by Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Haber | Feb 17, 2013
The Ramchal writes (Derech Hashem Chap. 7), in explaining the Moadim, that the Jewish calendar is cyclical, not linear. Therefore, the events that took place during each of the Yomim Tovim made an indelible impression on the calendar cycle, and when the cycle comes...
by Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Haber | Mar 2, 2012
When the commandment is set forth to create the holiday of Purim, at the end of Megillas Esther, it is set forth as a “day of feasting and joy, of sending food to each other, and gifts to the destitute” (Esther 9:22). This verse is the source for many of the mitzvos...
by Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Haber | Feb 28, 2012
Mishenichnas Adar Marbim B’Simcha The oft sung phrase “Mishenichnas Adar Marbim B’Simcha”, When the month of Adar arrives we should increase our joy, is often taken at its simple meaning that we should act and be more joyous during the month of Adar. Let us look...
by Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Haber | Mar 5, 2009
There are several Purim halachos that I feel are underestimated in their significance that I’d like to quickly run through here. Taanis Esther Taanis Esther, the day before Purim is a Rabbinic fast day. It is however considered by most to be the least stringent...