Discover what others are learning
Curated Torah sources across every topic, from classical texts to contemporary responsa.
The Halakha of a Stolen Sukkah
Sources examine whether a sukkah built from stolen materials or occupying another person's property is valid for fulfilling the mitzvah, and distinguish between theft of the sukkah's structure and theft of the land on which it stands. The sources present a foundational dispute over whether a mitzvah can be performed through wrongdoing and address practical remedies available to the owner.
סוכה גזולה כשרה
Hakafot on Hoshana Rabbah When It Falls on Shabbat
When Hoshana Rabbah occurs on Shabbat, the customary hakafot (circumambulations) around the synagogue with the lulav are not performed. Sources explain this practice through rabbinic concern that handling the lulav on Shabbat might lead to its being carried in the public domain, and note that the aravah was similarly not taken on Shabbat in Temple times.
בשבת אין מקיפים, לפי שגם במקדש לא היו נוטלין ערבה בשבת
Shofar on Shabbat: Protecting the Community
When Rosh Hashanah falls on Shabbat, the shofar is not blown outside the Temple. The Sages enacted this precaution out of concern that someone unfamiliar with proper technique might carry the shofar to an expert for instruction, thereby violating Shabbat. This ruling reflects a principle of communal responsibility and care for those less knowledgeable.
שמא יטלנו בידו וילך אצל בקי ללמוד
Observing Shabbat in Extreme Daylight Conditions
These sources address the halakhic framework for observing Shabbat when ordinary sunset and twilight are absent or extremely prolonged, including the timing of candle-lighting, prayer services, and Havdalah. They establish the role of twilight (bein ha-shemashot) and astronomical markers in determining Shabbat's onset and conclusion.
זמן בין השמשות משתשקע החמה ואילך
Alternative Beverages for Kiddush
Jewish law traditionally requires wine for Friday night kiddush, but permits substitution with chamar medina—the significant local beverage—when wine is unavailable. The sources address whether beer and coffee qualify under this principle and establish the criteria for acceptable alternatives.
במקום שאין יין מצוי מקדשין על השכר