Language | English |
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Paper Type | Research Paper |
Pages | 50 |
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Jewish ritual is rife with physical actions—such as standing, bowing, rising— which hint to the spiritual drama unfolding in the background. This paper takes a close look at several of these to gain an understanding of the complex interplay between man’s physical state and his spiritual state.
הדרת פנים זקן. סקירה כוללת ומקיפה על יסוד איסור השחתת הזקן, השיטות והטעמים בזה.
The Rambam is famous for suggesting that the unique status of the tribe of Levi can be shared by all those who devote their lives to Torah study while relying on others for their livelihood.
Many have sought to reconcile this lifestyle with various rulings of the Talmud and Shulchan Aruch, as well positions of Rambam elsewhere. What are the arguments for and against?
As a complex, strategic game known to improve memory and cognitive abilities, the Jewish attitude to Chess is an intriguing one. Were Torah scholars in favor of this pastime? Are there halachic issues to be aware when playing this game?
Judaism generally eschews secular education at the expense of Torah study. The reality, though, is often that one must gain some education or skill in order to make a livelihood. What does Jewish law say about this? What are the limits? How do we balance dogma with daily life?
Related: Studying the Secular: The Soul of the Matter
What do Torah sources require in maintaining a high standard of cleanliness, particularly with regard to food preparation?
(Hebrew)
What are the challenges that the physically and mentally disabled face in observing Jewish law? Are exceptions made? How does halacha balance its obligations to the Torah and to man?
Eretz Yisroel is distinguished as “The Land G-d, your G-d, watches over; The eyes of G-d, your G-d, are always upon it, from the beginning of the year to the end of the year” (Devarim 11:12).
Settling the land of Israel is regarded by some authorities as a personal imperative, while others point to its intense holiness as a reason for caution.
An assortment of articles and letters.
Many natural substances have psychoactive (mind-altering) properties that can significantly impact one’s mental state and affect one’s mood.
May an observant Jew avail himself of such stimulants? Is such recreation acceptable from a halachic standpoint, or does it contravene one’s Torah obligations? How would we judge actions taken while under the influence of drugs and alcohol?
See also: “The Drugs Debate” on the appropriate legislative attitude towards controlling the proliferation of potentially harmful substances.
Table of Contents
Joy is one of Judaism’s highest placed values. See why from a range of perspectives including halacha, mussar, and Chassidus. The Baal Shem Tov’s unique emphasis on simcha rounds out this broad discussion.
Does smoking violate our responsibility to protect our bodies? What about drinking alcohol? Do drugs fall into the same category? This paper examines the parameters of shmiras haguf and extracts the principles that inform halacha’s approach to the various ways of harming oneself.
A Yeshiva is the mainstay of the Jewish community. The Rebbe would often encourage people to support Yeshivos in a myriad of ways, be it by encouraging enrollment, assisting with financial support, and the like. This features a collection of the Rebbe’s talks on the importance of supporting Yeshivos.