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...
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...
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...
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...
In the male reproductive system, the prostate gland is located just below the bladder and anterior to the rectum. The seminal vesicles are located posteriorly to the prostate and produce seminal fluids that travel via...
In the previous essay, we discussed an important principle regarding Pikuach Nefesh. In general, when faced with a life-threatening situation and two options for intervention, one of which involves desecrating Shabbos...
Absorbent cotton (known outside the United States as “cotton wool”) is essentially untreated cotton and has many medical uses, including cleaning delicate areas and in bandages. The cotton plant grows silky fibers...
The laws of Pikuach Nefesh require a Jew to take any actions necessary to save a life, even if this requires violating Shabbos. Sometimes, when faced with a case of Pikuach Nefesh, there will be two options. The first...
During the summer months, many families accept Shabbos early, davening Maariv and commencing the Shabbos Seuda (meal) before Sh’kia (sunset). This is often done for convenience, as it is difficult for small children to...
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Hillel Kovacs
Rabbi Yosef Sprung
Rabbi Yosef Sprung