The Beis Aharon (p.45:) said, “Once, on Zos Chanukah, my father [Rebbe Asher of Stolin zt’l] asked his chassidim to sing, ‘We will return to you, masechta Chanukah, and return to us, masechta Chanukah.’” The Beis Aharon adds, “Who am I to...
When is the optimal time to light Chanukah candles? The Talmud (Shabbos 21a) relates that Chanukah candles should be lit when the sun disappears from view, and should remain lit for half an hour. This codified...
The Misva of lighting the Hanukah candles features an unusual component, one which is unique to this specific Misva. Namely, the Rabbis instituted three different standards of observing the Misva. The Gemara in Masechet Shabbat (21b) teaches that...
I was Chanukah gift shopping for my grandchildren. A friend approached me, and asked if I was experiencing what she was going through. She shared that her children’s requests and expectations have increased from year...
Dear Rabbi and Shira, Thank you for your column! I read it with my family every week and we enjoy discussing it! I am in a relationship with a wonderful young lady,...
Chanukah lights are kindled in most shuls. This has also expanded to public Chanukah lightings in many cities throughout the world. There is also a large Chanukah lighting in the White House, attended by many officials. In addition, people light candles...
I. Obligations to Give Giving charity, sup- porting those in need, is a great mitzvah. It is important not only in order to help those who need financial assistance but also to create a giving character, which is...
Parashat Vayeshev tells the tragic story of mechirat Yosef – the brothers’ selling Yosef as a slave. They at first plotted to kill him, but eventually they decided to lift him from the pit into which they...
G-d Measures Out Punishment — Exactly The Torah tells us that when Yosef’s brothers were about to sell him, they lifted their eyes and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites carrying spices to Egypt [Bereishis 37:25]. Rash”i points out that...
In our Parsha this week the Torah relates, “Vayavey Yosef es dibasom ra-ah el avihem-Yosef brought villainous tidings (about his brothers) to their Father (Yaakov)”. This act of loshon hora- sinful gossip,caused Yosef to be sold into slavery and...