing Maoz Tzur and other Chanuka songs, relating the story of Chanuka and discussing the Halachot of Chanuka.

On Friday afternoon one lights Shabbat candles at the usual time (16:00) and one has to light the Menora BEFORE lighting Shabbat candles. (So the Menora has to be lit between 15:30 and 16:00)

The Menora has to burn until 30 minutes after dark - so you'll need oil or candles that will last for at least 70 minutes.

Since you cannot move the Menora on Shabbat, you have to place it in a safe place - but (if possible) it should not be near your Shabbat candles.

On Motzai Shabbat you must wait until Shabbat is over (17:15) and then you make Havdala and light the Menora. Which to do first depends on family custom.

Halocho #1230 - What comes first? Chanukah or Shabbat candles?

We will light the first Chanukah flame this evening; Wednesday afternoon, 27th Nov. - and every evening for the next 8 days.

Since one cannot light fire on Shabbat, on Friday the Menorah is lit before Shabbat.

The correct order for Friday is:
- Daven "early" Mincha.
- Light the Chanukah Menorah. One can light as early as 75 Halachic minutes before sunset. 
- Light Shabbat candles at the regular time.

The Chanukah Menorah needs be stay lit until 30 minutes after dark. 
On Friday one needs longer candles or more oil than during the week, since it needs to burn for 70 minutes or longer.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:17

- Danny
Wednesday, 24 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1229 - Who should light the Chanukah Menorah?

This year Chanukah starts on Thursday, 28th November 2013. We will light the first flame on Wednesday afternoon, 27th Nov.

Since both men and women were included in the miracle of Chanukah, they both need to light the Chanukah Menorah.

At least one person per household must light.

The custom is for everybody to light, including children under Bar Mitzva. However, married couples share one Chanukah Menorah that either the husband or wife lights.

Even blind people should light, if they live by themselves.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:16

- Danny
Tuesday, 23 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1228 - Al HaNisim during Chanukah

During all 8 days (and nights) of Chanukah one adds עַל הַנִּסִּים to the Birkat Hamazon during the 2nd Bracha. If you forgot to add עַל הַנִּסִּים and you've already said 'ברוך אתה ה then you don't have to make amends.

However, if possible you should say the following during the HaRachaman's after the 4th Bracha:

הָרַחֲמָן הוּא יַעֲשֶׂה לָנוּ נִסִּים וְנִפְלָאוֹת, 

כְּמוֹ שֶׁעָשָׂה לַאֲבוֹתֵינוּ

 בַּיָּמִים הַהֵם בַּזְּמַן הַזֶּה בִּימֵי מַתִּתְיָהוּ

...and then continue with the rest of the עַל הַנִּסִּים.

During every Amida of Chanukah (including Mussaf) one adds עַל הַנִּסִּים during Modim. 

If you forgot to add עַל הַנִּסִּים and you've already said 'ברוך אתה ה then you don't have to make amends.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 44:16, 139: 21

- Danny
Monday, 22 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1227 - Bracha when lighting the Chanukah Menorah?

This year Chanukah starts on Thursday, 28th November 2013. We will light the first flame on Wednesday afternoon, 27th Nov.

On the first night of Chanukah one says 3 Brachot:

1. Lehadlik Ner Sel Chanukah - "Blessed... to light the Chanukah lights"

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה' אֱלקֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם

 אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו

 וְצִוָּנוּ לְהַדְלִיק נֵר חֲנֻכָּה

2. She'Asa Nissim La'Avoteinu Bayamim Hahem Bazman Hazeh - "Blessed.. who did miracles for our ancestors, in those days at this season"

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה' אֱלקֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם

שֶׁעָשָׂה נִסִּים לַאֲבוֹתֵינוּ, בַּיָּמִים הָהֵם בַּזְּמַן הַזֶּה

3. Shehechiyanu - "Blessed... who has kept us alive, sustained us and permitted us to reach this occasion."

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה' אֱלקֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם

שֶׁהֶחֱיָנוּ, וְקִיְּמָנוּ, וְהִגִּיעָנוּ לַזְּמַן הַזֶּה

The Brachot are said before lighting.

On the other 7 nights one only says the first 2 Brachot.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch  139:12, 13

- Danny
Sunday, 21 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1226 - Oil or candles for Shabbat and Chanukah?

For lighting Shabbat candles one may only use a combination of fuel and wicks that together produce a steady non-flickering light. 

For Chanukah one may use any fuel and wick combination that will burn for the required time. Preferably one should use something that provides a steady light, like our candles. Best is to use olive oil, since the Chanukah miracle happened with olive oil. 

Wicks should be made of cotton wool.

There is no need to use new wicks every night.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:4

Shabbat Shalom

- Danny
Thursday, 18 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1225 - Menora: Artisic and Silver

If one uses clay lamps for the Menorah then one has to replace them every night. 

When using glass holders one must make sure they are clean; not oily or smoky from the previous night. 

Best is to use a nice metal Menorah. If one can afford it, one should buy a silver Menorah to beautify the Mitzva. 

The wicks on a Menorah must all be at the same level; you cannot have some higher and some lower. 

The Shamash should be higher. Its purpose is to provide light so that you don't use the Chanukah lights which are for "display and not for use". 

The wicks should be far enough away from each other that they don't join and become a torch. If using candles they mustn't be close enough to melt each other. 

The wicks do not have to be in a straight line; a Menorah can be shaped as a semi-circular or even a full circle. 

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:5, 9

- Danny 

Wednesday, 17 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1224 - What happens if your Chanukah candles blow out?

A Chanukah Menorah must be lit such that it could burn for the required half hour.

If it didn't have enough oil, or the location was windy, then one has not fulfilled the Mitzva, and one must fix the problem and light them again. No Bracha is said the second time.

If it was not a windy place, and it unexpectedly blew out, the Mitzva has been fulfilled, though the Minhag (during the week) is to light it again.

One cannot light one candle from another; one needs to use the Shamash or another source of fire.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:1

- Danny
Tuesday, 16 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1223 - Where should one light the Chanukah Menorah?

Originally the Chanukah Menorah was lit at the entrance closest to the street, in order to publicize the miracle.

When put in a doorway with a Mezuzah, the Menorah should be placed opposite the Mezuzah so that one is surrounded by Mitzvot.

If the doorway doesn't have a Mezuzah, then the Menorah goes on the right, when walking in.

Nowadays most people light indoors, preferably at a window. If this is not practical, the Menorah should be placed in a doorway.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:6-7

- Danny
Monday, 15 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1222 - Traveler's guide to Chanukah

If one is in one's hometown, one needs to go home to light the Chanukah Menorah.

If one is traveling, and one's wife is lighting the Chanukah Menorah at home, then one should light without the Brachot. If possible, one should try hear the Brachot from somebody else.

If one comes home past the time for lighting candles, one should light as soon as possible. As long as some other member of the household is still awake, one lights with a Bracha. If nobody else is awake anymore, one lights without a Bracha.

Bachelors and others living away from home, who don't have a spouse lighting for them at home, preferably should light for themselves with the Brachot. Alternately they can chip in with somebody else's Menorah lighting, by giving him a Peruta (a few pennies).

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:19

- Danny
Sunday, 14 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1221 - Flowerpots on Shabbat

Picking fruit or flowers that are growing in a flowerpot is forbidden on Shabbat; it's no different than plants growing in the ground.

Moving a flowerpot from the floor to an elevated surface is forbidden on Shabbat, since the plant draws nourishment from the floor, and this would be similar to uprooting it, which is forbidden.

Similarly,  moving a flowerpot from a table or other surface to the floor would be similar to planting which is forbidden on Shabbat.

The above applies to flowerpots made of any material, and irrespective of whether or not it has a hole on the bottom.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 80:61

Shabbat Shalom

- Danny
Thursday, 11 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1220 - May one move the Menorah while it's lit?

The Chanukah Menorah has to be lit in the correct place. If the need arises, one can then move it.

If the Menorah was lit too high, too low or in a location where the wind will extinguish it, and was subsequently moved, one has not fulfilled one's obligation. One needs to extinguish it and light it again, but without the Brachot.

The lights on the Chanukah Menorah must be at least 3 Tefachim (24 cm. - 10") above the floor.

The Chanukah Menorah must be no higher than 20 Amos (10 m. - 33 ft. ) from the floor.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:8, 13

- Danny
Wednesday, 10 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1219 - When is Chanukah this year?

The 8 days of Chanukah always start on the 25th of Kislev; the first candle being lit on the 24th in the late afternoon.

This year Chanukah starts on Thursday, 28th November 2013. We will light the first flame on Wednesday afternoon, 27th Nov.

A week later - (Wednesday afternoon, 4th Dec) we will light all 8 flames for the 8th day of Chanuka.

On weekdays the Chanukah lights should be lit at nightfall and should be able to burn for at least 30 minutes. 

Chanukah lights can already be lit from Plag HaMincha (75 Halachic minutes before nightfall). 

Even when lighting earlier, the Menorah has to burn until 30 minutes after nightfall. 

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 139:1, 10

There are 2 opinions regarding nightfall: Some say it refers to dusk, other say it refers to 3 stars appearing (like Motzai Shabbat). Everybody should follow their family custom.

- Danny
Tuesday, 9 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1218 - Is a Bar Mitzva meal a Se'udat Mitzva?

It's a Mitzva to celebrate a Bar Mitzva with a meal.

If the meal is not on the boy's 13th Hebrew birthday, then the Bar Mitzva boy has to give a Torah-related sermon for it to be considered a Se'udat Mitzva.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 61:8

- Danny
Monday, 8 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1217 - The Bracha on a Bar Mitzva

A boy becomes Bar Mitzva at age 13 and is then considered a full adult. It is customary to call him up to the Torah as soon as possible after his 13th birthday.

After he had been called up to the Torah and said the final Bracha, his father then makes a Bracha:

ברוך אתה ה' אלקינו מלך העולם אשר פטרני מעונשו של זה

Blessed are You, Hashem, our Gcd, King of the universe, Who has freed me from the punishement due this boy.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 61:8

- Danny
Sunday, 7 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1216 - Items hanging on trees on Shabbat

Picking fruit is forbidden on Shabbat. 

On Shabbat one may not even remove items hanging from trees.

If there's a basket hanging on a tree, one may not even remove items from the basket, nor put items into the basket.

If the basket is hanging from a hook that is screwed into the tree, one may not remove the basket (nor hang it up). 

However, if the basket is hanging from a hook that is screwed into the tree, one may remove items from the basket, as well as add items into the basket on Shabbat.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 80:60

So, it would seem that if the hammock is tied to hooks that are screwed into the trees - and the trees won't move when swinging on the hammock (as we learnt 2 weeks ago) - it shoud be permissible to use a hammock on Shabbat.

Source: http://www.zomet.org.il/Eng/?CategoryID=160&ArticleID=6381

Shabbat Shalom

- Danny
Thursday, 4 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1215 - May a worker go on a starvation diet?

In this week's Parsha we learn that Yaakov said to Lavan's daughters "with all my might I worked for your father".

All employees have to work to the best of their ability.

A worker may not fast (besides on obligatory fast days) nor go on a starvation diet, if that will have a negative affect on his work.

This includes teachers as well as any other paid employee.

If one hires out one's animals, then one may not work with them at night if that will tire them out the next day.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 185:6

- Danny
Wednesday, 3 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1214 - Is moonlighting allowed?

In this week's Parsha we learn that Yaakov said to Lavan's daughters "with all my might I worked for your father".

All employees have to work to the best of their ability.

A worker may not take on a extra night job, if that will affect his performance the next day.

If one hires out one's animals, then one may not work with them at night if that will tire them out the next day.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 185:6

- Danny
Tuesday, 2 Kislev 5774

Halocho #1213 - Tefillin on Rosh Chodesh?

Men wear Tefillin (phylacteries) every day during Shacharit (morning prayers) except for Shabbat and Yom Tov.

Rosh Chodesh has some aspects of a Yom Tov, yet work is permitted. 

Tefillin are worn on Rosh Chodesh during Shacharit, Hallel and the Torah reading. They are removed before starting Mussaf.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 10:19

Chodesh Tov

- Danny
Monday, 2nd day Rosh Chodesh Kislev 5774

Halocho #1212 - Ya'aleh VeYavo - it's Rosh Chodesh!

Today (Sunday) and tomorrow are Rosh Chodesh Kislev.

One needs to add Ya'a'leh VeYavo - יַעֲלֶה וְיָבוֹא  in the 17th Bracha of the Amida - רצה. 

If one forgot to do so during the Amida of Ma'ariv (evening prayers) - on either day - one does not need to make amends; since the Sanhedrin did not sanctify the month at night.

If one forgot to do so during Shachrit (morning prayers) or Mincha (afternoon prayers), then one has to return to the 17th Bracha of the Amida - רצה and make amends.
If one already finished the Amida - by saying Yihyu leRatzon - יהיו לרצון - then one needs to restart the Amida.

One also needs to add Ya'a'leh VeYavo - יַעֲלֶה וְיָבוֹא  - in Birkat Hamazon.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 19:10

Chodesh Tov

- Danny
Sunday, 30 Marchesvan, 1st day Rosh Chodesh Kislev 5774

Halocho #1211 - Shabbat is Erev Rosh Chodesh Kislev

This Sunday and Monday is Rosh Chodesh Kislev.

When the 3rd Shabbat meal continues into the night, one still inserts Retzai – רצה during Birkas Hamazon (grace after meals). 

When one starts a meal on Erev Rosh Chodesh and eats a Kezayit (the size of an olive – 27 cc) of bread after dark, one inserts Ya’aleh V’Yavo – יעלה ויבוא during Birkat Hamazon. 

What happens when both of the above happen together? 

If Rosh Chodesh is on Sunday and one eats a Kezayit of bread after dark during the 3rd Shabbat meal, then one inserts both Retzai – רצה and Ya’aleh V’Yavo – יעלה ויבוא during Birkat Hamazon. 

However, some argue that mentioning both is a contradiction – since Shabbat and Rosh Chodesh aren’t on the same day. 

Therefore one should be careful not to eat after dark at the 3rd Shabbat meal when Rosh Chodesh is on Sunday. 

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 44:17

Shabbat Shalom and Chodesh Tov

- Danny
Thursday, 27 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1210 - Finder's keepers?

If you find Jewish property that is obviously lost, you have an obligation to return it to it's owner.

However, if the object was "put down" and not dropped, then you are not allowed to move it; if you move it you are preventing the owner from finding it.

When in doubt, leave it alone, unless you know who the owner is and you will return it to them immediately.

Similarly, if you can prevent somebody else's property from being destroyed, damaged or stolen, you have an obligation to do so.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 187:1, 3

- Danny

Halocho #1209 - Tomorrow is Yom Kippour Kattan

The day before Rosh Chodesh is called Yom Kippour Kattan. 

If Rosh Chodesh is on Shabbat or Sunday then Yom Kippour Kattan is on Thursday.

In certain communities, Mincha (the afternoon prayers) on Yom Kippour Kattan includes prayers asking for repentance, so as to begin the new month with a "clean slate".

Some even have the custom to fast on Yom Kippour Kattan.

Tomorrow - Thursday - is Yom Kippour Kattan. Rosh Chodesh Kislev will be on Sunday and Monday.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 97:1, 128:1

- Danny
Wednesday, 26 Marcheshvan 5774

Halocho #1207 - It's going to be a long year

Some years the Jewish calendar have 12 months, the rest (7 out of 19) are leap-years with 13 months.

This year - 5774 - has 13 months; the 11th month - Shevat - is followed by Adar-I and then Adar-II. Purim is in Adar-II

Jewish months alternate between being 29 and 30 days long.

However, the months of Marcheshvan and Kislev sometimes both have 30 days (a full year), sometimes both have 29 days (a missing year) and sometimes follow the regular order with Marcheshvan having 29 days and Kislev 30.

As a result, Chanukah (which starts on 25 Kislev and lasts 8 days) sometimes ends on 2 Tevet and sometimes on 3 Tevet.

This year - 5774 - is a "full year" with both Marcheshvan and Kislev having 30 days.

Adar-I is always 30 days long, even though Shevat is 30 days long.

This year - 5754 - is 385 days long, a full 55 weeks. As a result, Pessach will once again start on Tuesday, and Rosh Hashana will once again be on Thursday-Friday.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 221:4

- Danny
Tuesday, 25 Marcheshvan 5774

Halocho #1206 - Being responsible to the last minute

When returning an object that you were asked to safeguard, or when returning a loan, it must be returned to the person who gave it to you.

Giving it to a member their household is not acceptable;  if something happens to the item you would be held responsible.

However, giving it to the owner's spouse is permitted, unless you were explicitly asked not to do so, since spouses trust each other to look after each other's property.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 188:5

- Danny
Sunday, 23 Marcheshvan 5774

Halocho #1205 - Trees on Shabbat

Moving objects that are Muktza is not allowed on Shabbat. One may touch Muktza on Shabbat if it will not move.

However, one may not use a tree on Shabbat even if it is solid and will not move; one may not climb on it, nor hang from it.

One may not hang things onto trees on Shabbat, nor remove items hanging on trees.

One may not tie an animal by its leash to a tree on Shabbat.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 80:60

Shabbat Shalom

- Danny
Thursday, 20 Marcheshvan 5774

Halocho #1204 - Looking after other people's objects

If somebody gave you an object to look after, you have to safeguard it in the best possible way for that object; some items need to be locked away, others need to be aerated, etc.

Even if you are careless about looking after your own items, you still have to guard other people's items properly.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 188:3

- Danny
Wednesday, 19 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1203 - May you use something you're safeguarding?

If somebody gave you an object to look after, then you may not use it without their explicit permission.

Even if you are certain that the owner does not mind, it's better not to use it.

This is forbidden even if the object will not suffer any wear and tear from being used.

Letting other people use the object is absolutely forbidden.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 188:2

- Danny
Tuesday, 18 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1202 - Lending out borrowed money

Yesterday we learned that if you borrow or hire something, you are not allowed to let other people use it, without explicit permission from the original owner.

Money is different. You may lend out money that you borrowed, since the lender does not expect you to return the same coins and bills.

However, if you are expected to return those same bills and coins, then you may not lend them to others. 

For example, if they are collector's items, or they are tied up and you are safeguarding them - not using them as a loan - them you may not let others use them.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 188:1

- Danny
Monday, 17 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1201 - Borrowers can't be lenders

If you borrow or hire something, you are not allowed to let other people use it, without explicit permission from the original owner.

If one knows for a fact that the owner lets this particular person use this item (or similar items) then one can lend or rent the item to that person.

Even though it's a Mitzva to let other people use your Sefarim (Torah related books), if you borrow a Sefer you may not let others use it.

If one borrows a Sefer for others to use, only one person at a time may use it.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 185:1

- Danny
Sunday, 16 Marchesvan 5771

Halocho #1200 - Breaking things on Shabbat

One should not break or cut items on Shabbat, with the exception of food.

Even items that are only fit for animals to eat may be cut or broken. Thus, one may break a piece of straw to make a toothpick.

One may rub or break spices in order to extract their fragrance, even if they are as hard as wood.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 80:59

Shabbat Shalom

- Danny
Thursday, 13 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1199 - Achoo! Sneeze the Jewish way!

When a person sneezes, one blesses him with אֲסוּתָא - Be Healthy - Gesundheit - לַבְּרִיאוּת

The sneezer then responds with בָּרוּךְ תִּהְיֶה - Bless you.

After sneezing one should say 'לִישׁוּעָתְךָ קִוִּיתִי ה - for Your salvation do I hope, Hashem, since one who prays for somebody else is answered first.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 61:5

- Danny
Wednesday, 12 Marchesvan 5774

Please daven for the full recovery of Shmuel Zeev Ben Yenti Gittel, recovering from a mild heart attack.

Halocho #1198 - Breaking the glass cup

At an engagement party one breaks a plate, whereas under the Chuppa (wedding canopy) one breaks a glass vessel.

This is done in order to remember the destruction of Jerusalem and the Bet Hamikdash, even at the height of our joyous celebrations.

The glass cup broken under the Chuppa should be intact, whereas at the engagement one should break a damaged plate.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 126:2

 - Danny
 Tuesday, 11 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1197- The Bracha on medicine

Before taking medicine - or doing any medical procedure - one should say:

"May it be your will, Hashem, - יְהִי רָצוֹן מִלְּפָנֶיךָ ה' אֱלקֵינוּ וֵאֱלקֵי אֲבוֹתֵינוּ, 

that this procedure should cure me, - שֶׁיִּהְיֶה לִי עֵסֶק זֶה לִרְפוּאָה

for You are a Doctor who does not charge." - כִּי רוֹפֵא חִנָּם אַתָּה

"If the medicine tastes good, one should then say the relevant Bracha (usually Shehakol) before taking the medicine.

After taking medicine - or doing any medical procedure - one says:

"Blessed is the One who heals the ill." - בָּרוּךְ רוֹפֵא חוֹלִים

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 61:4
- Danny

Monday, 10 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1196 - BeHaB; another fast?

The custom is to say extra Selichot on the first "Monday, Thursday and Monday" in the month following Pessach and Sukkoth.

Some communities do this on the last "Monday, Thursday and Monday" of the month.

Since Monday is "Yom Sheni" or "Yom Bet - ב" and Thursday is "Yom Chamishi" or "Yom Heh - ה" these days are referred to as BeHaB - בה"ב

Some people have the custom to fast on BeHaB. 

A special Mi-Sheberach was recited on Shabbat before the Torah was returned to the Aron Hakodesh to bless those who will fast.

Despite being a "private" (not communal) fast day, a person need not "declare his intention to fast" during the Mincha-Amida of the preceding day, if he answered Amen to the Mi-Sheberach.

Yet, answering Amen to the Mi-Sheberach does not oblige one to fast. 

Even if one intended to fast when answering Amen and then on the designated day there was a Se'udat Mitzva (e.g. Brit Mila or Siyum or Pidyon HaBen) one should join the meal and not fast.

However, if one "declared his intention to fast" during the Mincha-Amida of the preceding day, then one needs to fast.

Tomorrow (Monday), and Thursday and next week Monday are BeHaB in most communities.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 127:3, 14

 - Danny
 Sunday, 9 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1195 - Ask for rain

In Israel, starting this this evening - Thursday evening - (7th Marcheshvan) we start praying for rain in the 9th Bracha of the weekday Amida - Barech-Aleinu - ברך עלינו.
In the Diaspora we will start 7 weeks later - on Wednesday evening; the 8th night of Chanuka (5 Dec).

If you forgot to add "ותן טל ומטר לברכה" - "and bless us with dew and rain", then:

 - If you remember before you finish the 9th Bracha, then you insert it and continue from there.

 - If you already said "Baruch Ata Hashem" of the 9th Bracha, then you insert it into Shma-Kolienu - the 16th Bracha - before "Ki Ata".

 - If you forget to say it in Shma-Kolienu then you need to go back to the 9th Bracha - Barech-Aleinu.

 - If you didn't remember until you finished the Amida (defined as saying "Yihyu L'ratzon") then you have to restart the entire Amida.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 19:5

 Shabbat Shalom
 - Danny

Thursday, 6 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1194 - Is price gouging allowed when selling medicine?

When selling medicines, one is not allowed to charge more than the fair market value of the medication.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 192:10

 - Danny
 Wednesday, 5 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1193 - Must medicine be Kosher?

In order to save a life, one may take medicine that is not Kosher. One may also transgress any other Mitzva needed to save one's life, with the exception of murder, adultery and idolatry.

In non-life threatening situations:
- One should not take non-Kosher medicine, if there's a Kosher alternative readily available.

- If only non-Kosher medicine is available, it may be used. However, if it has a pleasant taste, then one should spoil its taste, for example by adding something bitter to it, or wrapping it in tissue paper.

- If the medicine is a mixture of meat and milk, a Rabbi should be consulted, since normally meat and milk mixtures cannot be used as medicine. The same applies to Kil'ay Hakerem; grains and grapes that grew in close proximity.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 192:5, 6, 7
 - Danny

Halocho #1192 - May one be a Doctor?

Even though illness is divinely decreed on a person; the Torah commands the Doctors to heal,as it says in Shmot 21:19 - וְרַפֹּא יְרַפֵּא - and he shall be healed.

It's a Mitzva for experts in the medical field to heal people; there is no greater Mitzva than saving lives.

A Doctor who refuses to heal is considered a murderer - even if there are other Doctors around, for some illnesses are decreed to leave only after a certain Doctor treats it.

However, somebody who is not trained to be a medical practitioner, should not try healing people, for mistreating illness is also considered murder.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 192:4

 - Danny
 Monday, 3 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1191 - May one go to Doctors?

A person may not rely on miracles when it comes to health issues.

When one is not feeling well, one must consult a qualified medical practitioner.

Refusing to do so is a sign of arrogance, besides for the prohibition of endangering one's life.

One should use the best doctors one can find; yet pray to Hashem that this doctor should be His successful messenger.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 192:3
 - Danny
Sunday, 2 Marchesvan 5774

Halocho #1190 - Rosh Chodesh and Shabbat Rosh Chodesh

The 2 days of Rosh Chodesh Marcheshvan start this evening - Thursday evening.

On Rosh Chodesh one adds  יַעֲלֶה וְיָבוֹא into Birkat Hamazon and the Amida.

On Friday we will call up 4 people to read from the Torah, between Hallel and Mussaf.

On Shabbat we will will take out 2 Sifrei Torah after Hallel. In the first one we will call up at least 7 people to read from Parshat Noah. Then we call up the Maftir to read from the 2nd Sefer Torah.

The Haftara this week is הַשָּׁמַיִם כִּסְאִי  for Shabbat-Rosh Chodesh, consisting of the last chapter in Sefer Yeshayahu.

For Mussaf one says the  אַתָּה יָצַרְתָּ version (usually found at the bottom half of the Shabbat Mussaf pages) which includes both Shabbat and Rosh Chodesh.

 Source: Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 425

 Chodesh Tov and Shabbat Shalom

 - Danny
 Thursday, 29 Tishrei, Erev Rosh Chodesh Marcheshvan 5774

Halocho #1189 - First Aid

"When a member of one's household is unwell, one should go to a Rabbi and ask him to pray for mercy" is what Rav Pinchas bar Chama taught us in Bava Basra (116a) based on a verse in Mishlei (17:14).

It's customary to also give charity to the poor, since "Repentance, Prayer and Charity abolish evil decrees".

The custom is to make a special "Mi Sheberach" prayer in the synagogue for the patient; even on Shabbat, if the condition is life threatening.

In extreme cases, the patient's name is changed (usually by adding another name), as this is another effective way of abolishing evil decrees against a person.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 192:2

 - Danny
 Wednesday, 28 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1188 - Staying healthy

It's a Mitzva to keep one's body in the best of health.

A person should continuously pray that he remain healthy, for if one gets sick one will need spiritual merits - repentance and good deeds - to fully recover.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch  190:3, 192:1

 - Danny
 Tuesday, 27 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1187 - May one throw out Sukkah decorations?

Since the S'chach (branches covering the Sukkah) were used for a Mitzvah, they deserve some respect even after having done their duty.

After Sukkoth when the S'chach is taken down, one should not trample on it.

One may throw them away, but one may not use them for disrespectful purposes like building an outhouse.

One may burn S'chach.

Care should be taken with decorations that have Torah verses written on them.

Preferably one shouldn't hang up such decorations, but if one did, then they need to go into Geniza or otherwise carefully looked after.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 134:13, 14

 - Danny
 Monday, 26 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1186 - Wind and rain

Since Mussaf on Shmini Atzeret (last Thursday) we have been praising Hashem for the wonderful gift of rain, by adding Mashiv HaRu'ach Umorid HaGeshem - משיב הרוח ומוריד הגשם - into the second Bracha of the Amida.

If one forgets to add this?

If one has not yet finished the 2nd Bracha then one adds it after any of the many phrases in this Bracha. If one wishes, one may restart the Bracha and say it in it's correct place.

If one already finished the 2nd Bracha?

If you have the custom of adding "Morid haTal" - מוריד הטל - during the summer, then continue as usual. No amendment is required.

If you do NOT have the custom of adding "Morid haTal" - מוריד הטל - during the summer, then you have to restart the Amida from the beginning. This is because the first 3 Brachot of the Amida are considered a single entity.

One continues saying V'Then Bracha - ותן ברכה - in the 9th Bracha of the Amida until the 7th Marcheshvan in Israel and the 5th December in the Diaspora.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 19:1, 2, 5

 - Danny
 Sunday, 25 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1185- Eruv Tavshilin again and again - or not?

One may not prepare from Yom Tov to Shabbat unless one does Eruv Tavshilin before Yom Tov.

Since (outside of Israel) Sukkoth is on Thursday & Friday, people living outside of Israel need to do Eruv Tavshilin on Wednesday - both this week and next week for Shmini Atzeret & Simchat Torah.
One takes a loaf of bread and a cooked or baked food that will be eaten on Shabbat and one says the Bracha:

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה' אֱלקֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנו בְּמִצְוֹתָיו וְצִוָּנוּ עַל מִצְוַת עֵרוּב

One continues with the following, which must be said in a language one understands:

בַּהֲדֵין עֵרוּבָא

 יְהֵא שָׁרֵא לָנָא לַאֲפוּיֵי, וּלְבַשּׁוּלֵי, וּלְאַטְמוּנֵי, וּלְאַדְלוּקֵי שְׁרָגָא, וּלִמֶעְבֵּד כָּל צָרְכָּנָא מִיּוֹמָא טָבָא לְשַׁבְּתָא.

"With this Eruv we are permitted to bake, cook, keep things warm and light fire and do all that is needed from Yom Tov to Shabbat".

The bread and food should be kept in a safe place; it they are eaten before Shabbat, a Rabbi should be consulted how to proceed.

Even those who don't have to cook for Shabbat, still need to do Eruv Tavshilin in order to light Shabbat candles (from an existing flame.)

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 102

 ==> Add a reminder to your calendar for Eruv Tavshilin for next week, if you don't live in Israel.

 Chag Same'ach; next Halocho-a-Day after Sukkoth

 - Danny
 Wednesday, Erev Sukkoth, 14 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1184 - The 4 minim; putting it all together!

On Sukkoth there's a Mitzvah to shake the four species; a Lulav, 3 Haddasim, 2 Aravot and an Etrog.

 When shaking them on Sukkoth, the Lulav, 3 Haddasim and 2 Aravot are tied together and held in one's right hand, and the Etrog in the left hand. (Lefties hold the Lulav in their left, Etrog in the right.)

 All 6 branches must be facing upwards, with the side where they were cut off the tree facing down.

 The spine of the Lulav must be facing you. The 3 Haddasim are tied to the right of the Lulav. The 2 Aravot are tied to the left of the Lulav.

 The Lulav is first bound with 3 ties typically made of palm leaves. The 3 Haddasim and 2 Aravot are then bound to it with another 2 ties. The Haddasim should be slightly higher than than the Aravot.

 The spine of the the Lulav must protrude at least 1 Tefach (8 cm - 3") above the Haddasim and Aravot.

 The top Tefach of the Lulav should not have any ties on it.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 136:8

 Wishing everybody a Chag Same'ach!

 - Danny
 Tuesday, 13 Tishrei 5774

==> Add a reminder to your calendar for Eruv Tavshilin for tomorrow and next week, if you don't live in Israel.

Halocho #1183 - What to bring into the Sukka

The Torah commands us to live in the Sukka for the duration of Sukkoth. 7 days in Eretz Yisrael, 8 days in the Diaspora.

One should move into the Sukka and bring along one's creature comforts; the comfortable chairs and favorite dishes.

The Mitzvah of Sukka is one of the few where the Torah explicitly gives us a reason: "Sit in the Sukka for seven days in order that your descendants should be aware that the Yidden dwelled in Sukkoth during their journey out of Egypt."

Sukkoth could be referring to the Clouds of Glory that surrounded and protected the entire Jewish encampment (as per R' Eliezer) or actual Sukkah-huts that individual families lived in (as per R' Akiva).

One should keep these "reasons" in mind when fulfilling the Mitzvah of Sukka.

One should treat the Sukka with respect and not bring in items one wouldn't tolerate at a Shabbat table.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 135:1, 2

 - Danny
 Monday, 12 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1182 - How to make a Kosher Sukka

The days between Yom Kippour and Sukkoth are joyous days, since Shlomo Hamelech (King Solomon) inaugurated the first Bet Hamikdash (Holy Temple) during this period.

One does not fast even for a Yahrzeit, nor does one say Tachanun on these days.

A Sukkah needs at least 3 walls that do not move in the wind.

The roof of the Sukkah is made of branches or bamboo that have not been used for any other purpose.

The covering must be thick enough to ensure that even on the last day of Sukkoth at midday there will be more shade than sunshine.

The covering must not be so thick that rain cannot get through.

In rainy climates, one should make a Sukkah that can be covered, so that it can be used once it stops raining.

One must be careful to open the roof before using the Sukkah. On the first night of Sukkoth the roof should be opened from candle-lighting until nightfall, if possible.

Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 133:30, 31, 134:1

- Danny
Sunday, 11 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1181 - It's a Mitzvah to eat tomorrow

Tomorrow - Friday - is Erev Yom Kippour. 

It's a Mitzvah to eat more than usual on the day before Yom Kippour, in order to have an easy fast the next day. Those people who find it easier to fast if they don't eat too much beforehand, do not need to eat more than usual. 

On Erev Yom Kippour one does not say מִזְמוֹר לְתוֹדָה in Shacharit. The reason being that מִזְמוֹר לְתוֹדָה parallels the Korban Toda (thanksgiving sacrifice) which was eaten for 2 consecutive days. A sacrifice brought on Erev Yom Kippour couldn't be eaten for 2 consecutive days, therefore one couldn't bring a Korban Toda on Erev Yom Kippour.

On Erev Yom Kippour one also omits Tachanun and לַמְנַצֵּח . Since Yom Kippour is on Shabbat this year, one says Avinu Malkeinu during Shacharit on Erev Yom Kippour. 

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 131:2,3

 Wishing everybody an easy and meaningful fast and a Shabbat Shalom

 - Danny
 Thursday,  8 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1180 - The Yom Kippour Mitzva

There is a Mitzva in the Torah unique to Yom Kippour: afflicting oneself. 

To fulfill this Mitzva properly one should keep in mind that the Yom Kippour restrictions are a fulfillment of this 25-hour long Mitzva. This Mitzva includes the following prohibitions: 

- On Yom Kippour one may not eat nor drink, even when Yom Kippour is on Shabbat, like this year. If fasting will affect your health, contact a doctor and a Rabbi for instructions. (Note: often doctors assume that "fasting" means "not eating but drinking" - so be specific.)

- On Yom Kippour one may not bathe; one may not even get wet unnecessarily. Upon awakening and after relieving oneself one can wash until the knuckles. Before Birkat Cohanim, the Cohanim wash until their wrists. 

- On Yom Kippour no anointing is allowed. This includes perfumes and deodorants. 

- On Yom Kippour one may not wear leather shoes.  

- On Yom Kippour one may not have marital relations. 

All the above are forbidden from candle-lighting on Erev Yom Kippour (Friday afternoon, this week) until after Havdala some 25 hours later.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 133:1

 Gmar Vechatima Tova

 - Danny
 Wednesday, 7 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1179 - First pay then Apologize

Yom Kippour does not atone for misdeeds done against fellow-Jews unless one first asks them for forgiveness. 

One should be careful to repay all overdue loans before Yom Kippour; after which one can beg for forgiveness for the delay. 

If one is being asked for forgiveness one should not be stubborn nor vengeful; rather one should be forgiving, the same way one hopes that Hashem will be forgiving of our sins. 

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 131:4

 Ktiva Vechatima Tova; wishing you a year full of good tidings.

 - Danny
 Tuesday, 6 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1178 - Should children be given Yom Tov treats?

There's a Mitzvah to by happy on Jewish Holidays and therefore one must eat two Yom Tov meals; one at night and one during the day. (Se'udat Shlishi - the 3rd meal - is only eaten on Shabbat and is not required on Yom Tov.)

Each meal starts with Kiddush over wine and two Challot (loaves of bread) and should include meat and other delicacies.

It's also a Mitzvah to ensure that others are happy:

- Children should be given treats

- Wives should get new clothes and jewelry according to one's budget

- Men should be served meat and wine 

In order to prove that the extra expenses are for Yom Tov and not simply for self-indulgence, one must ensure that the poor and needy are also supplied with their Yom Tov needs; invite them over for meals and donate generously to reputable charity funds before Yom Tov.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 103:3, 5, 9

 Ktiva Vechatima Tova; may you always be on the giving end!

 - Danny
 Monday, 5 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1178 - Should children be given Yom Tov treats?

There's a Mitzvah to by happy on Jewish Holidays and therefore one must eat two Yom Tov meals; one at night and one during the day. (Se'udat Shlishi - the 3rd meal - is only eaten on Shabbat and is not required on Yom Tov.)

Each meal starts with Kiddush over wine and two Challot (loaves of bread) and should include meat and other delicacies.

It's also a Mitzvah to ensure that others are happy:

- Children should be given treats

- Wives should get new clothes and jewelry according to one's budget

- Men should be served meat and wine 

In order to prove that the extra expenses are for Yom Tov and not simply for self-indulgence, one must ensure that the poor and needy are also supplied with their Yom Tov needs; invite them over for meals and donate generously to reputable charity funds before Yom Tov.

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 103:3, 5, 9

 Ktiva Vechatima Tova; may you always be on the giving end!

 - Danny
 Monday, 5 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1177 - Today (Sunday) is a fast day; Zom Gedalya

On the 3rd of Tishrei Gedalya ben Achikam was killed. After the destruction of the first Bet Hamikdash, Nebuchadnezzar appointed him Governor over the remnants of the Jews in Land of Israel . Once Gedalya was killed then they too were exiled or murdered and the land became desolate. (Some say that Gedalya ben Achikam was killed on Rosh Hashanah and the fast was deferred till after Yom Tov.) 

This tragic event is the reason that today is a fast day. - since we could not fast yesterday as it was Shabbat.

The fast begins Sunday at dawn and ends at nightfall (a few minutes before the time for Motzai Shabbat). 

Pregnant and nursing mothers are exempt from fasting. Anybody who isn't healthy shouldn't fast. When in doubt, consult your LOR (Local Orthodox Rabbi). 

Children are not allowed to fast. 

Those who are not fasting should limit their food intake to the bare minimum; only bread and water if possible. 

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 121:2, 9

 Have a meaningful fast,

 - Danny
 Sunday, 4 Tishrei 5774

Halocho #1176 - Warning! The King is arriving!

A main theme of Rosh Hashanah is Hashem's reign over the entire world. This sovereignty is displayed by His ability to judge the world. 

As a result, from Rosh Hashanah until Yom Kippour is over, we replace "Gcd" with "King" in various places in davening (prayers). 

1. The ending of the 3rd Bracha of the Amida changes to HaMelech Hakadosh. If you forget, you have to restart the Amida, unless you caught yourself immediately. (Immediately means: you didn't yet have time to say 3 words.) If you're not sure what you said, you also have to restart the Amida. 

2. The end of the 11th Bracha in the weekday Amida changes to HaMelech HaMishpat. If you forget or are not sure what you said then you continue. No correction is needed. 

3. Friday night during the "Magen Avot" we replace "HakEl HaKodesh" with HaMelech Hakadosh. If you forget, no correction is needed. 

From Rosh Hashanah until Yom Kippour is over we add four phrases to the Amida. If you forget after concluding that Bracha, no correction is needed. Until saying "Baruch Ata" you should make amends. 

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 129:3, 4 5

 Ktiva Vechatima Tova; wishing you a sweet and healthy year.

 - Danny
 Wednesday, Erev Rosh Hashana, 29 Elul 5773

  ==> Do a Mitzva: Call a friend and remind them to do Eruv Tavshilin.<==

Good news:  יוֹנָתָן-שִׂמְחָה בֶּן לֵאָה-רִבְקָה is healthy again, Baruch Hashem.

Halocho #1175 - Don't forget: Eruv Tavshilin

One may not prepare from Yom Tov to Shabbat unless one does Eruv Tavshilin before Yom Tov.

Since Rosh Hashana is on Thursday & Friday, every household needs to do Eruv Tavshilin on Wednesday. 

One takes bread or Matza and a cooked or baked food that will be eaten on Shabbat and one says the Bracha:

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה' אֱלקֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו וְצִוָּנוּ עַל מִצְוַת עֵרוּב

One continues with the following, which must be said in a language one understands:

בַּהֲדֵין עֵרוּבָא יְהֵא שָׁרֵא לָנָא לַאֲפוּיֵי, וּלְבַשּׁוּלֵי, וּלְאַטְמוּנֵי, וּלְאַדְלוּקֵי שְׁרָגָא, וּלִמֶעְבֵּד כָּל צָרְכָּנָא מִיּוֹמָא טָבָא לְשַׁבְּתָא

"With this Eruv we are permitted to bake, cook, keep things warm and light fire and do all that is needed from Yom Tov to Shabbat".

The Matza and food should be kept in a safe place; it they are eaten before Shabbat, a Rabbi should be consulted how to proceed.

Even those who don't have to cook for Shabbat, still need to do Eruv Tavshilin in order to light Shabbat candles on Friday before sunset (from an existing flame).

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 102

 - Danny
 Tuesday, 28 Elul 5773

 ==> Add a reminder to your calendar to do Eruv Tavshilin tomorrow

Halocho #1174 - The symbolic Rosh Hashanah menu

At the Rosh Hashanah evening meal it's customary to eat foods that symbolize a Good New Year. The bread from Motzi is dipped in honey and after eating it the Yehi Ratzon is said praying for a sweet new year.

יְהִי רָצוֹן מִלְפָנֶיךָ שֶתְחַדֵש עָלֵינוּ שָנָה טוֹבָה וּמְתוּקָה

Then one dips an apple in honey, says the Bracha on the apple ("Borei Pri HaEtz") and eats some. One then says the Yehi Ratzon again. 

There are various other foods that are eaten with their appropriate Yehi Ratzon; one may even add new ones. 

One tries to have only sweet items on the menu; no food cooked in vinegar, for example. The custom is to not eat nuts. 

One should remember to learn some Torah at the Yom Tov meals; some learn a chapter of Mishna-Rosh-Hashanah, which has 4 chapters; one for each meal. 

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 129:9

 Ktiva Vechatima Tova; wishing you a sweet new year

 - Danny
 Monday, 27 Elul 5773

Please daven for the complete recovery of a little boy recovering from lymphoma:

 יוֹנָתָן-שִׂמְחָה בֶּן לֵאָה-רִבְקָה

Halocho #1173 - What should I have think about when hearing the Shofar?

The blast of the Shofar should remind us to awaken from our spiritual slumber and start taking our Torah study and Mitzvah observance seriously. 

Hearing the Shofar being blown on Rosh Hashanah is a Torah commandment! 

This crucial detail should not be forgotten when reflecting on the various symbolic reasons given for Shofar blowing. 

One should not talk after hearing the Brachah on the Shofar until after hearing 100 blasts from the Shofar so as not to interrupt between the Bracha and fulfilling the Mitzvah as prescribed by Chazal. This means not talking until after Mussaf. 

(As a general rule one shouldn't ever talk during prayer services. On Rosh Hashanah there's another reason why not to so.) 

At a minimum one should be careful not to talk after the Bracha until hearing the first set of 30 Shofar blasts. 

 Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 129:15

 Ktiva Vechatima Tova; wishing you a year with lots of time to learn Torah,

 - Danny
 Sunday, 26 Elul 5773

Please daven for the complete recovery of a little boy recovering from lymphoma:

 יוֹנָתָן-שִׂמְחָה בֶּן לֵאָה-רִבְקָה