Q: When Pessah night falls out on Shabbat – as it does this year – do we recite the Beracha Me’en Sheva in the synagogue? Answered by Rabbi Moshe Pinhasi A: Most Poskim[1] are of the opinion that this blessing, which is recited for extra protection on Lel Shabbat, should be omitted on Pessah night which is in itself a Lel Shimurim – a night of protection. This, despite … [Read more...]
Hametz in Medicines and Cosmetics
Q: Can one use toothpaste, lipstick, or medicines which may have a Hametz ingredient on Pessah? Answered by Rabbi Moshe Pinhasi A: Anything that is unsuitable for the consumption of a dog prior to Pessah, may be kept in one’s possession but is nevertheless forbidden to eat MiD’Rabbanan[1]. With regards to toothpaste, lipstick and the like, since one does not intend on … [Read more...]
Mishloah Manot through an Emissary
Q: Should one only send Mishloah Manot through an emissary? A: Some Poskim derive from the Megilla’s expression: “Mishloah” Manot – which means to send, that it is preferable not to deliver the Mishloah Manot yourself but rather send it through an emissary[1]. Some even maintain that this is the only way to fulfill the Mitzva[2]. However, the custom is to rely on the Poskim … [Read more...]
Megilla Reading for Women
Q: Does one recite a Beracha over reading the Megilla for women, if he has already heard the Megilla himself? A: Although some Poskim worry about reciting a Beracha at a women’s reading, because of the possibility that the Megilla is not being heard properly[1], many Poskim[2] do require the reader to recite the Beracha – as per Minhag Yerushalayim – especially in our days … [Read more...]
Bride and Groom Fasting on Ta’anit Esther
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...]