Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R The Daf Yomi through a Psychological Lens.
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Bound by Marriage, Not by Blood: The Tangled Ties of Machatonim Sanhedrin 28 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 14th, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the status of the parents of children who marry each other (known in Yiddish as machatonim), and whether their closeness disqualifies them from serving as witnesses: The father of the groom and the father of the bride can testify about each other, as they are considered to each other like a lid on a barrel. The Gemara uses a metaphor of a lid on a barrel to describe the relationship between the two parents/in-law …
False Testimonies, Real Trauma: PTSD and Divine Justice in Halacha Sanhedrin 27 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 13th, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the halachic and hashkafic implications of the legalities surrounding conspiring witnesses. There is a fundamental and intrinsic illogic to the law. On one hand, witnesses are considered the highest form of verification, and ordinarily, if two sets of witnesses contradict each other, it results in a stalemate. We cannot assume that one group is more credible than the other. Yet, if the second set of witnesses di …
The Miracle of Subtle Miracles Sanhedrin 26 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 12th, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes an incident during the reign of King Chizkiyahu and the impact, or lack thereof, that a group of evil conspirators had. Specifically, King Chizkiyahu did not need to take into account the behaviors or assessments of wicked people, and their opinions would not carry the same weight with God, even though they represented a large portion of the population. Shebna, a steward and minister in King Hezekiah’s cou …
Betting on Blind Spots: The Psychology of Gamblers and Overconfidence Sanhedrin 25 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 10th, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses why the Mishna needs to delineate the disqualification of two different kinds of gamblers: one who plays with dice and one who bets on pigeons. This Gemara holds that the reason a gambler is disqualified is that betting is tantamount to theft. How so? Because the person who is betting doesn’t fully commit to losing, and therefore, when the winning bettor collects winnings from the losers, it is essentially …
Rolling the Dice: The Moral Gamble of Careers Sanhedrin 24 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 10th, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses why a career gambler is not trusted as a witness: Rav Sheshes says: Those who play dice are disqualified because they are not involved in settling the world, i.e., in productive occupations that demand hard work. What is this flaw exactly, and why does it disqualify them? Rashi here offers two factors which, combined, lead to a person who cannot be trusted to testify on financial matters because his perception is …
Balancing Acts: Divine Patterns in Chaos and Creation Sanhedrin 23 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 9th, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the concept of Zabl”a, where two litigants choose a judge, and those two judges then select a third. Chaim V’Chessed (124) compares this to the encounter of Chessed (total giving) with Gevurah (strength, boundaries), which manifests Tiferes (compassion and mercy). The idea that stability is achieved through the encounter of two, producing a balanced third, is a recurring pattern throughout the physic …
Becoming Nothing: The Art of Prayer and Self-Obliteration Sanhedrin 22 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 8th, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the well-known verse in Tehillim (16:8): “I have set Hashem before myself continuously.” Rav Ḥana bar Bizna says that Rabbi Shimon Ḥasida says: One who prays needs to see himself as if the Divine Presence is opposite him, as it is stated: “I have set the Lord always before me” (Psalms 16:8). The simple meaning of this is to visualize, when praying, that one is actually standing before …
Deferred Desires: Rashi, Tosafos, and the Psychology of Restraint Sanhedrin 21 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 7th, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the status of Tamar’s mother, Ma’acha, and whether she was Jewish at the time of Tamar’s conception. Ma’acha was a “Captive Woman,” subject to the laws described in Devarim (21:10–14): When you [an Israelite warrior] take the field against your enemies, and Hashem your God delivers them into your power, and you take some of them captive, and you see among the captives a …
Hard Times, Good Men Sanhedrin 20 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 6th, 2025
Our Gemara offers a homiletic analysis of the verse in Mishlei (31:30): "Grace is false, beauty is transient and empty; but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised." At its most straightforward level, this verse teaches us not to be overly captivated by external charm or physical beauty, as they are fleeting and superficial. Instead, it is inner character, particularly the fear of God, that is praiseworthy and enduring. The verse disting …
Passive Aggressiveness in the Torah Sanhedrin 19 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 5th, 2025
Our Gemara on amud aleph highlights the importance of being sensitive to human nature, even when acting on good intentions. One must always consider how actions will be perceived by others. For example, if the Kohen Gadol suffers a personal loss and is sitting shiva, the Mashuach She-Avar (a former High Priest who temporarily served in the current Kohen Gadol's place, such as during a period of ritual impurity) should not visit him. Despite any g …
Having a Right Does Not Always Make You Right Sanhedrin 18 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 3rd, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses legal exemptions from the obligation to return lost items, focusing on situations where retrieval of the object would conflict with the dignity of the finder: “You shall not see your brother’s ox or his sheep wandering and ignore them; you shall return them to your brother” (Deuteronomy 22:1). The use of the unusual phrase “and ignore them,” rather than a more direct “do not ig …
The Wisdom of Sleeping on a Decision Sanhedrin 17 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 3rd, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes the careful safeguards implemented in capital cases. To prevent the court from being carried away by an overly zealous and condemning spirit, an extraordinary safeguard is enacted: if all the judges unanimously vote to convict, the defendant is acquitted: "Rav Kahana says: In a Sanhedrin where all the judges saw fit to convict the defendant in a case of capital law, they acquit him. …It is since it is lea …
Due Process Sanhedrin 16 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 2nd, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes the process by which the Davidic monarchy determined whether to engage in warfare, once the king proposed this course of action: "The Sages immediately sought advice from Ahithophel to determine whether or not it was appropriate to go to war at that time and how they should conduct themselves; and they consulted the Sanhedrin in order to receive the requisite permission to wage a war under those circumstances; a …
Does the Study of the Hypothetical Have Practical Value? Sanhedrin 15 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 1st, 2025
Our Gemara discusses how many judges are required to preside over the case of an animal that gores, determining that it requires 23 judges, similar to a human capital case. The Gemara then poses a hypothetical question: What would be the status of an animal that ascended Mount Sinai during the time it was forbidden? The relevant verses describe the temporary sanctity conferred upon Mount Sinai prior to the revelation and the giving of the Torah ( …
Turning Over a New Leaf Sanhedrin 14
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 31st, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses an incident where Rabbi Zeira initially declined to accept Rabbinic ordination out of humility but later changed his mind based on a particular teaching: Rabbi Zeira would habitually hide himself so that they would not ordain him. He did this because Rabbi Elazar said: "Always be obscure and remain alive," meaning the more humble and unknown you make yourself, the longer you will live. However, when Rabbi Zeira …
Simple Piety Versus Calculated Piety Sanhedrin 13 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 30th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph-Beis recounts the heroic martyrdom of Rabbi Yehuda ben Bava, who defied a Roman decree against ordaining judges, risking his life to ensure the chain of semicha (ordination) originating from Moshe Rabbeinu would not be broken. The Gemara tells the story as follows: “That man will be remembered favorably, and Rabbi Yehuda ben Bava is his name, as had it not been for him… the laws of fines would have ceased to …
Calculated Risk Sanhedrin 12 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 24th, 2025
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph provides an aggadic backstory to explain why King Chizkiyahu sought atonement. The verse in Divrei Hayamim II (30:2) states: “The good LORD will provide atonement for everyone who set his mind on worshiping God, the LORD God of his fathers, even if he is not purified for the sanctuary.” The Gemara explains: There was an incident involving Chizkiyahu, king of Yehuda, who intercalated the year due to ritual impu …
The Subtleties of Collective Responsibility Sanhedrin 11 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 27th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph recounts how the sage Shmuel HaKattan took responsibility in order to spare a colleague from public embarrassment: There was an incident involving Rabban Gamliel, who said to the Sages: “Bring me seven of the Sages early tomorrow morning to the loft designated for convening a court to intercalate the year.” He went to the loft early the next morning and found eight Sages there. Rabban Gamliel said: “Who …
Seeing the Divine in the Mundane Sanhedrin 10 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 27th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the scriptural sources for determining the number of judges required to rule on Jewish calendar calculations: The Gemara asks: Corresponding to what was it determined that the intercalation procedure should incorporate these numbers of three, five, and seven judges? …One said: These numbers correspond to the number of Hebrew words in each of the three verses of the priestly benediction (see Bamidbar 6:24&n …
Echo Chamber Sanhedrin 9 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 26th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the status of a person’s ability to testify about himself. We have a general rule that close relatives are disqualified from serving as witnesses for each other. Extending this logic, a person is considered his own close relative and, therefore, cannot give testimony about himself. The Maharal (Gur Aryeh, Bereishis 46:15) expands on this idea, offering a profound insight into the role of the opposite gende …
Glad We Thought of It Sanhedrin 8 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 25th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph debates whether Moshe’s statement in Devarim (1:17) reflects a hint of arrogance on his part: “And the cause that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me, and I will hear it.” Rabbi Ḥanina, and some say Rabbi Yoshiya, argues that this statement displayed a degree of presumptuousness. As a result, Moshe was later punished… Rav Naḥman bar Yitzḥak objects to this critique of Moshe. He points …
Loving and Living on Edge of a Sword Sanhedrin 7 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 24th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph relates one of my all-time favorite Talmudic aphorisms: When our love was strong, we could have slept on a bed that was the width of a sword. Now that our love is not strong, a bed of sixty cubits is not big enough for us. The tone of this aphorism is defeated and pessimistic. It seems to reflect the perspective of an older married person who no longer feels the passion that once animated his relationship. However, the Ge …
The Importance of Validation Sanhedrin 6 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 23rd, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis describes Aharon’s character and temperament in comparison to Moshe. Moshe was a lawgiver and valued strict justice and truth. However, Aharon, whose role was not that of a judge, was a lover of peace and a pursuer of peace, and he would apply peace between one person and the other. Ben Yehoyada here notes that the Hebrew word used here, “pursuer of peace,” is more ambiguous sounding than the English tran …
To Lead by Force or by Enlightenment? Sanhedrin 5 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 22nd, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph characterizes the halachic leadership of Babylonia versus Eretz Yisrael: "The verse states: “The scepter shall not depart from Judah nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet until Shiloh comes” (Genesis 49:10). …“The scepter shall not depart from Judah”; these are the Exilarchs in Babylonia, who are empowered by the government and consequently subjugate the Jewish people as with a s …
The Illusion of Money Sanhedrin 4 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 20th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the minimum number of walls required for a kosher Succah: "There must be two walls in their standard sense, completely closing each of those two sides, and a third wall, which, based on a halakha transmitted to Moses from Sinai, may measure even as little as one handbreadth." Sefer Daf al Daf quotes two interesting pieces of derush regarding this Halacha. The Alshich (Vayikra 23:33) explains that all the benefit …
To Study Torah or to Search Torah? Sanhedrin 3 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 20th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph uses an interesting idiom to describe a certain class of uneducated people, “dwellers on the corner.” This idiom is used to refer to a layperson who might still serve as a judge, assuming the other judges are learned. This idiom for an unlearned person is fascinating because idioms typically do not translate well from one language to another, and certainly not from one culture to another. Yet this idiom is rem …
Lack of Conviction Sanhedrin 2 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 19th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the principle that a Jewish court must be structured to avoid gridlock, which is why it always has an odd number of judges. This principle is used to determine the number of judges in various courts. For example, when the Gemara finds scriptural support for a capital court to consist of at least 22 judges, it is automatically assumed that the court must have 23 judges to prevent a tie. The Oholei Yitschok raises …
Behavioral Momentum Bava Basra 176 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 18th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph references how the sages were careful to enact ordinances that protected purchasers from unknown liens and repossessions. However, they balanced this with a need for reasonable mechanisms for creditors to collect debt so as not to discourage people from lending. Additionally, there is a mitzvah incumbent upon the heirs to pay debts from the estate of the deceased, as discussed on 174a. The Pele Yoetz ("Loveh") employs bot …
Ostentatiousness and Humility Bava Basra 175 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 17th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph references a social and psychological principle that a person is reluctant to appear excessively wealthy. This has halakhic implications, as it may lead a person on his deathbed to declare fictional debts in front of others in order to give the impression of having fewer assets, even though he does not actually owe them. As a safeguard, halakha requires specific language that clearly directs the debt to be paid, rather th …
An Impoverished Attitude Bava Basra 174 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 17th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis recounts the story of a person in dire financial straits who devised a plan to improve his situation, only for unforeseen circumstances to derail it. Reflecting on this, the Gemara uses the aphorism: “Poverty follows the impoverished person.” Similarly, in Bava Kamma 92a, the sages observe a poignant inequality: wealthy individuals who brought their first fruits to the Temple in gold and silver baskets were per …
Taking Responsibility and Returning to Self Bava Basra 173 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 15th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes a series of verses from Mishlei (6:1-3), which caution against the dangers of becoming a cosigner for another’s debt: son, if you have stood surety for your fellow, Given your hand for another, You have been trapped by the words of your mouth, Snared by the words of your mouth. Do this, then, my son, to extricate yourself, For you have come into the power of your fellow: Go grovel—and badger your fellow. …
You Really Can’t Judge Bava Basra 172 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 13th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis explores a situation involving two people with identical names, as well as fathers with identical names. This creates a significant problem in the absence of last names, as the culture of the Talmud relied on patronymic identification—“son of so-and-so.” The Gemara chooses the example of “Yosef ben Shimon” to illustrate the issue. This choice of names has piqued the curiosity of many commentat …
A Grave Cure Bava Basra 171 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 13th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes Rabbi Ḥanina bar Pappi, who expresses his profound reverence for Rav and Shmuel with a striking metaphor: “Who will give us some of the dust of Rav and Shmuel, and I will place it on my eyes, so highly do I regard them.” At first glance, the notion of putting dust in one’s eyes seems puzzling as an expression of honor. To understand this, we must look to a related account in Sanhedrin 47b, which …
Misplaced Truths Bava Basra 170 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 12th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph recounts an episode in which Rabbi Yitzchak bar Yosef believed that the esteemed Rabbi Abba owed him a large sum of money. Rabbi Abba, however, maintained that he had already repaid the debt. On the surface, this situation seems perplexing. One might expect sages of their stature to exercise exceptional care in tracking financial matters. Moreover, if there were any uncertainty, it would seem more in line with their piety …
The Mysterious Monotheism of King Akhenaten Bava Basra 169 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 11th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a principle regarding halachic agency. While one may appoint an agent to act on their behalf in legal matters, such as purchases, the agency remains valid only if the agent performs as directed. If the agent deviates significantly from their instructions, the transaction is nullified. The Sefer Kevodah Shel Torah frequently uses halachic principles to illuminate or expand upon biblical narratives. In Bereishis (4 …
Dating Wingman Bava Basra 168 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 10th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph considers the modesty practices of Torah sages, noting that they often avoid paying close attention to a woman’s appearance. Therefore, it advises: Abaye said: A Torah scholar who goes to betroth a woman should take an Am Haaretz (common folk, non-learned person) with him to establish a positive identity of the woman. Otherwise, people might exchange another woman for her when given to him for marriage, taking advan …
Effectiveness of Forced Confession Bava Basra 167 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 9th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph records a situation where the sage Abaye suspected through circumstantial evidence that he was being presented with a fraudulent contract. It states that he exerted some form of pressure and coercion in order to induce a confession, and indeed the person did confess. This brings up an interesting point of the reliability of forced confessions. As a result of DNA testing and the Innocence Project there have been numerous s …
Talmudic BDS: Boycott Dove Sacrifices Bava Basra 166 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 8th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes a situation where Rabban Shimon ben Gamliel fought against a situation of price gouging. There was a shortage of sacrificial doves necessary for new mothers to bring as an offering to complete their purification process which led to a price spike. Fearing this would cause people despair and possibly to give up on the whole ritual, he enacted an emergency measure, allowing certain sacrifices to double up even tho …
Waiting for the Dust to Settle Bava Basra 165 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 6th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud aleph makes an observation about human nature and that certain sins are almost impossible to avoid: The majority of people succumb to sin with regard to financial dishonesty and theft, and a minority of people succumb to sin with regard to sexual matters, and everyone succumbs to sin with regard to malicious speech. The Gemara asks: Can it enter your mind that all people sin with regard to malicious speech? The Gemara answers: …
Personal Bias and Self-Awareness Bava Basra 164 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 6th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud aleph discusses various circumstances where a parchment that was erased can be reused without being vulnerable to forgery. Ordinarily, with the technology of Talmudic times, one couldn’t inkwash the contract and remove or add clauses without the discoloration being noticeable, thus signifying potential forgery. But, if the entire parchment was written on erased material, the Gemara says it would be a valid contract since …
Finding Yourself by Winging it Bava Basra 163 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 5th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the standard width of a line in order to determine the acceptable width of a blank section between the closing line of the contract and the witness’s signatures. As we discussed on daf 162, this is a safeguard against cheating, to prevent the later insertion of fraudulent obligations and conditions. The yardstick used by the rabbis is comprised of two words, which contain tall and short letters, so as to a …
Click on Accept Bava Basra 162 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 4th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis rules that the final line in the contract can only be a review of the contents, and cannot serve as evidence of any additional obligations or information. This is a safeguard against fraud, as this makes it difficult for a forger to squeeze in additional information between the bottom line of the contract and the witness’s signatures. Sefer Daf al Saf quotes Sefer Haikarim (IV:40) who uses this to add depth to the cl …
Scriptural Misappropriation Bava Basra 161 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 3rd, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the possibility that a witness might sign a document using his father’s name alone, without his name, as an identifier, much as different sages used symbols as a signature mark such as a fish or a palm branch. While symbols were accepted and plausible as signatory devices, the Gemara concluded that a person would not use his father‘s name as an identifier, as this would be considered disrespectful. (W …
Choices, Temperament, and Modern Mythology Bava Basra 160 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 2nd, 2024
Our Gemara on amud beis explains why the rabbis instituted a variation on the typical get (divorcement bill) that required an elaborate process of folds and stitches to complete it. Essentially, it was a delay tactic: The Gemara asks: And what is the reason that the Sages instituted the tied document? The Gemara explains: There was a place where there were many priests, and they were very quick tempered, and they would seek to divorce their wives …
Biblical Russia Collusion Hoax Bava Basra 159 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 1st, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph grapples with why relatives are not able to testify. The logical reason is that since they have bias, their testimony is suspect. The gemara rhetorically asks, “If so, why are Moses and Aaron disqualified from bearing witness for their father-in-law? Could this be because their testimony is not deemed credible? Are we to think that THEY could lie?” This leads the Gemara to conclude that the disqual …
Good Vibrations Bava Basra 158 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 29th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud beis states that there is something about the air of the Land of Israel that inspires wisdom. What is this really about? From a psychological perspective, it is understandable that the sense of confidence, security and identity that comes with living unapologetically as a Jew in the Jewish homeland certainly can enhance all kinds of creativity and development. Rabbenu Bechaye (Shemos 25:39) actually says somet …
Unpaid Debts of the Dead Bava Basra 157 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 29th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the idea that there is a degree of responsibility for a child to pay his deceased parent’s debts. The poskim analyzes the nature and basis of this obligation, which also suggest ideas about the limits and obligations of the commandment to honor one’s parents. This obligation is beyond a financial lien, such as if the parent did not leave real estate (in the times of the Gemara, non-real estate holdin …
Altruism and Pragmatism in Jewish Thought Bava Basra 156 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 28th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud aleph discusses financial protections that the rabbis instituted for young adults, even though past bar mitzvah age: Rather, the Sages maintain that a child’s inclination is to be attracted to money. And if you say that his sale is a valid sale, there may be times that there are potential buyers who rattle the dinars before him in order to tempt him to sell, and he will go and sell all of his father’s property. That …
Human Dignity without God leads to Immorality Bava Basra 155 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 27th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses a legal monetary dispute that could potentially be resolved via evidence gained by exhuming a corpse. The Gemara has to weigh the needs of justice versus the prohibition to disgrace a corpse. The Gemara takes it as a given that disinterment is a forbidden desecration of the human body. The Gilyonei Hashas suggests it fits under the category of halanas hames, the prohibition against leaving a body unburied. …
Spiritual Debts Bava Basra 154 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 26th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses a legalism in regard to contracts. Ordinarily, a contract needs to be ratified by two witnesses testifying that they recognize the signatures of the witnesses who signed on the document. However, there are certain situations where the debtor in the contract inadvertently ratifies it while actually attempting to discredit it. For example, instead of claiming that the contract is false, he claims something like, t …
Spiritual Life-Saving Measures Bava Basra 153 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 25th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis notes that most people who fall ill eventually recover. This observation has legal implications in cases where a person on their deathbed bequeaths their estate to someone else, but later recovers. Such directives can be invalidated retroactively if the person recovers, and the estate reverts to its rightful heirs. The rightful air does not have to prove that his father did not in fact die, because in those cases he would …
Don’t Shoot the Messenger Bava Basra 152 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 24th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a type of legal deed known as a dayetikei. While this document shares similarities with other legal titles and deeds, it often specifically refers to a will or an estate bequeathal. A beautiful Midrash (Yalkut Shimoni, Nach 968) uses the term dayetikei in a parable to explore humanity’s relationship with desires and the Evil Inclination (Yetzer Hara): There was a man who frequently traveled to an inn for bu …
Clothes Make the Man Bava Basra 151 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 22nd, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph explores whether tefillin fall under the category of nechasim. Are they excluded because of their sacred status and their unsuitability for sale, or are they included due to their utility as items worn on the body, similar to clothing? (See Rashbam, Sefer Torah.) The notion of tefillin as a type of malbush (clothing) brings to mind the Maharal’s (Be’er HaGolah 4) explanation of the metaphysical significance of …
The Fleeting Nature of Fortune Bava Basra 150 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 22nd, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the scope of assets included when a gift giver uses the word nechasim—an umbrella Aramaic term for possessions and assets. Does this term encompass movable property, cattle, and cash, or is it restricted to real estate? The word nechasim has an ancient and enigmatic etymology, lacking clear Hebrew or Aramaic roots. The Maharal (Nesiv HaOsher 2) highlights this and notes that there are four primary terms for …
You Can’t Take It With You Bava Basra 149 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 21st, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis further discusses the status of a deathbed gift and whether such a gift is automatically retracted if the person miraculously recovers. To assume an implied condition that would reverse an explicitly granted gift, there must be unambiguous evidence that this was the giver’s intention. Therefore, the rule only applies if the person gave away all his possessions, leaving nothing behind. Such actions indicate someone wh …
Brewing Heresy Bava Basra 148 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 20th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis continues discussing the status of deathbed gifts. One feature of these gifts is that if the person miraculously recovers, the gifts are reversed, as it is assumed the person most likely did not intend to give them away if he were going to survive. However, strong evidence is required to support this assumption, and thus the rule only applies if the person gives away all of his possessions, leaving nothing behind. Such act …
The Power of Denial Bava Basra 147 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 19th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis explains the reasoning behind the extra legal power granted to a person on their deathbed to make gifts without requiring physical acts of acquisition (kinyan) to signify the transfer of ownership. In such cases, words alone suffice to effectuate the transfer: The halakha that the gift of a person on his deathbed does not require an act of acquisition is merely by rabbinic law, instituted lest he see that his will is not b …
Spiritual and Material Poverty Bava Basra 146 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 18th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph raises an interesting challenge to the verse in Mishlei (15:15): “All the days of the pauper are bad.” It asks: Isn’t it true that even the poor experience good times, such as Shabbos and Yom Tov, when they have access to food and rest? Shmuel responds that even a change to richer food may upset the stomach, so the poor suffer even when they eat better meals. The Bnei Yissachar (Ma’amar 10:4) delve …
A good heart and good eyes Bava Basra 145 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 17th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis references a verse in Mishlei (15:15): “A good heart is consistently drinking.” The Gemara interprets this to mean that a person with a “good heart” has a certain equanimity, a disposition that enables them to handle stress and challenges without becoming overwhelmed. Rather than a call for literal intoxication, the verse points to a state of inner resilience and composure. Rav Uri Grossman, citing …
Attitudes of the rich and successful Bava Basra 144 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 15th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis explores the distribution of profits from inherited assets prior to dividing an estate. It discusses cases where one brother might contribute more effort or productivity, but the benefit may still be shared among all brothers if they’re supporting each other as part of a household. The Gemara states: “If one of the brothers engaged in a trade of his own volition, the profits are his alone. The Sages taught in a …
Spirituality Abhors a Vacuum Bava Basra 143 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 15th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the Torah’s directive about the separation of Terumah from produce to be given to the Kohen. The verse reads: “And you shall bear no sin by reason of it, seeing that you have set apart from it the best thereof” (Bamidbar 18:32). The Gemara interprets this as a warning not to designate inferior produce as Terumah while retaining the superior portion for oneself. Yet, beyond this practical messag …
Embryonic Love Bava Basra 142 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 14th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis describes how Shmuel went to significant lengths to ensure the publicity of a particular halakhic ruling: “Shmuel said to Rav Ḥana of Baghdad: Go out and bring me an assembly of ten men, and I will say a halakha to you in their presence, so that it will be well publicized. The halakha was: With regard to one who transfers ownership of an item to a fetus, the fetus acquires the item.” This case raises an inter …
Avraham Had it All Bava Basra 141 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 13th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph presents a curious interpretation of the verse about Avraham in Bereishis (24:1): “And Avraham was old, well advanced in age; and the Lord had blessed Avraham with everything [bakkol]” (Genesis 24:1). Rabbi Yehuda explains that this blessing meant Avraham had a daughter, whom he named Bakkol. At first glance, this statement seems puzzling—would the Sages have us believe that the phrase “blessed wit …
Are Law and Ethics the Same? Bava Basra 140 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 12th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph continues discussing special enactments and protections that the rabbis put in place to ensure that, although daughters do not inherit alongside their brothers, stipends and allowances are set aside from the estate to provide for them and assist with marriage expenses. The Mishna on the previous amud states: In the case of one who died and left behind both sons and daughters, when the estate is large, the sons inherit it, …
Till Debt do Us Part Bava Basra 139 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 11th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud beis discusses a case of a woman who entered marriage with a prior debt. This Gemara brings to mind a modern phenomenon that can trouble some couples today: one spouse may be shocked to discover, post-marriage, that the other has accrued significant credit card debt. According to one study (Center for Marriage and Family, 2000; Schramm & Lee, 2003), debt brought into marriage is the number one conflict issue for newlyweds. …
One Day At A Time Bava Basra 138 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 10th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph explores various situations in which someone is given property or a gift, and the recipient remains silent. Does this silence imply consent, or could it simply reflect a decision to defer dealing with it? In some cases, the opinion is that silence does not necessarily mean agreement, as the individual may be thinking, “Why should I worry about this now?” As the Gemara notes, some people may choose not to raise …
Promptly Admitting We Were Wrong Bava Basra 137 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 8th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes a despicable character type known as a rasha arum—a cunning wicked person—who exploits the law for morally questionable purposes. This type of person, the Gemara explains, is one who advises someone to sell property in line with the ruling of Rabban Shimon ben Gamliel, though not permitted to do so. The act is technically valid, but it deprives another designated party of their right to the property. …
Real, Real Estate Bava Basra 136 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 8th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis presents a well-known dispute between Rav Yochanan and Reish Lakish regarding the nature of property ownership. Specifically, they argue about whether a person who holds the rights to a property's produce, but does not own the land itself, is considered a landowner. This has various halachic implications, as certain obligations are triggered by land ownership: Rabbi Yoḥanan holds that purchasing the rights to use …
The Echo Chamber of the Evil Inclination Bava Basra 135 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 7th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis addresses a case where a deceased person’s will was found tied to his thigh, a way to secure important documents in that era. In Maaseh Shem (Avos 33), this principle is applied to Esav’s angel wrestling Yaakov and striking his thigh (Bereishis 32:26), as if intending to destroy the document representing Esav’s sale of the birthright to Yaakov. This interpretation is clever, but there are other pro …
Fill 'er Up with Premium Bava Basra 134 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 6th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph details the vast array of wisdom, Torah knowledge, and even scientific expertise mastered by a Torah scholar like Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai, the least among Hillel the Elder’s eighty students: The Sages said about Rabban Yoḥanan ben Zakkai that he did not neglect Bible and Mishna, Talmud, halachos and aggados, minutiae of the Torah and minutiae of the scribes, hermeneutical principles for a fortiori inferen …
The Messiah is not Late; He is Right on Time Bava Basra 133 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 5th, 2024
Our gemara on Amud Beis records a dialogue between Rav Illish and Rav. Rav made a mistaken ruling which Rav corrected. Rav Ilish was embarrassed and so To comfort him, Rav read the following verse about him: “I, the Lord, will hasten it in its time” (Isaiah 60:22), as if to say: It was due to Divine Providence that I was here to correct you before your mistaken ruling was implemented This verse is classically interpreted by our …
Attachment, Consensus and Aggression Bava Basra 132 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 5th, 2024
The Rashbam, at the beginning of Amud Aleph, discusses aspects of the kesuba (Jewish marriage contract) that make it different from other debts. It has limitations on lien enforcement and variations in collection power, partly reflecting a reality observed by the Rabbis in social patterns. Recognizing that women—due to lower earning potential and other economic disadvantages—might experience vulnerability after marriage, the Rabbis en …
The Heavy Burden of Judicial Discernment Bava Basra 131 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 3rd, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses the idea that a judge must use his common sense and logic to determine the truth as best he can, knowing that it is impossible for any mortal to be absolutely certain: A judge has only what his eyes see as the basis for his ruling. One must rule according to his own understanding. This idea, however, not only frees a judge from responsibility for matters beyond his perception, but as is often the c …
Blind Faith? Bava Basra 130 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 1st, 2024
Our Gemara on amud beis provides principles for deriving halachic rulings from precedent and observed behaviors of authoritative sources and rabbis: One may derive the halakha neither from a statement nor from an incident where one saw a ruling issued in a certain manner, unless the Sages explicitly tell him that it is the practical halacha. If he asked the Sages and they told him the practical halakha, he may go and act upon the ruling in …
In Depth Study, by Any Means Bava Basra 129 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 1st, 2024
Our Gemara on amud beis discusses a conceptual difference between something that is gifted versus bequeathed: If a person on his deathbed said: My property is given to you, and after you to so-and-so, and the first recipient was fit to inherit from him, the second gets nothing in place of the first. That is, he does not receive the property after the first one dies, as this formulation employed by the owner was not one of a gift, but a for …
Repentance or Return? Bava Basra 128 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 31st, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses a situation in which a witness observed an event while mentally competent, then lost his sanity, and later returned to compos mentis. One might think that since there was a period when his thinking was compromised, even if he seems restored, perhaps some aspect of his memory or thought remains distorted. This could be compared to reassembling a complex piece of machinery and finding a few parts left over on the …
Alternate Halachic Universe Bava Basra 127 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 30th, 2024
On our daf, we observe the great respect held for the concept of inheritance, particularly in regard to the firstborn. While generally, a person may stipulate whatever he pleases concerning his property, the restrictions are stricter regarding the firstborn’s inheritance. This is evident in the sugyos of the previous and upcoming dappim. For example, a father has the special power to identify his firstborn, waiving ordinary evidentiary requ …
A Spitting Image of the Father Bava Basra 126 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 29th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud beis discusses a paranormal method used to determine whether a child is the firstborn of the mother or the father. This has significant halachic implications, as only the natural firstborn of the father inherits a double portion, regardless of the mother's previous birthing history (Shulchan Aruch 277:8). It is taught as a tradition that the saliva of a father's firstborn can heal a specific ailment, whereas the saliva o …
How to Benefit in This World and the Next Bava Basra 125 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 28th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a halachic aspect of the inheritance process. Specifically, the double portion granted to a firstborn applies only to property that is in actual possession, as opposed to funds that are due, such as an unpaid loan. The Noam Elimelech (Sefer Shemos, Shemos 5) uses this concept to address an age-old theological question: why do some righteous individuals seem to suffer greatly in this world, while others prosper in …
God Himself Will Comfort Bava Basra 124 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 22nd, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses the halachic principle that a firstborn inherits a double portion. The Imrei Shefer (Vayikra 10:12) uses this idea to address a textual and halachic question regarding the Torah’s description of Aharon’s remaining sons. The verse refers to Elazar and Isamar as “Aharon’s remaining sons,” which typically implies a smaller remnant of a larger group, as noted by the Taz (YD 43:7). Aharo …
Don’t Let Feelings “Into-Fear” Bava Basra 123 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 21st, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph recounts a story that illustrates the intense drama and intrigue surrounding Yaakov as he navigated the cunning deceit of his father-in-law, Lavan: Yaakov and Rachel engaged in a significant exchange before their marriage. Yaakov proposed to Rachel, and she responded by warning him, “Yes, but my father is a deceitful person, and you cannot outwit him.” She explained that her father, Lavan, would never a …
Objects Are Closer Than They Appear Bava Basra 122 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 21st, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph explains that the tribes measured the value of land in Israel based on its proximity to Jerusalem. The closer the land was to Jerusalem, the more valuable it was considered. This seems logical—land closer to the center of spiritual life would naturally be more desirable. However, this Gemara appears to contradict a fundamental Jewish ethic known as sechar halicha, the reward for the effort expended in perform …
Hitting Rock Bottom Bava Basra 121 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 20th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses one of the reasons why the 15th of Av became a traditional day of rejoicing, drawing from the experience of the Jews in the wilderness. After the sin of the spies, it was decreed that the entire generation would wander for 40 years and die out before entering the land of Israel. Eichah Rabbah (Pesicha) offers a poignant description of how the 15th of Av marked a turning point in their fate: Rabbi Avin and …
Jews Should not Wine About Their Fate Bava Basra 120 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 20th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph tells us about Yocheved, Moshe’s mother, who was born “between the walls” during the transition into Egypt. According to one opinion, her birth completed the missing number in the census, allowing us to reach the 70 souls described in Bereishis 46:27, even though the actual count comes to 69. The Maharal (Gevuros Hashem, Yayin Nesech) explores the significance of the number 70, as well as the fact …
The In-“Tents”-ity of the Daughters of Zelophehad Bava Basra 119 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 19th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses how the daughters of Zelophehad received an additional portion of inheritance due to their father, Hepher, who was a firstborn. A firstborn is entitled to two portions of inheritance, but this leads to a halachic question: What type of property could Hepher claim when we have a tradition that a firstborn does not receive a double portion from assets that are not yet in possession? The land of Israel was an asset …
Honorary Member of the Tribe Bava Basra 118 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 19th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the phenomenon of ayin hara (the evil eye) and how the tribe of Yosef had a special immunity from it. The Gemara explains: "We are of the descendants of Joseph, upon whom the evil eye had no dominion, as it is written: 'Joseph is a fruitful vine, a fruitful vine by a fountain [alei ayin]' (Bereishis 49:22), and Rabbi Abbahu states a homiletic interpretation: Do not read it as alei ayin; rather, read it as …
Is Repentance a Precondition for Redemption Bava Basra 117 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 20th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses how the Land of Israel was allocated to the incoming generation of Jews as they completed their wandering of forty years: Rabbi Yoshiya says: Eretz Yisrael was divided among those who left Egypt, as it is stated: “According to the names of the tribes of their fathers they shall inherit” (Numbers 26:55), which teaches that the Jewish people would inherit Eretz Yisrael according to the names of …
Repeated Trauma Bava Basra 116 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 20th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph, speaking from a strongly judgmental standpoint, reflects upon the possible implications of somebody who dies without having an heir, and what type of spiritual lacunae brought this situation about: “God shall hear, and humble them, even He that is enthroned of old, Selah; those that have no exchange, and fear not God” (Psalms 55:20), Rabbi Yoḥanan and Rabbi Yehoshua ben Levi each interpret the verse …
Standing on Ceremony Bava Basra 115 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 16th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses the primacy of the father in the line of inheritance: This is the principle: Concerning anyone who precedes another with regard to inheritance, his descendants precede the other as well, and a father who inherits precedes all of his descendants. The idea of primacy of the father in the line of inheritance also has metaphysical implications. Bais Yaakov (Vayeshev 39:3 and Vayechi 65:1) explains this …
Truth or Compassion Bava Basra 114 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 16th, 2024
Throw Away Your OId Toys Bava Basra 113 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 13th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses the finely nuanced meaning of the Hebrew word Yidbku (root=D-V-K) which means to be attached, and how this is used to understand an aspect of inheritance when described in the Torah (Bamidar 36:7,9). One of the prooftexts used to support that this word means “attached” comes from an iconic verse in Bereishis (2:24), that describes the psychological process of romantic attachment: Hence a …
Listen To Your Messages Bava Basra 112 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 15th, 2024
Our Gemara on this daf discusses the matter of the daughters of Zelophehad , who brought to Moshe an objection that they should also be allowed to inherit in the Land of Israel, on behalf of their father, who died without male progeny (Bamidbar 27:3-5): Our father died in the wilderness. He was not one of the faction, Korah’s faction, which banded together against Hashem, but died for his own sin; and he has left no sons. Let not our …
Grieving the Loss of Our Dreams Bava Basra 111 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 14th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the fact that Miriam’s banishment was supposed to last for 14 days based on the following logic: If her father had but spit in her face, should she not hide in shame for seven days?” (Numbers 12:14). The Gemara then argues, in fact, Miriam experienced a more severe reprimand from the Divine Presence, therefore, she ought to have been ostracized for fourteen days. Yet, by dint of the fact that this di …
Causation, Not Correlation Bava Basra 110 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 13th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph offers advice on how to determine a suitable mate based on lineage: Rava says: One who marries a woman needs to first examine her brothers so that he will know in advance what character his children will have, as it is stated: “And Aaron took Elisheva, the daughter of Amminadav, the sister of Nahshon” (Exodus 6:23). By inference from that which is stated: “The daughter of Amminadav,” do I no …
False Omens Bava Basra 109 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 11th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud beis discusses the famous incident of the Pesel Micha, as described in Shoftim 17. In those anarchic times, a fellow made a sanctuary and appointed his own priest. From our Gemara’s exposition of the story, the man met a person named Levi, and took it as a sign that he was to be HIS Levite, that is, a man to serve as his Cohen in his fabricated temple. Indeed we find in our tradition an idea that certai …
A Wealthy Bequest Bava Basra 108 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 11th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud beis uses a proof text to teach that if a man has no children to inherit him, the closest next of kin, father, brothers, uncles etc inherit him. The Mikra Mefurash, quoted by Sefer Daf al Daf, raises a question from Avraham’s dialogue with God, where he expresses fear that without an heir, his servant will inherit all his wealth (Bereishis 15:3): Avram said further, “Since You have granted me no offspri …
Small Minded Thinking Bava Basra 107 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 10th, 2024
Our Gemara on amud aleph uses a distinctive Hebrew word to describe taking off a piece of land and granting it to another inheritor, “Mekamtzin”, which we can translate as snipping off. The word has a different connotation than other apparent synonyms, such as “chatoch”, to cut, or “lachalok” to divide. The Maharal (Netzach Yisrael 5) explains that the word kometz, means to take a small part of a larger w …
Letting Go of Control and Inviting God In Bava Basra 106 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 9th, 2024
Our Gemara references the biblical process by which the different portions of the land Israel was allotted to the tribes via a lottery. There is this theological idea that using a lottery can somehow bring out divine intention and messages. Let us try to understand how this might work. There are a number of times where a lottery is used by Biblical figures to tap into divine guidance. For example, Yehoshua used it to help deter …
Contradictions, Truth and Insults Bava Basra 105 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 8th, 2024
Continuing our study of the Gemara’s approach to contradictory statements, let us review the dispute between Ben Nanes and the Sages. If there is a discrepancy in the statements of a seller, where their first clause indicates approximation, and the second clause indicates specificity, or vice versa, Ben Nanes holds that we follow his last statement and the Sages hold that we choose the more conservative meaning within the contradiction. Tha …
How to Study Contradictions Bava Basra 104 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 7th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses how to resolve discrepancies in the statements of a seller, where the seller’s first clause indicates approximation, and the second clause indicates specificity, or vice versa. For example, if the seller says to the buyer: “I am selling you a plot of land of a certain size measured precisely with a rope more or less”, thereby attaching to the sale two contradictory stipulations. Or if the seller …
Playing the Field Bava Basra 103 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 6th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph quotes the verse that describes the Biblically mandated process of redeeming a field that one declared hekdesh (consecrating it for the Temple treasury). It is redeemed according to a standardized scale of fifty shekels of silver per an area fit to sow a ḥomer of barley. Mei HaShiloach (Volume II, Leviticus, Bechukosai) wonders about the purpose of this process. Why would the Torah enshrine a process of the owner …
Buried Feelings Bava Basra 102 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 4th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph and Tosafos discuss the restrictions on disinterring and disturbing the dead. There are various reasons offered for this prohibition. The Gemara later on (154a) implies that exposing the decomposed body to viewing eyes is disrespectful of the body, and the person who once occupied it. Gesher Chaim (26:10), based on a Yerushalmi, rules that even if the body is fully decomposed and so there is no rot, it is inherentl …
Spiritual Standstill Bava Basra 101 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 4th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis tries to figure out how to properly allocate and position the number of graves described in the Mishna, and reconcile it within the stated dimensions of this space. One idea that was considered was that some bodies were buried standing up. The Gemara firmly rejects this as absurd, since this would be a disgraceful manner to lay a corpse. The Gemara declares: This is like a burial of donkeys and is disrespectful. &nb …
King Sized Desires Bava Basra 100 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 3rd, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis describes the right of a king to appropriate passageways through private property: The Mishna teaches: A king’s thoroughfare has no maximum measure. The Gemara explains: This is because the halakha is that a king may breach (poretz) the fence of an individual in order to create a thoroughfare for himself, and none may protest his actions. The Hebrew word for this domain expansion is “poretz” …
Seeing Ourselves Reflected in Others Bava Basra 99 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 2nd, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud aleph discusses contradictory verses regarding where the Cherubs on the Holy Ark faced, acting as a bellwether of God’s pleasure or disappointment with the Jewish nation: How were the cherubs standing? Rabbi Yoḥanan and Rabbi Elazar disagree about this. One says: Their faces were turned one toward the other. And one says: Their faces were turned toward the House, i.e., the Sanctuary. The Gemara asks: But ac …
Why Do We Hate that Which We Used to Love? Bava Basra 98 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 1st, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Alephs comments on the relational consequences of arrogance: One who is haughty is not accepted even by the members of his household, as it is stated: “The haughty man abides not” (Habakkuk 2:5). What does the phrase “abides [yinveh] not” mean? It means that even in his abode [naveh], he is not accepted. Pesach Einayim wonders: If so, why do we see women who are attracted to a man specifica …
Pressed Grapes Bava Basra 97 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 30th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses processes of wine production and sedimentation. According to some traditions, it was actually wine that was the forbidden fruit of theTree of Knowledge. Bereishis Rabbah (19:5) tells us that Chava squeezed a grape bunch and gave Adam to drink from it. Note that the Midrash does not say, “gave him to eat from the grapes”, instead it says “squeezed the grapes and gave him to drink wine&rdqu …
In Vino Veritas Bava Basra 96 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 29th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a principle of Oenology, which has halachic and metaphysical implications: דאמר רבא: כל חמרא דלא דרי על חד תלת מיא – לאו חמרא הוא Rava said: Any wine that does not contain three parts water to one part pure wine is not regarded as wine, as it is excessively strong. In those days, the original wine mixture was so potent, that when they actually dran …
It Doesn’t Grow on Trees, You Know! Or…Does It? Bava Basra 95 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 27th, 2024
Our Gemara on this daf discussed wine that begins to become vinegary, and at what point does it lose its status of wine. In such a case, the blessing might revert from “Hagafen - He who creates the fruit of the vine” back to “Shehakol”, the universal blessing that one makes for foods that do not grow or have a specific status, drinks, meat, and other items. Food items that have distinction or unique status tend to ge …
Don’t Invite a Heavenly Audit Bava Basra 94 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 27th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses an interesting psychological and legal phenomenon. There are certain thresholds of defects or deficiencies in a purchased item which are tolerated, if not expected. Therefore, while one is not allowed to deliberately adulterate grains or beans, if a minor and typical amount of dirt, sediment or pebbles etc are found in the mixture, the buyer has no recourse. Furthermore, if he finds the product to have an amount …
The Cult of Self-Care Bava Basra 93 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 26th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses an interesting protocol from Talmudic times: עוד מנהג גדול היה בירושלים – מפה פרוסה על גבי הפתח; כל זמן שמפה פרוסה – אורחין נכנסין. נסתלקה המפה – אין האורחין נכנסין. The baraisa continues: Another great custom that was followed in Jerusalem was that when one made a feast, there would be a clo …
Money Over Matter Bava Basra 92 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 25th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a case in which a buyer and seller are in dispute over if the purchased ox was sold for labor purposes or for slaughter. The difference being, that if it was found to be an unruly ox known to gore, the purchase would be deemed under false pretenses and be refunded. However, the seller maintains that he sold the ox under the presumption that it was for slaughter, thus the ox’s nature is irrelevant, and the p …
Exit Strategy Bava Basra 91 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 24th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses famine conditions that could allow a person to leave Eretz Yisroel: תנו רבנן: אין יוצאין מארץ לחוץ לארץ, אלא אם כן עמדו סאתים בסלע. אמר רבי שמעון: אימתי – בזמן שאינו מוצא ליקח, אבל בזמן שמוצא ליקח – אפילו עמדה סאה בסלע, לא יצא. The Sages taught: One may not leave Eretz Y …
Good Intentions Aren't Good Enough Bava Basra 90 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 23rd, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the different efforts of the Amoraim, Shmuel’s father and Shmuel himself to prevent hoarding, price manipulation and gouging in the marketplace. Interestingly, with good intentions, they employed opposite strategies. The Gemara also commented on whose intervention was more effective: אבוה דשמואל מזבין להו לפירי בתרעא חרפא, כתרעא חרפא. שמואל בריה, מש …
Is it Possible to be Forgiven by God Without Repentance? Bava Basra 89 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 22nd, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the moral obligation to be absolutely scrupulous when it comes to honest weights and measures. This obligation and prohibition extends to the degree that one is not even allowed to have an accurate measures around the house, despite using them for other purposes, with no intention to defraud anybody: A person may not keep in his house a measure that is too small or too large, even if it is used as a chambe …
The Truth that is in the Heart Bava Basra 88 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 20th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the extraordinary integrity of Rabbi Safrah. His standard of honesty was so high, that even if he only resolved in his mind to make a sale at a certain price, he would stick with his inner resolution, despite the buyer revealing that he would be willing to pay more. This kind of practice is considered one of many ways that a person “speaks the truth in his heart.” The idea of “speaking t …
Looking for an Opening Bava Basra 87 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 20th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the practice of making sure that no significant amount of liquid is left behind in the seller’s vessel, to be scrupulously honest: Anyone who sells wine, oil, or similar liquids is obligated, after he transfers the liquid into the buyer’s vessel, to drip for him three extra drops from the measure. There is also an aggadic instance of three drops in the Talmud (Menachos 29a): …
Getting Away with Murder Bava Basra 86 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 19th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the principle of Kim Ley Bederabbah Mineh. If one violates two prohibitions simultaneously, he is only liable for the more severe penalty of the two, but not both. For example: If one stole a wallet on shabbos but did not lift the purse but instead dragged it on the ground, exiting the private domain and going into a public domain, he is exempt from financial penalty. The prohibition of performing labor o …
Internal and External Battles Bava Basra 85 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 18th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph continues discussing rules of acquisitions. An animal that can be acquired by pulling it into an area that is in his possession, but not by merely pulling it into an area that is not under his ownership. Panim Yafos (Matos) uses this Halacha to explain an anomalous feature of the spoils of war from the Biblical battle with Midyan (Bamidbar 31). In other Biblical wars, the soldiers were allowed to keep the booty, unless de …
See Evil Through Rose Colored Glasses Bava Basra 84 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 17th, 2024
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses that during the day, the Sun appears white, while in the morning and evening it has a reddish hue. What are the suggested causes? In the morning it becomes red as it passes over the site of the roses of the Garden of Eden, whose reflections give the light a red hue. In the evening the Sun turns red because it passes over the entrance of Gehenna, whose fires redden the light. And there are those who say th …