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...
In the previous essay[1], we discussed the permissibility of tubal ligation for contraception, starting with the definition and severity of the prohibition of female sterilization. We then considered whether tubal...
“Anything [with its testes] bruised or crushed or torn or cut you shall not offer to Hashem, and in your land you shall not do [this]” (Vayikra 22:24) One of the most common methods of permanent contraception for women...
A number of questions, raised by medical personnel regarding Shabbos Zachor, Ta’anis Esther, and Purim, were addressed in our Beis Hamedrash. They are delineated below. I am a female nurse working a night shift on...
“Do not come near a woman during her menstrual period of impurity to uncover her nakedness.” (Vayikra 18:19) Among alternative therapies, reflexology is a popular alternative treatment that is based on the theory of...
Parshios Tazria and Metzora detail the laws of the Metzora. There are multiple types of Tzara’as and many Mitzvos relating to the identification of Tzara’as, the laws of impurity, and the procedures for purification...
In the coming week, on the 27th of Nissan, we will commemorate “Yom HaShoah”. The day is dedicated to contemplating the atrocities that our people experienced during one of the darkest periods in history when millions...
One of the most widely-known fundamental Halachos is that Pikuach Nefesh overrides Shabbos. Therefore, it is a mitzvah and obligation to desecrate Shabbos to save a Jewish life in certain – or even questionable – danger...
Balak 5780 Doctors, nurses, and members of Hatzala often need to carry out their work on Shabbos. Medical personnel are sometimes unable to avoid Shabbos hospital shifts, or are summoned on Shabbos to attend to a...
Although it is certainly permitted to perform any act that is needed to save a life on Shabbos, not every action related to a Choleh sheYesh Bo Sakana supersedes Shabbos. Determining the line between permitted and...
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Rabbi Yosef Sprung