Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Podcast

Rabbi Dr. Yitzchak Breitowitz's weekly Question and Answer sessions at Ohr Somayach, Jerusalem. A Project of Ohr.edu Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear from you at: [email protected]

Q&A: Milchemes Mitzvah, Cherem & 3rd Bais Hamikdash 04/22/2024

Q&A: Milchemes Mitzvah, Cherem & 3rd Bais Hamikdash Chag Kasher VSameach! Dedicate an episode or series Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 What is the source for the custom to end an Aliyah on a "high note"? 05:22 What are the holes in the Theory of Evolution, and is it more logical to believe it or not? 13:20 Why is the tefillin shel rosh holier? 21:50 Why is the word "mitzvah" sometimes spelled with two vavs? 24:58 Why is there a yod in "achshav"? 26:24 Which religion should a Jew study if he is forced to learn about a different one? 33:30 Would Rav Ovadia Yosef's psak on kol Isha change if she is dead? 37:58 Why don't we see more Avrahams etc in the Tanakh? 41:30 What is the significance of the kiddush cup with the names of the rivers of Eden? 43:56 What does it mean to 'daven' for something? 46:17 Is there a place in Judaism for rabbis threatening another rabbi with herem? 50:50 What's the deal with the book Besamim Rosh? 56:21 Should one communicate nicely with non-Jews, or remain silent? 1:01:31 Is the war a milchemes mitzvah, and what are gedolim thinking about it? 1:08:06 Should Israel accept Eritrean refugees? 1:09:58 Are the Ethiopians and the Bene Israel of India Jews with valid traditions? 1:13:22 How does a Levi prepare for the rebuilt Temple? 1:16:10 Does the prohibition of a son to sit in his father's seat apply even outside the house? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/30928658

Q&A: Video Evidence, Israeli Government & 2nd Day Yom Tov 04/08/2024

Q&A: Video Evidence, Israeli Government & 2nd Day Yom Tov Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 If Purim is the holiest day of the year, how is the holiest day manmade? 03:57 How could Yochanan Kohen Gadol have embraced heresy? 13:18 When are certain violations permitted during medical school? 20:24 Is there a way to use lettuce for maror given how difficult it is to check for bugs? 27:24 How does one maintain a positive attitude despite hardships? 32:33 If learning Torah is equal to everything, why have the everything? 35:03 Can this be classified as a normal war if the government helps the enemy in some ways? 40:31 Is there still a rule against wearing red even though it is no longer distinctly non-Jewish? 42:33 Can a chutznik who keeps one day in Israel fly on the second day? 49:41 Why do we say the hyrax chews its cud when it really doesn't? 58:01 When will we stop saying Tehillim after davening? 58:51 Are there common interpretations for the vowels just as there are for the letters? 1:06:07 Why are there such strictures against one who breaks Shabbos publicly but we seem not to enforce any of them today? 1:14:49 What merited Og to survive the Flood? 1:18:08 Why do people mention the comparison between splitting the sea and making a shidduch if Rashi says that applies only to a second marriage? 1:21:03 Why does R Moshe Feinstein sometimes claim that an Acharon didn't say what he said? 1:25:30 Should one give to children on Purim, and is that counted towards maaser? 1:27:34 Could the Sanhedrin allow video evidence and such? 1:30:00 Is it better to give tzedakah earlier in davening if it's bothersome to do it at the particular pasuk in Pesukei dZimrah? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/30668998

Q&A: Civil Marriage, Soul & Day Trading 04/03/2024

Q&A: Civil Marriage, Soul & Day Trading Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 What is the relationship between the Sanhedrin and the Men of the Great Assembly? 12:27 What are the issues with recognizing civil marriages? 28:50 Why not make the blessings of shofar during the repetition of Mussaf if those are the mitzvah? 31:11 What is the purpose in the creation of subjective and objective repulsions? 35:44 Does shoresh neshama have to be positive phenomena? 45:38 Why do some mishnayos repeat between tractates? 47:36 Do we stand for a Rav during another Rav's shiur? 50:09 Why are there so many days without Tachanun, and why is it without prostration? 55:36 Why do kiruv rabbis argue against evolution instead of explaining the compatibility with the Torah? 1:04:14 How do we explain preserved humans dating before supposed year zero? 1:07:21 Is it permissible to work as a day trader? 1:12:46 How are we supposed to emulate God's anger? 1:19:45 How do we connect to the Biblical preoccupation with avoiding and combating avodah zarah? 1:24:51 Did the sea split for Yosef's bones or Nachshon ben Aminadav? 1:27:18 What is the source of the segulah to put havdalah wine all over the body? What did Vashti do that was so evil? How do we understand the idea of one language before Bavel? How did life get to America after the Flood? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/30668913

Q&A: 2 Day Purim, Haredi IDF Exemption & Chabad 03/17/2024

Q&A: 2 Day Purim, Haredi IDF Exemption & Chabad Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 Are there any inyanim for doing a two-day Purim? 09:33 What exactly are the halachos of conquest of the land? 18:02 Is the Haredi exemption from the IDF sustainable? 31:07 If one doesn't believe they exited Yom Kippur with forgiveness, that's another sin, so should one instead lie to oneself? 35:01 Is one allowed to admire a church's architecture or enter a mosque during this war? 41:23 May one use a flashlight to do the search for chametz? 42:46 What exactly does Dumah watch over? 45:17 Does the law of the beautiful woman apply during this war, and are chutznikim obligated in a milchemes mitzvah? 50:38 Is a child considered Jewish if the mother converted during pregnancy? 55:24 According to the Ramban, is that considered a ger katan? 57:04 Why are both Rashi and Rashbam on Arvei Pesachim? 1:03:10 Why do we not say blessings on unusual looking people anymore? 1:07:26 What happened to Rav Shach's opinion on Chabad? 1:15:18 How can Western-educated religious Jews learn Kabbalah without applying strict Western thought? 1:21:13 What does 'the beginning of the redemption' refer to? 1:25:32 Should all yeshivos have open admission considering the events of Rabban Elazar ben Azariah's appointment to nasi? 1:31:25 Should we try to bring Moshiach by doing the things Chazal say comes before Moshiach? 1:32:44 Can a woman wear tefillin on Shabbos to bring them to a safe place? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/30410998

36 - Even Shelaima CH 8 PT 15-17 - The Categories of Lo Lishmah 03/10/2024

35 - Even Shelaima CH 8 PT13-14 - Purim Katan and Learning Lishma 03/06/2024

Q&A: Remorse, Patriotism & Israeli Elections 03/02/2024

Q&A: Remorse, Patriotism & Israeli Elections Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 Why has halachic analysis become the weighing of Acharonim even though the last binding text was the Bavli? 13:55 Why is there a difference in birkat hamazon between magdil and migdol? 20:54 How should one handle a relative bringing a non-Jew to a Seder? 27:59 Must one pay for the medical expenses of his victim even if he has insurance? 33:39 Should one forgive someone who has no remorse? 40:26 How can one honor one's parents but still correct problematic behavior? 45:35 What is the halachic perspective on the recent ruling in Alabama? 59:38 If we decide that one who committed suicide could not have 'daas', what then is the case in the Shulchan Aruch? 1:12:26 Is anything unforgivable? 1:23:34 What does it mean that God created time? 1:25:49 Should one be concerned to wear colored shoes? 1:30:36 Is there a Torah value of patriotism, and how does one respond to accusations of dual loyalty? 1:36:10 What is a healthy way to deal with guilt and regret? 1:39:13 Does dina d'malchusa dina apply even to antisemitic governments? 1:43:02 What is the legitimacy of Kabbalah? 1:47:35 What does it matter whether one votes for Shas or Degel or any religious party? 1:52:29 What are the Bible Codes? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/30167193

34 - Even Shelaima CH 8 PT 11-12 - Picking Thorns to Understand Torah 02/29/2024

Q&A: Encouraging Christianity, Racism & Purim Costumes 02/24/2024

Q&A: Encouraging Christianity, Racism & Purim Costumes Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 Could one say that kedusha is merely the thoughts evoked by a holy object? 05:30 What is the source for making a scratch on challah before saying the bracha? 06:51 How much do our actions affect G-d and His emotions? 12:59 Can one encourage atheists to become Christianity? 20:49 If someone today would earn the death penalty according to halacha, would that impact the obligation to save their life? 24:03 Why did G-d create sleep and all other "wastes of time"? 27:20 Is there a halachic forbiddance against racism? 36:16 Is a righteous person still subject to unforeseen natural dangers like asbestos? 42:45 Is one allowed to give a non-Jew a bracha of "of blessed memory"? 48:38 What is the difference between R Moshe Feinstein's and the Satmar Rav's methods to psak? 56:54 When David said, "My sin is always before me," does that contradict the essence of teshuva? 1:02:02 What is the meaning of "These and those are the words of the Living G-d"? 1:13:00 Is saying "I don't want to jinx it" a lesser form of idolatry? 1:17:53 What is the permissibility of David's warmer, Avishag? 1:21:53 Is the argument that God wouldn't harm the Jewish people who got the vaccine because it was a majority still true? 1:28:11 Are alternative medicines permitted? 1:31:40 Would a resurrected person be able to testify in court? 1:36:05 What allows the rabbis to change the law, and is it a problem that we can't do it today? 1:42:00 Is a chain beged isha, and is there room to be lenient on Purim? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/30092468

33 - Even Shelaima CH 8 PT 10-11 - Inculcating Torah, Midos & More 02/22/2024

Q&A: Hostages, Army Manpower Shortage & Chareidi Feminism 02/18/2024

Q&A: Hostages, Army Manpower Shortage & Chareidi Feminism Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 Might there be concerns over endangering hostages through excessive response? 11:19 What constitutes tzedakah nowadays, and what is its relation to korbanos? 17:12 What is the nature of machlokes? 37:58 How can we guarantee an accurate transmission from Moshe to Mishnah? 44:16 What exactly is the Shechinah? 48:36 Why are kohanim today forbidden from coming near corpses if we assume everyone is already tamei meis? 57:50 Would a new, proven, scientific fact uproot a ruling of a Rishon? 1:06:55 What is the halachic international date line? 1:14:36 Is the authority of midrash equivalent with that of Mishnah? 1:17:11 Can foreign currency in a tzedakah box be reallocated to the currency's country of origin? Can one make change from a tzedakah box? 1:18:38 Since hashkafa often determines halacha, are they really different things? 1:24:35 Why did we trust Moshe's signs if we don't trust the signs of later prophets? 1:27:32 Is a service extension of drafted soldiers or a raising of the age limit of reservists enough of a manpower shortage for Haredim to serve in the military? 1:34:08 What are yichudim in Kabbalah? 1:38:44 Does it matter whether the menorah's branches are straight or curved, and is archaeology treated differently than the science in halacha? 1:41:49 Because we have archaeological evidence of an amah, can we end the debate over the size of an amah? 1:43:19 Is the recent trend of 'Haredi feminism' a good thing? 1:48:22 How applicable today is the heter of lashon hara in front of three people? 1:49:54 How does the Ramban explain the equivalence of 150 days to 5 months with the lunisolar calendar? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/30006253

32 - Even Shelaima CH 8 PTS 5-9 - Investing & Torah Economics 101 02/11/2024

Q&A: Hate Mail, Carrying Guns & Autopsy Halacha 02/09/2024

Q&A: Hate Mail, Carrying Guns & Autopsy Halacha Dedicated in honor of Yaakov Chaim ben Sarah. May you grow up to be a ben Torah and continue to make Am Yisrael proud. Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 Response to old questions and hate mail 06:30 How does one know whether a negative trait should be treated with standard therapy or with mussar and spiritual guidance? 12:10 How much would very negligent parents be held accountable in halacha? 16:15 Is making art from food a problem of bal tashchis? 20:27 When is there a heter to do an autopsy? 30:09 Do the souls of the Holocaust victims suffer because their bodies weren't buried? 35:40 Can one use a book as a shtender for another book? 38:00 Hilchos rotzeach ? 44:25 What is the halachic validity of DNR? 50:15 What is sorcery? 57:13 Is the phrase "speak now or forever hold your peace" of Jewish origin? 59:47 How does one balance davening and learning? 1:01:24 What if a ger katan was coerced or even regrets it later? 1:11:06 What are the different opinions on autopsy? 1:13:11 Is it simple to take off three weeks of learning to save a life? 1:17:46 At what point should Jews in Israel carry guns? 1:19:32 What is emunah peshuta? 1:23:31 What is daas Torah? 1:30:00 Is there a way to make certain things allowed on Shabbos so that more people keep it? 1:34:14 How could someone's righteousness not be considered regarding their death, as in a plague? 1:36:55 What would convening a Sanhedrin look like? 1:41:21 Is slavery immoral? 1:44:00 How do we pasken regarding a stolen lulav for the rabbinic obligation? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/29872398

Q&A: Death Penalty, Minhagim & Pride Flags 02/06/2024

Q&A: Death Penalty, Minhagim & Pride Flags Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 Why are there varying numbers of remembrances in davening? 07:44 Should a religious Jew support a secular death penalty? 20:51 Is there a Torah source for keeping minhagim? 26:31 Are midrashic sources in verses just to cause a student to ask, and thereby learn the Oral Torah from his rabbi? 31:00 Is it permitted to listen to a recording of a woman singing? 43:08 Is there something inherently, spiritually inferior about mamzerim? 53:24 What is the proper middle ground between acting like a prince and separating from physicality? 58:30 Could a Syrian do an annulment of vows in order to marry a convert? 1:04:09 How can prophets receive money for their prophecies? 1:11:23 How is the word for cattle related to the word for morning? 1:16:35 How can one say that some numbers in the Tanakh are not exact? 1:22:47 If a restaurant that is open on Shabbos can't get a hechsher, why can a restaurant with a pride flag receive a hechsher? 1:27:20 Why don't mashgichim tell people what the berachos are? 1:28:43 Is use of the phrase "oh my G-d" a use of Hashem's name in vain? 1:29:58 How could a hashgacha decide to deny a restaurant if the food itself is kosher? 1:36:14 Why do some Rishonim and Acharonim spend time describing the final redemption if Chazal didn't describe it in detail? 1:40:07 How could two kosher witnesses validate a marriage that is forbidden from the Torah? 1:44:38 How does the Temple Institute understand Rashi's words about the Temple? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/29788943

31 - Even Shelaima CH 8 PT 2-3 - Learning Breadth Before Depth 02/04/2024

Q&A: Poison, Censorship & The Rogatchover 02/01/2024

Q&A: Poison, Censorship & The Rogatchover Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 How did Yishai earn to have such important descendants? 04:29 Were the rabbis who were selling alcohol during Prohibition violating dina dmalchusa dina? 07:38 Must one make a bracha on good-tasting poison? 14:50 How could Olam Haba be the greatest pleasure if there is a constant reminder of worldly regrets in the form of different levels of pleasure? 19:15 Can one use a Pastafarian colander? 22:06 Does modern Christianity count as idolatry? 25:20 Does the Rosh's understanding of handwashing recognize hand sanitizer as water? 31:00 How can kasher shebegoyim harog be reconciled with chasidei umos haolam? 35:00 Is talking about corporal punishment in school lashon hara? 44:58 Is it deception to translate a sefer but censor without making a note? 49:39 Is one allowed to look at pictures of a face? 53:16 What exactly is the reward of having a great descendant? 57:49 How is the Rogatchever viewed regarding sensitivity to others? 1:03:38 Is there such a thing as 'faith in the righteous'? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/29763523

Q&A: Joining the IDF, Abarbanel & Hashkafic Psak 01/27/2024

Q&A: Joining the IDF, Abarbanel & Hashkafic Psak Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 What are the priorities when the Torah is going from the aron to the bimah? 04:08 Would it be lashon hara to relate information on the public record? 08:01 Is it preferable, now in the war, to join a hesder yeshiva? 14:06 Why is there a controversy about using noble titles if there is a precedent from Abarbanel? 22:37 How do poskim decide what medical advice in the Gemara becomes halacha? 39:55 Would a landlord for AirBNB need glass and stainless steel, disposable, or just notify any potential renters? 41:58 What are the halachos of learning during the rchazaras hashatz? 49:27 Why did God need three signs if they all mean the same thing? 58:19 If incest is inherently bad, how could the entire world be the product of Cain, Seth, and their sisters? 1:00:48 Is someone who was davening before the minyan arrived considered part of the minyan? 1:04:04 Is it heresy to believe that God is bound by logic? 1:12:44 Why has the value of science changed in the Jewish tradition? 1:18:10 Is there psak by hashkafa? 1:26:58 Could the Rav share his favorite gedolim stories? 1:33:34 Is there a machlokes about whether Olam Haba or Olam Hazeh is the ikar? 1:35:56 What is ruach hakodesh? 1:38:10 Is it idolatry to believe Jesus was the Moshiach, so long as one believes he was not God? 1:41:08 Why did the canonization of Torah end when it did? 1:42:00 Is it heresy to say that a mitzvah no longer applies? 1:43:23 If a hashkafic point was accepted by most communities, can one still disagree without being a heretic? 1:45:23 Does that apply to halachic opinions as well? 1:46:59 Is it true that the Chazon Ish said that it is better to die than join the IDF? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/29675198

30 - Even Shelaima CH 8 PT 1 - Jobs and Learning 01/24/2024

Q&A- Haredim, Abortion & Music 01/21/2024

Q&A- Haredim, Abortion & Music Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 Is it permitted to listen to non-Jewish music, even if the music was written for Christian worship? 06:43 How far should one go to help their friend if it requires embarrassing oneself? 10:05 What is the difference between perushim and haredim? 15:19 How limited is visiting a parent's grave, and is it permitted to speak about nothing to it? 17:47 Is it worse to have premarital relations with a non-Jew or with a Jew? 27:41 Is it possible to be a good, rational Jew, if one has doubts without knowing how to dispel them? 36:40 Can an Ashkenazi duchan on a plane if the chazzan is Sephardi? 45:33 What is the Jewish approach to abortion? 54:14 Are there Torah sources for healthy habits? 58:28 What are kavanos in a Kabbalistic context? 1:07:36 Since so many soldiers dying in the war are bnei Torah, why should a yeshiva bochur not serve right now? 1:11:45 What are the origins of the various trops, and do they change the meanings of the words? 1:17:50 If dying on Shabbos causes chilul Shabbos, why should that be the consequence for being born on Shabbos? 1:21:15 Why would the Jews have asked for straw if they knew the work was meaningless? 1:25:59 Is there reason to visit sites of tragedy, like towns in the South or concentration camps? 1:28:52 When a person converts, where does the goyish soul go? 1:32:09 Should one refrain from listening to Jewish music in the bathroom? 1:34:57 Is it proper to say Asher Yatzar out loud? 1:36:21 Is it possible to believe Hashem created the world and still not keep Shabbos? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/29583503

29- Even Shelaima Ch11 Pt10 - Hippopotamus Attacks 01/07/2024

28- Even Shelaima CH 11 PT 3 and 4 - What to Learn and Steps to Moshiach 01/05/2024

27 - Even Shelaima CH 11 PT 1 - Four Times the World Is Judged 01/02/2024

26-Even Shelaima CH11 PT9 - Time to Act for Hashem & Personal Divine Influence 12/31/2023

Q&A- Nittelnacht Minhagim, Jewish Santa & Changes in Halacha 12/27/2023

Q&A- Nittelnacht Minhagim, Jewish Santa & Changes in Halacha Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 Why does 'following the majority' not apply to the kashrus of birds? 07:24 What are the halachos of gambling? 14:12 Are Seventh-Day Adventists liable for keeping Shabbos? 19:54 Are there any books to give encouragement to those who are already frum? 26:09 Why are the blessings to Avraham in the Torah regarding the physical world? 30:17 Is there any source for Peter being a tzadik? 33:13 What is the power of saying Tehillim? 37:09 Why is there no agency by sins? 43:57 What is the source for not learning on Nittelnacht? 47:36 Is a Jew allowed to be a "mall Santa"? 51:00 Is the Russian New Year a secular or religious holiday? 54:48 Why would Yaakov ask who Menashe and Efrayim were? Would he have withheld a bracha from them and not from the other sons? 59:03 If the facts change, does the halacha change? 1:06:15 How should a ger or baal teshuva react to discrimination in the frum world? 1:08:53 What is the textual source for the idea that Yaakov didn't die spiritually? 1:10:41 Is enjoying entertainment that references other gods considered idolatry? 1:18:17 Why is Thanksgiving problematic? 1:21:09 What effect do symptomatic disorders have in halacha? 1:23:58 Can one take ADHD medication on Shabbos? 1:24:51 Does one who escapes from the Sanhedrin's execution have to keep mitzvos? 1:27:17 How can there be heter mechira if there is an issur to sell holy land? 1:33:22 Is one allowed to be a delivery driver if some food might be non-kosher? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/29245943

Q&A: Electricity, Xmas & Airplane Minyanim 12/24/2023

Q&A: Electricity, Xmas & Airplane Minyanim Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 Why is it not forbidden to block roads for Shabbos? 05:53 Does serendipity or coincidence have significance? 09:36 Why not make the beracha on smelling fruits? 12:01 Should a ger still honor his biological parents if they disowned him? 14:49 How severe is wasting seed and how does one do teshuva for it? 19:14 Why does a mashgiach need to believe in God? How does one do teshuva for causing others to sin? 27:41 Why exactly is electricity forbidden on Shabbos? 40:27 Is learning how to read Hebrew and Aramaic still important today? 49:07 Could the Rav expound on the idea that those born on Shabbos have new souls? 50:44 Should a son of a non-Jew wish his parent a 'Merry Christmas'? 54:05 Why did God choose crazy people and children to have prophecy nowadays? 56:47 How can one trust kol kores? 1:05:34 Why did Yosef work to fulfill his prophecy? Don't those come true anyway? 1:13:40 Is there chilul Hashem by davening in a minyan on an airplane? 1:17:34 How does one balance one's own self-esteem? 1:21:55 What is the order of the world of souls, the resurrection, the world to come, etc.? 1:26:42 Does the idea that chilul Hashem and kiddush Hashem only exist in front of ten Jews dilute the importance of good middos? 1:29:30 Is it forbidden to interlock one's fingers in front of one's chest? 1:31:43 Why would God make 'praise machines' a.k.a. angels? 1:33:44 Is one allowed to learn a martial art if it involves hitting a Jew? 1:37:13 If poskim argue about everything, is there really an objective Judaism? 1:42:04 Is marijuana completely forbidden? 1:45:32 For someone with no background, is gemara the best priority? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/29219843

The Mourning of 10 Teves and the Prior 3 Days 12/21/2023

Beis Shamai and Beis Hillel's Perspectives on Hanukkah 12/14/2023

Q&A: Noahide Laws, Modern Orthodoxy & Medical Treatment for Terrorists 12/10/2023

Q&A: Noahide Laws, Modern Orthodoxy & Medical Treatment for Terrorists Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 If a Christian asks whether he follows the Noahide laws, what should one tell him? 05:09 Why did Yaakov and Esav have to be twins? 12:06 Why didn't the Torah describe the deaths of most of the matriarchs? 15:50 Why did Modern Orthodoxy, which began as a very frum movement, become so lax? 24:22 Why doesn't Hanukkah have its own tractate? 28:42 What do we know of Moshe's family? 31:28 Why do we not emphasize the tragedy of the splitting of the kingdom? 35:02 What can we learn from the four who never sinned, especially Kilav? 41:57 Should one be concerned about the wet towel after drying one's hands from the first washing in the morning? 50:29 Can one place food underneath the bed while sleeping? 52:51 How does the Ohr Hachaim understand Yehudah's statement about Yosef and the pit? 58:28 What exactly is a pact with Hashem, such that Hashem won't tattle? 59:47 What are the parameters or even a source for daas Torah? 1:07:02 Is there a halachic basis for giving medical treatment to terrorists? 1:15:04 Is it forbidden to make a non-halachic state? 1:20:34 How could Yehudah have sought a prostitute? 1:29:31 Do apocryphal books have any kedushah? 1:31:56 What is the Torah approach to the mi sheberach for the IDF? 1:34:55 How will a halachic state enforce halacha? 1:35:52 When do we choose the later posek, and when do we choose the earlier, greater posek? 1:38:50 What are the limits of minhag hamakom/mora d'asra? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/29010043

Q&A: Feminism, Prenups & BT Yeshivos 12/05/2023

Q&A: Feminism, Prenups & BT Yeshivos Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 What is a halachic prenup? 09:41 Why should we pray, "that my soul should desire Your mitzvos," in Elokai Netzor, rather than, "that my body"? 11:00 Who or what is Lilith? Is it connected to the Seven Worlds? 20:44 How do we explain human remains older than 6000 years? 22:10 Does the Torah allow for life with free choice on other planets? 24:23 If a sofer forgets the dots above 'vayishakehu', is the Torah scroll invalid? 34:03 How would the 70 nations know about the Noahide Laws? Should we tell them? 39:15 Why should a child suffer for the sin of the parent? 50:09 Aren't girls in Torah Judaism second-class citizens? 1:03:24 Is the order of saving in Maseches Horios evidence of male preference in Judaism? 1:07:05 Has one fulfilled one's obligation if one accidentally prayed in front of a mirror? 1:09:23 Why is there no gemara on Avos? 1:13:17 Can one buy himself a pair of Rabbeinu Tam tefillin, while others still need Rashi tefillin? 1:16:27 Is it permissible to use various sorts of energy healing, such as the Emotion Code? 1:21:56 Why is Rivka's death not explicitly described in Torah? 1:24:11 Why, according to the simplest reading of the Torah, is Esav not so bad? 1:28:01 Is it right to exchange hostages, knowing that civilians may be killed? 1:35:28 Why does only one of the Ani Maamins have a source? 1:37:14 Why does the Torah relate the descendants of Esav, according to peshat? 1:38:57 Is there a natural rule that Ishmael hates Yaakov, just as there is a natural rule that Esav hates Yaakov? 1:44:11 What is the meaning of 'Anti-Zionism is Antisemitism'? 1:46:58 How do we deal with disagreements between historians and Chazal? 1:50:51 Why was Rav Kook a Zionist? 1:53:45 Once the resurrection occurs, how will we get to Olam Haba? 1:55:05 What is the disagreement between the BT yeshivos? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/28944938

Q&A: Hamas, Arabs & Hostage Swaps in Halacha 11/25/2023

Q&A: Hamas, Arabs & Hostage Swaps in Halacha Dedication opportunities are available for episodes and series at Questions? Comments? Yeshivat Ohr Somayach located in the heart of Jerusalem, is an educational institution for young Jewish English-speaking men. We have a range of classes and programs designed for the intellectually curious and academically inclined - for those with no background in Jewish learning to those who are proficient in Gemara and other original source material. To find the perfect program for you, please visit our website whatsapp us at or call our placement specialist at today! Subscribe to the Rabbi Breitowitz Q&A Podcast at Submit questions for the Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Subscribe to our YouTube Channel at 00:00 Does God judge Hamas l'chaf zechus? 5:35 Why do Haredim wear black and white? 10:11 What is the purpose of Uva Letzion and the importance of Kedusha? 17:28 Can one finish his Amidah while the congregation is saying the introduction to Kedusha? 22:06 How should we relate to Arabs in general, considering the verse in Psalm 105? 34:08 Why isn't a good, religious life enough of a tikkun for sins in previous lives? 39:24 How can we pray for repentance, if repentance is purely a free will action? 46:26 If a king has less free will, do prime ministers as well? How small a position has a lesser free will? 51:03 How does resurrection work if there is reincarnation? 53:40 When and how long should personal prayers be in the Amidah? 56:55 How does learning in another's merit work? 58:54 What is the halacha regarding hostage swaps? 1:06:51 What is 'kaf hakela' and what is its purpose? 1:13:23 In the story of a talmid chacham who forgot to bentsch, is it better that he didn't bentsch because he became so great? 1:19:39 Why don't yeshivos follow the curriculum in Pirkei Avos? 1:28:16 Could the Rav explain the story of the dudaim? 1:34:36 Why should a prophet, like Yosef, have to work to make his prophecy come true? 1:36:58 Are Bilhah and Zilpah specially considered in Rabbinic literature? 1:39:51 Why don't we bow with our knees anymore? You can listen to this and many other Ohr Somayach programs by downloading our app, on Apple and Google Play, ohr.edu and all major podcast platforms. Visit us @ PRODUCED BY: /episode/index/show/qawithrabbibreitowitz/id/28788823

Q&A with Rabbi Breitowitz Podcast

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