יום שישי, י״ד תשרי תשפ״זFriday, September 25, 2026
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When living in Israel, how can we be a light to the world's nations if we don’t live among non-Jews?
On Shabbat during the nine days, one may don freshly laundered clothes, eat meat and drink wine, including Havdalah wine.
Question: Should we wash our hands in the bathroom with soap and water, or by pouring water from a vessel with handles three times, alternating hands? I have heard it said that a vessel is used only in the morning upon awakening. What are the rules pertaining to young children? What is the protocol if no vessel is available? Additionally, may we dry our hands via an electric dryer? Harry Koenigsberg (Via E-Mail)
Since the students knew the housing rules in advance they should not have picked Yale hoping for an exception in their instance.
In contemporary society, most souls are undernourished to the point of “neshamah anorexia.”
"Does that mean a person can simply renege after payment was made?" asked Benjy incredulously.
By Rabbi Yaakov Klass and Rabbi Gershon Tannenbaum
The Plucked Apple ‘…Which Cannot Become Permitted’ (Nedarim 58a)
Analyzing the request to live on Jordan's other side to understand true communication: Trust&Respect
Quite different from computers or a secretarial work which are much more in demand, the need for a sports or exercise teacher was obviously not very high, and as much as Sharon looked for work, she remained unemployed.
There are certain restrictions and abstentions that apply to Tisha B’Av that do not apply to regular aveilus.
Gad’s tremendous wealth considered with other points led rabbis to deduce Gad was very materialistic
The story of Zelophehad's daughters demonstrates Torah’s flexibility and ensuring justice.
By Rachel Weiss
A man from a distant city once came to Reb Hershel to bemoan the sorry state of his business affairs. To the tzaddik’s inquiry about the extent of his knowledge of religious practice, the man readily admitted his ignorance.
While leadership is always needed, complex situations require it at the highest level.
Not everybody’s greatness is readily apparent. Am mkadhsei shvi’i refers to the masses, the less notable among us, who exhibit the hidden, Rosh Chodesh type of sanctity.
"But I'm already dwelling in the apartment," said Mr. Gold. "Shouldn't that count? I'm no worse than a neighbor!"
Question: Should we wash our hands in the bathroom with soap and water, or by pouring water from a vessel with handles three times, alternating hands? I have heard it said that a vessel is used only in the morning upon awakening. What are the rules pertaining to young children? What is the protocol if no vessel is available? Additionally, may we dry our hands via an electric dryer? Harry Koenigsberg (Via E-Mail)
By Rabbi Yaakov Klass and Rabbi Gershon Tannenbaum
Going Public ‘From A Wealthy Roman Lady’ (Nedarim 50a)
By Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z"l
Sharing influence is like lighting a candle with another: it doesn't mean having less; you have more
By Naama Klein
Yesterday was another heartening day, one that provided me with yet another unexpected, but much-needed boost to my mood and self-esteem.
We do not find that Pinchas was chastised for what he did; on the contrary he was greatly rewarded.
The combination of the severity of the punishment and the ease with which the prohibition may be forgotten require that the smallest amount of chametz – chametz bemashehu – be prohibited.
Why does the Torah group "random" stories together in Parshat Pinchas? Are they really RANDOM?
Money comes and goes but its love, commitment, warmth, and kindness that make a family a family.
5 sisters, with no brothers, questioned an assumed law concerning land inheritance in Israel-and won
With Ruth, The Torah seems to be stating that children shouldn't be punished for the sins of parents
Without a foundation, one cannot hope to build a structure.
Why do we have a parsha in Sefer Shemos named after Yisro who was not only a former idolater, but actually served as a priest for Avodah Zarah!
Question: Should we wash our hands in the bathroom with soap and water, or by pouring water from a vessel with handles three times, alternating hands? I have heard it said that a vessel is used only in the morning upon awakening. What are the rules pertaining to young children? What is the protocol if no vessel is available? Additionally, may we dry our hands via an electric dryer? Harry Koenigsberg (Via E-Mail)
By Rabbi Yaakov Klass and Rabbi Gershon Tannenbaum
This Land Is ‘My’ Land ‘[If The Vow Was Imposed] In The Seventh Year…’ (Nedarim 42b)
The Shulchan Aruch in the very first siman states that one should rise in the morning like a lion, implying that simply rising form bed requires strength of a lion, in line with the Midrash.
Attempts to interpret the message of Hashem in the absence of divine prophecy ultimately may twist that message in unintended ways that can lead to calamitous events.
By dvora
Suddenly, the pilot's voice could be heard. He explained that this was a special day for those passengers on board who lived in Israel.
If the sick person is thrust into a situation where he is compelled to face his sickness head on, we who are not yet sick can encourage him by facing it with him.
By Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z"l
All agree that Jews ARE different. How? Why? The Bible's answer is surprising and profound.
What's the nation of Israel's purpose in the world? How we can bring God's blessings into the world?
"Is there a difference between rescuing and other services?" asked Ploni.
To my dismay, I've seen that shidduch candidates with money become ALL desirable traits for marriage
Bil’am’s character is complex and nuanced; neither purely good nor purely evil.
Amalek, our ultimate foe, understood that when unified, we are invincible and indestructible.
Perhaps on a deeper level, the mitzvah of parah adumah at this junction was not just to purify the body, but the spirit as well.
We tend to justify and idealize this division with pride attributing these tendencies as demonstrating a higher level of kedushah.
Halacha isn't random; it's a mechanism guiding individuals and society to a higher ethical plateau.
Question: Should we wash our hands in the bathroom with soap and water, or by pouring water from a vessel with handles three times, alternating hands? I have heard it said that a vessel is used only in the morning upon awakening. What are the rules pertaining to young children? What is the protocol if no vessel is available? Additionally, may we dry our hands via an electric dryer? Harry Koenigsberg (Via E-Mail)
Less clear, however, is whether the concept applies to the area of civil law such as the law of transfer of property.
The greatest of men, Moshe, had to wait for Hashem to sprinkle purifying waters on Bnei Yisrael to mark the conclusion of the period of death.
By Rabbi Yaakov Klass and Rabbi Gershon Tannenbaum
My Plate, My Food ‘My Loaf Is Forbidden To You’ (Nedarim 34b)
By Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z"l
Of Chukkim “Satan and the nations of the world made fun.” They may appear irrational & superstitious
By dvora
I realized from this story that I was sent as a messenger from above. Hashem has many helpers in this world to help do his work.
Tosafos answers that nevertheless the sprinkling is a part of his taharah process.
"What difference does that make?" replied Shraga. "What counts is the agreement that we made. I said two hundred fifty and you accepted."
What was Moses thinking when he struck the rock?
Zaidie’s legacy of smiles and loving words was all but buried with him, now the family fights over $
Israel's complaining frustrated Moshe, making it increasingly hard for him to lead effectively
Dovid's musical Torah teachings were designed to penetrate the soul and the emotions.
It occurred to me, as my brain rattled in my skull on a two-hundred mile ride through rural Virginia, that our souls work in much the same way.
Essential principle of arguments for Heaven's sake is recognizing no 1 person has monopoly on truth
By Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z"l
Heaven answered Moshe dramatically. He was proved right. End of revolt. End of story- Not at all...
Jews are again confronted by enemies threatening us. Whom are we to turn to? Hashem, our Father
I had imagined it was my mother who would probably miss us the most. But what do we really know about what is happening?
By Rabbi Yaakov Klass and Rabbi Gershon Tannenbaum
Not As An Asmachta? “An Asmachta [In Beis Din] Does Acquire” (Nedarim 27b)
"Is the invoice signed by the students?" asked the principal. "They said they didn't get the pizza."
Until Korach's rebellion, no one dared challenge Moshe’s authority.
Performing ketores outside the Beis Hamikdash, and at the wrong time is an aveirah.
Conversely, no part of the Land within the boundaries delineated in Numbers 34 may be relinquished for any purpose whatsoever.
Question: Should we wash our hands in the bathroom with soap and water, or by pouring water from a vessel with handles three times, alternating hands? I have heard it said that a vessel is used only in the morning upon awakening. What are the rules pertaining to young children? What is the protocol if no vessel is available? Additionally, may we dry our hands via an electric dryer? Harry Koenigsberg (Via E-Mail)
Korach demonstrates how "charisma" can lead to a breakdown in the legitimate forms of leadership
Joshua & Caleb's report was filled with faith & optimism; report of the 10 was poisoned by cynicism
A truly great leader is someone who not only leads and influences his immediate circle, but the broader world as well.
As they continued to spread fear in the hearts of the rest of Bnei Yisrael, they report that they saw giants, nefilim. V'sham rainu et hanefilim bnei anak!
It becomes clear that the problem the Jewish people faced wasn't temporary but endemic to its core
By dvora
Miraculously, the baby came out without a scratch, though some glass shards had to be brushed off his hat.
By Rabbi Yaakov Klass and Rabbi Gershon Tannenbaum
Ulla’s Murderous Companion ‘Yes! Cut Him Even Deeper’ (Nedarim 22a)
Ten of the twelve spies returned with a negative report, stating that this would be impossible.
By Rachel Weiss
It must have been the warm ambiance of their humble yet welcoming home. Or maybe it was their broad shoulders and understanding hearts…
Why did the Torah add baderch btzayschem M'mitzrayim to the command to remember the Miriam incident?
Yale argued living on campus meant living in the "real world," with its complexities and challenges
Although it is true that the Final Redemption will be accelerated when all Jews repent and accept the rule of Torah, there is also another scenario for the Final Redemption.
By Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z"l
There's no obligation TO wear tzitzit; opting to wear them symbolizes free acceptance of the mitzvot
"Rebbetzin are you implying barbarism's again threatening us?" I replied "No-I’m saying it outright”
Question: Should we wash our hands in the bathroom with soap and water, or by pouring water from a vessel with handles three times, alternating hands? I have heard it said that a vessel is used only in the morning upon awakening. What are the rules pertaining to young children? What is the protocol if no vessel is available? Additionally, may we dry our hands via an electric dryer? Harry Koenigsberg (Via E-Mail)
"The answer depends on the terms of the purchase agreement and local customs," replied Rabbi Dayan.
What was so bad about the spies sin and how can we connect to such an angry, vengeful God?
The Children of Israel chose a natural human existence, as opposed to living supernatural lives
"If I give you a box of candles will you light them each erev Shabbos?"
How does haughtiness lead to a loss of faith? Pride to the eclipse of God?
Let's emulate Aharon’s devotion to Jewish values & religious standards while helping all of society
Moshe realized that the halt to their march will have major repercussions. The body that had been so carefully assembled, with a single purpose and goal, began to fray.
By Rabbi Yaakov Klass and Rabbi Gershon Tannenbaum
An Enduring Text ‘If One Vows By The Torah...’ (Nedarim 14b)
"I wasn't really thinking," replied Levi. "Things in the backyard usually don't need watching. I also didn't expect you to be away so long. One thing is clear, though: I never accepted responsibility for the cake."
Mitzvot, even restrictive laws, often teach self-discipline which is a venue to freedom.
By Naama Klein
As a borderline CDO (OCD alphabetized) sufferer, I really wanted to have every last thread tied up securely before we hit the road.
Question: Should we wash our hands in the bathroom with soap and water, or by pouring water from a vessel with handles three times, alternating hands? I have heard it said that a vessel is used only in the morning upon awakening. What are the rules pertaining to young children? What is the protocol if no vessel is available? Additionally, may we dry our hands via an electric dryer? Harry Koenigsberg (Via E-Mail)
September 25, 2026 
