Rabbi Yosef Sprung
In recent years, an increasing number of Halachic questions have arisen concerning children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These children may possess average – or even above-average – intellectual...
Nachamu Nachamu
As we emerge from Tisha b’Av and read the seven Haftaros referred to as “Shiva d’Nechemta” on the Shabbosos until Rosh Hashana, we present the following thoughts on the meaning of Nechama – a subject that is...
Finding One’s Voice
Speech is among the most basic human faculties. It enables people to communicate, express thoughts and emotions, and fulfill core elements of Avodas Hashem – including Tefila, Brachos, Krias Shema, and Talmud Torah...
Rabbi Yosef SprungIt’s Hot in Here – Part 2
[Editor’s note: In last week’s essay, we began the discussion of activating air conditioning systems during a hot summer Shabbos (or heating during a cold winter Shabbos) when necessary. We reviewed the principle that...
Halachic Implications of Prostate Surgery
Background The treatment of urinary symptoms in males, such as difficulty urinating, a persistent sensation of incomplete bladder emptying, or urinary retention, usually begins with medical management. When medication...
A Hairy Situation – Part 2
In last week’s essay, we began a discussion of whether a wig that closely resembles natural hair raises concerns for Maris Ayin. We cited the opinions of the Shiltei Giborim, who permits wearing a Sheitel in public, and...
A Hairy Situation – Part 1
Women may experience partial or complete hair loss due to various medical reasons. Some have conditions that lead to significant hair thinning, while others experience temporary or permanent hair loss from medical...
Do No Harm part 2
In last week’s essay, we discussed the following question: Drawing blood for laboratory tests is one of the most common medical procedures. Usually, after the minimum required amount has been collected, blood often...
Do No Harm
Drawing blood for laboratory tests is one of the most common medical procedures. Usually, after the minimum required amount has been collected, blood often keeps flowing into the vial for a few extra moments – whether...
Proving Paternity – Part 2
Last week, we began our discussion of the reliability of paternity testing in Halachic matters. We examined various sources, but none provided a definitive conclusion. This week’s essay will move directly to the...
Proving Paternity – Part 1
Identifying a person’s father and mother is of great significance in Halacha. A father is obligated to provide for his children; a child is commanded to honor both parents; and after the parents’ passing, the...
Mixing It Up
Many medical procedures involve actions that fall under the Melacha of “Lash” (kneading). In modern medicine, these are part of routine practice...
A Hairy Issue
Question: Is it permissible to use the product “Minoxi” (minoxidil) on Shabbos for hair loss prevention? The therapy requires daily application of a liquid to the scalp for optimal effectiveness. This situation involves...
Along For the Ride
Among the common Halachic questions that arise in cases of patients who need to be taken to the hospital on Shabbos, aside from those regarding methods of transport and the specific Halachos about traveling in or...
The Final Blow
There are numerous Halachos concerning an individual identified as a Goses, which refers to a person in the final stages of life. An intriguing, lesser-known discussion appears in the Gemara in Sanhedrin (78a): If ten...
Halachos of Kri’as haMegila for Cholim
Everyone is required to observe the Mitzvos of Purim, which include reading the Megila, giving Mishloach Manos, providing Matanos la’Evyonim, and partaking in the Seuda. However, these obligations can be difficult for...
Who Decides? Priorities in Kidney Donation
Living kidney donation exists at the intersection of medicine, ethics, and Halacha. In Israel, as in many nations, a system has evolved with the dual purpose of saving lives while maintaining fairness, safety, and...
