Rav Chaim Soloveitchik - Chidushei HaRambam

Supplement (Teshuvah) - Roundup of Ideas

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 13:18:21 GMT

Survey of Reb Yosef Dov's insights into Teshuvah, primarily from the work, Al Hateshuvah

Supplement (Tefilah) - Roundup of Ideas

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 13:51:01 GMT

Survey of laws and philosophical ideas from Reb Chaim and Reb Yosef Dov relating to prayer

Grm - Israel as Chosen Land

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 16:05:15 GMT

Reb Moshe and Reb Yosef Dov differentiate between two components to the sanctity of the land of Israel

Grid - Location of Beit Hamikdash

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 10:22:25 GMT

Reb Yosef Dov differentiates between the sanctified structure of the Beit Hamikdash and the location upon which it rests, a concept which also applies also to Jerusalem, and which Reb Velvel also discusses

Grid - Sanctity of a Sotah Scroll

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 10:12:08 GMT

Reb Yosef Dov formulates a new understanding of the status of the Sotah scroll, and debates the issue with Reb Yitzchak Hutner

Grid - Dimensions of the Altar

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 13:50:39 GMT

Reb Yosef Dov resolves a contradiction in the Rambam whether the dimensions of the Mizbeach (altar in the Temple) have to be precise, and develops a fundamental idea regarding the Mizbeach, which Is similar to his uncles Reb Velvel's.

Grid - Lulav on the Second Day

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 09:07:21 GMT

Reb Yosef Dov analyzes the difference between Lulav on the first and second days and explains the views of the Rambam and Rashi

Grid - Gifts to the Poor

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 08:55:42 GMT

Reb Yosef Dov articulates a fundamental distinction between the obligatory gifts of produce to the poor vs. the tithes to the Kohein, and the Chazon Ish disagrees with him.

Grid - Sanctifying the Calendar

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 10:28:22 GMT

Reb Yosef Dov builds on insights from Reb Chaim and Reb Moshe to explain how we sanctify the calendar nowadays without a Jewish court

Griz Megillah - Sanctity of a Megillah

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 09:56:24 GMT

Reb Velvel analyzes the status of a Megillah in halacha and whether it requires sanctity to be used in Purim

Grm & Grid - Moshe Killing the Egyptian

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 09:26:46 GMT

Reb Moshe and Reb Yosef Dov debate a youthful insight of Reb Ahron Soloveichik (which appears in other commentators as well), explaining the story of Moshe killing the Egyptian and the Rambam's ruling based on that

Grm - Yehuda Maccabee’s Status

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 21:05:22 GMT

Reb Moshe analyzes the process for becoming the Kohen overseeing the military and how it worked in the period of the second Beit Hamikdash (during Chanukah)

Grm - Korban Pesach After Midnight

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 09:36:52 GMT

Reb Moshe analyzes the status of the Korban Pesach meat after midnight when the mitzvah to eat it ends

Grm - Ownership in Israel

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 10:42:37 GMT

Reb Moshe analyzes the halachic criteria for ownership in Israel

Griz & Grid - Carrying the Ark

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 08:47:28 GMT

Reb Velvel and Reb Yosef Dov formulate differently the unique status of the Ark vs. the rest of the vessels of the Beit Hamikdash

Griz & Grid - Yom Kippur Ketoret

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 10:15:42 GMT

Reb Velvel and his nephew Reb Yosef Dov have a wide ranging debate over when the mitzvah of Ketoret (incense in the Temple) is fulfilled and the nature of the Kohen Gadol entering the Holy of Holies on Yom Kippur

Griz Chanukah - Hallel at the Seder

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 10:35:13 GMT

Reb Velvel analyzes two different types of Hallel, and specifically the nature of Hallel at the Seder night

Griz Chanukah - Mehadrin in Chanukah Lighting

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 09:27:35 GMT

Reb Velvel explains how the concept of Mehadrin (beautifying a Mitzvah) applies to lighting the Chanukah candles

Griz Megillah - Lines in a Megillah

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 10:36:56 GMT

Reb Velvel explains why a Megillah requires lines etched in the parchment

Griz Taaniyot - Last Meal Before Tisha Ba’av

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 06 Aug 2023 10:29:23 GMT

Reb Velvel defines the nature of the afternoon before Tisha Ba'av and how that leads into the mourning of Tisha Ba'av.

Griz Taaniyot - The Nature of Tisha Ba’av

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 10:28:43 GMT

Reb Velvel defines the essence of Tisha Ba'av (which the Chasam Sofer disagrees with).

Griz Succah - Uncomfortable Succah

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 10:35:21 GMT

Reb Velvel explains two approaches to the issue of whether a Succah needs to be comfortable to dwell in

Griz Kiddush Hachodesh - Purpose of a Leap Year

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 10:40:43 GMT

Reb Velvel explains two fundamental approaches to why the court would add a month to create a leap year

Griz Chametz Umatzah - The Four Cups

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:32:13 GMT

Reb Velvel develops two components to the mitzvah to drink four cups at the Seder

Griz Chametz Umatzah - Reclining at the Seder

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 30 Jul 2023 10:39:39 GMT

Reb Velvel develops two major approaches as to how to formulate the mitzvah to recline at the Seder

Griz Chametz Umatzah - Poor Man’s Bread

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 10:30:54 GMT

Reb Velvel explains the role of poor man's bread (Lechem Oni) in Matzah

Griz Chametz Umatzah - Rabbinic Chametz

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 10:30:19 GMT

Reb Velvel explains the nature of chametz which is prohibited rabbinically on Erev Pesach

Griz Shevitat Asor - Sick Person on Yom Kippur

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 10:18:00 GMT

Reb Velvel explains the status of feeding a sick person on Yom Kippur, including a very lenient ruling of his father Reb Chaim.

Griz Eruvin - Courtyard Eruv

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:48:00 GMT

Reb Velvel explains when the obligation of a courtyard Eruv (Chatzerot) applies

Griz Shabbat - Working Before Havdalah

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 10:47:43 GMT

Reb Velvel explains why it's still forbidden to work after Shabbat ends until one makes Havdalah

Griz Brachot - Bracha on a Minhag

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 10:45:07 GMT

Reb Velvel explains why we don't make a blessing on a Minhag (custom), only a full commandment.

Griz Tefillin - Writing of Mezuzah

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 12:30:18 GMT

Reb Velvel differentiates between the writing of a mezuzah vs. writing tefillin

Griz Tefillin - Letters in the Knot

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 14:57:11 GMT

Reb Velvel analyzes the status of the tefillin knots which form the letters dalet and yud - whether it's a letter or a shape

Griz Avodah Zarah - Idol from an Animal

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 17:34:24 GMT

Reb Velvel analyzes the distinction between turning an object into an idol vs. disqualifying it from being used as a sacrifice because it was worshiped.

Edut - Signatures on a Shtar

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 21:29:28 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes what makes someone a witness on a Shtar - signing on it or being part of the creation of it

Edut - Shtar (Document) as Testimony

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 20:59:03 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the difference between testimony and a signed document and explains the essence of how a Shtar works

Toen Venitan - Compensation for Personal Damages

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 17:46:22 GMT

Reb Chaim discusses a ruling of the Rambam regarding what disputes require a Torah vow, and articulates an important concept regarding the nature of compensation for physical damages to another person

Nachalot - Kofer (Restitution) to Heirs

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 01:48:31 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the difference between Kofer (restitution) vs. payments owed to the deceased

Malveh Veloveh - Improvements on a Lien

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 20:03:03 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the nature of a lein in halacha through the issue of which improvements to land are included in the lein

Malveh Veloveh - Warranty for a Lien

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 14:02:49 GMT

Reb Chaim examines the halachic concept that a buyer has a warranty if the field is collected by the sellers creditor.

Malveh Veloveh - Interest from Collateral

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 12:18:54 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halachic debate when a lender gets extra income from collateral what form of Ribbis (prohibited interest) that is

Malveh Veloveh - Non-Jewish Messenger

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a case of loaning with interest (Ribbis) and articulates a fundamental perspective on the issue of a non-Jew appointing a messenger

Sechirut - Tripping is a Mistake

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 14:10:36 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a debate between the Rambam and Tur whether tripping on a straightforward path is a mistake or negligence

Sechirut - Second Shomer

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 18 Jun 2023 14:57:47 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the dynamics when a Shomer (watchman) passes the item to another Shomer and it gets damaged

Avadim - Freeing a Fetus

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 14:03:16 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halacha of an owner freeing a fetus without the mother and how this would work

Shechenim - Fire is Because of Arrows

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 14:45:23 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halachic principle that one is obligated for the damages of a fire they start because it's similar to shooting arrows, and explains the Rambam's perspective

Shechenim - Dividing an Inheritance

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 17:28:17 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a ruling about how to divide an estate and explains the mechanism of how it works

Zechiya Umattanah - Redeeming Maaser Sheni

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 12:37:44 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the case of a child acquiring something on behalf of someone else, and ends up analzyziny the nature of redeeming Maaser Sheni produce

Mechirah - Selling Fines

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 11:43:22 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a case where someone sells fines owed for their slave or animal, and explains the differences between these two cases

Mechirah - Condition Against the Torah

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 12:17:53 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the case of a sale which is conditional on a suspension of the Torahs rules

Rotzeach - Conflicting Non-Kosher Witnesses

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 12:00:01 GMT

Reb Chaim continues analyzing the cases where the Torah believed one witness or non-kosher witnesses and explains the approach of the Raavad.

Mechirah - Transferring Tzedakah

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 12:47:49 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes what a Tzedakah (charity) pledge transfers to the poor, and whether a loan is a sellable item in halacha

Mechirah - Errors in Sales

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:01:19 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the differences between various types of mistakes people make in sales

Gezelah - Stealing a Slave

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 30 May 2023 14:28:21 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the view of the Raavad about stealing slaves and makes a fundamental distinction between stealing something vs. taking it.

Gezelah - Returning a Stolen Object

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 28 May 2023 00:47:27 GMT

Reb Chaim continues analyzing the case whether a thief damaged a stolen object and how he has to repay

Chovel Umazzik - Vandalism of a Thief

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 31 May 2023 09:08:26 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the case of someone who imperceptibly damages something; then develops a fundamental concept regarding a thief who damages the stolen object - which is different from the Ketzos and Nesivos

Edut - Partial Testimony

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Reb Chaim distinguishes between two cases where only part of the testimony is disqualified

Edut - False Witnesses

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 16:30:00 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the distinction between false witnesses who testify about a human kidnapping vs. an ox that gores

Edut - Halachic Lashes (Makkot)

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 02 Jul 2023 16:34:46 GMT

Reb Chaim develops a fundamental distinction between the two halachic punishments of death vs. lashes

Genevah - Damaged Stolen Object

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 24 May 2023 12:30:35 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the Rambam and Raavad's views regarding a thief who damages a stolen object how we evaluate his payment

Griz Avodah Zarah - Name of Hashem

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 11:40:23 GMT

Reb Velvel analyzes the name of Hashem - which is pronounced differently than it's written.

Griz Talmud Torah - Honoring A Rebbi

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 17:54:15 GMT

Reb Velvel distinguishes between the honor due to one's primary Rebbi compared to other Rebbeim.

Historical Supplement - R. Yisrael Salanter and R. Chaim

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 22 May 2023 14:22:47 GMT

This recording reflects on the similarities and differences between Reb Chaim's Brisker method and Reb Yisrael Salanter's Mussar movement - and their opposing analytic methods

Genevah - Stealing on Shabbat

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 25 May 2023 12:09:31 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the Rambam's presentation of the classic case in halacha of double jeopardy - a thief who steals on Shabbat is not required to pay for the theft

Mikvaot - Mikvah in a Broken Vessel

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 19 May 2023 12:41:43 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the debate between the Rambam and Raavad about how to transform a vessel into a valid Mikvah

Mikvaot - Natural and Drawn Water

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 21 May 2023 02:13:05 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the differences between two leniencies of Maayan (Spring) water, that it can be flowing and has no minimum measurement

Mikvaot - Spring Water vs. Mikvah

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 19 May 2023 18:37:04 GMT

Reb Chaim examines the conceptual distinction between the two main type of purifying waters: Spring water (Maayan) vs. Collected water (Mikvah)

Nizkei Mamon - Shomer who Appoints a Shomer

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 23 May 2023 12:30:02 GMT

Reb Chaim continues to analyze the mechanics of the rules regarding a Shomer's (watchman) responsibility to pay for damages caused by the animal

Nizkei Mamon - Shomer Paying Damages

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 22 May 2023 23:33:25 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the Rambam's combination of two rulings regarding a Shomer (watchman) compensating for damages, and explains the mechanics of the halacha

Kelim - Vessel in an Earthenware Vessel

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 14 May 2023 12:30:22 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a wide-ranging debate between the Rambam and Raavad regarding a smaller vessel in a large earthenware vessel to understand the conceptual framework of this halacha

Tumat Ochlin -Combining Liquids

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 10 May 2023 12:28:29 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the requirements for combining liquids, and differentiates that gathered liquids don't need to be combined, and also discusses the halachic definition of a liquid

Mamrim - Lashes of Ben Sorer

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 11:36:01 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the role of the lashes in the process of Ben Sorer Umoreh (rebellious son).

Kelim - Broken Pottery Vessel

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 15 May 2023 12:29:53 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the phrasing of the Rambam and the unique characteristics surrounding a broken earthenware vessel.

Kelim - Criteria of a Kli (Vessel)

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 12 May 2023 13:24:39 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a debate between the Rambam and Raavad and shows how they're debating the fundamental question of what constitutes a Kli in halacha.

Rotzeach - Abortion

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 12:08:57 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the Rambam's problematic presentation of the halacha permitting abortion to save the mother's life, and formulates an important halachic perspective about abortion.

Rotzeach - Non-Kosher Witnesses

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 12:00:24 GMT

Reb Chaim explains why the Rambam differentiates between one kosher vs. non-kosher witnesses, even in a case where they're all believed.

Rotzeach - One Witness vs. One Witness

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 12:00:01 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the dynamics at play when one witness is believed by the Torah and then another witness contradicts him or her

Tumat Ochlin - Dried Fruit on a Tree

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 09 May 2023 12:30:42 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes two debates between the Rambam and Raavad and shows how theyre interconnected, regarding what's considered attached to the ground to protect against Tumah

Metamey Mishkav Umoshav - Limbs of a Zav

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 03 May 2023 12:18:44 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the Rambam's approach when to apply the halacha that limbs of a Niddah or Zav don't give off Tumah, and defends his view against the Raavad.

Avot Hatumot - Carcass of a Kosher Bird

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 08 May 2023 12:30:54 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the unusual halacha of how a carcass of a kosher bird creates impurity, with discussion of other commentators who disagree with his view (including Minchas Chinuch, R. Yosef Engel, Chazon Ish) and historical background on his rebbi, Reb Mendel Slutzker.

Supplement (Tumat Met) - Chazon Ish on Tumah

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 01 May 2023 11:59:28 GMT

Discussion of some of the Chazon Ish's broad conceptual debates with Reb Chaim on the topic of Tumat Met

Tumat Tzaraat - Entering a Tzaraat House

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 02 May 2023 12:39:12 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halacha that someone who enters a house with Tzaraat is impure as well as their clothes, and explains how this works

Tumat Met - Inside a Sealed Container

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 12:08:41 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the protection of Tzamid Patil (anything in a sealed earthenware vessel is protected from Tumah) and explains how this protection is formulated.

Tumat Met - Tumah Entering an Ohel

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 14:47:31 GMT

Reb Chaim explains a debate between the Rambam and Raavad over Tumah traveling from the roof to the house, and connects it with their earlier debate regarding Tumah of a grave

Tumat Met - Tumah in a Wall

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 12:30:00 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the differing approaches of the Rambam and Raavad to the halacha of Tumah in a wall or roof, specifically when the Tumah is squarely in the middle

Tumat Met - Tent Blocking Tumah

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 12:16:24 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the debate between the Rambam and Raavad whether a tent blocks the Tumah from travelling outwards, and how it does so

Tumat Met - Hovering Over Tumah

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 12:52:23 GMT

Reb Chaim continues analyzing the debates between the Rambam and Raavad about Tumah under a barrel, and explains that hovering over a dead body is analogous to touching it

Tumat Met - Tumah Traveling a Broken Path

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 12:52:36 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a further debate between the Rambam and Raavad about the case of the barrel, and explain that according to the Raavad, Tumah can travel even in a broken path

Tumat Met - Tumah from a Distance

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 12:10:57 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a further debate between the Rambam and other commentators regarding the case of Tumah under a barrel, and develops an original concept that impurity can transfer from a distance

Tumat Met - Tumah in a Barrel (Kaveres)

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 12:33:45 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the differing interpretations of the Rambam and Raavad so to how to interpret the unit of Mishnas which deal with Tumah in a barrel.

Tumat Met - Slope of a Tent

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 13:45:09 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the differing interpretations of the Rambam and Raavad to a Mishna about the sloping part of a tent, which distinguishes between the inside and outside parts of the fabric

Tumat Met - Constricted Impurity (Retzuzah)

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 13:32:44 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a debate between the Rambam and Raavad and shows a fundamental distinction between how they view Tumah Retzuzah - when a dead body is in a constricted space, not a room (Ohel).

Tumat Met - Person in a Box

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 03:27:27 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the case where someone travels outside Israel in a box and the Rambam's approach to interpreting this halacha

Tumat Met - Airspace Outside Israel

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 15:08:23 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the nature of the impurity that imparts through entering the airspace outside of Israel

Tumat Met - Grave Next to a Structure

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 17:18:42 GMT

Reb Chaim articulates the debate between the Rambam and Raavad whether the halacha of 'impurity of the grave' is based on Ohalot (structures) or that impurity drifts from the body

Tumat Met - Impurity of the Grave

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 16:53:41 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the halacha of 'impurity of the grave' and the differing approaches of the Rambam and Raavad as to how it interacts with other forms of impurity

Philosophical Supplement - Reb Chaim’s Definition of Heresy

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 11 Dec 2022 23:39:03 GMT

Analysis of Reb Chaim's view that there's no leniency for valid mistakes in matters of faith - with discussion of applicability to the contemporary scene

Shegagot - Communal Sins

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 16:51:38 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the halacha that if the court rules erroneously that a sin is permitted and a majority violates that law, the court - not the individuals - brings the sacrifice

Bechorot - Dividing an Estate

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 14:44:52 GMT

Reb Chaim analzes the halachic status of the process of dividing an estate between multiple heirs

Korban Pesach - Exemption of Someone Impure

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 14:41:27 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the details involving the exemption of someone who is impure from Korban Pesach, and articulates two elements of the exemption

Korban Pesach - Improperly Including Sick People

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 19:11:32 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the Rambam's perspective in a case where the Kohen did the service of the Korban Pesach with improper intention to include peple who can't eat the meat

Korban Pesach - Korban for a Child

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 15:00:00 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the status of a Korban Pesach brought on behalf of a minor

Korban Pesach - Improperly Including Uncircumcised People

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 15:25:38 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the Rambam's perspective in a case where the Kohen did the service of the Korban Pesach with improper intentions

Pesulei Hamukdashim - Impure Person Eating Wood

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 20:37:03 GMT

Reb Chaim explains (less conceptually, more technically) why the Rambam rules an impure person who eats sanctified wood is exempt

Pesulei Hamukdashim - Impure Sanctified Wood

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 15:50:29 GMT

Reb Chaim explains (not conceptually, but technically) why there's no prohibition to eat impure sanctified wood

Supplement (Meilah) - Who Owns Sacrifices?

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 04 Dec 2022 02:33:55 GMT

Reb Chaim argues the Temple doesn't own the sacrifical animal, the owners do, and we question how this fits in with his view of Meilah discussed previously

Meilah - Stealing from the Beit Hamikdash

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 19:33:14 GMT

Reb Chaim develops the idea that the prohibition of Meilah (misusing Temple objects) is a form of financial theft

Meilah - The Red Cow's Ashes

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 01 Dec 2022 19:32:36 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes whether the ashes of the Red Cow are sanctified

Avodat Yom Hakippurim - Out of Order Services

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 01 Dec 2022 15:32:11 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the ruling of the Rambam regarding when Yom Kippur service performed out of order must be redone

Pesulei Hamukdashim - Offering Disqualified Blood

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 18:29:10 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes 1) the two concepts of 'leftover' blood and 2) disqualified blood which was sprinkled on the Mizbeach (altar)

Pesulei Hamukdashim - Unnecessarily Carrying Korban Blood

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 19:14:21 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the Rambam's view that unnecessarily carrying Korban blood throughout the Beis Hamikdash is considered Avodah

Pesulei Hamukdashim - Offering a Disqualified Korban

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 20:14:58 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halacha that a disqualified Korban can be rehabilitated by being offered on the Mizbeach (altar)

Pesulei Hamukdashim - Korban Blood Brought Inside

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 15:32:36 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halacha that of Korban Chatas blood brought inside the Heichal is invalidated

Temidin Umusafim - Carrying the Ketores

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 21:30:47 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halachic status of carrying the Ketores (frankincense)

Maaseh Hakorbanot - Leftover Blood

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 01:40:28 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the status of the blood of the Korban which remains after the sprinkling

Maaseh Hakorbanot - Korban on an Uncertain Sin

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 15:47:14 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the status of a Korban which is brought to atone in a case of a doubtful sin and whether the Korban is certain or doubtful

Maaseh Hakorbanot - Spilled Flour in the Beit Hamikdash

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 15:43:43 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the difference between santifying the flour versus the blood in the vessels of the Beis Hamikdash

Maaseh Hakorbanot - Prohibited Tastes

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 15:42:16 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes whether prohibited tastes in halacha are prohibited independently on their own or as part of the food item they emerge from

Issurei Mizbeiach - Stolen Korban

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 14:33:38 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the Rambam's rulings regarding sanctifying a stolen animal and explains how the Rabbis setup the framework of these laws

Issurei Mizbeiach - Sanctifying a Disabled Animal

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 14:56:34 GMT

Reb Chaim presents two approaches to explain the halacha that a disabled animal which is selected as a sacrifice does not become sanctified

Biat Hamikdash - Israelite Lighting the Menorah

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 15:34:19 GMT

Reb Chaim explains why a non-Kohen is permitted to light the Menorah, and defines the essence of the mitzvah of lighting the candles

Biat Hamikdash - Impurity of the Depths

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 17:39:12 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a wide ranging debate between the Rambam and Tosafos regarding he halachic leniency for someone who became impure through an unknown dead body to bring the Korban Pesach

Biat Hamikdash - “Entry” to the Beit Hamikdash

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 14:24:24 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a debate between the Rambam and Tosafos regarding whether someone impure who enters the Beis Hamikdash requires a wait time to be punished, and uncovers important principles regarding halacha's definition of 'entry'

Biat Hamikdash - Kohen Leaving the Beit Hamikdash

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 13:30:00 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the approach of the Raavad to the prohibition of a Kohen leaving the Beis Hamikdash

Biat Hamikdash - Drunk Kohen in the Beit Hamikdash

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 16 Oct 2022 05:46:26 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a three way debate between the Rambam, Raavad and Ramban about the prohibition for a drunk Kohen to enter the Beis Hamikdash

Beit Habechira - The Beit Hamikdash’s Precise Design

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 15:43:19 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the case of a loose stone in the Beis Hamikdash (Temple) floor, and develops an important principle in the architecture of the Beis Hamikdash

Supplement (Shemitah Vyovel) - Sanctifying Israel

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 18:00:00 GMT

Discussion of Reb Chaim's massive novelty that the Rambam requires a majority of Jews to take over Israel for Yovel to take effect, in context with other commentators, and another approach to the issue from Reb Chaim (as quoted by his father and son)

Shemitah Vyovel - Moshiach Sanctifying Israel

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 14:32:00 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the debate between the Rambam and Ravad over whether Moshiach (the Messiah) needs to resanctify Israel in the future, and develops a major novelty in the Rambam's view of two requirements for the mitzvah of Yovel (Jubilee)

Shemitah Vyovel - Counting Yovel and Shemitah

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 00:44:43 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the Rambam's method for computing the Shemitah cycle, and analyzes the role of counting the Yovel (Jubilee) cycle as essential to the entire concept.

Shemitah Vyovel - Shemitah Cancelling Debts

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 02:51:56 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a debate between the Rambam and Raavad regarding debt cancellation during Shemitah to uncover the scope of this halacha

Supplement (Bikkurim) - The Land Challah Grows In

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 11 Aug 2022 15:34:57 GMT

Survey of Reb Chaim and the Chazon Ish (and Reb Aharon Kotler's) debate regarding whether Challah is an agricultural based mitzvah and is connected with the growth of the produce or not.

Supplement (Bikkurim) - Measurement for Challah

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 19:13:02 GMT

Survey of Reb Chaim and the Chazon Ish's debate regarding the interpretation of the minimum halachic measurement to be obligated in Challah

Bikkurim - The Mitzvah of Challah from Dough

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 15:48:18 GMT

Reb Chaim diffrentiates between two mitzvahs: Reishis Hagez (First Shearings which go to the Kohen) and Challah, to stress the connection between Challah and the dough itself.

Bikkurim - Challah from Ownerless Dough

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 15:41:21 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the exemption of Challah from ownerless dough to stress a key aspect of the mitzvah that it only takes effect on dough

Bikkurim - Dough which will be Split for Challah

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 18:19:21 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a debate between the Rambam and Raavad whether dough which will be split is obligated in Challah, and differentiates between different types of Challah exemption.

Bikkurim - Non-Jew's Ownership of Land in Israel

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 12:52:48 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a ruling of the Rambam as to how a non-Jew's ownership of land in Israel effects the status of the produce (similar to a piece in the Laws of Terumah).

Bikkurim - Buyers Obligation in Bikkurim

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 18:01:00 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a ruling of the Rambam regarding a buyers obligation to bring Bikkurim (first fruits), and explains a core concept in the requirement of ownership for Bikkurim.

Supplement (Maaser Sheini) - Ownership of Maaser Sheini

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 18:00:00 GMT

Reb Chaim (quoted by his son Reb Velvel) analyzes who owns Maaser Sheini, reinterpreting the Gemara's phrase that it's owned by Hashem, in a conceptually important and fundamental way.

Maaser Sheini - Redemption of Maaser Sheini

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 21 Jul 2022 19:42:07 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a complex set of cases in the Rambam, yielding insight into the nature of redeeming Maaser Sheini, especially the distinction between redemption and purchasing Maaser Sheini

Maaser Sheini - Maaser Sheini from Outside Israel

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 12 Jul 2022 14:54:14 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the nature of the exemption of Maaser Sheini (produce which must be eaten in Jerusalem) on produce grown outside of Israel, and contrasts it with the status of a bechor (firstborn animal) born outside of Israel.

Maaser - Buyers Obligation in Maaser

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 10 Jul 2022 11:00:00 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the obligation of a buyer to take Maaser on produce which was purchased, and reads the Rambam very carefully to uncover a major stringency.

Terumah - Nullifying Prohibited Taste

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 06 Jul 2022 15:00:00 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halacha that non-kosher taste can be diluted and nullified by kosher food, using a case involving terumah as a springboard to analyze the mechanism of nullification (bitul) in halacha.

Terumah - Fetus as Heir

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 04 Jul 2022 13:30:12 GMT

Reb Chaim explores the nature of the inheritance of a fetus, using a case in Terumah as a springboard to innovate a new concept of inheritance, somewhat detached from financial ownership.

Terumah- Produce grown in the Diaspora

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 15:10:56 GMT

Reb Chaim discusses the halachic status of produce grown in the diaspora which is transported into Israel, and distinguishes between the mitzvah of Challah and Terumah/Maaser (tithing)

Terumah - Agricultural Laws in Surya and Shinar

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 20:00:16 GMT

Reb Chaim differentiates between Surya (Syria) and Shinar (Iraq) with regard to agricultural halachot

Terumah - Non-Jew Taking Terumah

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 20:00:09 GMT

Reb Chaim explains why a non-Jew does not need to give tithes, with discussion as to whether non-Jews can choose to perform mitzvahs they’re not obligated in

Terumah - Non-Jew’s Ownership of Land in Israel

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 06:29:37 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes a debate between the Rambam and Raavad regarding how a non-Jew owning land in Israel effects the status of the land, including discussion of a major novelty in the Rambam's view of two requirements for the mitzvah of Yovel (Jubilee)

Arachin

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 11:28:13 GMT

Reb Chaim contrasts between bikkurim (first fruits) which are given to groups of kohanim (priests) as opposed to Bechor (first-born animal) which is given to one kohen

Nedarim

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 11:25:00 GMT

Reb Chaim distinguishes conceptually between a husband affirming vs. annulling his wife’s vow

Shavuot

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 11:24:52 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the principle that there’s no punishment for false vows concerning disputes over land and shows that it only applies to a lien on possessions, but a lien on the person themselves transcends that principle.

Shechitah

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 14:03:04 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the conceptual differences between the prohibitions to eat chelev (animal fats) and slaughtering a mother and son on the same day, as well as the mitzvas of covering slaughtered blood and gifts to the kohein

Supplement (Maachalot Assurut) - Slaughtering a Treifah

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 14:02:52 GMT

Reb Chaim (quoted by his son, the Griz) explains why shechita doesn’t make a treifah (injured animal) kosher, with a tangential discussion regarding honoring parents

Maachalot Assurut - Prohibiting forbidden taste

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 14:02:41 GMT

Reb Chaim argues that forbidden taste is only applicable to eating prohibitions, not an inherent prohibition in itself

Maachalot Assurut - Combining Forbidden Foods

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 14:02:28 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the dispute between Rambam/Raavad whether we combine prohibited foods for the punishment if they don’t taste similar

Maachalot Assurut - Orlah Outside of Israel

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 14:02:16 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the dispute whether fruits of the fourth year outside of Israel have special laws, and explains how this relates to the issue of why fruits of the first three years are prohibited outside of Israel

Maachalot Assurut - Milk Mixed in Meat

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 14:02:02 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the dispute between the Rambam/Raavad whether meat mixed with milk is now inherently prohibited or still just a prohibited mixture

Maachalot Assurut - Beriya in Nevilah

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 13:11:00 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the Rambam's application of the concept of beriya (a full unit) to the laws of nevilah (an animal which died without shechita) and how it compares to aiver min hachai (a limb from a living animal)

Maachalot Assurut - Products of a Non-Kosher Animal

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 27 Dec 2020 17:01:08 GMT

Reb Chaim explains two components of the halachic rule that products of a non-kosher animal are also prohibited to eat

Maachalot Assurut - Signs of a Kosher Bird

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 14 Dec 2020 17:58:06 GMT

Reb Chaim surveys four approaches to the Torah’s signs of a kosher bird and explains the Rambam’s conceptual framework

Isurei Bi’ah - Chalal’s Children

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 14 Dec 2020 17:56:31 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes why the children of a union which is prohibited to a kohein inherit that status

Isurei Bi’ah - Conversion of a Freed Slave

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 13:03:18 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the nature of the second conversion a freed non-Jewish slave must undergo

Isurei Bi’ah - Conversion Freeing a Slave

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 13:01:42 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the rights a Jewish owner has in a non-Jewish slave and how this affects his conversion

Isurei Bi’ah - Vestot Drabanan

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 12:25:00 GMT

Reb Chaim discusses when vestot (the expected time for niddah blood) are only rabbinic, an issue raised by the Noda Biyehuda too.

Isurei Bi’ah - One Witness for Punishment

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 12:15:00 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes punishing a husband based on the testimony of one witness that his wife is prohibited to him

Biographical Supplement - Reb Chaim’s Incredible Kindness

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 11:55:00 GMT

We present a portrait of Reb Chaim’s supreme dedication to chesed (kindness), using stories and analyzing them, as a model for each of us to emulate.

Sotah - One witness in Sotah

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 27 Nov 2020 02:11:12 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halachic exception that one witness is believed in Sotah cases

Na’arah Betulah - Father Collecting his Daughters Fine

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 27 Nov 2020 02:10:05 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halacha that a father collects his daughter’s fine from the man who forced himself on her

Na’arah Betulah - Knas (fine) to a Girl

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 19 Nov 2020 09:39:13 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the sugya that a man doesn’t pay the fine for forcing himself on a girl if she dies before court

Yibum - Yibum for a Sotah

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 01:25:00 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes what happens when the laws of Yibum and Sotah clash

Yibum - Witnesses for Chalitza

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 01:20:00 GMT

In this very conceptually packed piece, Reb Chaim analyzes the Rambam’s position that you don’t need witnesses inherently for chalitza - making important points about witnesses, lishma, chalitza, and more.

Geirushin - Valid Witnesses

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 01:00:00 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the distinction between kosher witnesses and believed witnesses and what happens when these two categories clash

Geirushin - Claiming a Get Fell

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 23:04:26 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the difference between a borrower who says he dropped his document of the loan and the lender found it who is believed, but a husband who says he dropped the get (divorce document) is not believed.

Geirushin - Get with a Condition

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 23:02:09 GMT

Reb Chaim explains an unusual and complicated ruling of the Rambam in a case of a get (divorce) given with a condition

Geirushin - Witnesses for a Messenger

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 23:01:54 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the role of witnesses in appointing a messenger to deliver a get and their relationship with the overall divorce testimony, and develops a broad debate between the Rambam and Raavad on these issues.

Ishut - Vows on a Ketubah

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 09 Nov 2020 23:53:12 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the complicated issue of when one makes vows involving collection from land and creates a logical set of rules to make sense of the Rambam’s different rulings on this issue

Ishut - Being Mekadesh a Fetus

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 01 Nov 2020 10:43:48 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the Rambam’s position that theoretically a father can accept kiddushin on behalf of his unborn daughter

Ishut - Tenai before Maaseh

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 06:49:59 GMT

Reb Chaim reinterprets the Rambam’s position regarding the halacha that tenaim (conditions) must be made before the action is completed.

Ishut - Lishmah for a Shtar Kiddushin

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 12:35:48 GMT

Reb Chaim differentiates between the man and the woman’s necessary knowledge when it comes to writing the shtar kiddushin (document of marriage).

Ishut - Halachic Hair Length

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 12:34:03 GMT

An analysis of the Rambam's understanding of the psak that we are stringent for all 3 positions in the Misha regarding how long hairs must be.

Ishut - Parenthood as a Sign of Adulthood

Elisha Friedman — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 18:11:26 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halachic principle that motherhood is a sign of halachic adulthood, focusing on the Rambam’s position that it refers to birth, not conception.

Succah - Benefit from Succah Walls

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 21 Oct 2020 18:45:55 GMT

Reb Chaim distinguishes between the Succah and what constitutes the mitzvah of Succah and explains the Rambam's psak that walls of the succah are asur b’hanaah (prohibited to benefit from).

Succah - Uneven Schach

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 21 Oct 2020 18:45:46 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes two halachic concepts in walls - lavud (viewing walls continuously) and chavut rami (pulling walls down) - and how they intersect according to the Rambam.

Succah - Break in the Schach

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 21 Oct 2020 18:43:09 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the halacha that a small break in the schach (less than 3 tefachim) is kosher - is it because of levod (walls fill in under halacha) or is it a shiur (only 3 tefachim makes it pasul)

Succah - Gud Asik in Succah

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 01:37:54 GMT

Reb Chaim explores the halachic concept that walls go all the way up and how this principle applies to walls of a Succah vs. walls of an Eruv.

Chametz Umatzah - Shemurah Matzah

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 01:37:48 GMT

Reb Chaim explores why we need shemurah matzah and offers two components to this halacha.

Chametz Umatzah - Wheat and Rice Matzah

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 01:37:39 GMT

Reb Chaim discusses a distinction between matzah made from wheat (or the five grains) and the need for it to be considered halachic “bread” and shows that both are necessary for matzah.

Chametz Umatzah - Removing Chametz

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 13:43:51 GMT

Reb Chaim explores whether the mitzvah of burning chametz is a requirement to actively destroy chametz or is fulfilled by passively not having chametz in your property

Yom Tov

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 13:42:08 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes whether the second day of Yom Tov observed in exile after the calendar was set is kept as a safeik (doubtful obligation) or a definite day of Yom Tov.

Eruvin - The Twilight Period

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 13:40:28 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes whether bein hashemashos (the period between sunset and nightfall) is uncertain what moment day turns into night or is an inherent safeik, composed of both day and night.

Shabbat - Avodah Zara in the Eruv wall

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 13:46:04 GMT

Reb Chaim explains that an Eruv does not need walls, but rather the space needs to be enclosed, and we connect this with a similar ruling in the laws of Chanukah

Shabbat - Doorway (Tzuras Hapesech) in Eruvin

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 13:45:50 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the concept of a "doorway" in the halachos of Succah and Eruvin, and evaluates what makes something an opening versus a breach in a wall and whether a doorway is halachically defined as wall or different.

Shabbat - Peg in a pillar

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 13:45:35 GMT

Reb Chaim explains an unusual Rambam by contextualizing that the Rambam is not discussing the measurements of a Reshus Hayachid, as commonly understood, but is discussing how different domains affect each other.

Shabbat - Throwing a Barrel (Kaveres)

Elisha Friedman — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 13:44:22 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the dimensions of the reshus hayachid (4 by 4 tefachim wide), and discusses two elements to this condition.

Shabbat - Action done without intention

Elisha Friedman — Sun, 31 May 2020 01:40:11 GMT

Reb chaim redefines the key concept in hilchos Shabbos that an action done without intention is permitted and distinguishes between the application of this concept in hilchos Shabbos and elsewhere in halacha.

Milah

Elisha Friedman — Thu, 21 May 2020 15:23:40 GMT

Reb Chaim explores whether we have an obligation to perform Milah because of the commandment to Avraham or only because of Moshe’s command, and he explains in depth the law of a Milah on a child born through cesarean section

Tefillin - Writing a Torah Lishmah

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 20 May 2020 19:58:18 GMT

Reb Chaim analyzes the obligation to write the letters of Sefer Torah, Tefillin and Mezuzah with proper intention (lishmah), and specifically whether a non-Jew can create something lishmah or lishmah differs from focus and applies only to Jews.

Tefillin - Mezuzah Parchment

Elisha Friedman — Wed, 20 May 2020 15:59:02 GMT

Reb Chaim explains the view of the Rambam that preparing the parchment for Mezuzha doesn't require proper intention (lishmah), as opposed to Sefer Torah and Tefillin

Tefilah - Obligation of Ma'ariv

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 15 May 2020 15:31:24 GMT

Maariv according to halacha is optional, but we have accepted it upon ourselves. Reb Chaim explores whether after this acceptance Maariv is now the same as Shacharis and Mincha or are there still some lingering differences.

Tefilah - Kavanah during davening

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 15 May 2020 13:55:20 GMT

Reb Chaim explores three different meanings of Kavanah in davening and differentiates that those which are intrinsic to the act of davening itself and those which are reflective of our intense focus.

Yesodei HaTorah

Elisha Friedman — Fri, 15 May 2020 02:05:32 GMT

Reb Chaim explores why the sin of murder is one of the sins for which one must give their life rather than violate it. He suggests two possibilities: either because you cannot prioritize your life over someone else, or because nothing is gained when you save yourself at someone else's expense while doing a sin.