Q: Do a Hattan and Kallah have to fast on Ta’anit Esther during their Sheva Berachot? A: Most Poskim follow the opinion of the Ritva[1] that a Hattan and Kallah are obligated to observe the four fasts commemorating the Hurban, citing the verse[2] which requires us to be mindful of Yerushalayim – particularly during our times of joy[3]. However, in the case of Ta’anit Esther … [Read more...]
Parashat Zachor for Women
Q: Are women obligated to hear Parashat Zachor? A: Some Poskim maintain that women must also hear Parashat Zachor as the Mitzva of Zechirat Amalek is not considered to be time-bound[1], and because the victory over Amalek pertained to women as well. However, the Hinuch reasons that because women are exempt from fighting in battle[2], and the main purpose of reading Zachor is … [Read more...]
Seeing Double: Two Adars in Halacha
How an additional month impacts Yahrzeit or Bar-Mitzvah calculations and more | By Rabbi Moshe Pinhasi Having a double-month twice every seven years (or seven times every nineteen) does not keep things too simple. Just ask summer-camp directors who need to configure the constantly changing Elul/August equation, as well as city synagogues trying to properly prepare for the High … [Read more...]
What’s in a Wine
The Beracha & Kashrut of Wine | By Rav Mordechai Lebhar, Rosh Kollel Link LA and author of Sefer Magen Avot Many people have adopted the custom to conduct a “Seder” on Tu BiShvat, which includes serving the fruits of Shiv’at HaMinim and new fruits as well as drinking four cups of wine. This custom is based on the Sefer Hemdat Yamim [1] which compiled this unique Seder … [Read more...]
What to Do with Leftover Hanukkah Oil?
Q: What is the appropriate way to dispose of the leftover Hanukkah oil? A: The Shulhan Aruch[1] rules that one must burn the leftover oil from the Hanukkah candles. Many Rishonim[2] write that this is because the oil has some Keddusha, being that it represents the oil used in the Menorah in the Bet Hamikdash[3]. Rav Hayim Palacci suggests[4] that one may still use the oil … [Read more...]