by Rabbi Eliezer Melamed
In cases where there is a real danger to human life on Shabbat, the decision whether to desecrate Shabbat should be made by professionals or others present, and it is forbidden for them to go and ask a Rabbi * Shabbat should also be desecrated to save the life of a non-Jew * If the … Read more
The obligation to honor parents does not depend on the way they behave towards their children, and children must be careful to treat them according to accepted standards * A child is not obligated to turn a blind eye to the shortcomings of his parents, and recognizing their inadequacies serves a purpose, but on the … Read more
Leftists who want to divide the land are not “against the Jews and for the Arabs”, rather, people who out of concern for the Nation of Israel and their country believe that withdrawal is the necessary way * A question received from a police officer: How is it possible that in demonstrations in Haredi neighborhoods, … Read more
As parents, the present situation of lockdown and children remaining home should heighten our awareness that the primary responsibility for educating and caring for our children depends on us * Even if there are difficulties during this period, one should continue to believe in the abilities and goodness of children, for emunah (faith) is a … Read more
When troubles occur, the Torah does not instruct us to merely lower our heads and wait till for them to pass, rather, to take advantage of them to examine our actions * The Corona plague challenged the idea of globalization, and forced all nations to return to increased preoccupation with inner circles * An individual’s … Read more
The holidays should be different from other Sabbaths in their special mitzvah of joy, expressed in several ways * Women who did not manage to buy a garment this year due to the lockdown, may order a garment online during Chol HaMoed * Despite the difficulty, this year as well, effort should be made to … Read more
The purpose of teshuva (repentance) is to free us from the various idols of desire that bind us throughout the year * Surrender to the various idols diminishes man, whereas belief in God strengthens one’s character and abilities * The blowing of the shofar at the conclusion of Yom Kippur calls to mind the blowing … Read more
Rosh Hashana in Lockdown – an Opportunity for Tikun The absence of mass prayers and family meals are liable to cause sorrow, but it is our duty to make an effort and take advantage of the holiday for a tikun (correction) that will be a sign for the entire year * The large amount of … Read more
The courtyard and balcony minyans required this year due to Corona hold a great blessing * During prayers, the piyyutim (liturgical poems) and additions should be skipped, and focus on the essentials * In certain circumstances, repetition of the Shaliach Tzibbur should also be skipped * The remaining time should be utilized for Torah study … Read more
In principle, there is no impediment for women to engage in any field of Torah * Throughout the ages, theoretical and research study of Torah was the domain of men, due to the customary social arrangements * In a reality where women are knowledgeable in all fields, and strive for it in the Torah as … Read more