The last days of Sukkot are named differently. They are called Hoshana Rabbah and Shemini Atzeret. Simchat Torah is a holiday on its own and follows Sukkot. Yom Tov begins again on the night of Wednesday, October 3rd and candle lighting is at 6:17 pm. On the second day, Thursday, October 4th we light at 7:14 pm. We light Shabbat candles on October 5th at 6:13 pm.
A) The fifth day of Chol Hamoed is Hoshana Rabbah. It is customary to stay awake the preceding night and study Torah (reading Tehilim and finishing the entire book is also good). We stay up because on Sukkot we are judged for the amount of rain we will receive, and our lives depend on water. Also, this is the last time to change the judgement that was made on Rosh Hashanah. On Rosh Hashanah, Hashem writes how our year will be. Then on Yom Kippur, it’s sealed, but the decree is sent out after Hoshana Rabbah. It's just like a letter--- first you write it (Rosh Hashana), then you seal it (Yom Kippur), and then you send it out (Hoshana Rabah). So this is the last chance to change the decree. (This year, we stay up on Tuesday, October 2nd, you can join torahanytime for an all night lecture presentations in Bet Gavriel, it will begin at 11:45pm).
B) It is a custom to add aravot to the bundle of Lulav.
C) On the night of Shemini Atzeret, we say “Shehecheyanu” on Kiddush, but we don’t say the beracha of “Leishav baSukkah” even though we eat in the Sukkah.
D) The last day is also Shemini Atzeret. However, it's called Simchat Torah because we finish reading the entire Torah and start again from the beginning. We show to Hashem that we are happy and we dance with the Torah in shul. It’s a very happy holiday, and we should rejoice as much as possible. We also make a big meal to celebrate.
E) In Israel, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah are one day. Since we live in America we have it as two days. Therefore, on Simchat Torah, we don’t eat in the sukkah.
P.S. If you have any questions feel free to email: sitzhaki02@sprintpcs.com
Chag Kasher V'Sameach!!!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Laws of Chol HaMoed
Intermediate Days Of Yom Tov: These laws apply starting from Saturday night until Wednesday October 3rd.
A) Since these days are part of the holiday, it is better if we don’t do work that's hard. If there is a loss financially, then you can work.
B) You shouldn’t do any gardening. You shouldn't get haircuts (shaving) either, but you are permitted to shave for the two last days of Yom Tov.
C) You should not cut your nails unless you have cut them a day before Yom Tov. You are not allowed to do laundry, even for clothing that is needed for the last two days of Yom Tov. You are allowed to do laundry for babies and small children, since they get dirty fast.
D) If you need to record things, you can write. If it’s not necessary, you should write with a change, either in how you hold the pen or use your other hand to write.
P.S. If you have any questions, feel free to email: sitzhaki02@sprintpcs.com
Chag Kasher V'Sameach!!!
A) Since these days are part of the holiday, it is better if we don’t do work that's hard. If there is a loss financially, then you can work.
B) You shouldn’t do any gardening. You shouldn't get haircuts (shaving) either, but you are permitted to shave for the two last days of Yom Tov.
C) You should not cut your nails unless you have cut them a day before Yom Tov. You are not allowed to do laundry, even for clothing that is needed for the last two days of Yom Tov. You are allowed to do laundry for babies and small children, since they get dirty fast.
D) If you need to record things, you can write. If it’s not necessary, you should write with a change, either in how you hold the pen or use your other hand to write.
P.S. If you have any questions, feel free to email: sitzhaki02@sprintpcs.com
Chag Kasher V'Sameach!!!
Laws of Yom Tov
The following laws apply, beginning Wednesday September 26, at 6:28pm until Friday night. Then we have Shabbat and the regular laws of Shabbat apply. These laws apply again beginning Wednesday October 3rd at 6:17pm until that Friday night.
A) Any work that is not allowed to be done on Shabbat should not be done on a yom tov (holiday), with some exceptions. Yom Tov differs from Shabbat with regard to cooking, carrying and lighting a fire. But these things have a special way in which you are allowed to do it in.
B) Cooking is allowed only if you are cooking for that day. You are not allowed on the first day of Yom Tov to cook for the second day. For example, on Thursday you are not allowed to cook food for Friday. Since in the Jewish calendar the day begins at night we are not allowed to cook on Thursday day for Thursday night, we can cook for Thursday night only after 7:25pm. This year since we have Shabbat following Yom Tov we are required to do eruv tavshilin. Eruv Tavshilin allows you to cook on Yom Tov for Shabbat. You do Eruv Tavshilin by taking a roll of bread and a cooked egg and saying the following blessing: baruch Atah Hashem Elo’kay’nu Melech Ha’Olam, Asher Kidishanu Be’Mitzvotav V’Ti’vanu Al Mitzvat Eruv. After saying the blessing you should say “With this , I’m making and Eruv, so that I can cook on Yom Tov For Shabbat”. This roll of bread and egg should then be eaten on Shabbat day, with the meal. Eruv Tavshilin should be done on Wednesday, September 26, and Wednesday October 3rd, in the afternoon.
C) Carrying is allowed only if you are carrying what you will need. For example, if you need keys then you can carry them but you have to make sure to use them, and to carry only the key needed, ( no key chains or keys that you wont need). Same goes for everything that you need ex. Food, clothing etc. Best if you carry with a difference, meaning not to carry the way you would everyday, but do it with a change.
D) Lighting a fire is allowed only to be lit from a pre-existing fire. You can light the stove only if you have a pilot stove, meaning that if there is a fire already burning only then can you light. It is also forbidden to extinguish a fire. And once the fire is lit it should not be lowered you can only higher the flame. If you don’t have a pilot stove then light a 24 hour candle so then you can light from it. If you need to turn off a flame, then you can by boiling water and having the water spill over and put out the flame and then you can turn the knob on off.
E) Laws with washing dishes is as follows: you are not suppose to wash dishes on the first day of Yom Tov in order to be used for the second day. Therefore you can wash the dishes before using them.
F) You are not allowed to carry, cook, or light a fire for a non-Jew.
P.S. If you have any questions feel free to email: sitzhaki02@sprintpcs.com
Hag Kasher V'Sameach!!!
A) Any work that is not allowed to be done on Shabbat should not be done on a yom tov (holiday), with some exceptions. Yom Tov differs from Shabbat with regard to cooking, carrying and lighting a fire. But these things have a special way in which you are allowed to do it in.
B) Cooking is allowed only if you are cooking for that day. You are not allowed on the first day of Yom Tov to cook for the second day. For example, on Thursday you are not allowed to cook food for Friday. Since in the Jewish calendar the day begins at night we are not allowed to cook on Thursday day for Thursday night, we can cook for Thursday night only after 7:25pm. This year since we have Shabbat following Yom Tov we are required to do eruv tavshilin. Eruv Tavshilin allows you to cook on Yom Tov for Shabbat. You do Eruv Tavshilin by taking a roll of bread and a cooked egg and saying the following blessing: baruch Atah Hashem Elo’kay’nu Melech Ha’Olam, Asher Kidishanu Be’Mitzvotav V’Ti’vanu Al Mitzvat Eruv. After saying the blessing you should say “With this , I’m making and Eruv, so that I can cook on Yom Tov For Shabbat”. This roll of bread and egg should then be eaten on Shabbat day, with the meal. Eruv Tavshilin should be done on Wednesday, September 26, and Wednesday October 3rd, in the afternoon.
C) Carrying is allowed only if you are carrying what you will need. For example, if you need keys then you can carry them but you have to make sure to use them, and to carry only the key needed, ( no key chains or keys that you wont need). Same goes for everything that you need ex. Food, clothing etc. Best if you carry with a difference, meaning not to carry the way you would everyday, but do it with a change.
D) Lighting a fire is allowed only to be lit from a pre-existing fire. You can light the stove only if you have a pilot stove, meaning that if there is a fire already burning only then can you light. It is also forbidden to extinguish a fire. And once the fire is lit it should not be lowered you can only higher the flame. If you don’t have a pilot stove then light a 24 hour candle so then you can light from it. If you need to turn off a flame, then you can by boiling water and having the water spill over and put out the flame and then you can turn the knob on off.
E) Laws with washing dishes is as follows: you are not suppose to wash dishes on the first day of Yom Tov in order to be used for the second day. Therefore you can wash the dishes before using them.
F) You are not allowed to carry, cook, or light a fire for a non-Jew.
P.S. If you have any questions feel free to email: sitzhaki02@sprintpcs.com
Hag Kasher V'Sameach!!!
Laws Dealing With the Sukkah.
A) It is a mitzva to start building the sukkah immediately after Yom Kippur. Every person should be involved in the building of the sukkah. You should decorate it with different decorations and spreads (according to the custom).
B) The walls of the sukkah should be four strong walls that won’t be damaged by a strong wind. And it’s better to make a roof with hinges this way if it rains the sechach (covering) will remain dry.
C) It is a custom to cover the sukkah with branches of trees or with reeds also know as sechach. You should not cover the sukkah with anything that is as big as a fist, no wood or if you have a light fixture then you should not sit under the light fixture.
D) You must put enough sechach so that there is more shade then sun, you should leave space in order to be able to see the stars.
E) You should not build a sukkah underneath tree braches. The sechach should be placed after the walls have been completed.
F) You should try to buy the sechach that you will use for you sukkah, and you are permitted to build a sukkah during chol hamoed. You are not allowed to use the wood or the sechach of the sukkah until after Simchat Torah (even a splinter).
G) On erev Sukkot (the day before) you should not have a big lunch so that you will eat at night in the sukkah with an appetite. You should also give a lot of charity on the day before.
H) It is written “For seven days teishvu in sukkot” which means “you must dwell” in the sukkah. Telling us that we should make it our home for 7 days. You should bring your fine china, and elegant tablecloths. You should eat and drink, study spend your leisure time, and sleep in the sukkah. We go and live in the sukkah to remind us of when the Jews were leaving Egypt. However, that was during the time of Passover, so why don’t we celebrate Sukkot and dwell in a sukkah during Passover? Passover is in the spring and many nations of the world camp out in that season, so we do it when it’s cold and the beginning if a rainy season to show the other nations that we are doing what Hashem wants from us and not just “camping out“.
I) You should not bring in pots into the sukkah or any vessel that seems undignified. You should not say the beracha of “Leishiev basukkah” until all these vessels are removed. You should not wash dishes in the sukkah but it’s permitted to rinse the kiddush cup. It is forbidden to urinate in the sukkah, but marital relationships are allowed in the sukkah.
J) It is obligated to eat in a sukkah the first night, unless it rains. If it rains then its best to say kiddush and wash for bread in the sukkah and then go inside and have the meal. But have in mind when washing that you will be eating inside. And if it stops raining before you are finished with your meal then you should go outside and say the beracha of “leishev basukkah” and then say the grace after meal in the sukkah.
K) If there are many families in one sukkah and each family says their own kiddush then they should not say it at one time but take turns. Ashkenazim only have to eat in the sukkah the first night, but Sephardim can’t eat bread unless they are in a sukkah during the entire 7 days. Unless it rains then they can eat inside. Woman and children are not obligated to eat in a sukkah.
L) For the holiday of sukkot, men should buy four species: lulav, etrog, hadasim, aravot. And they should be shown to a rabbi in order to determine that they are kosher. There are many halachot that apply with the species, so there usually is a rabbi where they sell it, ask them.
M) Men use the species in shul, they say the blessings on them and then shake them in certain ways during the morning prayers. Sephardim women are not allowed to say the blessing over the species.
P.S. If you have any questions feel free to email: sitzhaki02@sprintpcs.com
Hag Kasher V'Sameach!!!
B) The walls of the sukkah should be four strong walls that won’t be damaged by a strong wind. And it’s better to make a roof with hinges this way if it rains the sechach (covering) will remain dry.
C) It is a custom to cover the sukkah with branches of trees or with reeds also know as sechach. You should not cover the sukkah with anything that is as big as a fist, no wood or if you have a light fixture then you should not sit under the light fixture.
D) You must put enough sechach so that there is more shade then sun, you should leave space in order to be able to see the stars.
E) You should not build a sukkah underneath tree braches. The sechach should be placed after the walls have been completed.
F) You should try to buy the sechach that you will use for you sukkah, and you are permitted to build a sukkah during chol hamoed. You are not allowed to use the wood or the sechach of the sukkah until after Simchat Torah (even a splinter).
G) On erev Sukkot (the day before) you should not have a big lunch so that you will eat at night in the sukkah with an appetite. You should also give a lot of charity on the day before.
H) It is written “For seven days teishvu in sukkot” which means “you must dwell” in the sukkah. Telling us that we should make it our home for 7 days. You should bring your fine china, and elegant tablecloths. You should eat and drink, study spend your leisure time, and sleep in the sukkah. We go and live in the sukkah to remind us of when the Jews were leaving Egypt. However, that was during the time of Passover, so why don’t we celebrate Sukkot and dwell in a sukkah during Passover? Passover is in the spring and many nations of the world camp out in that season, so we do it when it’s cold and the beginning if a rainy season to show the other nations that we are doing what Hashem wants from us and not just “camping out“.
I) You should not bring in pots into the sukkah or any vessel that seems undignified. You should not say the beracha of “Leishiev basukkah” until all these vessels are removed. You should not wash dishes in the sukkah but it’s permitted to rinse the kiddush cup. It is forbidden to urinate in the sukkah, but marital relationships are allowed in the sukkah.
J) It is obligated to eat in a sukkah the first night, unless it rains. If it rains then its best to say kiddush and wash for bread in the sukkah and then go inside and have the meal. But have in mind when washing that you will be eating inside. And if it stops raining before you are finished with your meal then you should go outside and say the beracha of “leishev basukkah” and then say the grace after meal in the sukkah.
K) If there are many families in one sukkah and each family says their own kiddush then they should not say it at one time but take turns. Ashkenazim only have to eat in the sukkah the first night, but Sephardim can’t eat bread unless they are in a sukkah during the entire 7 days. Unless it rains then they can eat inside. Woman and children are not obligated to eat in a sukkah.
L) For the holiday of sukkot, men should buy four species: lulav, etrog, hadasim, aravot. And they should be shown to a rabbi in order to determine that they are kosher. There are many halachot that apply with the species, so there usually is a rabbi where they sell it, ask them.
M) Men use the species in shul, they say the blessings on them and then shake them in certain ways during the morning prayers. Sephardim women are not allowed to say the blessing over the species.
P.S. If you have any questions feel free to email: sitzhaki02@sprintpcs.com
Hag Kasher V'Sameach!!!
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Hilchot Yom Kippur
Laws for Erev Yom Kippur (day before Yom Kippur):
A) It is customary to do kapparos the day before Yom Kippur, its better to do it early in the morning because Hashem’s compassion is at its greatest. Many people do Kaparos with a chicken, for men you have to use male chicken and for woman you have to use a female chicken, an alternative to using chickens can be money. If using money you should take for one person the amount that the chicken would cost. For example, if you buy a chicken for $5 then you take $5 for each person in your family. For pregnant women you have to include the child in the stomach. You have to take the chicken or the money and spin it around on top of your head 3 times and say the following 3 times: if using chicken u say: For one person: “Zeh hali’fati kaparati. Zeh chatar’nigol leesh’hee’tah yealech, ve’ehkanes ani le’chaim tovim ool’shalom.” For many people at once: “Aylu halifat’chem, timurat’chem, kaparat’chem, aylu chatar’nigolim yeyl’chu lish’hee’tah, ve’teechan’su atem lichaim tovim oolshalom.” If using money you should say: (for one person): “Aylu chamaot halifati, timurati kaparati aylu chamaot yenat’nu lit’dakah, ve’aeh’chaneys ani lichaim tovim ool’shalom.” (for many people): Aylu chamaot halifat’chem timurat’chem kaparat’chem aylu chamaot yenat’nu lit’dakah, vetichan’su atem lichaim tovim ool’shalom” Make sure to say it three times. We do kaparot to remind us that what’s done with the chicken should be instead of us.
B) It is a mitzva to have elaborate meals, a person who eats and drinks on the day before Yom Kippur in order for it to help on Yom Kippur, its considered as if he fasted two days.
C) The sins committed b/w fellow man will not be forgiven with Yom Kippur unless we ask forgiveness from the people themselves. But the sins that are committed between us and Hashem will be forgiven with Yom Kippur. If you haven’t asked for forgiveness you should do it before Yom Kippur. If your friend doesn’t forgive u then u have to ask three times and after that no matter what, you don’t have to ask anymore. And the one that doesn’t forgive it says that Hashem wont forgive their sins either, so we should forgive easily. An interesting fact that is mentioned is when we ask forgiveness from a person they will forgive us, but they still have some sort of pain in their heart, however, when we ask forgiveness from Hashem He forgives us completely, and we are like new people in His eyes, with a new beginning. We should learn from Hashem, when a person asks for forgiveness we should forgive with a full heart, and make a new relationship with that person, like nothing was wrong between the two of you.
D) It is a mitzva for men to go to the mikva the day before Yom Kippur.
E) It is a custom to light candles for dead parents and grandparents.
F) When u go for mincha (afternoon prayers) on erev Yom Kippur then its good to wear Shabbat clothing. After mincha Avinu Malkeinu is not said.
G) It is customary to receive lashes, this should inspire us to repent for our sins. (men do this)
H) When you have your final meal you should dip a piece of bread into honey, you should eat food that is easy to digest like chicken. Its better not to eat spicy food. If after eating, you said the grace after meals and want to drink you have to say that you want to drink before saying grace after meals (birkat hamazon).
The last meal that we eat before Yom Kippur, is called Seudah Mafseket. There is a story that explains the mindset that we have to have when eating the last meal. There was a rich man and he had a bad dream and decided to go to Rav Zuzash, when he came to the Rabbi, he was told that he has to fast, the rich man said he couldn’t, and if there anything else he can do. So Rav Zuzash told him to go to Rav Elimelech. So the man goes to Rav Elimelech and, the Rav tells him that he doesn’t have to fast, in fact he made the man promise him that he has to eat steaks every night and meals fit for a king, on one condition, before eating he has to come to the Rabbi for 15 min. The man agreed. The next day before dinner the rich man goes to Rav Elimelech, and Rav Elimelech tells the man all the averot (sins) that he committed and on which days, and the rich man begins crying, then Rav Elimelech says now you can eat. But the rich man said he lost he appetite and doesn’t want to eat, but Rav Elimelech reminds him of the promise, and the rich man forces himself to eat. The next day the rich man comes back before dinner and the same story repeats itself. When we eat the last meal, we have to eat it with the feeling that the rich man had. We shouldn’t say lachaim and drink and be merry, but rather eat with a humble heart, knowing we are coming before Hashem and all our sins are in front of us.
I) It is a mitzva to celebrate this day with lights, and candles. It is customary to wear white clothing. You should not wear jewelry because it’s a day of judgment., and not to remind Hashem of the sin of the golden calf, which every generation pays for.
J) It is a custom for parents to bless their children before going to shul and to wish all the good things for the upcoming yr.
K) On the night of Yom Kippur you should go to shul for Kol Nidrei which is a prayer for forgiveness. When u say “Baruch Shem Malchoto Leola va’ed” u should say it in loud voice, because on this day (Yom Kippur) we are considered like angels.
L) After eating the last meal we light candles, and the blessing we say is :Baruch Atah Hashem Elokaynu Melech Haolam, Asher Kidushanu B'mitzvotav Vativanu, Li'hadlik Ner Shel Shabbat V’Yom Hakippurim
Laws for Yom Kippur Day:
Yom Kippur begins Friday night at 6:37pm and will end after Shabbat at 8:05pm.
A) On Yom Kippur it is forbidden to eat, drink, wash, anoint (makeup), wear shoes, and to have marital relations. You are not allowed to do any work or to carry, just like Shabbat.
B) Some say that you are not allowed to touch food unless we are feeding the children.
C) Washing is not allowed only for pleasure reasons. If u get dirty then you are allowed to wash. In the morning u can only wash your eyes and your hands up to your knuckles. A sick person is allowed to wash normally, and a bride within 30 days of the wedding can wash her face and hands.
D) You are not allowed to anoint meaning no smearing for any reason, even if the person has pimples.
E) Shoes that are made of leather should not be worn. Shoes with heels should not be worn. You should not sit on leather seats. A sick person or a woman that gave birth within 30 days are allowed to wear shoes.
F) Pregnant and nursing woman are suppose to fast the entire day. Unless the child is sick and needs the mothers milk. If a pregnant woman smells a craving food then you should push her away three times, pushing away by saying that it’s Yom Kippur, then if she still wants u give her a drop and if not satisfied she should eat only 20 grams, not more. Because if a pregnant woman desires a taste and its not given to her then she is putting herself and the child in danger.
G) If someone is weaken and looses his eyesight then you should give him food until he gains his eyesight back.
H) If a child is younger then nine and wants to fast he should not be allowed, but after nine they have to fast a little. They should be fed a little later then their regular meal time. Considering washing and the rest of the forbidden things they should keep it.
I) When bowing on the floor, you should have something there like grass or carpet, so that you are not bowing to the floor, because the floor used to be an idol.
J) The Shofar is blown after the Ne’ilah prayer. This year since it’s Shabbat, it wont be blown.
K) When Aravit is said after everything it should not be rushed. And you should be happy after Yom Kippur thinking that Hashem has favored us. When we eat we should be happy and rejoice. The days between Yom Kippur and Sukkot should be days of joy and happiness.
L) It is a mitzva to start building the sukah right after Yom Kippur is over.
Hope we all have an easy fast, and all be judged for a year of happiness, health, and fortune. May all of us be judged and written in the book of life.
A) It is customary to do kapparos the day before Yom Kippur, its better to do it early in the morning because Hashem’s compassion is at its greatest. Many people do Kaparos with a chicken, for men you have to use male chicken and for woman you have to use a female chicken, an alternative to using chickens can be money. If using money you should take for one person the amount that the chicken would cost. For example, if you buy a chicken for $5 then you take $5 for each person in your family. For pregnant women you have to include the child in the stomach. You have to take the chicken or the money and spin it around on top of your head 3 times and say the following 3 times: if using chicken u say: For one person: “Zeh hali’fati kaparati. Zeh chatar’nigol leesh’hee’tah yealech, ve’ehkanes ani le’chaim tovim ool’shalom.” For many people at once: “Aylu halifat’chem, timurat’chem, kaparat’chem, aylu chatar’nigolim yeyl’chu lish’hee’tah, ve’teechan’su atem lichaim tovim oolshalom.” If using money you should say: (for one person): “Aylu chamaot halifati, timurati kaparati aylu chamaot yenat’nu lit’dakah, ve’aeh’chaneys ani lichaim tovim ool’shalom.” (for many people): Aylu chamaot halifat’chem timurat’chem kaparat’chem aylu chamaot yenat’nu lit’dakah, vetichan’su atem lichaim tovim ool’shalom” Make sure to say it three times. We do kaparot to remind us that what’s done with the chicken should be instead of us.
B) It is a mitzva to have elaborate meals, a person who eats and drinks on the day before Yom Kippur in order for it to help on Yom Kippur, its considered as if he fasted two days.
C) The sins committed b/w fellow man will not be forgiven with Yom Kippur unless we ask forgiveness from the people themselves. But the sins that are committed between us and Hashem will be forgiven with Yom Kippur. If you haven’t asked for forgiveness you should do it before Yom Kippur. If your friend doesn’t forgive u then u have to ask three times and after that no matter what, you don’t have to ask anymore. And the one that doesn’t forgive it says that Hashem wont forgive their sins either, so we should forgive easily. An interesting fact that is mentioned is when we ask forgiveness from a person they will forgive us, but they still have some sort of pain in their heart, however, when we ask forgiveness from Hashem He forgives us completely, and we are like new people in His eyes, with a new beginning. We should learn from Hashem, when a person asks for forgiveness we should forgive with a full heart, and make a new relationship with that person, like nothing was wrong between the two of you.
D) It is a mitzva for men to go to the mikva the day before Yom Kippur.
E) It is a custom to light candles for dead parents and grandparents.
F) When u go for mincha (afternoon prayers) on erev Yom Kippur then its good to wear Shabbat clothing. After mincha Avinu Malkeinu is not said.
G) It is customary to receive lashes, this should inspire us to repent for our sins. (men do this)
H) When you have your final meal you should dip a piece of bread into honey, you should eat food that is easy to digest like chicken. Its better not to eat spicy food. If after eating, you said the grace after meals and want to drink you have to say that you want to drink before saying grace after meals (birkat hamazon).
The last meal that we eat before Yom Kippur, is called Seudah Mafseket. There is a story that explains the mindset that we have to have when eating the last meal. There was a rich man and he had a bad dream and decided to go to Rav Zuzash, when he came to the Rabbi, he was told that he has to fast, the rich man said he couldn’t, and if there anything else he can do. So Rav Zuzash told him to go to Rav Elimelech. So the man goes to Rav Elimelech and, the Rav tells him that he doesn’t have to fast, in fact he made the man promise him that he has to eat steaks every night and meals fit for a king, on one condition, before eating he has to come to the Rabbi for 15 min. The man agreed. The next day before dinner the rich man goes to Rav Elimelech, and Rav Elimelech tells the man all the averot (sins) that he committed and on which days, and the rich man begins crying, then Rav Elimelech says now you can eat. But the rich man said he lost he appetite and doesn’t want to eat, but Rav Elimelech reminds him of the promise, and the rich man forces himself to eat. The next day the rich man comes back before dinner and the same story repeats itself. When we eat the last meal, we have to eat it with the feeling that the rich man had. We shouldn’t say lachaim and drink and be merry, but rather eat with a humble heart, knowing we are coming before Hashem and all our sins are in front of us.
I) It is a mitzva to celebrate this day with lights, and candles. It is customary to wear white clothing. You should not wear jewelry because it’s a day of judgment., and not to remind Hashem of the sin of the golden calf, which every generation pays for.
J) It is a custom for parents to bless their children before going to shul and to wish all the good things for the upcoming yr.
K) On the night of Yom Kippur you should go to shul for Kol Nidrei which is a prayer for forgiveness. When u say “Baruch Shem Malchoto Leola va’ed” u should say it in loud voice, because on this day (Yom Kippur) we are considered like angels.
L) After eating the last meal we light candles, and the blessing we say is :Baruch Atah Hashem Elokaynu Melech Haolam, Asher Kidushanu B'mitzvotav Vativanu, Li'hadlik Ner Shel Shabbat V’Yom Hakippurim
Laws for Yom Kippur Day:
Yom Kippur begins Friday night at 6:37pm and will end after Shabbat at 8:05pm.
A) On Yom Kippur it is forbidden to eat, drink, wash, anoint (makeup), wear shoes, and to have marital relations. You are not allowed to do any work or to carry, just like Shabbat.
B) Some say that you are not allowed to touch food unless we are feeding the children.
C) Washing is not allowed only for pleasure reasons. If u get dirty then you are allowed to wash. In the morning u can only wash your eyes and your hands up to your knuckles. A sick person is allowed to wash normally, and a bride within 30 days of the wedding can wash her face and hands.
D) You are not allowed to anoint meaning no smearing for any reason, even if the person has pimples.
E) Shoes that are made of leather should not be worn. Shoes with heels should not be worn. You should not sit on leather seats. A sick person or a woman that gave birth within 30 days are allowed to wear shoes.
F) Pregnant and nursing woman are suppose to fast the entire day. Unless the child is sick and needs the mothers milk. If a pregnant woman smells a craving food then you should push her away three times, pushing away by saying that it’s Yom Kippur, then if she still wants u give her a drop and if not satisfied she should eat only 20 grams, not more. Because if a pregnant woman desires a taste and its not given to her then she is putting herself and the child in danger.
G) If someone is weaken and looses his eyesight then you should give him food until he gains his eyesight back.
H) If a child is younger then nine and wants to fast he should not be allowed, but after nine they have to fast a little. They should be fed a little later then their regular meal time. Considering washing and the rest of the forbidden things they should keep it.
I) When bowing on the floor, you should have something there like grass or carpet, so that you are not bowing to the floor, because the floor used to be an idol.
J) The Shofar is blown after the Ne’ilah prayer. This year since it’s Shabbat, it wont be blown.
K) When Aravit is said after everything it should not be rushed. And you should be happy after Yom Kippur thinking that Hashem has favored us. When we eat we should be happy and rejoice. The days between Yom Kippur and Sukkot should be days of joy and happiness.
L) It is a mitzva to start building the sukah right after Yom Kippur is over.
Hope we all have an easy fast, and all be judged for a year of happiness, health, and fortune. May all of us be judged and written in the book of life.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Tisha B'av (9th of Av)
This year the fast day begins on Tuesday night July 23rd 2007 at 8:20pm and ends on Tuesday night, July 24th 2007, at 9:31pm.
WHAT HAPPENED ON THE NINTH OF AV?
Five national calamities occurred:
1.During the time of Moses, Jews in the desert accepted the slanderous report of the 12 Spies, and the decree was issued forbidding them from entering the Land of Israel.
2.The First Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians, led by Nebuchadnezzar. 100,000 Jews were slaughtered and millions more exiled.
3.The Second Temple was destroyed by the Romans, led by Titus. Some two million Jews died, and another one million were exiled.
4.The Bar Kochba revolt was crushed by Roman Emperor Hadrian. The city of Betar -- the Jews' last stand against the Romans -- was captured and liquidated. Over 100,000 Jews were slaughtered.
5.The Temple area and its surroundings were plowed under by the Roman general Turnus Rufus. Jerusalem was rebuilt as a pagan city -- renamed Aelia Capitolina -- and access was forbidden to Jews.
Other grave misfortunes throughout Jewish history occurred on the Ninth of Av, including:
1.The Spanish Inquisition culminated with the expulsion of Jews from Spain on Tisha B'Av in 1492.
2.World War One broke out on the eve of Tisha B'Av in 1914 when Germany declared war on Russia. German resentment from the war set the stage for the Holocaust.
3.On the eve of Tisha B'Av 1942, the mass deportation began of Jews from the Warsaw Ghetto, en route to Treblinka.
ASPECTS OF MOURNING: THE AFTERNOON BEFORE TISHA B'AV
During the afternoon prior to Tisha B'Av, it is customary to eat a full meal in preparation for the fast.
At the end of the afternoon, we eat the Seudah Hamaf-seket -- a meal consisting only of bread, water, and a hard-boiled egg.
The egg has two symbols: The round shape reminds us of a sign of the cycle of life. Also, the egg is the only food which gets harder the more it is cooked -- a symbol of the Jewish people's ability to withstand persecution.
Food eaten at the Seudah Hamaf-seket is dipped in ashes, symbolic of mourning (done by Ashkenazim not Sephardim). The meal should preferably be eaten alone, while seated on the ground in mourner's fashion.
RESTRICTIONS ON TISHA B'AV
Upon sundown, the laws of Tisha B'Av begin:
1. No eating or drinking until nightfall the following evening. Pregnant and nursing women are also required to fast. A woman within 30 days after birth need not fast.
Others who are old, weak, or ill should consult with a rabbi.
Medicine may be taken on Tisha B'Av, preferably without water.
In case of great discomfort, the mouth may be rinsed with water. Great care should be taken not to swallow anything. (MB 567:11)
2. Other prohibitions include:
Any bathing or washing, except for removing specific dirt -- ex. gook in the eyes. Upon rising in the morning, before prayers, or after using the bathroom, one washes only the fingers.
Anointing oneself for pleasure. (Deodorant is permitted.)
Having marital relations.
Wearing leather shoes. (Leather belts may be worn.)
Learning Torah, since this is a joyful activity. It is permitted to learn texts relevant to Tisha B'Av and mourning -- ex/. the Book of Lamentations, Book of Job, parts of Tractate Moed Katan, Gittin 56-58, Sanhedrin 104, Yerushalmi end of Ta'anis, and the Laws of Mourning. In-depth study should be avoided.
3. Other mourning practices include:
Sitting no higher than a foot off the ground. After midday, one may sit on a chair.
Not engaging in business or other distracting labors, unless it will result in a substantial loss.
Refraining from greeting others or offering gifts.
Avoiding idle chatter or leisure activities.
Following Tisha B'Av, all normal activities may be resumed, except for the following which are delayed until midday of the 10th of Av, because the burning of the Temple continued through the 10th of Av:
Haircuts and washing clothes.
Bathing. (When Tisha B'Av falls out on Thursday, bathing is permitted on Friday morning.)
Eating meat and wine.
Music and swimming.
PRAYER ON TISHA B'AV
Lights in the synagogue are dimmed, candles are lit, and the curtain is removed from the Ark. The cantor leads the prayers in a low, mournful voice. This reminds us of the Divine Presence which departed from the Holy Temple.
The Book of Eicha (Lamentations), Jeremiah's poetic lament over the destruction of Jerusalem and the First Temple, is read both at night and during the day.
Following both the night and day service, special "Kinot" (elegies) are recited.
In the morning, the Torah portion of Deuteronomy 4:25-40 is read, containing the prophecy regarding Israel's future iniquity and exile. This is followed by the Haftorah from Jeremiah (8:13, 9:1-23) describing the desolation of Zion.
In the afternoon, Exodus 32:11-14 is read. This is followed by the Haftorah from Isaiah 55-56.
Since Tallit and Tefillin represent glory and decoration, they are not worn at Shacharit. Rather, they are worn at Mincha, as certain mourning restrictions are lifted.
Birkat Kohanim is said only at Mincha, not at Shacharit.
Prayers for comforting Zion and "Aneinu" are inserted into the Amidah prayer at Mincha.
Before the fast is broken, it is customary to say Kiddush Lavana.
WHAT HAPPENED ON THE NINTH OF AV?
Five national calamities occurred:
1.During the time of Moses, Jews in the desert accepted the slanderous report of the 12 Spies, and the decree was issued forbidding them from entering the Land of Israel.
2.The First Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians, led by Nebuchadnezzar. 100,000 Jews were slaughtered and millions more exiled.
3.The Second Temple was destroyed by the Romans, led by Titus. Some two million Jews died, and another one million were exiled.
4.The Bar Kochba revolt was crushed by Roman Emperor Hadrian. The city of Betar -- the Jews' last stand against the Romans -- was captured and liquidated. Over 100,000 Jews were slaughtered.
5.The Temple area and its surroundings were plowed under by the Roman general Turnus Rufus. Jerusalem was rebuilt as a pagan city -- renamed Aelia Capitolina -- and access was forbidden to Jews.
Other grave misfortunes throughout Jewish history occurred on the Ninth of Av, including:
1.The Spanish Inquisition culminated with the expulsion of Jews from Spain on Tisha B'Av in 1492.
2.World War One broke out on the eve of Tisha B'Av in 1914 when Germany declared war on Russia. German resentment from the war set the stage for the Holocaust.
3.On the eve of Tisha B'Av 1942, the mass deportation began of Jews from the Warsaw Ghetto, en route to Treblinka.
ASPECTS OF MOURNING: THE AFTERNOON BEFORE TISHA B'AV
During the afternoon prior to Tisha B'Av, it is customary to eat a full meal in preparation for the fast.
At the end of the afternoon, we eat the Seudah Hamaf-seket -- a meal consisting only of bread, water, and a hard-boiled egg.
The egg has two symbols: The round shape reminds us of a sign of the cycle of life. Also, the egg is the only food which gets harder the more it is cooked -- a symbol of the Jewish people's ability to withstand persecution.
Food eaten at the Seudah Hamaf-seket is dipped in ashes, symbolic of mourning (done by Ashkenazim not Sephardim). The meal should preferably be eaten alone, while seated on the ground in mourner's fashion.
RESTRICTIONS ON TISHA B'AV
Upon sundown, the laws of Tisha B'Av begin:
1. No eating or drinking until nightfall the following evening. Pregnant and nursing women are also required to fast. A woman within 30 days after birth need not fast.
Others who are old, weak, or ill should consult with a rabbi.
Medicine may be taken on Tisha B'Av, preferably without water.
In case of great discomfort, the mouth may be rinsed with water. Great care should be taken not to swallow anything. (MB 567:11)
2. Other prohibitions include:
Any bathing or washing, except for removing specific dirt -- ex. gook in the eyes. Upon rising in the morning, before prayers, or after using the bathroom, one washes only the fingers.
Anointing oneself for pleasure. (Deodorant is permitted.)
Having marital relations.
Wearing leather shoes. (Leather belts may be worn.)
Learning Torah, since this is a joyful activity. It is permitted to learn texts relevant to Tisha B'Av and mourning -- ex/. the Book of Lamentations, Book of Job, parts of Tractate Moed Katan, Gittin 56-58, Sanhedrin 104, Yerushalmi end of Ta'anis, and the Laws of Mourning. In-depth study should be avoided.
3. Other mourning practices include:
Sitting no higher than a foot off the ground. After midday, one may sit on a chair.
Not engaging in business or other distracting labors, unless it will result in a substantial loss.
Refraining from greeting others or offering gifts.
Avoiding idle chatter or leisure activities.
Following Tisha B'Av, all normal activities may be resumed, except for the following which are delayed until midday of the 10th of Av, because the burning of the Temple continued through the 10th of Av:
Haircuts and washing clothes.
Bathing. (When Tisha B'Av falls out on Thursday, bathing is permitted on Friday morning.)
Eating meat and wine.
Music and swimming.
PRAYER ON TISHA B'AV
Lights in the synagogue are dimmed, candles are lit, and the curtain is removed from the Ark. The cantor leads the prayers in a low, mournful voice. This reminds us of the Divine Presence which departed from the Holy Temple.
The Book of Eicha (Lamentations), Jeremiah's poetic lament over the destruction of Jerusalem and the First Temple, is read both at night and during the day.
Following both the night and day service, special "Kinot" (elegies) are recited.
In the morning, the Torah portion of Deuteronomy 4:25-40 is read, containing the prophecy regarding Israel's future iniquity and exile. This is followed by the Haftorah from Jeremiah (8:13, 9:1-23) describing the desolation of Zion.
In the afternoon, Exodus 32:11-14 is read. This is followed by the Haftorah from Isaiah 55-56.
Since Tallit and Tefillin represent glory and decoration, they are not worn at Shacharit. Rather, they are worn at Mincha, as certain mourning restrictions are lifted.
Birkat Kohanim is said only at Mincha, not at Shacharit.
Prayers for comforting Zion and "Aneinu" are inserted into the Amidah prayer at Mincha.
Before the fast is broken, it is customary to say Kiddush Lavana.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Laws of Yom Tov.
Shavuot is a Yom Tov, and the following laws apply for the following days: Beginning on Tuesday May 22, at 7:53pm, until Thursday May 24, 9:03pm
We have to light candles on Tuesday May 22 at 7:53, and Wednesday May 23 after 9:01pm.
Any work that is not allowed to be done on Shabbat should not be done on a Yom Tov (holiday), with some exceptions. Yom Tov differs from Shabbat with regard to cooking, carrying, and lighting a fire. However, these things have a special way in which you are allowed to do it in.
Cooking is allowed only if you are cooking for that day. You are not allowed to cook on the first day of Yom Tov for the second day. In the Jewish calendar the day starts at night, therefore, you are not allowed to start cooking unless you have lit the candles for the second day of Yom Tov. For example, for this year, the first day of Yom Tov falls out on Tuesday night and Wednesday day. You are not allowed to cook for Wednesday dinner until you have lit the candles at 9:01pm. But if you cooked something on the first day (Tuesday) and you ate it on that day and have extra, you may eat that on the second day (Wednesday).
Carrying is allowed only if you are carrying the things that you will need. For example, if you need keys, then you can carry them. You have to make sure to use them and to carry only the key needed. Same goes for anything else that you need. Ex: food, clothing, etc. It's best if you carry with a difference, meaning not to carry the way you would everyday, but do it with a change.
Lighting a fire is allowed only if you light from a pre-existing fire. You can light the stove only if you have a pilot stove, meaning that there is a fire already burning. Extinguishing fire is forbidden. Also, once the fire is lit, the flame should not be lowered. You can only make it higher.
Laws concerning washing dishes is as follows: You are not supposed to wash dishes on the first day of Yom Tov in order to be used for the second day, just like cooking. Therefore, you can wash the dishes right before using them.
You are not allowed to carry, cook, or light a fire for a non-Jew.
We have to light candles on Tuesday May 22 at 7:53, and Wednesday May 23 after 9:01pm.
Any work that is not allowed to be done on Shabbat should not be done on a Yom Tov (holiday), with some exceptions. Yom Tov differs from Shabbat with regard to cooking, carrying, and lighting a fire. However, these things have a special way in which you are allowed to do it in.
Cooking is allowed only if you are cooking for that day. You are not allowed to cook on the first day of Yom Tov for the second day. In the Jewish calendar the day starts at night, therefore, you are not allowed to start cooking unless you have lit the candles for the second day of Yom Tov. For example, for this year, the first day of Yom Tov falls out on Tuesday night and Wednesday day. You are not allowed to cook for Wednesday dinner until you have lit the candles at 9:01pm. But if you cooked something on the first day (Tuesday) and you ate it on that day and have extra, you may eat that on the second day (Wednesday).
Carrying is allowed only if you are carrying the things that you will need. For example, if you need keys, then you can carry them. You have to make sure to use them and to carry only the key needed. Same goes for anything else that you need. Ex: food, clothing, etc. It's best if you carry with a difference, meaning not to carry the way you would everyday, but do it with a change.
Lighting a fire is allowed only if you light from a pre-existing fire. You can light the stove only if you have a pilot stove, meaning that there is a fire already burning. Extinguishing fire is forbidden. Also, once the fire is lit, the flame should not be lowered. You can only make it higher.
Laws concerning washing dishes is as follows: You are not supposed to wash dishes on the first day of Yom Tov in order to be used for the second day, just like cooking. Therefore, you can wash the dishes right before using them.
You are not allowed to carry, cook, or light a fire for a non-Jew.
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