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Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
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Yoma 80 Does the Torah Change? Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-06-27 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph states: Rabbi Elazar said: One who unwittingly eats forbidden fat even today must write down the exact measure that he ate, lest another court come in the future and increase the measure. The Gemara appears to be saying that the Rabbis of a future Sanhedrin would have the ability to change the halakha, based on how they will interpret matters. Indeed, Rashi says as much explicitly: …Perhaps the Temple will be rebui …
Yoma 74 Does God Send Us Tests? Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-06-23 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis references the verses about the Manna, and how the Jews were tested by God (Deuteronomy 8:2-3)  זָכַרְתָּ֣ אֶת־כׇּל־הַדֶּ֗רֶךְ אֲשֶׁ֨ר הוֹלִֽיכְךָ֜ יְהֹוָ֧ה אֱלֹהֶ֛יךָ זֶ֛ה אַרְבָּעִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה בַּמִּדְבָּ֑ר לְמַ֨עַן עַנֹּֽתְךָ֜ לְנַסֹּֽתְךָ֗ לָדַ֜עַת אֶת־אֲשֶׁ֧ר בּ …
Yoma 52 Do Away With The Middleman Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-06-01 00:00:00

The Gemara on Amud Aleph says: חֲבִיבִין יִשְׂרָאֵל שֶׁלֹּא הִצְרִיכָן הַכָּתוּב לְשָׁלִיחַ. The Jewish people are beloved by God, as the Torah did not require them to make use of an agent, e.g., an angel, to intercede on their behalf. Instead, God hears the nation’s prayers directly. Consequently, the High Priest, who represents the people on Yom Kippur, need not approach in a roundabo …
Yoma 57 Depression is the Mother of Invention Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-06-06 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph records a jibe from Rav Yirmiya regarding the Babylonian scholars: “Foolish Babylonians! Since you live in a dark climate, you offer teachings which are unclear and dim.” There is an intuitive truth to the idea that climate and environment affect mood and function. There is a form of depression, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which seems to be brought on in the dark winter months as a result of los …
Yoma 30 COVID: Psychological, Social and Actual Contagions Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-05-10 00:00:00

Our Gemara mentions an interesting social fear, that of being called a Kerus Shafecha.  What is a Kerus Shafecha?  Kerus shafecha literally means a cut pipe, a deformation or injury to the urethra or male organ, often stemming from a botched Bris Milah that leads to a dysfunction in the ability to properly urinate and ejaculate.  In fact, this deformity would invalidate the person as a marriage partner, and also it was believed med …
Yoma 67 Cosmic String Theory Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-06-15 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis tells us an interesting discussion between Rabbi Eliezer and a “wise woman”: A wise woman asked Rabbi Eliezer: Since all bore equal responsibility for the incident of the Golden Calf, due to what factor were their deaths not equal? Some of the people were killed by the sword of Moses and the Levites, some were killed in a plague, and others were struck with an intestinal illness. He said to her: There is no wis …
Yoma 76 Common Sense Birth Control Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-06-25 10:30:52

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph records an interesting hypothetical vignette imagined about a typical family man during the 40 years that the Jews wandered in the wilderness: So too, in the case of the Jewish people, someone who had four or five children would be worried and say: Perhaps the manna will not fall tomorrow and we will all die of starvation. Consequently, everyone directed their hearts to their Father in heaven every day. The manna that fel …
Yoma 19 Cold Feet and Insomnia Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-04-29 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis Records a practice of helping the Cohen Godol stay awake by placing his feet on the cold marble floor. Indeed, there is a scientific basis for this idea.  A paper published in the Journal Nature (1999)  https://www.nature.com/articles/43366.epdf?sharing_token=CfJJi5x59F3F2Zdd5qZuctRgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0McdLoGBqBWDxzYnDuZ89VSsOd_gDIC6yu7SbDYXsM9a63iLB7KHJyKS_Os-MtnAFZReWxUmFpT8xd8_HyFdpoMYMXGDBhQMfwABn_AKxbPCfBP2kwn …
Yoma 60 Cloak and Gagger Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-06-09 00:00:00

Our Gemara tells us that though the Cohen Godol wore בגדי לבן on Yom Kippur for services related to the Holy of Holies, which were really the same as the Cohen Hedyot. they would not be recycled for Cohen hedyot use during the year.  On the topic of Bigdei Lavan, we find that one time in history a non-cohen wore the white priestly clothes and performed the service in the inner sanctuary. Moshe served as Cohen Godol during the seven in …
Yoma 83 Can’t You Just Get Over It? Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-07-02 09:49:08

Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes a verse from Mishle (14:10), “The heart knows the soul’s bitterness” as a support for the idea that even when the expert physicians do not consider a condition life-threatening, if the person himself does, we treat it as valid. The simple meaning from the Gemara is that we should not judge another person’s pain. Many experiences of mental illness such as trauma, depression, anxiety and the li …
Yoma 59 Bricks and Martyr Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-06-08 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph references a verse (Shemos 24:10) that describes the vision the Elders had at Sinai. There is a cryptic phrase, which I’ll do my best to translate: וַיִּרְא֕וּ אֵ֖ת אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל וְתַ֣חַת רַגְלָ֗יו כְּמַעֲשֵׂה֙ לִבְנַ֣ת הַסַּפִּ֔יר וּכְעֶ֥צֶם הַשָּׁמַ֖יִם לָטֹֽהַר׃ ⁦and they saw the God of Israel …
Yoma 86 Betrayals: When Will You Finally Forgive Me? Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-07-05 00:00:00

The Gemara on Amud Beis states: ⁦Rabbi Eliezer ben Ya’akov says, If one confesses in subsequent years, all the more so is he praiseworthy, as he remembers his earlier sins and is thereby humbled, as it is stated: “For I know my transgressions; and my sin is ever before me” (Psalms 51:5).” This principle is used by our Gemara in reference to obtaining and maintaining God’s forgiveness. However, in my experience, thi …
Yoma 8 Be Wary of Spiritual Shortcuts Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-04-19 00:00:00

This Daf discusses a number of topics that I would like to tie together thematically with a derash.  First, the sanctity of Tefilin is discussed and the requirement to be aware of them at all times while wearing them.  Second, we discussed the odd case of somebody who wrote G-d’s name on his body. The Gemara deals with the technical issue of how he may undress in front of G-d’s name (Tosafos), or possibly the fear of it bei …
Yoma 67 Basket Case Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-06-16 00:00:00

The Gemara on Amud Aleph explains the practice of offering water and food to the appointee who walks the scapegoat to the cliff through the wilderness. At each and every booth people there say to him: Here is food; here is water, if you need it. It was taught: No man who escorted the goat ever needed this food and water. However, they would offer it to him anyway, because one who has bread in his basket is not similar to one who does not have bre …
Yoma 53 Balanced Prayer & Balanced Personality Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-06-02 00:00:00

The Gemara on Amud Beis tells us : The High Priest recites a brief prayer in the outer chamber. The Gemara asks: What does he pray? Rava bar Rav Adda and Ravin bar Rav Adda both said in the name of Rav that this was his prayer: May it be your will, Lord our God, that this year shall be rainy and hot. The Gemara immediately expresses surprise at this request: Is heat a good matter? Why should he request that the year be hot? Rather, say and emend …
Yoma 12 Avoiding Relationship Gridlock Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-04-23 10:10:20

Our Gemara discusses the problem of what happens when a new Cohin Godol is nominated due to an invalidation of the prior Cohen Godol.  When the original Cohen Godol recovers from whatever it is that invalidated him, he is restored the office. What do we do with the second appointee? The Gemara says that we cannot demote him back to ordinary service because that would be a diminution of holiness. However, he cannot remain and share the office …
Yoma 36 Asking for Too Much from God? Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-05-16 00:00:00

Our Gemara records a machlokes between Rabbi Meir and the Rabbanan regarding the words and order of the viduy confession. Rabbi Meir follows the order of the verse used by Moshe, Avon, Pesha and Chata’a.  The Rabbis cannot accept that because logically, the confession should go in order of severity: Chet (unintentional), Avon (intentional) and Pesha (Rebellious).  If so, why indeed did Moshe use a different order?  It was to …
Yoma 21 Amen, and A-Women! Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-04-30 11:31:46

Our Gemara lists a number of miracles that occurred in the Beis HaMikdash, including that a pregnant woman never miscarried as a result of smelling the cooking sacrificial meats and craving them, as well as that the Coeh Gadol never had a nocturnal seminal emission on Yom Kippur night. What was the exact miracle regarding the pregnant women not miscarrying?  Some quote in the name of Rashi that the women would feel cravings for the meat, not …
Yoma 39 Addiction, Emotional Occlusion and Timtum Halev Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-05-19 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph quotes a teaching from Rabbi Yishmael:   Sin obstructs and clogs the heart of the sinner. On a simple level, the Gemara is noting that the momentum of sinful behaviors makes a person more callous and less sensitive to wrongdoing and morals in general.  Presumably, this is the Timtum halev that the rabbis meant. A clogging of the heart and a contraction of open-heartedness and sensitivity. Arvei Nachal (Bere …
Yoma 11 A Kalter Litvak Rationalist Undergoes a Conversion Psychology & the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-04-22 00:00:00

The Gemara tells us the requirement of checking a mezuzah: The mezuza belonging to an individual is examined twice every seven years to determine whether it was stolen or became disqualified. And in order to avoid excessive burden on the community, the mezuza belonging to the public is examined twice in a fifty-year Jubilee period. I would like to tell you a story from my personal life, actually two stories, about Mezuzos. Many people have the cu …
Yoma 44 A Different Kind of L’shon Hora Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-05-24 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph teaches us that the incense achieves atonement for L’shon Hara, slander. Let something that is done in secret, i.e., the incense, which is burned in seclusion within the Sanctuary, come and effect atonement for an act done in secret, i.e., slander, which is generally said in private. Ramah in Toras HaOlah III:7 says a number of chiddushim in regard to this Gemara: The incense is brought in seclusion, meaning that no …
Yoma 31 A Different Kind of Lesson for the Day of Judgment Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2021-05-11 00:00:00

Two small psychological observations from two different points discussed in the Gemara. On Amud Beis the Gemara explains that they used a linen sheet as a mechitza between the Cohen Godol and the crowd, to cover him while he changed clothes for the service. The Gemara asks why specifically a sheet of linen? The Gemara answer that since the Yom Kippur avodah was with linen clothes, unlike all year round, they also used a linen sheet. It’s no …
Yin and Yang Eruvin 56 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-10-02 12:28:56

  אָמַר שְׁמוּאֵל: אֵין תְּקוּפַת נִיסָן נוֹפֶלֶת אֶלָּא בְּאַרְבָּעָה רִבְעֵי הַיּוֹם, אוֹ בִּתְחִלַּת הַיּוֹם אוֹ בִּתְחִלַּת הַלַּיְלָה, אוֹ בַּחֲצִי הַיּוֹם אוֹ בַּחֲצִי הַלַּיְלָה. On the topic of the previous discussion with regard to calculating the directions of the world based …
Yichus Versus Achievement Yevamos 15 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-03-22 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis tells us how they inquired of Rabbi Yehoshua to rule over the dispute of Shammai and Hillel regarding the co-wife of a forbidden relation who falls to Yibum. He declares that he does not want to “stick his head between two great mountains”, i.e., between two great disputing opinions, between Beit Shammai and Beit Hillel, “out of fear lest these two mountains break my skull.” Ben Yehoyada wonders why …
Yes Does Not Mean Yes Gittin 74 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-07-28 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes various situations where a wife may be bashful to ask for payments or property promised to her, even though it rightfully belongs to her. While in some ways, female and male patterns of behavior have changed in modern times, it is important to respect that there are also patterns of behavior that remain feminine or masculine for many people. These patterns need to be respected and not ignored. Men and women have …
Yeridas Hadoros DeGeneration Shabbos 112
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-06-28 02:02:46

Mareh Mekomos for Video Shiur click here to listen: for Video Shiur click here to listen:  Psychology of the DAF Shabbos 112 DAF YOMI from a psychological perspective. Mareh Mekomos    קרי עליה לית דין בר אינש איכא דאמרי כגון דין בר אינש אמר רבי זירא אמר רבא בר זימונא אם ראשונים בני מלאכים אנו בני אנשים ואם ראשונים בני א …
Years and Tears Later: The Price of Lies and the Price of Truth Kesuvos 13 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-07-19 00:00:00

  Our Gemara on this daf continues a discussion of case law where important information was allegedly withheld prior to marriage and discovered later.  In yesterday's Psycholgy of the Daf, we discussed the obligations of others to reveal information. Continuing this theme, we will discuss the halachos and psychology of self-disclosure of flaws prior to marriage. There is a Teshuva of Rav Moshe Feinstein regarding a young woman who was s …
Written Correspondence Nedarim 70 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-01-03 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph quotes a verse in Bamidbar (30:7-8): וְאִם־הָי֤וֹ תִֽהְיֶה֙ לְאִ֔ישׁ וּנְדָרֶ֖יהָ עָלֶ֑יהָ א֚וֹ מִבְטָ֣א שְׂפָתֶ֔יהָ אֲשֶׁ֥ר אָסְרָ֖ה עַל־נַפְשָֽׁהּ׃  If she should become someone’s [wife] while her vow or the commitment commitment Lit. “utterance of her lips.” to which she bound herself is sti …
Work for Your Freedom Bava Metzia 73 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-05-10 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses an interesting, ethical law, that is not utilized in modern times:   The Gemara relates: Rav Se’oram, the brother of Rava, would forcefully seize people who were not acting properly and have them carry Rava’s palanquin. Rava said to him: You acted correctly, as we learn: If you see a Jew who does not behave properly, from where is it derived that you are permitted to have him work as a slave? The …
Woe Onto Him and Woe Onto Her Yevamos 29 Psychology of the Daf Yom
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-04-05 00:00:00

Our Mishna on Amud Aleph discusses a scenario where unfortunately a person can end up having to divorce a woman whom he “married” through the action of ma’amar (which is the rabbinic Kiddushin-prelude to formal Yibum.) Should a second brother who was married to this woman’s sister also die childless, he now will have to divorce his current wife and do chalitzah to her, and do chalitzah to the sister. Why? Since ma’am …
Without Safety There is No Intimacy Kesuvos 88 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-10-02 00:00:00

What are some of the psychological functions of the kesuba?  We saw earlier in Psychology of the Daf (Kesuvos 82) that financial security is important for the woman to feel safe in the marriage. Our Gemara on Amud Aleph considers that a special allowance is made for a widow in that she can collect payment of her kesuba from her husband’s possessions even if he is not present. Or as discussed on 84a, the ability of the widow to collect …
Withholding Forgiveness Bava Kamma 105 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-02-15 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses a scenario where someone swore falsely and denied possession of an object.  If he confesses and wishes to repent, part of his responsibility is to return the principal object as well as one fifth additional payment.  This requirement is so extensive, that even if the victim moved to far flung regions, the strict letter of the law requires that he incur the trouble and the expense to restore the object …
With Privilege Comes Responsibility Kiddushin 57 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-10-05 17:35:43

In our Gemara on Amud Aleph, Rabbi Akiva's renowned derasha asserts that when the Torah adds ״את״ (es) to the commandment ״אֶת ה׳ אֱלֹהֶיךָ תִּירָא״, it obligates us to fear Torah sages as we fear God. The statement of Rabbi Akiva is that “Es”, comes to add an obligation to fear Torah sages as one fears God. Translating "es" into English is challenging, but it signifies an association, even when it seems obv …
With Enemies Like These, Who Needs Friends? Nedarim 40 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-12-04 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph remarks about the benefit of good friends and the danger of friends of a lower caliber. Good friends will give you the right advice and guide you, such as Na’aman Who is able to take advice from his peers. However bad friends, such as Rechavam’s friends, give poor advice. Rechavam’s friends advised him to take a harsh stand as a new king, demanding even more taxes which led to a rebellion (see Melachim I …
Wise Women and Warfare Eruvin 87 Psychology of the Daf Eruvin 25
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-11-04 00:00:00

Wise Women and Warfare   This Daf refers to a city knows as Eyvel.  It is an unusual name.  It is mentioned in Tanach in regard ot the rebellion of Sheva ben Bichri against the King David (II Samuel 20).   וַתִּקְרָ֛א אִשָּׁ֥ה חֲכָמָ֖ה מִן־הָעִ֑יר שִׁמְע֤וּ שִׁמְעוּ֙ אִמְרוּ־נָ֣א אֶל־יוֹאָ֔ב קְרַ֣ב עַד־הֵ֔נָּה וַאֲדַבְּרָ …
Wine and Romance Nedarim 68 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-01-01 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the husband’s right to annul a vow made by his wife, in regard to matters that will affect their personal relationship. Sometimes, we are able to get an indirect glimpse at various values, ethics and morals that Chazal endorsed by studying certain halachos. In this vein, I will discuss the idea of a wife drinking alcohol with her husband as a way to enhance romance and good experiences. There is no shortag …
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
2024-10-01 00:00:00

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 …
Why Do They Throw Stuff at the Chosson? Kesuvos 15 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-07-21 00:00:00

Our Mishna on Amud Beis refers to a custom where they would give out roasted grain at the wedding ceremony of a virgin.  What is the basis and symbolism of this custom? Abudarham Laws of Blessings Ninth Gate Blessings on Commandments Marriage Blessings, quoting a verse (Tehilim 147:14) השם גבולך שלום חלב חטים ישביעך which equates peace with abundance of plump grain.  Thus, we are wishing upon the marriage peace …
Why Do People Fake Their Identity? Kesuvos 24 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-07-29 00:00:00

Our Gemara discusses what kinds of testimony is valid to establish lineage. The Gemara has much skepticism about individuals claiming certain lineage.  This makes me wonder, lomdus aside, why not trust a person who declares his identity, especially when in many situations of issur v’heter we trust a person's own testimony, even relating to their food or other personal halakhic issues? We have recently learned of many agunah situations …
Why Can’t You Just Move On? Kiddushin 19 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-09-01 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph addresses the exemption of a minor from capital punishment, even when they are the offender in an adultery case. Tosafos pose the question of why there should even be a debate, since minors are generally exempt from punishments. Tosafos in Arakhin (3a, "Limutei") suggest another line of thought, contemplating whether even a minor should be executed due to "Kalon," which can be translated as "disgrace." What precedent do T …
Whose Orders Are We Following? Kiddushin 42 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-09-24 00:00:00

In our Gemara, we've been discussing the concept of agency, "shelichut." Several important principles have emerged: It is more honorable to perform a mitzvah oneself rather than appointing an agent, even if the mitzvah could technically be carried out by someone else. The concept of "Letikune Shidarticha" suggests that if an agent performs an action that clearly contradicts the appointer's intent, the agency is not valid for that particular ac …
Whom Do We Venerate? The Mitzvah or the One Who Performs It? Bava Kamma 9 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-11-10 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the principle of Hiddur Mitzvah. There is an additional requirement beyond fulfillment of a mitzvah; that is to honor a mitzvah by somehow beautifying it. Rabbi Zeira said that for the embellishment of the performance of a mitzvah, one should spend up to one-third more than the cost. There is an apparent dispute between Rashi and Tosafos regarding the interpretation of "⅓ more." According to Rashi, one should s …
Who Wears The Pants in The Family? Eruvin 86 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-11-03 00:00:00

Maseches Eruvin 86 גמ׳ אמר רב הלכה כרבי שמעון ודוקא בתו אבל בנו לא דאמרי אינשי נבח בך כלבא עול נבח בך גורייתא פוק: GEMARA: Rav said: The halakha is in accordance with the opinion of Rabbi Shimon. The Gemara comments: And this is the halakha only if one went to his daughter’s house; but if he went to his son’s house, no, this is not the halakha. One cannot be sur …
Who is Wrong? The Rebbe or the Student? Sotah 4 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-04-02 00:00:00

People from my parents’ generation used to draw a comparison to the old style of chinuch versus the new post Dr. Spock generation. In the old days, if a child came home from school and was crying that the teacher hit him, the parent would hit him again and say, I“If your teacher hit you, it must be for a good reason!“ While in our times, if a child came home, complaining that the teacher hit him, the parents would rush to the sc …
Who is Testing Whom? Bava Basra 34 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-07-29 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses certain legal situations where both claimants have an equally valid argument, and one has no default assumption of ownership over the other:   There was an incident where two people dispute the ownership of property. This one says: It belonged to my ancestors and I inherited it from them, and that one says: It belonged to my ancestors and I inherited it from them. There was neither evidence nor presumptive o …
Who is a Torah Ignoramus? Sotah 22 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-04-20 00:00:00

Our Gemara on amud aleph lists various criteria that describe an ignoramus (in Torah), as called by the Gemara, an Am-Ha’aretz: תָּנוּ רַבָּנַן: אֵיזֶהוּ עַם הָאָרֶץ? כֹּל שֶׁאֵינוֹ קוֹרֵא קְרִיאַת שְׁמַע שַׁחֲרִית וְעַרְבִית בְּבִרְכוֹתֶיהָ, דִּבְרֵי רַבִּי מֵאִיר. וַחֲכָמִים אוֹמְרִים: כֹּל שֶׁא …
Who Got Esau’s Goat? Bava Basra 72 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-09-05 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph continues the sugya of ayin yaffa, that certain sales and/or gifts are done with a generous spirit which implies that certain extras may be included in the sale or gift. As we have seen in other blogposts, the idea of a gift of being given generously with extras also applies to spiritual gifts. Siach Sarfei Kodesh (Erev Shabbos Kodesh) uses this principal to explain an unusual phrase in the Shabbos morning Amidah. We say: …
Who Gets Married First? Nazir 24 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-02-16 00:00:00

  Our Gemara on Amud Aleph (and the previous Amud) takes a positive spin on the incestuous actions of Lot’s daughters. From their perspective, seeing the destruction of Sodom, they thought the world had come to an end. They saw it as their duty to repopulate the earth even if it meant having relations with their father. As such, since it was in their mind a mitzvah, so it was. (See yesterday’s Psychology of the Daf, Nazir 23.) א …
Who Deserves Wealth? Bava Metzia 35 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-04-03 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses a judgment that people seem to have when comparing the wealthy to the impoverished. In certain halachic/legal situations, there is an assumption that the borrower trusts the lender’s financial assessment but not the reverse; the lender does not trust the borrower. One reason given for this by the Gemara is that people assume God would not have rewarded this man with wealth unless he was trustworthy. Conver …
Wherever You Go, That's where You'll Be Eruvin 55 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-10-02 12:16:43

  רָבָא אָמַר: ״לֹא בַשָּׁמַיִם הִיא״ — לֹא תִּמָּצֵא בְּמִי שֶׁמַּגְבִּיהַּ דַּעְתּוֹ עָלֶיהָ כַּשָּׁמַיִם, וְלֹא תִּמָּצֵא בְּמִי שֶׁמַּרְחִיב דַּעְתּוֹ עָלֶיהָ כַּיָּם. Expounding the verse differently, Rava said: “It is not in heaven” means that Torah is not to be found in som …
Where Charity Begins Bava Metzia 82 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-05-20 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a teaching of Rav Yitschak, regarding the status of a collateral object. Is the object considered still in the possession of the borrower, or once the collateral is taken, it is fully owned by the lender until such a time as the borrower repays the loan? One halachic outcome that depends on this distinction is if the object was lost due to unforeseeable circumstances. If the object is fully possessed by the lende …
When You Point a Finger, Three Other Fingers Point Back at You Nazir 2 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-01-25 00:00:00

We have discussed many times in Psychology of the Daf (see Nedarim 78), Chazal were ambivalent about pious declarations of abstention, such as the vows of the Nazirite, and as the Gemara on daf 4b explains in regard to Shimon Hatzaddik’s suspicion regarding the sincerity of Nazirite vows. Yet, with proper intention and maturity to handle this period of abnegation, it can be a catalyst for humility and change. Our Gemara on Amud Aleph tells …
When Will You Trust Me Again? Kiddushin 27 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-09-08 00:00:00

In our Gemara on Amud Beis, we delve into the intricate process of "Gilgul Shevua," a unique legal procedure. When a defendant is obligated to make an oath to defend their claim, the plaintiff has the opportunity to levy additional accusations, compelling the defendant to take oaths on those matters as well. Remarkably, this applies even when the subsequent accusations lack substantial legal basis, drawing inspiration from the repetition of "Amen …
When Torah and Your Emotional Needs Conflict
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2019-05-02 23:36:35

When Torah and Your Emotional Needs Don’t Feel Compatible   Persons who go through therapy and find access to their deeper feelings can become aware of conflicts that others may not be consciously aware of. For example, unfortunately there are a number of people who habitually talk in Shul. Some may get serious, develop self control, begin to appreciate the value of prayer and solemnity, and stop this behavior. Others may continue for …
When to Meddle and When Not Psychology of the Daf Shabbos 148
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-07-31 11:19:45

אֶלָּא: הַנַּח לְיִשְׂרָאֵל, מוּטָב שֶׁיְּהוּ שׁוֹגְגִין וְאַל יְהוּ מְזִידִין. Rather, in these matters we rely on a different principle: Leave the Jewish people alone, and do not rebuke them. It is better that they be unwitting in their halakhic violations and that they not be intentional sinners, for if they are told about these prohibitions they may not listen anyway. for Vid …
When There is Coercion, There Also is Obligation Kesuvos 29 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-08-04 00:00:00

  Continuing our theme from yesterday’s daf about fear in the classroom and pedagogy, there is another dynamic involved in a relationship of dominance.  Whether ideal or not, when one party coerces and dominates the other party, there also is a moral obligation about the dominant party to provide for the subjugated party.  It is a truism in human nature.  For example, though the master may have many servants and obviousl …
When the Letter of the Law is to Go Above It Bava Metzia 83 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-05-21 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses an incident where Rabbah bar Chanan’s hired porters broke a barrel of wine. Though they were legally hired as watchmen and thus responsible for the mishap, his teacher (Rav) required him to not only release them of liability for the broken barrel, but to even pay them their wages! Rabbah bar Chanan asked Rav, “Is this really the required Halacha?” Rav answered, “Yes it is”, quoting …
When Stolen Waters are not so Sweet Bava Kamma 118 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-02-28 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the prohibition to buy stolen goods. The Rambam (Law of Theft 1:1) warns that to buy stolen goods of any kind is a grave sin, as it encourages the thief’s behavior.  Based on this, Yam Shel Shelomo (58:1) rules that it is still prohibited to purchase from a thief even if he technically acquired the item via making substantial changes so that it is no longer the same object, such as weaving wool into a …
When Second Place is First Class Bava Kamma 109 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-02-19 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the status of the Biblically penalty of an extra fifth imposed for one who confesses that he denied a theft under oath. The particular case is regarding someone who stole from his father, and then denied it under oath, and before he can make restitution, his father dies. Technically, he inherited part of the fine due to his father, and one might think that his percentage of the inheritance should be deducted off …
When Does Life Become Holy Yevamos 67 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-05-13 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the idea that עוּבָּר בִּמְעֵי זָרָה זָר הוא. A fetus in the womb of a non-Cohen who is married to a Cohen, is not considered a Cohen until it is born. This has halakhic implications in terms of the slaves in the household who ordinarily are allowed to eat Terumah as they are part of the Cohen’s household. However, in this case because they are partially owned by this fetus who is …
What’s Worse? Being Constantly Cruel or Ending a Marriage? Sotah 3 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-03-31 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses an opinion that even though the Sotah ritual is activated by the husband according to a formula prescribed by the Torah, this act of jealously warning her to not to be alone with a certain suspected person is forbidden, because it causes strife (see Rashi).  Shitta Mekubetzes raises an obvious logical objection. If it turns out that he legitimately suspects his wife of immoral behavior, and he is not just b …
What We Have When We Have Nothing Gittin 68 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-07-23 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis recounts a period in Solomon's life when he was usurped by the Asmadai demon, who took his place, forcing Solomon into exile. The verse, "And this was my portion from all of my toil" (Ecclesiastes 2:10), raises a question: What is the meaning of the expression "And this"? The Gemara explains that this expression typically refers to an item that is actually in the person's hand or can be shown. Rav and Shmuel offer differen …
What Makes a Jew Jewish? Kiddushin 68 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-10-20 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the status of a child born from a Gentile father and Jewish mother. The child is not a halakhic mamzer but is seen to be of inferior lineage and cannot marry into the priestly families.   This would seem to be contradicted by the following verse in Vayikra (24:10):   וַיֵּצֵא֙ בֶּן־אִשָׁ֣ה יִשְׂרְאֵלִ֔ית וְהוּא֙ בֶּן־אִ֣ישׁ מִצְרִ֔י בְּת֖ …
What loneliness is more lonely than distrust? Pesachim 13 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-12-04 09:48:46

What loneliness is more lonely than distrust? George Eliot   Likewise, collectors of food for the charity plate, who would collect food in large vessels for the poor to eat, who do not have poor people to whom to distribute the food, sell the food to others and do not sell it to themselves, as it is stated: “And you shall be clear before God and before Israel” (Numbers 32:22). It is not sufficient that a person is without sin in …
What Kind of Suffering Merits Forgiveness? Gittin 42 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-06-27 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis delves into the sources and specific laws concerning the automatic release of a Canaanite slave whose master causes him to lose a limb. While the scripture mentions a tooth or eye, the halakhic interpretation extends it to any limb (See Shemos 21:27). Sefer Daf Al Daf presents an insightful derush and analysis of Aggadah by Rav Tzvi Pesach Frank (Vaera 6:5). When Moshe expresses concern over the continued suffering of the …
What is Torah Study? Psychology of the Daf Eruvin 2
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-08-11 09:10:28

  סוכה דאורייתא תני פסולה מבוי דרבנן תני תקנתא The Gemara answers: With regard to sukka, since it is a mitzva by Torah law, the mishna teaches that it is unfit, as if it is not constructed in the proper manner, no mitzva is fulfilled. Whereas with regard to an alleyway, where the entire prohibition of carrying is only by rabbinic law, the mishna teaches the method of rectification, as the cross beam comes …
What is the POINT, really? Eruvin 53 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-10-01 00:00:00

  מַר רַבִּי יוֹחָנָן: לִבָּן שֶׁל רִאשׁוֹנִים כְּפִתְחוֹ שֶׁל אוּלָם, וְשֶׁל אַחֲרוֹנִים כְּפִתְחוֹ שֶׁל הֵיכָל, וְאָנוּ — כִּמְלֹא נֶקֶב מַחַט סִידְקִית. Similarly, Rabbi Yoḥanan said: The hearts, i.e., the wisdom, of the early Sages were like the doorway to the Entrance Hall of the Temple, which was twen …
What is Mazal? Psychology of the Daf Shabbos 146
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-07-29 10:21:09

שֶׁבָּא נָחָשׁ עַל חַוָּה הֵטִיל בָּהּ זוּהֲמָא, יִשְׂרָאֵל שֶׁעָמְדוּ עַל הַר סִינַי — פָּסְקָה זוּהֲמָתָן, גּוֹיִם שֶׁלֹּא עָמְדוּ עַל הַר סִינַי — לֹא פָּסְקָה זוּהֲמָתָן. אֲמַר לֵיהּ רַב אַחָא בְּרֵיהּ דְּרָבָא לְרַב אָשֵׁי: גֵּרִים מַ …
What Halachos Will Eliyahu Explain? Bava Metzia 37 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-04-05 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses several scenarios where there is an unresolved disposition of ownership:   In the case of two people who deposited money with one person, and this one deposited one hundred dinars and that one deposited two hundred dinars, and when they come to collect their deposit, this one says: My deposit was two hundred dinars, and that one says: My deposit was two hundred dinars, the bailee gives one hundred dinars to …
What Does it Take to Achieve Forgiveness for Sin? Nazir 38 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-03-02 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the principle that one does not receive the punishment of lashes for violating a general prohibition “lav shebichlalos”. The prohibition must be a specific item and not a broad or general category. Presumably, any time a negative commandment which also has some factor that lessens the intensity of the prohibition, it somewhat reduces the degree of punishment or reaction. There are other examples as we …
What Do the Dead Know? Bava Metzia 16 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-03-15 00:00:00

Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses the idea that a repentant thief may be disturbed that his reputation as a thief would be discovered after his death. This implies that dead people have an awareness of the goings on in the physical world. However this is subject to debate in Gemara Berachos (18b) with a number of incidents with various sagely and pious persons, the dead and the living.   In one case, a man receives messages from a deceased …
What Do Angels Know? Sotah 33 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-05-01 00:00:00

Our Gemara on amud Aleph tells us that while prayers can technically be said in any language, there are metaphysical barriers when the prayer is not in the holy tongue, l’shon kodesh: תְּפִלָּה רַחֲמֵי הִיא כׇּל הֵיכִי דְּבָעֵי מְצַלֵּי It is stated in the mishna that the Amida prayer may be recited in any language. The reason for this is that since prayer is a request for divine mercy, one may …
What Belongs to Us Chaggigah 8 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-02-16 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes a verse in Devarim 16:17 Describing the expectations of devotional sacrifices one should bring on the festival: אִ֖ישׁ כְּמַתְּנַ֣ת יָד֑וֹ כְּבִרְכַּ֛ת הֹ אֱלֹקיךָ אֲשֶׁ֥ר נָֽתַן־לָֽךְ׃  ⁦but each with his own gift, according to the blessing that the LORD your God has bestowed upon you. The Shalah ( של״ה תורה שבתב ראה דרך חי …
Weighing Sin Bava Metzia 41 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-04-09 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis considers the relative legal severity of two different kinds of watchmen: The free watchman, and the hired watchman. On a simple level, the hired watchman has more legal liability and severity than the free watchman. The hired watchman is liable for theft, and forms of non-negligent loss, while the free watchman can claim the object was stolen and be exempt, so long as he takes an oath that he employed an expected standard …
Wedding Night Trauma Yevamos 41 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-04-15 13:58:49

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph references the custom in Judea (Mishna Kesuvos 1:5) of allowing the betrothed bride and groom to have a period of time to be alone together. (They are married through Kiddushin but have not yet completed nisuin.)
Rashi (“Chutz”) explains:
“That he be accustomed and playful with her, so they not be embarrassed of each other when they consummate on the wedding night.”
While this cus …
Wedding Night Trauma Eruvin 47 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-09-25 10:26:41

  In this section we will discuss and an unusual custom that, according to some, was enacted in order to forestall wedding night trauma. Imagine if one year the Moschiach came  and Elijah the prophet announced that this year the Mitzvah on Seder night is to have a Ham on Rye. Even the most devout believer would probably choke while trying to perform the Mitzvah. This is what wedding night trauma is for some couples who have spent their …
Weaving a Good Peshat Yevamos 5 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-03-11 13:05:36

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the prohibition of Shaatnez, a mixing of wool and linen, and how despite this general prohibition, it is permitted to mix wool and linen in Tzitzis. The Recanti (Ki Tetze 12) “weaves” a Brilliant symbolic explanation of both the prohibition of Shaatnez and why it’s permitted in Tzitzis. I will borrow from what he said, summarize and inject some of my own psychological understanding. It all begin …
We THINK we are Mordechai, but Maybe we are Just Achashveirosh Yevamos 9 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-03-16 00:00:00

Since today is Ta’anis Esther we will tie something from the Daf to a Maharal on Megillas Esther. Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the concept of the Hebrew letter vav, which within scripture, can indicate that whatever is taught in the latter clause also applies to the former clause. In the Maharal’s Commentary on Megillas Esther (Ohr Chadash 1:10) he notes an interesting configuration of letter vavs in the verse that lists Achashv …
We Shape Our Own Heaven or Hell Psychology of the Daf Yomi Gittin 48
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-07-03 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis delves into the matter of payment and the varying forms it can take depending on the nature and circumstances of the obligation. It teaches us that someone who causes damage and is required to pay from their land assets must pay from the best of their land. However, a debtor who utilizes land may use land of medium quality. In a metaphorical and spiritual sense, mystics discuss how one should perceive sin and its consequen …
We Only Have What We Give Pesachim 35 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-12-25 13:34:56

We Only Have What We Give - Isabelle Allende There is a wonderful Alshich on the following verse (Devarim 14:25-27) quoted by our Gemara: וְנָתַתָּ֖ה בַּכָּ֑סֶף וְצַרְתָּ֤ הַכֶּ֙סֶף֙ בְּיָ֣דְךָ֔ וְהָֽלַכְתָּ֙ אֶל־הַמָּק֔וֹם אֲשֶׁ֥ר יִבְחַ֛ר יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ בּֽוֹ׃ you may place the money. Wrap up the money in your hands and take …
We Knead to Be Productive Sotah 24 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-04-21 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis uses specific terms to describe two different levels of mental incapacity that would allow Beis Din to act on behalf of the husband, should his wife be suspected of adultery. In the first case they describe a Shoteh, which is a degree of mental incapacity (see Chagigah 3b which defines a Shoteh, as well as an interesting Psychology of the Daf, Chagigah 3, click here: https://nefesh.org/SimchaFeuerman/chaggigah--talmudic-we …
We Hold These Truths to be Self-Evident Nazir 61 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-03-24 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph implies that Gentiles are not specifically obligated in the commandment to honor thy father and mother. Likewise, Kiddushin (31a) indicates that even the notable Dama ben Nesina, whose stories of honoring his father were legendary examples and object lessons for the sages, was still technically not obligated in honoring his father.  A number of commentaries (see Yad Avraham and Rabbi Akiva Eiger on Shulkhan Arukh YD …
We are Our Own Worst Enemy Eruvin 45 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-09-23 10:28:44

  פַּעַם אַחַת הִכִּירוּ בָּהֶן אוֹיְבִים וְרָדְפוּ אַחֲרֵיהֶם, וְנִכְנְסוּ לִיטּוֹל כְּלֵי זֵיינָן, וְנִכְנְסוּ אוֹיְבִים אַחֲרֵיהֶן. דָּחֲקוּ זֶה אֶת זֶה, וְהָרְגוּ זֶה אֶת זֶה יוֹתֵר מִמַּה שֶּׁהָרְגוּ אוֹיְבִים. בְּאוֹתָהּ שָׁעָה הִתְקִ …
We Are Not Alone Bava Metzia 81 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-05-19 00:00:00

Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses what happens when two people agree to watch each other’s possessions.  Since they are both doing it in exchange, they are considered to be paid watchmen and liable for theft that could have been prevented by more vigilance.  However, the Gemara raises an objection:   But why is this the halacha? It is a case of safeguarding with the owners simultaneous involvement! There is a principle that …
We Are All in the Same Boat Kesuvos 99 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-10-13 00:00:00

What is shelichus or agency at its core?  On the one hand, it makes sense that we should be able to appoint another person as an agent to represent us and execute transactions. On the other hand, it is absurd. How can anyone ever really speak for us and stand in our place?  Even more puzzling, how is it that certain mitzvos can be accomplished by agency, and others not?   (Generally, the rule of thumb is that a mitzvah that mu …
Was Pharaoh a Lamdan? Yevamos 96 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R

Our Gemara on Amud Beis states that a halachic male minor who is nine years and one day old can perform the mitzvah of Yibum.  However, the status of this marriage is not complete until he consummates as a bar mitzvah, and if he dies before doing so, and now his wife falls to yibum to another brother, she must have chalitza and not yibum.  There is some discussion amongst the Rishonim about whether the marriage is valid according to Tor …
Was Pharaoh a Lamdan? Yevamos 96 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-06-10 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis states that a halachic male minor who is nine years and one day old can perform the mitzvah of Yibum.  However, the status of this marriage is not complete until he consummates as a bar mitzvah, and if he dies before doing so, and now his wife falls to yibum to another brother, she must have chalitza and not yibum.  There is some discussion amongst the Rishonim about whether the marriage is valid according to Tor …
Walls and Self-Deception Kesuvos 41 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R

Walls and Self-Deception Kesuvos 41 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-08-16 00:00:00

    Self-deception and unconscious self-destructive urges are confounding.  At times, we make best and sincerest efforts to avoid falling into certain patterns and dysfunctional behavior.  Despite this, like lemmings, we hurl ourselves over the cliff to our doom. Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes a verse (Devarim 22:8) that instructs one to make their home safe: כִּ֤י תִבְנֶה֙ בַּ֣יִת חָדָ֔שׁ וְעָש …
Wake Up Call Psychology of the Daf Shabbos 136
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-07-20 08:06:23

אֲמַר לֵיהּ רָבִינָא לְרַב שֵׁרֵבְיָא: בְּאוּרְתָּא אֲמַר רָבָא הָכִי, לְצַפְרָא הֲדַר בֵּיהּ. אֲמַר לֵיהּ שְׁרִיתוּהָ? יְהֵא רַעֲוָא דְּתִשְׁרוֹ תַּרְבָּא. Ravina said to Rav Sherevya: In the evening Rava indeed said so, as you said; however, in the morning he retracted his statement, and that is what I cited. Rav …
Waiting for the Dust to Settle Bava Basra 165 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-12-06 00:00:00

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: …
Vulnerable to Vulnerability Nedarim 24 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-11-18 00:00:00

The commentary of the Rosh on Amud Aleph explains why a person may be reluctant to accept his host’s invitation without being able to reciprocate, based on the aphorism expressed in Mishley (15:27): וְשׂוֹנֵ֖א מַתָּנֹ֣ת יִחְיֶֽה He who spurns gifts will live long We can well understand why this might be a good character trait, but why does it specifically confer long life? Maharal in Nesivos Olam, Nesiv Haosher (1 …
Verbal Self-Defense Kesuvos 14 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-07-20 00:00:00

  Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses an interesting scenario of the Mamzer Veshasak, which means that a person is accused of being a mamzer, but does not object.  This can be seen as an indicator of admission.  However, in apparent contradiction to this,  the Gemara in Kiddushin (71b) tells us: When two people quarrel with each other, observe which of them becomes silent first. We can assume the silent party is of finer lineage …
Vain Leadership Nedarim 18 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-11-11 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the idea that swearing falsely is more severe than merely violating a neder. Swearing falsely has an additional injunction by which God declared that, “I will not cleanse those who bear my name in vain” (Shemos 20:6). What is this special quality about swearing falsely, compared to other sins, that that draws this particular reaction? In regard to this, God says he will not cleanse. Further developin …
V9
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R

Duty and the Beast Eruvin 69 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-10-16 11:23:26

  ״מִן הַבְּהֵמָה״ — לְהָבִיא בְּנֵי אָדָם הַדּוֹמִין לִבְהֵמָה. מִכָּאן אָמְרוּ: מְקַבְּלִין קׇרְבָּנוֹת מִפּוֹשְׁעֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל, כְּדֵי שֶׁיַּחְזְרוּ בִּתְשׁוּבָה. חוּץ מִן הַמּוּמָר, וְהַמְנַסֵּךְ יַיִן, וְהַמְחַלֵּל שַׁבָּתוֹת בְּפַ …
Uplink to the Heavenly Cloud Yevamos 93 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-06-08 00:00:00

On amud beis we find Rav Yannai troubled by a dream that he had, of a splintered reed. He the dream to mean that he made a halakhic mistake, by relying on a weak proof. Rav Chiyyah comforted him, by reading the dream as the opposite, implying a broken reed is humble and therefore merits to see the truth: How did the Gemara treat dreams?  Are they prophetic, or to be ignored as the result of random images and impulses firing during the night? …
Unrecognizable Differences Kesuvos 49 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-08-24 00:00:00

What do you do when you do not recognize your children?  Of course, I do not mean physically, as that would be unlikely.  I mean, if their behavior is so foreign to you, that you wonder, “How do I even know this person, how can I love him or her?” Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a contradiction between two teachings, where one says that the Raven cares for its young, while another teaching implies that Ravens do not care f …
Unqualified Love Eruvin 58 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-10-06 00:00:00



תַּנְיָא, אָמַר רַבִּי יְהוֹשֻׁעַ בֶּן חֲנַנְיָא: אֵין לְךָ שֶׁיָּפֶה לִמְדִידָה יוֹתֵר מִשַּׁלְשְׁלָאוֹת שֶׁל בַּרְזֶל, אֲבָל מַה נַּעֲשֶׂה שֶׁהֲרֵי אָמְרָה תּוֹרָה: ״וּבְיָדוֹ חֶבֶל מִדָּה״. It was taught in a baraita that Rabbi Yehoshua ben Ḥananya said: You have not …
Unpaid Debts of the Dead Bava Basra 157 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-11-29 00:00:00

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 …
Unorthodox Trauma
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2020-04-12 16:47:15

The following post is written by my wife Chaya Feuerman, LCSW-R who is guesting in this blog: Trauma takes many forms. Many people are blocked from living life as their best Selves due to past or present traumatic experiences. Some people don't even recognize that their experiences have traumatized them and are the cause of difficulties in how they respond to life's stressors including their relationships. Traumatic events are frighteni …
Unnatural Responses to Natural Temptations Kiddushin 40 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-10-05 11:21:21

  Our Gemara on Amud Aleph tells us that if one successfully overcomes a particular temptation to sin, they will merit miraculous salvation. Ben Yehoyada explains that this is "Middah K'neged Middah," a measure for measure response from God. In other words, if we, as individuals, choose to forgo immediate gratification of our natural desires and drives for a higher spiritual purpose, God reciprocates by suspending natural laws and granting u …
Unkosher is Not What it Appears to Be Bava Kamma 101 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-02-11 00:00:00

Our Gemara on amud beis discusses the halachic status of changes in appearance, such as dyes.  This is known as חֲזוּתָא מִילְּתָא “A surface appearance has its own independent significance”. There are numerous halachic implications discussed in the poskim such as if the dye is stolen and is on an object, is returning the object like returning the dye?  Some even relate this discussion to if it is permissibl …
Unkept Promises Kesuvos 109 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-10-16 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a situation where a father-in-law is unable to come up with the funds that he promised for a dowry.  The Mishna uses an unusual idiom: פָשַׁט לוֹ אֶת הָרֶגֶל His father-in-law “stuck his foot out” Rashi offers two peshatim: (1) He sticks out his foot in disrespect. That is to say, “I have no regard for you; clean off my shoes. (2) He says he is broke, sticking out his foo …
Universal Spiritual Solvent Chaggigah 19 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-02-28 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the concept that produce needs to come into contact with water (in the verse, VaYikra 11:38) and other primary liquids in order to become receptive to ritual impurity. However, the proviso is that there be a human will and interest that the water be applied. A random splashing of water that serves no interest to the owner of the produce, unlike washing it, does not make it receptive to ritual impurity. The simpl …
Universal Matzah Kiddushin 67 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-10-19 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the status of an Egyptian, who may not intermarry with a Jew, even if converted, until the third generation post-conversion. As the verses (Devarim 23:8) state: לֹֽא־תְתַעֵ֣ב אֲדֹמִ֔י כִּ֥י אָחִ֖יךָ ה֑וּא לֹא־תְתַעֵ֣ב מִצְרִ֔י כִּי־גֵ֖ר הָיִ֥יתָ בְאַרְצֽוֹ׃ You shall not abhor an Edomite, for such is your kin. You shall not ab …
Understudy and Understood Nedarim 74 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-01-06 00:00:00

In our Gemara on amud beis, after hearing a particularly insightful piece of Torah from Rabbi Akiva, Ben Azai laments, “Woe to Ben Azzai, who did not serve under Rabbi Akiva.”  Meaning, he had opportunity to learn more from Rabbi Akiva if he would have become his assistant or shamess. Torah consists of practical wisdom, and certain matters cannot be learned in a shiur but must be seen and experienced live. This idea is critical, …
Under New Management Nedarim 46Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-12-09 00:00:00

  Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses a scenario where one makes an oath forbidding entry into a home. A distinction is made between whether the person uses the language of “this home“ or “your home.“ If he uses the term “your home“ emphasizing that the home is in possession of this person, if owner of the house dies or sells the house to another, it is permitted for the one who took the vow to enter the ho …
Unconventional Justice: The Case of the Temple Ox Psychology of the Daf Yomi Gittin 49
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-07-04 00:00:00

The Gemara on Amud Aleph examines the unique and counterintuitive status of an ox that belongs to the Temple. The verse in question is Shemos 21:35: "When one person's ox injures another's, so that it dies, they shall sell the live ox and divide its price; they shall also divide the dead animal." The term "רעהו" or "neighbor" emphasizes a peer-to-peer relationship, indicating that there is no financial liability when causing damage to possess …
Unconscious Desires Chaggigah 20 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-03-01 00:00:00

The Mishna on Amud Beis enumerates the ways in which Kodesh, sacrificial products, have stricter purity requirements than Terumah, produce set aside for the Cohanim. The opening example is: חוֹמֶר בַּקֹּדֶשׁ מִבַּתְּרוּמָה שֶׁמַּטְבִּילִין כֵּלִים בְּתוֹךְ כֵּלִים לַתְּרוּמָה אֲבָל לֹא לַקֹּדֶשׁ one may immerse vessels inside other vessels to purify th …
Unconscious Communication Bava Metzia 56 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-04-24 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph uses a scriptural derivation and comparison between real estate and Canaanite slaves. Just as the regular laws of overcharging or undercharging do not apply to real estate, so too, in regard to slaves, they do not apply.   Rav Yonasan Eibshutz (Yaaros Devash 1:17) uses this ruling to explain a deeper idea behind Esther’s plea to Achashverosh (Esther 7:4):   Had we only been sold as slaves, I would have kep …
Unconditional Love Psychology of the Daf Yomi Gittin 77
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-08-01 00:00:00

Continuing our theme from yesterday, let us further explore the material related to the three weeks. In our Gemara on Amud Aleph, we delve into the significance of the Get (divorce document) entering the wife's domain. If a husband places a Get in his courtyard with the intention of the wife acquiring it, it will not be valid, as he still owns the courtyard. Instead, he must physically place it into her hand. The verse in Yeshaiyahu (50:1) states …
Unconditional Love?
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2019-07-21 17:35:06

Joseph was one of those impossible teenagers. He was sullen, absorbed in computer games and social media. He refused to have even a slightly pleasant or respectful conversation with his parents. His grades in school were awful and any time his parents tried to talk to him about it, the discussion would degrade into shouting and cursing. The fighting sometimes became frighteningly aggressive, especially between Joseph and his dad.   Joseph&rs …
Unclaimed Mitzvos Bava Basra 35 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-07-30 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the legal process known as Shuda Dedayni, which we can translate as judicial discretion. That is, in certain legal situations where there is no evidence to prove one litigant’s possession over the other, the judges are allowed discernment and subjective impressions to use in their rulings. This is different from what we discussed in the prior daf, whereby via Kol De’alim Gavar, the judges recuse them …
Unburdened Kiddushin 31 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-10-05 11:21:08

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph recounts the famous story of Dama Ben Nesina, serving as an object lesson for the extent to which one should go to honor one's parents. The rabbis visited Dama to purchase precious gems for the Cohen Gadol's breastplate. Unfortunately, the key to the chest containing the gems was safely tucked under his sleeping father's head. Despite being offered an exorbitant sum, Dama refused to wake his father, apparently believing t …
Unburden the Beast Nedarim 34 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-11-28 00:00:00

Our Gemara discusses a situation where one declares a loaf as Hekdesh (dedicated to the Beis Hamikdash). According to many commentaries, the scenario involves where he has not yet picked up the loaf but since it is within 4 cubits, he has a certain power over it. The idea that a person’s four cubits is their domain comes up in halakha in numerous incidences, and is a rabbinic enactment to allow for acquisition and reduce quarrels about owne …
Unbreakable Love Bava Basra 74 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2024-09-06 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes the visions of Rabbah Bar Hanna. In one of them he sees Mount Sinai and scorpions were encircling it. He heard a Divine Voice saying: Woe is Me that I took an oath; and now that I took the oath, who will nullify it for me? When he reported this vision to the sages, they rebuked him: You should have said to God: Your oath is nullified. The Gemara explains: Rabba bar bar Ḥana did not nullify the oath because he …
Unbearable Urges Kesuvos 51 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-08-26 00:00:00

Note: Aside from yesterday’s post, which included both dappim, today’s post is a repeat from Psychology of the Daf Moed Kattan 17. That posting included a significant line in our Gemara Amud Beis, which implied that sometimes a person can be faced with urges that cannot be controlled. People often repeat this line, “Hashem does not give you a nisayon (challenge) that you cannot overcome.”  While this might inspire som …
Unauthorized Entry Yevamos 57 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2022-05-03 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph tells us that according to Rabbi Yehuda, the congregation of converts is called the congregation, and therefore subject to similar marriage restrictions as non-converts. What is a “congregation” (קהל)? The Shalah (Torah Shebikhsav, Chukas, Torah Ohr) explains that there are four kinds of “congregations” within the Jewish nation as used in scripture: Am (עם), Kehal (קהל), Eidah (עדה), and …
Umbrella Policy Gittin 18 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
2023-06-02 00:00:00

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph references the metaphysical idea that one does not do actions (or even say things) that hasten painful or disturbing events. Thus the Gemara later on 75b says if one is giving a Get on a stipulation that he dies (so as to protect his wife from falling to Yibum), the stipulations should reference “if I live” first, and then mention the other conditional clause about what happens should he die. This is so as not …
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