Oct. 28, 2024

Five Strategies for Maximizing the Winter Zman: A Critical Period for Torah Advancement

Five Strategies for Maximizing the Winter Zman: A Critical Period for Torah Advancement
  1. Be prepared in advance for the Zman. Gather the necessary holy texts and essential supplies. Cultivate the right mindset, resembling the determination and focus of an Olympic athlete before a marathon.
  2. Select your chavrusa wisely. Pairing study partners is akin to making a shidduch, requiring consideration of skills, interests, temperament, and schedule. Good friends may only sometimes be suitable chavrusa; if too much time is spent chatting instead of studying, it is advisable to find a different chavrusa.
  3. Successful Torah study demands deep concentration, necessitating the minimization of distractions. Establish boundaries for how often you check the news, use leisure technology, or take breaks.
  4. A schedule is a strategic plan detailing tasks or events with set times. It enhances productivity, reduces stress, and aids in time management. A well-structured daily schedule during the Winter Zman is essential.
  5. Goals are necessary as they offer clarity, motivation, proportions, accountability, and a sense of achievement, providing a clear roadmap for a successful Winter Zman.

Navigating the Transition: The Afternoon Purim Seudah into Shabbas and the Halachic Principle of Poreis Mapah U'Mekadeish

Part 1: The Shulchan Aruch (249:2) rules that on Friday, one is prohibited from eating a large meal that is not typically consumed on a weekday. The Rama adds that a seudah [mitzvah] that falls on Friday, such as a bris or pidyon haben, is permitte…

Who Is Amalek?

Amalek (עֲמָלֵק‎) is the enemy nation of the Israelites. The name "Amalek" can refer to the descendants of Amalek, the grandson of Esav, anyone who lived in their territories in Canaan, or North African descendants of Cham, the son of Noach. Regar…