Compared to the other fast days throughout the year (Tzom Gedalia, Asara b’Teves, Ta’anis Esther, and Shiva Asar b’Tamuz), Tisha b’Av is more stringent in three main ways: Tisha b’Av begins at nightfall, while all...
Last week’s essay tackled the question of abortions when pregnancy endangers the life of the mother. This essay will discuss another common question: May a pregnant woman (whose life is not in danger) take medications...
Excessive consumption of salt is considered universally detrimental to health and significantly increases the risk of experiencing a stroke or myocardial infarction. Due to this concern, medical professionals generally...
In any case of Sakanas Nefashos, transporting a patient to the hospital on Shabbos is permissible. The decision to do so must often be made by a family member who does not have medical training and, in many cases...
In last week’s essay, we began the discussion of a Yisrael marrying a Bas Kohen. According to the Gemara (and codified by the Shulchan Aruch), a Yisrael may only marry a Bas Kohen if he is a Talmid Chacham. We also...
R’ Shimon says: A Talmid Chacham is not permitted to benefit from any Seuda which is not for a mitzvah. [To what does this refer?] R’ Yochanan said: Such as [the marriage of] the daughter of a Kohen to a Yisrael or the...
In a fascinating essay in the Assia Journal (Volume 109-110, 2018)[1], Dr. Zev Frimer discusses the topic of Pikuach Nefesh issues in the emergency room on Shabbos. In particular, he addresses the question of...
Chaza”l enacted a requirement of Netilas Yadayim upon awakening in the morning, and there are many Halachic details and intricacies related to this Takana. This week’s essay will review particular issues relevant to...
Home diagnostic testing has become common, especially rapid antigen tests for COVID-19. The COVID test is performed by inserting a swab into the nose and then into a testing card or cartridge, adding a reagent solution...
Following the development of laser surgery techniques in the mid-20th century, an important question was brought before the leading Poskim of the previous generation: is it Halachically permissible to perform a Bris...
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Rabbi Yosef Sprung