Honor is not Dead: Kibud Av V’Em

This paper features a compendium of sources for the
instruction of foundational aspects of the mitzvah of Tefillin.

Scientific advances have unlocked some of the ‘source code’ of living organisms, where by splicing genes from, say, arctic salmon into strawberries, or mice into chickens, we can produce strains of plants and animals which grow better, are more resilient, and are more beneficial economically or otherwise.

While discussion abounds regarding the long-term health effects of these developments, what is the Torah’s view on such manipulation? Do the ethos of kilayim preclude meddling in G-d’s domain? Or does the command to “fill the earth and subdue it” (Bereshis 1:28) provide the ethical mandate to do just that?

What are the Halachic ramifications? Is the act of implanting the gene –in flora or fauna- a violation of kilayim? What is the kosher status of the resulting hybrids? Does the status of the donor carryover to the recipient? What if the transferred genes affect the presence of the traditional kosher signs? (a tuna with no scales, a shark with scales)? Is an Esrog which has been thus modified considered a Murkav, disqualifying it from use for the Mitzvah?

Is there a spiritual effect? Do the characteristics of those animals which the Torah deems negative carry over into the new creature? Would consuming this (otherwise Kosher) creature bring spiritual coarseness (timtum halev)?

A collection of Tshuvos and articles in Hebrew and English.

Everyday life presents many instances where one ought to wash their hands: cutting nails, using the restroom, taking a nap, to name just a few. A review and commentary on the range of activities that require netilas yedayim.

A detailed look at the history and laws of yayin nesech. Can an irreligious Jew render wine yayin nesech? Is pouring wine part of the prohibition? What difference does pasteurization make?

This paper is a sequel to Tefillin 101 and provides an expanded view of the halachic and esoteric dimensions of the mitzvah of Tefillin.

מקובלת ההנחה כי שונים הם תנאי כשרות הבהמה והחיה מהעוף. אם העוף נאכל לפי המסורת היהודית, הרי שהבהמה והחיה נאכלים לפי הסימנים המנויים בתורה. או שמא לא? האם המסורת משפיעה היא גם על כשרות הבהמה והחיה?