Feb. 20, 2025

Ramban on this week's Parsha, Parshas Mishpatim:

The following is an assemblage of critical essays and remarks by Ramban on this week's Parsha, Parshas Mishpatim: In Chapter 21, verse 1, Ramban elucidates the meaning of "placing the laws before Israel." In Chapter 22, verse 20, he explores the Jewish capacity for empathy towards converts, derived from their own historical experiences. Ramban's translation of a pivotal term is noteworthy in Chapter 22, verse 26. In Chapter 23, verse 25, he addresses the appropriate service to the one true G-d. Lastly, in Chapter 24, verse 11, Ramban profoundly interprets a complex phrase, leading to a halachic culmination.

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…