Q&A With Rabbi Breitowitz

251

3-Varieties of Zionism - Hashkafic History Series II

Oct 24, 2021

1:08:33

Hashkafic History Series II Ohr Lagolah Rabbinic Program 5776-3-Varieties of Zionism Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, "Hashkafic History". For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] (Originally Rec 2015-16) (Produced by: CedarMedia Podcasting 2021)

252

Q&A- Guilt, R' Shlomo Carlebach & Evolution

Oct 22, 2021

1:27:05

How is it that in the Gemara that some people have a mesora and others don’t? How does deal with feelings of guilt moving forward having grown up doing aveiros? What’s the halacha regarding a tchup? It seems like the frum world sees women place more emphasis on emunah but less with men? Why does the Torah spend time going through the generations as in Parashas Bereshis and Noach? If there will never be a prophet as great as Moshe Rabbeinu, what should be expected from Moshiach? How did Eliezer come to Avraham? If he was connected to Nimrod, why did he send him to his enemy? Will the yetzer hara for avoda zara come back after moshiach? Are the descendants of Yishmoel and B’nei Katura also chaiv in bris milah, even today? Note from Rabbi Breitowitz: I was asked about the halachic obligation of the descendants of Yishmael to have Bris Milah . I cited the Rambam that Bnai Yishmael are exempt from Milah though Bnai Keturah are obligated (as opposed to Rashi who maintains that only the actual sons of Keturah needed Milah and not their descendants ).So far ,so good. I then said that since the Bnai Ketura have intermingled with Bnai Yishmael and are no longer a distinct group ,all who identify as Bnai Yishmael are now exempt .This was an error on my part . Rambam says exactly the opposite The intermingling of Bnai Ketura with Bnai Yishmael obligates the entire group . (In partial defense[not really!]I was thinking of the Minchas Chinuch who does indeed suggest that the intermingling should exempt the group rather than obligate it but that is not Rambam,s view). I apologize for the error .Bivracha ,YBreitowitz How should one respond when asked by a non-religious person about olam haba?—Are there sources? Are there any ramazim for how we can relate to olam haba? How do we define what a hashkafa is? It seems like learning Torah lishma is ideal, and others say it must lead to something? Is there the possibility of alternate universes regarding quantum mechanics? With Rav Shlomo Carlebach yahrzeit coming up, how should we commemorate? Muslims around Israel have certain good qualities eg Tzanua? Are we supposed to learn from them? Did HaShem always intend for there to be war in the world? Can evolution in its entirety be consistent with Torah? Yeshayahu gives musste that people do mitzvos by rote, how do we avoid this? By Tannis, the Gemara says that during a plague (given population ratios) we fast and blow the shofar. Why was this not done during covid? One can’t conduct normal business on Shabbos, so how can the rabbi ‘work’ on Shabbos? Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu !

253

2-Yishuv Eretz Yisrael - Hashkafic History Series II

Oct 17, 2021

1:02:01

Hashkafic History Series II Ohr Lagolah Rabbinic Program 5776-2-Yishuv Eretz Yisrael Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, "Hashkafic History". For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] (Originally Rec 2015-16) (Produced by: CedarMedia Podcasting 2021)

254

Q&A- Smoking, Neturei Karta & Heter Mechira

Oct 13, 2021

1:25:03

00:00 Yaakov lived with Lavan for so many years. How did he do this and what can we take from this? 03:58 Assuming there is moderation, could it be permitted to smoke, and do those with an addiction have a chiuv to stop? 13:08 How should understand the Holocaust when G-d is all-loving? 24:40 Is it possible for a secular Jew to truly feel content in life? 27:38 Parshas Lech Lecha, we have the imagery of bris Bein habasarim. Could you explain some of this? 30:31 What exactly is a ‘raban’? 37:37 At what point does someone who grew up secular have the daas to have a chiyuv of Shabbos? —Is there permanent gehenom? 47:57 Can the luz bone be totally destroyed? 48:58 Sometimes we use a feminine word for Hashem? 52:42 Do we look at someone with a Jewish father different? 56:32 Why did the trees rebel that their bark should taste like the fruit? 58:44 If Gemara is the pinnacle of learning, why is it not so encouraged for women? 1:04:41 Has neturei karta done anything positive for klal yisroel? 1:11:30 Is a shared mitzvah (such as bochor) then what of the schar? 1:12:25 Arum means nakedness and cunning. What is the relation, as in bereshis? 1:14:42 One can be a Ben olam haba for davening netz, or saying ashrei 3 times a day. If one can have one, why try for the other? 1:16:20 What is the connection between birchas kohanim and dreams? 1:19:01 Is heter mechira valid? 1:20:15 If the shmita year is not certain, is there any leniency? 1:23:30 Are things like life insurance hishtadlus? Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! (Produced by Cedar Media Studios Podcasting 2021)

255

1-Movements of 19th Century - Hashkafic History Series II

Oct 10, 2021

54:48

Ohr Lagolah Rabbinic Training Program 5776-1-Hashkafic History I-Movements of 19th Century Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, "Hashkafic History". For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] (Originally Rec 2015-16) (Produced by: CedarMedia Podcasting 2021)

256

Q&A- Dinosaurs, Tachanun & Wigs

Oct 7, 2021

1:26:35

00:00 What was Reuben’s cheshban in moving Yaakov’s bed? What of kibud av? 4:14 Chazal say it’s a mitzvah to marry one’s niece, but genetically this can be dangerous... 6:55 During chet haegel, Moshe argues with HaShem against starting a nation. What does it mean for one to argue against HaShem? 11:47 There is an assumption that earlier rabbis are correct, what is the source for this? 15:17 Did the Avos keep the Torah before it was given, and how did it look? 0:21:34 what is the Rabbis opinion on wigs? 0:27:42 Some people are annoyed about having to start saying tachanun again. Can Rebbi share anything about the importance and beauty of it? 0:32:00 How can a Jew be a secular judge? 0:34:44 Believe on unbroken tradition, how can we justify the idea of machloket and differing opinions? 0:45:16 What is the Torah’s view on Dinosaurs? 0:49:19 What is the difference between psychology and mussar? 0:52:02 Why is same Bracha chatima of psukei dezimra same as Baruch sheamar? 0:55:30 Why is taf pronounced as tzaf by askenazim? 0:59:50 What is the origin of rashi script? 1:01:40 Is there a remez for America in the Torah? 1:03:24 What is mans goal in striving for faith in G-d juxtaposed with logic? 1:07:15 How can we say that we will promise to G-d that we will praise him forever? 1:09:40 How do we learn halacha? Lets say I'm learning the mishnah berurah. How do i know if we paskin like it? How do i know which sefer we paskin like instead? Do i always have to double check with a rabbi? 1:15:15 What is the source for matrilineal descent? 1:17:50 Why does it seem that prayer doesn’t work in bleak situations? 1:22:15 When we finish a sefer we say hadran halach, but most don’t at Simchas Torah? 1:24:30 is it permissible to grow sprouts in a windowsill, in water? Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu !

257

Thoughts on Hakafos 5782

Sep 26, 2021

7:44

While Rav Breitowitz is out on bein hazmanim, we have the privilege to bring you some of his Torah thoughts on the significance of the Hakafos. We hope you enjoy! - R' Zevi Kaufman (Producer of the Ohr Somayach Podcast Network) Print out here! Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! We are proud to announce the beta-launch of the Ohr Somayach app! Access your favorite Ohr Somayach podcasts on the app, at podcasts.ohr.edu or on any podcast platform! DOWNLOAD THE APP! ANDROID APPLE (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

258

Hoshana Rabbah - Simchas Torah - The Culmination of the Days of Awe

Sep 22, 2021

50:00

Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! We are proud to announce the beta-launch of the Ohr Somayach app! Access your favorite Ohr Somayach podcasts on the app, at podcasts.ohr.edu or on any podcast platform! DOWNLOAD THE APP! ANDROID APPLE (10-22-2016) (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

259

Ohr Somayach Pre Rosh Hashana Seminar

Sep 5, 2021

1:27:06

2:44 Rabbi Gettinger 29:10 Rabbi Breitowitz 1:05:52 Rabbi Tatz Sign up here!! Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! We are proud to announce the beta-launch of the Ohr Somayach app! Access your favorite Ohr Somayach podcasts on the app, at podcasts.ohr.edu or on any podcast platform! DOWNLOAD THE APP! ANDROID APPLE (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

260

Q&A- Simanim, Taliban & Aggadita

Sep 2, 2021

58:45

What is the reason for avoiding doing chesed to a non-jew? What is the Jewish position on organ donation once one passes away, and can a Jew work on cadavers as a med students? How do we understand by the creation that the trees deviated from Hashem’s commandment that they should taste like fruit?—Do trees have bechira? With the Taliban take over, many Jews sympathize with the civilians, but isn’t Sharia more in line with halacha than Western values. 2 Poskin, Rav Moshe Feinstein and Minchas Yitzchak, have different drachim in deriving sources for psakim. Why is this? What is the Jewish perspective on the ideal power-system? How do we interpret (seemingly) physical descriptions of HaShem, especially in Yehezkel or Daniel? In the Gemara in Sukka, it describes HaShem as being 10 tefachim, and Moshe below 10. What does this mean? Can we say “everything happens for a reason” and have free will? Or can someone’s decisions affect someone else’s free will? The Gemara in Sukka it describes the keruvim as being 10 tefachim over the mishkan. The keruvim min hatzad built by Shlomo were much bigger. Is there something particular that both were 1/3 of the size of their environments? A man caused, due to road-rage, by grama a car crash which killed someone. Is this man to be rebuked? If a person reads a secular self-help book, can someone get the schar for learning Torah? There are many cryptic messages in the agada of the midrash and gemara (eg with monsters etc). How do we interpret this? What is the significance of saying akainu seudasa?

261

SPECIAL: Selichos - 5781

Aug 29, 2021

29:28

SPECIAL: SELICHOS AT OHR SOMAYACH JERUSALEM Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! We are proud to announce the beta-launch of the Ohr Somayach app! Access your favorite Ohr Somayach podcasts on the app, at podcasts.ohr.edu or on any podcast platform! DOWNLOAD THE APP! ANDROID APPLE (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

262

Q&A- Baal Teshuva Integration, Free Will & Jews on Politics

Aug 25, 2021

1:03:36

This episode has been generously sponsored by Daniel and Rachel Rabizadeh In loving memory of George Rabizadeh ישראל דוד בן רבי אבא 00:00 If two brothers marry two sisters, does one widow have a chiyuv of yibum? 4:42 Why do chazal and halacha speak of things like spontaneous generation which modern science can’t prove? 12:40 Sometimes Baalei Teshuva have a difficulty integrating into frum society. Why should this be? 17:58 Why was R’ Yehuda haNasi not martyred along with the 10 rabbis? 21:42 In one’s search for Yiddishkeit, to what extent does one keep looking for proofs? 27:14 What is the most practical answer to the how we have free will if HaShem knows the future? 32:36 Every generation has a moshiach, so how can there be a set date? 38:18 Is triage halachically acceptable and if so what criteria can be used? 46:08 Are Jews allowed to express political views? 49:02 Is there something after olam haba? 55:44 Does power/authority affect free will? 59:35 Considering the work of Christians to prosthelytize Jews, should there be a concerted counter response? Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! We are proud to announce the beta-launch of the Ohr Somayach app! Access your favorite Ohr Somayach podcasts on the app, at podcasts.ohr.edu or on any podcast platform! DOWNLOAD THE APP! ANDROID APPLE (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

263

SPECIAL: JLE Q&A- (with Excursus on Science and Religion)

Aug 24, 2021

51:34

This weeks episode has been generously sponsored by Daniel and Rachel Rabizadeh In loving memory of George Rabizadeh ישראל דוד בן רבי אבא SPECIAL JLE - Q&A Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! We are proud to announce the beta-launch of the Ohr Somayach app! Access your favorite Ohr Somayach podcasts on the app, at podcasts.ohr.edu or on any podcast platform! DOWNLOAD THE APP! ANDROID APPLE (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

264

Q&A- Nichush, The Zohar & Teiku

Aug 18, 2021

1:01:55

This weeks episode has been generously sponsored by Daniel and Rachel Rabizadeh In loving memory of George Rabizadeh ישראל דוד בן רבי אבא Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! 00:00 in the amida, we ask HaShem to remember he chesed of our Avos. What does that mean? 6:35 Rambam discusses that for someone to be learning full time supported by the community, but if he is pushed into it for social reasons (ie not chosen by community or out of deep love for Torah) is this a chillul HaShem? 18:00 Can a Jew own a store to sell legal cannabis? 22:12 There could be a problem of Jews living in Egypt even today. Could you elaborate on that? 27:29 Does a person have a responsibility to take care of his pets? 32:14 Is putting an animal out of its misery issur re tsar baal hachaim? 34:35 Considering the issur of nichush, how can people look at signs/omens today? 37:37 Is having a broad base of knowledge acquired methodologically or just what he comes across? 41:21 The levi’im seemed to excel in its holiness and avoiding aveiras, so why did it split along the lines of the kohanim and levi’im which were so disparate? 44:14 What halachic issues might arise in being a psychologist?—Is it appropriate for a ben Torah? 52:12 Who are chazal? 55:44 What is the Nehalem? 56:52 Why does the Zohar contradict a lot of halachic rulings? 58:02 Why do gemaras that end in a “teiku” included?—how do we develop modern halachos from these?

265

SPECIAL: The Nature of Rabbinic Authority

Aug 16, 2021

46:43

Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! We are proud to announce the beta-launch of the Ohr Somayach app! Access your favorite Ohr Somayach podcasts on the app, at podcasts.ohr.edu or on any podcast platform! DOWNLOAD THE APP! ANDROID APPLE (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting) (Center 5781-Parshas Shoftim -The Nature of Rabbinic Authority)

266

Q&A- Cameras, Kitniyos & Career Choice

Aug 12, 2021

1:09:10

Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! 00:00 What does it mean that the Lavush (sefer) did not have the success of the Shulchan Aruch? 11:28 the Sanhedrin existed after the churban beis hamikdash, why don’t we have a Sanhedrin now? 22:08 Netilas yadayim can work in the ocean, but could maybe mayim achronim could also work even though ocean water has salt? 24:50 Sefer Yehoshua references sefer hayashar. What is this book? 28:03 What is the role of cameras for a Jewish witness system? 35:59 With kitniyos, why are we not lenient if we can have supervision? 38:10 we describes milchamas Torah, so is there an issue of learning Torah in a calm way? 42:04 How does one know what career one should choose? 46:42 What happened to the yeshiva at Volozhin? 59:00 Why is ear-piercing allowed? 59:57 Why is there so much machlokes in Mishnayos 1:07:57 Have we lost mesechtas? (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

267

SPECIAL: Q&A- Divine Authorship, Literalness vs Metaphor & Paranormal Activities

Jul 26, 2021

1:47:52

Episode Generously Sponsored in the zchus of a Refuah Shleimah for Yardena Meira bat Mindel SPECIAL JLE - Q&A Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! We are proud to announce the beta-launch of the Ohr Somayach app! Access your favorite Ohr Somayach podcasts on the app, at podcasts.ohr.edu or on any podcast platform! DOWNLOAD THE APP! ANDROID APPLE (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

268

Q&A- Gehennom, Gilgul & Naftali Bennet

Jul 15, 2021

1:21:09

Comments? Feedback? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! 00:00 In shidduchim, what is a dealbreaker and what is a legitimate compromise? 4:01 It is said when a person becomes a baal teshuva he amputates his limbs—what does that mean? 10:20 Why do we follow rabbinic ordinances so much these days when the Torah says both not to add and subtract, and also to follow one’s rabbi? 23:00 How do we have a consensus on a gadol hador, and why do Charedim ask him for everything including personal advice? 33:24 If the takana of Rabbeinu gershom only applied to Ashkenazim, why do Sephardim also follow it? 37:33 How are we so mediak in the Rambam if it is translated (from Arabic)? 39:19 Media are calling Naftali Bennett the first religious PM of Israel, but they also say his wife is secular. Can both be true? 42:31 We try and avoid a machloches in metzios, but in meseches midos this is the case. 46:44 Some involved in Kiruv use more forceful methods. To what extent to these scare-tactics justify the means of it might push some away? 51:45 What’s the difference between sheidim and malachei chabala? 55:14 It seems the Torah world’ attitude on technological advancement is to leave it to the goyim. Is there any idea of being involved in the creation? 1:02:38 How could the Gra praise secular understanding and decry the Rambam learning Greek philosophy? 1:03:33 Why are there both gehenom and gilgul? 1:07:27 The Maharal says that tzitzis is the mitzvah to encapsulate the rest, and yet it seems to technically be an optional mitzvah. How can that be? 1:09:38 a man crossing the dateline from San Francisco to Australia could skip all of a day’s davening. How can that be? 1:12:00 What is the difference between malachei chabala and malachei hashares 1:13:40 What is the difference between a traditional marriage and a pilegesh? 1:17:25 Why did Herod renovate the Beis Sheini? (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

269

SPECIAL: Thoughts on the 9 Days

Jul 12, 2021

41:02

Comments? Suggestions? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

270

Q&A- Yerusha, Genetic Manipulation & Chareidi Schools

Jul 8, 2021

1:21:15

Generously Sponsored by Atara and Lozi Liff In honor of the wonderful Ohr Somayach Rabbeim and the people who make this podcast happen! (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting) Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! 00:00 The Gemara in Eruvin says that a person could learn midos without Torah from animals. Why don’t people take these simanim? 3:00 Why did HaShem call the day starting at night, but we don’t speak of it as a day? 4:57 Why is mincha called as such if we know there was a mincha offering once given in the morning? 8:34 What does the Torah mean by the 4 corners of the world? 11:08 If the Torah has a specific way of doing yerusha, why do we go along with the way it’s done in the secular world? 17:00 What are we to make of disruptive phenomena that occur on Shabbos? 21:43 Is it assur to take a picture without someone’s knowledge/permission? 24:00 Ezra instituted a takkana which was later made batul. Who has that authority? 30:05 The Torah says the whole generation of bamidbar would die out in the desert except Calev and Yehoshua, but all of shevet Levi did too, and several women too. 39:30 (follow up) Why do we count leviim in a minyan if they weren’t in the chet hameraglim 40:12 Is there an inyan of techelis from a chilazon? 49:30 Can someone get around a prohibitive takkana (eg riding a bike lest someone fix it) by making a public neder? 52:05 Is genetic manipulation for humans mutar? 57:34 Charedi schools are found to have a great deal of discrimination particularly for sephardim and baalei teshuva. 1:09:55 Many people are machmir to not carry even in an eruv. What is the reason for this? 1:15:50 Where is the origin of holding a kiddish cup from the bottom from? 1:16:47 We know when Eliyahu is protesting the Baal a fire came down from heaven for his korban. It is said the end of days will see a different test but with the opposite result for emunah. Is this true and where is this found?

271

Q&A- Choosing a Rebbi, Land for Peace & The Meaning of Life

Jul 1, 2021

1:17:51

Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! 00:00 Was there any mention in Tanakh or elsewhere of the order of the return of any particular shvatim coming back? 4:20 Modern advances and translations make Halacha very accessible, what qualities does one look for in a flesh-and-blood Rabbi post-yeshiva? 9:12 If HaShem knows what’s good for us, why would we have to daven? 12:25 The Vilna Gaon can argue with a rishon, but who gave him the rule? 15:54 A shechted animal conveys tahor, so would someone who died al kidush HaShem be tahor? 18:02 Would goyim have to eat kosher meat? 20:48 In the 9th perek of brachos it mentions that a bad interpretation of a dream will result in negative consequences, and conversely with positive interpretations. Is this true today? 25:12 How can we comprehend the importance of talmud Torah? 34:26 How does one work on appreciating the goodness of oneself? 39:37 What is the halachic background for “Land for Peace” 45:15 The way of coming to truth is to way arguments, so how much should we bring in all views for discussions of Judaism? 57:42 if someone thinks that Torah is truth and the way to a deepest connection to Hashem, so why should be avoid evangelize? eg Would the Rambam want Aristotle to become Jewish given how much he revered him? 1:01:43 In the Torah, if someone steals and needs to repay double, but why can’t we carry this out without a Sanhedrin? 1:05:52 When speaking to people less observant, how does one bring up issues of ichud or other possibly controversial issues? 1:08:00 drinking is not allowed in excess, but may be allowed in small quantities. Why then are some things like cannabis totally asur? 1:11:39 What’s the meaning of life—is it a paradox? 1:14:00 Now we have so many cameras, do we still have yiush? 1:16:20 The Gemara often uses 60 or 1/60. What is the significance of this number? (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

272

Q&A- Tzimtzum, Nefilim & Artscroll

Jun 24, 2021

1:21:41

Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! 00:00 Can you speak on the makloches of tzimtzum? 6:03 Is laboratory meat an issue of eiver min hachai/basar min hachai? 14:08 How do we get around milk from a treifa cow when milk is mixed together in factories? 22:57 What became of Nephilim? Are they around? Could it explain alien encounters? 25:35 Does lashon hara apply in reference to sports players? —What of politicians? 30:24 When Moshiach comes, will Moshe Rabbeinu have modern technology? 32:26 With regards to abortion, why is there an apparent discrepancy between Jews and non-Jews? 38:40 How are non-Jews expected to know the 7 Noahide laws? 42:42 If someone consents for an aveira (e.g. dueling) is this permissible?—what of losing when gambling? 47:00 Where does the bill stop if all aveiras are judged including the repercussions of previous generations? 50:58 Why does the Torah have a greater penalty for a thief (ganav) than a one-time burglar? 52:38 How do we have different shitas for the order of parshios in tefilin that we had an original pair and no period without tefilin? 56:57 What are practical ways to deal with geiva without diminishing self-esteem? 59:18 Are voice-operated technology (eg Amazon Alexa) allowed for Shabbos for lights? 1:04:02 How can HaShem know the future if we have free-will? 1:11:46 According to Chazal, if the baby is born on the 8th month the baby is considered certainly dead, but this is not true if a baby is the baby is born in the 7th month. Doesnt this seems out of order? 1:13:34 One shouldn’t shop around for poskim, but if one is told for life-and-death (eg heart-transplant) that might be considered murder but might save ones life, can one go on a that opinion? 1:16:30 If one should avoid seeking honor except when necessary, how does one know his intentions won’t be egotistical? 1:18:32 In light of books which have commentary added (eg ArtScroll) what does this mean for the need for a rebbe? (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

273

Q&A- Murder, Challah & Meat

Jun 20, 2021

1:02:10

0:00:00 What else do we know about Korach’s death? 0:01:35 If a Jewish woman is a surrogate is the child Jewish? Can someone be a surrogate for her sister? 0:07:40 If people don’t get their good inclination until 13, how do you understand that kids underage do good things? 0:10:00 Is there any halachic problem in taking medication to lower testosterone levels? 0:11:50 In the shortest pasuk in Torah, oobnei Dan choshim, why does it have extra vav? 0:14:14 When was the term Halacha le Moshe mi Sinai first used? 0:16:00 Why do we say the blessing that we thank G-d for not making us a woman? 0:18:50 Is the essential part of the mitzvah of Talmud Torah specific for teaching or learning? 0:21:05 What is the difference between chochma, bina, and daat? 0:23:27 We say that the order of tefillah as praise, request, and gratitude. Why do the last couple brachot not seem like gratitude prayers? 0:27:00 How do we understand the parah aduma when the person who cleans the ashes would get tameh? What is its significance? 0:34:40 We know certain halachot are dependent on having a walled city. From do we know the names of the cities that were walled from the time of Yehoshoah Ben Nun? 0:38:00 With regards to Bilam, is there a need to be righteous or spiritual merit to be a prophet? 0:42:00 We know when someone is sent to a refugee city his Rebbe has to go with him. Doesn’t the other students lose out from their rebbe? 0:46:05 When there was a murder they would do eglah arufa, what is the connection of that ritual to murder? 0:48:23 We know that women have the mitzvah of challah to atone for the sin of challah. What does this mean and why is Adam called challah? 0:52:20 In Moshe’s last speech he tells us to remember a lot of things. Mitzvah of mezuzah would seem as a zecher from the Torah. However, why is it shown as a protection of the house? 0:55:30 Why are there different halachot about walled cities? 0:56:00 Is there a real problem of having names that have no tanach source as Rav Chaim Kanievsky said? 0:58:40 Eating meat is allowed but...Why is eating meat okay? It may not be healthy, especially in large quantities.... 1:00:00 Has fake meat been declared "fleishig" and does it fulfill the idea of kavod shabbos? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

274

Q&A- Sorcery, Modern Science & Gerus

Jun 10, 2021

1:11:11

0:00:00 When we say “Each person has a chelek of Torah” what does that mean and how to do acquire it? 0:02:34 When the spies came back from EY, why did Moshe strongly support the Jews? Why was the punishment of the golden calf carried over to meraglim of the 40 year punishment? 0:07:00 If a ger converts and then find out afterwards that he was a Jew before his conversion, does he return to being a Jew or remain a ger? 0:12:16 Following Rabbi Moshe Feinstein’s psak on kalei habishul, what is an issue in a kli shlishi for tea? 0:17:50 Can one wax or pluck hair from the body? 0:20:52 In Josephus’s writings, was there a real movement at the time of Yashka or was it something created by the Romans? 0:27:07 What do we do when Josephus contradicts the accounts of Rabbinic literature? How do we reconcile this? 0:32:36 If Hashem loves us, how can he give us challenges that seemingly we can’t overcome? 0:36:25 How much burden should we put on previous generations sin and similarly how do much burden do we put on our own sins? 0:41:40 Was there inflation in time of the Gemara? 0:44:20 Does the character traits of Moshiach have to match that of David? 0:45:28 In the laws of Niddah, is going in to mayim chayim rabbinic? Also, the body of water is described in different terms. Why so? 0:50:17 What is an aveira lishma and are there any records of this? 0:54:00 Why didn’t Hashem respond Moshe’s question on why does bad things happen to righteous people? 0:57:20 Can one interview someone for a job if they have no intention to hire them and they just need information from them? Does it matter if it’s a Jew or a non Jew? 1:00:38 In shemoneh esrei why didn’t the rabbis invoke the merits of the Imahot? 1:03:00 Where do you draw the line between magic/sorcery and modern science which might seem sorcery like? 1:05:47 Gemara says don’t live in cities run by a Talmid Chacham. Is that a validation of a secular politician? 1:07:35 What are the pressing issues facing Torah society? What is a greater motivator than competition?

275

SPECIAL: Gender Identity - Why Is This Happening Now & How It Affects Us

Jun 4, 2021

42:47

Would you like to dedicate an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

276

Q&A- Colors, Names and Anthropomorphisms

May 31, 2021

1:09:21

0:00:05 Origin of Moshes staff? 0:01:49 If one considers Marcus Arelies as Tanah, can we consider his meditations as Torah source? 0:04:48 What is halacha for men wearing red? Also what about undergarments? 0:06:50 In the morning brachos, how do we interpret Talmud Torah keneged Koolam? 0:09:06 How did Rebbe Yehuda Hanasi decide what is a Mishnah and what is breitsa? 0:14:25 In the Talmud Bavli they have non Jewish names. why didn’t they have seemingly Jewish names? Why can’t be called up to the Torah with an english name if Hashem knows their name? 0:23:43 If called by nicknames, do those names become a name if people call u that name as well? 0:25:20 At end of parashat Vayigash with Yosef in mizrayim organizing land owner of land in Egypt, What does the pasuk mean when it says “ad hayom hazeh” for the land of the kohanim? 0:33:32 How is it possible for Hashem to be disappointed? Can Hashem feel emotions? 0:38:15 How does Rambam explain Hashem wearing tefillin? 0:43:30 Isn’t it taught that G-d doesn’t have an image? Is that not a limitation? 0:50:14 It is said that every four amot one takes in Israel is a mitzvah. what is the source for this statement and what does that mean? 0:54:57 Should one prioritize breadth or depth of knowledge in Torah study? 0:59:20 Is the schar from learning not from the efforts one makes? 1:02:00 Halachot Shabbat, bishul in sun that isn’t cooking in Gemara, what if you cook it something that was heated by sun? Do u treat it as it’s source? 1:04:00 Can u say shehechianu in personal life events? Finishing Sefer, etc? 1:07:40 What is the origin of languages? Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd love to hear from you! : [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

277

Q&A- Hamas, Anti-Semitism & The Abraham Accords (@Derech)

May 20, 2021

1:35:39

Would you like to sponsor an episode? A series? We'd Love To Hear From You At: [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Visit us @ ohr.edu ! (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

278

SPECIAL: When Was the Torah REALLY Given?

May 14, 2021

57:37

Pre Shavuos Seminar - 2021 / 5781 A Project Of Ohr.Edu Questions? Comments? We'd Love To Hear From You At: [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

279

Q&A- Chabad, Mashiach & The Abarbanel

May 6, 2021

44:27

00:00 - Being paid for learning Torah according to the Rambam 9:58 - Why do we say in tefilla "I am Hashem" 11:02 - Chabad and Moshichists, Avoda Zara or misunderstood? Any problems halachically believing someone to be the moshiach? 23:30 - Is it a problem to sing yechi? 25:45 - Abarbanel on moshiach coming back from the dead 28:13 - Why did Rav Shach look down on Lubavitch? 32:50 - If theres a Moshiach in every generation how can moshiach be revived from the dead? 34:30 - Saying Hallel on Yom Yerushalayim? 38:00 - Is Chabad tefillin a halachic problem? 39:09 - Is it better to daven alone at the usual zman or to daven in a Chabad minyan that davens at an unusual zman? 43:00 - Selling chometz to a goy, how could that be a definite sale? A Project Of Ohr.Edu Questions? Comments? We'd Love To Hear From You At: [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

280

Q&A- Yarmulka, Organ Donation & Pikuach Nefesh

Apr 29, 2021

54:45

00:00 Can you make deals with Hashem? 3:56 Is there a reason why there haven't been more prayer rallies for Moshiach especially this year? 8:24 Why do we wear a kippah? Did Moshe Rabbeinu wear a headcovering? 13:52 Was there no one to bench for Shlomzion Hamalka and Yanai Hamelech that they needed Shimon ben Shetach? 24:19 When Techiyas Hameisim happens, what does that means for how our levels don't compare (e.g. Moshe Rabbeinu and R' Chaim Kanievsky)? 27:10 In the 2nd perek of Brachos, it mentions an Eved Kanani as kosher. What does that mean and why was Rabban Gamliel accepting condolences? 29:52 There is concept of a person wanting/trying to do a mitzva but is prevented by oneis. Does this apply to pru urvu? 33:12 What is the main kavana for the first perek of Shema? (Followup) In light of that, how do we understand Derech Teva? 44:15 Can a Jew receive or donate an organ, & does it depends if the other person is a Goy? 50:12 How far does Pikuach Nefesh go? For instance, could one eat a shellfish to eliminate certain risks of future cancer? 53:08 (Followup) Would removing an ovary be totally asur in the same way as male castration? A Project Of Ohr.Edu Questions? Comments? We'd Love To Hear From You At: [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

281

SPECIAL: Introduction to Hilchos Shabbos Part 2 + Q&A

Apr 23, 2021

53:22

Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem. For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] Introduction to Hilchos Shabbos - 2 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)

282

Q&A- Religious Divergence, Nusach & Psychedelics

Apr 21, 2021

1:07:03

00:00 What’s the right way to deal with frum people doing different things to us? 11:35 Is one allowed to wear shorts for davening. Is this Halacha or just minhag? 13:05 Coffee and bananas are often grown together. What does this mean regarding Kilayim? 15:19 Where did the chassidishe custom of saying “umain”originate? 20:28 Could one be yotzei with a different pronunciation (eg an Ashkenazi with Sephardic pronunciation) 22:33 What does it mean for Shabbos to be the queen? 26:55 Why did everyone give a half-shekel to the mishkan instead of progressive tax? 30:00 stone crabs have their arms ripped but it grows back. Is this ever min hachai? 32:24 How is it decided which haftoras goes with with parshios? 37:45 Does our historical experience with persecution give more onus to be compassionate to other groups? 42:10 How do we reconcile the death of R’ Akiva’s students when he taught as a fundamental value that love for one’s fellow as a key for Torah? 50:00 The chazon ish says too much formality in a marriage is bad, but does this go against chazal who say one should not talk excessively to any woman? 53:04 Are there benefits of psychedelics? 55:53 (follow up) What about psychedelics used to treat certain conditions? 57:31 (check time) What are we to make of place-names in Tanakh that reference what it is called later? 58:30 How was it decided what books would be canonized and which weren’t?—How can one tell what’s prophecy? 1:05:02 Why do certain after-brachos mention special days (Shabbos, yontif, etc.) and others don’t? A Project Of Ohr.Edu Questions? Comments? We'd Love To Hear From You At: [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

283

SPECIAL: Introduction to Hilchos Shabbos + Q&A

Apr 19, 2021

1:11:48

Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem. For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] Introduction to Hilchos Shabbos - 1 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)

284

SPECIAL: Part 2 "An Overview of the Haggadah"

Mar 23, 2021

57:44

Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem. For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)

285

SPECIAL: Part 1 "An Overview of the Haggadah"

Mar 21, 2021

1:03:42

Ohr Somayach Virtual Pre Pesach Seminar Sign up here! Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem. For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)

286

Q&A- Chumra, Women & Chad Gadya

Mar 10, 2021

1:12:17

00:00 When we do netilas yadayim, what happens to the water?—and can it be recycled? 5:46 Is the story of Adam adding a chumra onto also touching apples a cautionary tale against excessive stringencies? 9:52 We have a rule that women are exempt from time-bound positive commandments, so how do we decide these Halachos for Pesach? 17:50 Can you elaborate the nature of impurity as we see in Tanakh 24:48 Why, if chashiv women are chaiv for reclining one Pesach like a man, the rama exempts men but considers all women chashuvos. Why do we follow this if it’s inconsistent? 30:48 What is the source for including piyutim in davening?-and on Shabbos? 35:28 is there anything wrong with putting a picture on headstone?—what does someone know when he dies? 38:03 is Kol D’Alam Gvar trial by combat? 40:25 We see sometimes Angels are sent to fight in wars, defend, etc.. Does HaShem not do it himself? 43:20 What are some of the deeper meanings of Chad Gadya? 46:20 Was barley matzo the most common historically as suggested in Yoshua and the cycle of grains in Israel? 49:48 Why did Jerusalem keep an extra day for Rosh Hashana in the Middle Ages if this goes against the minhag from the Sanhedrin? 56:15 According to the heter of rav Moshe Feinstein in regards to kli shlishi, can one make instant noodles on Shabbos? 58:58 The Gemara in brachos discusses woman’s hair as erva, so why don’t women cover their hair until marriage? 1:02:35 is there a machloches about whether oats are one of the 5 grains? 1:04:13 Are there potential issues buying stocks during Chol Hamoed? 1:05:30 If a women checks for menstrual blood extra days this is praiseworthy, but a man checking for seminal emissions is cursed. What does it mean that we will cut off his hand? 1:06:48 How can we say we forgive someone in another gilgul if it isn’t remembered? A Project Of Ohr.Edu Questions? Comments? We'd Love To Hear From You At: [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ (Produced by CedarMediaStudios Podcasting)

287

SPECIAL: OLAMI Medical Students - Stem Cell Research

Mar 8, 2021

1:03:00

Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem. For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] Olami Medical Students -Stem Cell Research March 7,2021 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)

288

Q&A- Mashiach, Milah & Aleph Bais

Mar 4, 2021

56:56

00:00 If a Cohen makes korban pasul (e.g. with wearing unsanctioned clothing) who pays for it? 2:22 Why is it that for mincha and musaf there is an extra pasuk for Ashkenazim before Amida (ki shem HaShem) (7:42) if we have so many lost Jews around the world such as in South America how will we fit them in Israel when Moshiach comes? 11:46 In the time of the 2nd Beis Hamikdash, there wasn’t the need for the Ahron, so what would that mean for Avoda? 14:42 Why do we pray for Moshiach?—shouldn’t we have faith he will come at the right time? 18:53 there is a Mishne in the 2nd perek of Hagiga mentioning there are 4 things 1 shouldn’t think about: what are those? 25:45 In Parashas Ki Sisa the counting of the people is done with a half-shekel. Why is it acceptable for Moshe to count this way? 34:48 in the Zilberman school of learning they learn Tanakh baal pe, then Gemara bekius and only then beiyun. Is this more the authentic method? 44:30 What language would a Gemara today be in if it weren’t written at the time?—Would it be in multiple languages? 46:45 Considering bris milah, if the body is perfect, why would one need to change a body? Why did HaShem indicate the bris to be on the male organ? 52:35 Would bris milah apply to non-Jews or Adam haRishon? 55:10 Is the order of Alef Beis random? Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, discussing the most common questions about Judaism. To submit questions, feedback or for sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] KI SISA 5781 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasts)

289

Q&A- Tzedaka, Purim & Eradicating Amalek

Feb 25, 2021

59:13

00:00 As society gets wealthier, will there be a point when we don’t need to give Tzedakah? 1:30 the Gemara in brachos raises a contradiction wherein HaShem gives over the earth to everyone but also that he owns everything until someone makes a bracha (including non-Jews) 4:16 The rambam says the mitzvo of the building of the beis hamikdash will follow Eliyahu HaNavi but the Temple Institute wants to build it now. How does the Rav respond? 10:48 Regarding Gilgul, can one accidentally learn in the merit of himself? 16:30 What is the status of someone who (medically) died either through CPR or more mystical means as with R’ Zeira? 20:56 is there any halachic ruling that we can follow a minority opinion in extenuating circumstances? 22:53 What’s the difference between saying Torah is G-d because his will and essence are the same and the Christian trinity? 27:30 Why does HaShem allow the Jewish people to continue when maybe 1% are doing what they’re supposed to? 31:43 why did the Mishna Brurah became the main source for Charedim over the Aruch haShulchan? 39:51 it’s brought down that the descendants of Amalek converted to Judaism who taught in Bnei Brak, but why didn’t we kill them? 47:27 What is the sfara of the reform rabbi who doesn’t believe HaShem gave the Torah? 50:07 Why isn’t the 7th of Adar a taanis anymore for Moshe Rabbeinu yohrzeit? 52:50 should one pray for rain in the winter if he doesn’t like rain re: poor kavana?—what if it is societally injurious? 55:22 Are we all like a Cohen Gadol on Purim? 57:38 which of the tribes would a ger end up belonging to? Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, discussing the most common questions about Judaism. To submit questions, feedback or for sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] TETZAVEH 5781 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasts)

290

Q&A- Dor Yesharim, Sefer Refuos & Purim

Feb 17, 2021

57:40

00:00 How much can Dor Yeshorim play a part in the inhibition of engagement ahead of time? 05:08 (Follow-up) Can we only test for Tay-Sachs 08:38 Some people wear techeilis and others don’t. Why is that? 1747: With regard to investing using an app, does one need to pay meiser if it is immediately reinvested? 21:43 There are practices we have to differentiate ourselves from heretics, so why do Ashkenazim avoid kitnios if kararites also do this? 26:10 We know of seforim that are lost (e.g. Sefer Refuos) on purpose. Are there other withdrawn books? 33:50 Does the halacha change when new seforim are discovered? 36:15 Why does the Torah say by malchos that it is 40-1, i.e. not just 39? 40:08 Why is that in parashas Mishpatim that the master of a Jewish slave and a goyishe maidservant, and keep the children as slaves? 46:00 When klal Yisroel was given the Torah sha’b’ksav it was accepted freely, but it is also considered to represent midas haDin. How could this be? 48:50 Daf yud gimmel in maseches Niddah mentions that gerim prevent the coming of Mashiach. Besides the pshat of Rashi there, I was wondering what other explanation there could be? 52:13 Regarding Purim, it has mishnayos and the megillah, and yet it is associated with Chanukah despite the disproportionate treatment. Is this because of the Hashmonaim? 56:30 If the malchus of the Hashmonaim is regarded as a failure, why do we say Hallel? Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, discussing the most common questions about Judaism. To submit questions, feedback or for sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] TERUMA 5781 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasts)

291

Parshas Mishpatim - How Was the Torah Given?

Feb 11, 2021

48:31

Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem. For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ Mechina 5781-Parshas Mishpatim Feb 11,2021 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)

292

SPECIAL: London JLE - Q&A

Feb 7, 2021

42:06

Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem. For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] SPECIAL: London JLE - Q&A 1-27-21 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)

293

Q&A- Outreach, Gedolim & Sambatyon River

Feb 3, 2021

1:12:56

00:00 If the Baal Shem Tov stresses outreach, how do we see this in Chassidic groups (outside Chabad)? 6:10 When we hear stories of open miracles for rabbonim, how should we consider these? 10:05 How should we utilize our vacation? 14:51 Is it obligatory to have a Jewish name, and why didn’t even amarayin change Greek names? 21:35 Can a Cohen go skydiving, assuming it’s mutter for anyone?—would anyone else be prevented from going? 25:20 What’s the mesora of secular educations ? 34:20 What is the origin for the mesora of chassidic lavush? 37:35 Are all the words from the Zohar from R Shimon bar Yochai? 44:45 Why did Avraham lie about Sara to Pharoh instead of relying on HaShem? 46:42 Would the plane not be an ohel for a Cohen? 50:32 The Gemara in brachos tell us not to learn Torah/tefillin within 4 amos of a corpse even in one house, and yet it also says under a single roof everything is considered 4 amos. 54:20 the Rambam says when HaShem sends forth physical things to replenish the earth, so what is the difference between the spiritual blessing of snow and rain? 54:14 What are the criteria for Gedolim?—Is it just consensus? (Eg young Ovadia Yosef) 1:04:00 Who is Dovid Ruveni? What is this legendary river Sambatyon? Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, discussing the most common questions about Judaism. To submit questions, feedback or for sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] YISRO 5781 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasts)

294

Q&A- Land for Peace, Inheritance & Mesira

Jan 20, 2021

59:17

00:00 Is there any particular significance of acrostics in davening, tehilim, etc.? 1:51 Are we obligated or allowed to give land of Israel for peace? 9:26 For a Jew who was never exposed to Judaism, what is is Olam HaBa? 14:20 In the 9th perek of Bava Basra the daughters get support from inheritance and later 10% with men possibly losing out. Is there inconsistency with tumim? 19:27 Why did the Levi’im not become slaves in Mitzrayim and why couldn’t they rise against Mitzrayim? 28:41 How far does the prohibition of mesira (informing on Jews) go in and outside of Eretz Yisroel? 37:33 Why is Rosh Chodesh the first mitzva given to all Jewish people? 41:12 Is it a problem our Center beis and Main Beis are not facing the same way 44:17 If there is an emergency situation, can the chachomim change the laws? 48:30 Drinking water during bein hashmoshos is like stealing from the dead according to the Shulchan Aruch. Is this accurate? 50:55 Considering the numerous Internet resources, does it take away excuses from those who didn’t have it growing up? 54:12 What is the current status of the Eitz haChaim and Eitz haDas? 56:36 There are certain people who never died. What is their status? 57:27 Sometimes Tanakh references other books (e.g. Sefer HaYashar). Do we have it? Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, discussing the most common questions about Judaism. To submit questions, feedback or for sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] BO 5781 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasts)

295

SPECIAL: OLAMI Medical Students- "Risk in Halacha"

Jan 18, 2021

58:55

Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem. For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] Olami Medical Students - Risk in Halacha January 7,2021 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)

296

Q&A- Mazal Tov, Pets & Shemos

Jan 14, 2021

58:02

00:00 What is the Halacha l’meisa regarding emunah bitachon? 3:13 Are we allowed to daven or even enter a reform or conservative shul?—What is the cutoff point? 13:11 Can someone convert from Ashkenaz to Sefardi, and if so does he take on a new mesora (with parental permission)? 18:19 What does it mean that the Avos are partners in creation? 22:42 Why do we say ‘Mazal tov’ if we don’t follow mazalot?—Why do we say months named after pagan deities? 33:01 What are the main halachic concerns with owning pets? 42:44 What is so bad about Adam and Chava seeing each other naked? 44:46 For Ashkenazim if there is a glazed earthenware vessel that gets worn, is it kasherable? 47:17 What happen to those people who followed Avraham and Sarah? 50:03 Can one eat an apple from his own tree that fell on Shabbos? 51:08 We know they didn’t say ‘amen’ about a bracha in the Beis Hamikdash, so why did the Gemara in Brachos say Moshe used ‘amen’? 54:16 When was the name of HaShem (shem havaya) stopped from being pronounced? Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, discussing the most common questions about Judaism. To submit questions, feedback or for sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] VAYEIRA 5781 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasts)

297

Q&A- Minhag, Mashiach & Minyan

Jan 7, 2021

1:01:29

00:00 Considering the 13 Principles of Faith in order to not be a heretic. What of Rashi’s statement from the Gemara that the final 8 pesukim of the Torah were written by Yoshua? 6:38 is it a mitzvah deoreisa or d’rabbanan to stand for a Talmid Chacham or a Rav? 12:44 In the Gemara it says 40 days before one is conceived a bashert is dictated. Is this true? 21:00 How is it that minhagim become Halacha? (e.g. Ashkenazim; Shabbos)? 26:39 Was there an issue with Moshe Rabbeinu eating the Korban Pesach since his son had no bris milah? 29:20 Any gezeira that most of the congregation are unable to keep, the gezira is repealed. Is that only the initial generation? 31:39 What will Halacha be like in the times of Moshiach? 36:39 What is the system for reuniting lost Jews when Moshiach comes? 39:27 Why is it permissible to observe Tu B'Shevat if it is Shabatian? 54:13 What was the tayva of Avodah Zara in Tanakh? 57:38 Was there a physical feeling from the Avodah Zara in the old days? 55:14 is the Shulchan Aruch binding? 58:28 If there is a minyan of exactly 10 mourners, does anyone answer? Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, discussing the most common questions about Judaism. To submit questions, feedback or for sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] SHEMOS 5781 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasts)

298

Q&A- AI, Rationalism & Mysticism

Dec 30, 2020

1:12:58

00:00 What’s the purpose of being on this earth? 7:23 Following R’ Moshe Feinstein’s psak regarding mamzerim from reform (civil) 2nd marriages, would this mean those women wouldn’t need to cover their hair? 12:58 In order for Biah to be effective, doesn’t the man need to state his kavana? 17:50 How is Shabbos affected by changes in the dateline? 24:35 If it is a mitzvah deoreisa not to return to mitzrayim, how about issues like business, the occupation of Sinai peninsula, the Rambam etc.? 27:42 (Followup) What about those who speak Coptic Egyptians? 28:20 If one is exposed to rationalistic views and struggles with mystical views e.g. Zohar; Kabbalah, how does he sensitize himself? 35:25 How does tzaddik gamor (without a yetzer hara) get schar for mitzvah? 42:20 We know the original calendar (around Rosh Chodesh) was determined by witnesses in beis din, what would it take to go back to that? 46:24 (Followup) It is certain that we need Eliyahu haNavi? 48:35 Don’t we need a beis din in order to confirm that it is Eliyahu haNavi who will institute the beis din? 49:17 What is the Halacha in assisted pregnancy (e.g. artificial insemination)? 58:30 Would it be mares ayin to a single woman with in-vitro fertilization? 1:00:00 Can a man be a sperm-donor? 1:01:56 If the Avos only kept the positive commandments, then wasting seed would not seem assur. Can a goy not waste seed? 1:04:41 How does one differentiate between magic (even seemingly practicing magic) and very impressive action? 1:09:52 Does HaShem hold Torah learning more precious ? Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, discussing the most common questions about Judaism. To submit questions, feedback or for sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] Vayechi 5781 (Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasts)

299

Q&A- Burkas, Voter Fraud & Dina DiMalchusa in Israel

Dec 23, 2020

58:29

00:00 Why is Onkalus’ halachic opinions not mentioned in the Gemara though we do take his Aramaic translation? 3:30 How do we understand the Holocaust? 9:57 Chazal say we have 4 Imahos, but not from Bilhah and Zilpah? 12:28 In Brachos it says we don’t accept comfort when a master has lost a slave, but wouldn’t this only be a problem for a female slave? 15:02 If Shamayim has no time, how do we measure time for saying Kaddish for example 16:54 When Yaacov meets Eisav he still prepared even though he did hishtadlus whereas Yosef was punished for the same thing? 20:49 There are some Jewish women who wear full veils, but is this considered yuhara? 22:36 Why is it that in Chanuka the husband lights for his wife whereas for Shabbos the wife lights for her husband? 25:27 Was there voter fraud in the last US presidential election? 28:38 (Followup) Does the Rav have any familiarity with what is going on in the courtroom? 30:22 Is there any connection between Ruchnius and sneezing beyond the Gemara in Brachos? 32:57 Should the moshel of Shimon Kippa (St. Peter) give us a precedence of cutting off other sects of Judaism? 35:13 So the Gedolim issue a proclamation that a group isn’t within Torah Judaism? 40:15 What is the Halacha of marijuana? 43:43 How does dina d’malcus dina work in Israel? 46:10 What is the origin of the song Yigdal? 48:53 (Apparently) Rav Soloveitchik poskined to not say Shalom Rav. 51:15 Is there is a different between Gan Eden and Olam Haba? 52:44 Where there miracles that happened at the gates of Aleppo instill iras shamayim? 54:45 Does a Ger have an ability to say Kaddish for biological family? 57:35 What is the mekor for Shaliach Tzibur to say Goal Israel quietly? Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, discussing the most common questions about Judaism. To submit questions, feedback or for sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] Vayeishev 5781 (Produced by: CedarStudios Podcasts)

300

SPECIAL: 3 - History of Chanukah

Dec 14, 2020

46:31

SPECIAL: History of Chanukah 3 Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem. For comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: [email protected] (MIKEITZ Center 5781) (Produced by: CedarMedia Podcasting 2020)

Q&A With Rabbi Breitowitz

שו"ת עם הרב ברייטוביץ

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