Healthcare on Chol Hamoed - Revision history

YitzchakSultan1 at 19:45, 5 May 2024

2024-05-05T19:45:41Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:45, 5 May 2024
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	It seems to emerge that there is a major dispute whether it is permitted to do melacha to relieve pain. However, this understanding is questionable. Chaye Adam’s approach is based on assuming that treating an illness is similar to doing melacha to avoid a dvar ha’aved, a loss. The same idea can be found in the Meiri (m"k 10b s.v. makizin). Therefore, that only allows doing melacha for someone who is sick but not to relieve pain. If, however, one were to consider the melacha in terms of tzorech hamoed, a need for the moed, it should be permitted to do unskilled melacha that doesn't involve excessive effort to relieve pain. This is the ruling of Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), even though he is strict for Chaye Adam, Pri Megadim, and Mishna Brurah.		It seems to emerge that there is a major dispute whether it is permitted to do melacha to relieve pain. However, this understanding is questionable. Chaye Adam’s approach is based on assuming that treating an illness is similar to doing melacha to avoid a dvar ha’aved, a loss. The same idea can be found in the Meiri (m"k 10b s.v. makizin). Therefore, that only allows doing melacha for someone who is sick but not to relieve pain. If, however, one were to consider the melacha in terms of tzorech hamoed, a need for the moed, it should be permitted to do unskilled melacha that doesn't involve excessive effort to relieve pain. This is the ruling of Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), even though he is strict for Chaye Adam, Pri Megadim, and Mishna Brurah.

	In summary, it is permitted to do unskilled melacha without excessive effort to relieve pain. In terms of doing skilled labor to treat pain that should be a practical ramification between the different opinions above. According to Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), treating pain is only permitted is because it is unskilled labor and tzorech hamoed. However, according to Shemirat Shabbat Kehichata<ref>ch. ~~66 fnt~~. 88</ref> treating pain should be permitted even with skilled labor since it is considered like ochel nefesh, for which even skilled labor is permitted.<ref>~~Shulchan Aruch O~~.C. ~~533:5, Mishna Brurah 530:1~~</ref>		In summary, it is permitted to do unskilled melacha without excessive effort to relieve pain. In terms of doing skilled labor to treat pain that should be a practical ramification between the different opinions above. According to Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), treating pain is only permitted is because it is unskilled labor and tzorech hamoed. However, according to Shemirat Shabbat Kehichata<ref>Piskei Chol Hamoed s.v. Kishut Haguf</ref> treating pain should be permitted even with skilled labor since it is considered like ochel nefesh, for which even skilled labor is permitted.<ref>m"k 8b s.v. oseh and 14a s.v. vshaar</ref>

	=== B. Well Visits and Checkups ===		=== B. Well Visits and Checkups ===
	All of the above is regarding treating an illness or relieving pain, but is it permitted to practice healthcare just to guard one’s health?		All of the above is regarding treating an illness or relieving pain, but is it permitted to practice healthcare just to guard one’s health?

	Meiri<ref>~~m"k 10b~~ s.v. ~~makizin~~</ref> writes that it is permitted to do medical care on Chol Hamoed because that is considered dvar ha'aved. He adds that it is even permitted to treat someone to protect his health even if he's not sick. It isn't clear if he permits melacha for someone who isn't sick, or he only permitted that person to take medicine.		Meiri<ref>546:5 s.v. kol</ref> writes that it is permitted to do medical care on Chol Hamoed because that is considered dvar ha'aved. He adds that it is even permitted to treat someone to protect his health even if he's not sick. It isn't clear if he permits melacha for someone who isn't sick, or he only permitted that person to take medicine.

	Rav Elyashiv<ref>~~Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 62 fnt. 12)~~</ref> allowed a regular cleaning at the dentist during Chol Hamoed. The reason is that he considers this to be included in doing melacha for healthcare that is permitted. Rav Sheinberg<ref>~~ibid.~~</ref> goes further and permits scheduling a doctor appointment for Chol Hamoed. His reason is that he compares treating a person’s health to ochel nefesh, preparing food, which is permitted even if he planned to do it on Chol Hamoed. Rav Schachter<ref>Rav Schachter [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/733780/Rabbi_Hershel_Schachter/Hilchos_Chol_Hamoed (Hilchot Chol Hamoed, min 29-30)]</ref> and Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> agree.		Rav Elyashiv<ref>Biurim 6</ref> allowed a regular cleaning at the dentist during Chol Hamoed. The reason is that he considers this to be included in doing melacha for healthcare that is permitted. Rav Sheinberg<ref>cited by Magen Avraham 251:5</ref> goes further and permits scheduling a doctor appointment for Chol Hamoed. His reason is that he compares treating a person’s health to ochel nefesh, preparing food, which is permitted even if he planned to do it on Chol Hamoed. Rav Schachter<ref>Rav Schachter [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/733780/Rabbi_Hershel_Schachter/Hilchos_Chol_Hamoed (Hilchot Chol Hamoed, min 29-30)]</ref> and Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> agree.

	However, Rav Moshe<ref>Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1</ref> writes that it is forbidden to go to the dentist for a well visit since there the dentist is going to do melacha and there is no reason to permit it. Since a person isn’t in pain there’s no reason to permit the melacha.		However, Rav Moshe<ref>Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1</ref> writes that it is forbidden to go to the dentist for a well visit since there the dentist is going to do melacha and there is no reason to permit it. Since a person isn’t in pain there’s no reason to permit the melacha.
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	=== C. Elective Surgery ===		=== C. Elective Surgery ===
	Mishmeret Moed<ref>by Rabbi Tzion Boaharon p. 76</ref> writes that it is forbidden to schedule an elective surgery on Chol Hamoed since that inflicts pain on a person on Chol Hamoed, which diminishes his simchat hamoed. This concept that it is forbidden to diminish a person’s simchat hamoed in the Mishna.<ref>m”k 7a regarding declaring a metzora to be tameh.</ref> However, Aruch Hashulchan<ref>532:2</ref> dismisses this concept. He writes that it is permitted to do medical treatment that is painful on Chol Hamoed because of its ultimate purpose.		Mishmeret Moed<ref>by Rabbi Tzion Boaharon p. 76</ref> writes that it is forbidden to schedule an elective surgery on Chol Hamoed since that inflicts pain on a person on Chol Hamoed, which diminishes his simchat hamoed. This concept that it is forbidden to diminish a person’s simchat hamoed in the Mishna.<ref>m”k 7a regarding declaring a metzora to be tameh.</ref> However, Aruch Hashulchan<ref>532:2</ref> dismisses this concept. He writes that it is permitted to do medical treatment that is painful on Chol Hamoed because of its ultimate purpose.
			===D. Personal Needs===
			The concept of treating personal needs like ochel nefesh is found in the Ramban,<ref>Piskei Chol Hamoed s.v. Kishut Haguf</ref> Ritva,<ref>m"k 8b s.v. oseh and 14a s.v. vshaar</ref> and Biur Halacha,<ref>546:5 s.v. kol</ref> however, Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo<ref>Biurim 6</ref> argues that it is not accepted as the halacha. His proof is from Rashba and Kol Bo.<ref>cited by Magen Avraham 251:5</ref><references />

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2024-05-05T19:45:21Z

Undo revision 32963 by YitzchakSultan1 (talk)

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:45, 5 May 2024
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	=== A. Melacha to Relieve Pain ===		=== A. Melacha to Relieve Pain ===
	Shulchan Aruch~~<ref>~~O.C. 532:2~~</ref>~~ permits healthcare on Chol Hamoed. What remains unclear is whether he permitted it for everyone and whether this permit includes melacha or only taking medicine. Magen Avraham~~<ref~~ writes~~=""~~ that~~="" shulchan="" aruch=""~~ permitted~~=""~~ taking~~=""~~ medicine.~~="" this=""~~ is~~=""~~ certainly~~=""~~ justified~~=""~~ based~~=""~~ on~~=""~~ the~~=""~~ sources~~=""~~ for~~="" aruch~~.~~=""~~ is,~~="" aruch’s=""~~ ruling~~=""~~ a~~="" tosefta=""~~ permits~~=""~~ person~~=""~~ to~~=""~~ drink~~=""~~ medicinal~~=""~~ drinks~~="" chol="" hamoed~~,~~=""~~ which~~=""~~ codified~~=""~~ by~~="" rif=""~~ and~~="" rosh~~.~~="" magen="" avraham=""~~ implies~~=""~~ only~~=""~~ medicine~~=""~~ but~~=""~~ actual~~=""~~ melacha~~=""~~ healthcare~~=""~~ forbidden~~="" hamoed~~.~~=""~~ further~~=""~~ supported~~=""~~ implication~~=""~~ in~~="" pri="" megadim="" e”a=""~~ 532:2~~=""~~ it~~=""~~ do~~=""~~ shein~~=""~~ bo~~=""~~ sakana,~~=""~~ who~~=""~~ sick~~=""~~ even~~=""~~ though~~=""~~ isn’t~~=""~~ mortal~~=""~~ danger.~~="" mishna="" brurah’s=""~~ (532:5)~~=""~~ formulation~~=""~~ echoes~~=""~~ of~~=""~~ someone~~=""~~ sick,~~=""~~ not~~=""~~ just~~=""~~ relieve~~=""~~ pain.~~="" pitchei="" teshuvot=""~~ 532:3~~="" hilchot="" hamoed="" zichron="" shlomo=""~~ (~~biurim=""~~ 6)~~=""~~ are~~=""~~ strict.="" other="" hand,="" rav="" moshe="" (igrot="" oc="" 3:78:1)="" treat="" pain="" zalman="" auerbach="" (shemirat="" shabbat="" kehilchata="" ch.="" 66="" fnt.="" 88)="" also="" agrees="" with="" this.="" seems="" emerge="" there="" major="" dispute="" whether="" however,="" understanding="" questionable.="" chaye="" adam’s="" approach="" assuming="" treating="" an="" illness="" similar="" doing="" avoid="" dvar="" ha’aved,="" loss.="" same="" idea="" can="" be="" found="" meiri="" (m"k="" 10b="" s.v.="" makizin).="" therefore,="" allows="" pain. if,="" one="" were="" consider="" terms="" tzorech="" need="" moed,="" should="" unskilled="" doesn't="" involve="" excessive="" effort="" (p.="" 61="" biurim="" 6),="" he="" strict="" adam,="" megadim,="" brurah.="" summary,="" without="" skilled="" labor="" practical="" ramification="" between="" different="" opinions="" above.="" according="" because="" shemirat="" kehichata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> treating pain should be permitted even with skilled labor since it is considered like ochel nefesh, for which even skilled labor is permitted.<ref>Shulchan Aruch O.C. 533:5, Mishna Brurah 530:1</ref>		Shulchan Aruch O.C. 532:2 permits healthcare on Chol Hamoed. What remains unclear is whether he permitted it for everyone and whether this permit includes melacha or only taking medicine. Magen Avraham 532:2 writes that Shulchan Aruch permitted taking medicine. This is certainly justified based on the sources for Shulchan Aruch. That is, Shulchan Aruch’s ruling is based on a Tosefta that permits a person to drink medicinal drinks on Chol Hamoed, which is codified by the Rif and Rosh. Magen Avraham implies that only taking medicine is permitted but actual melacha for healthcare is forbidden on Chol Hamoed. This is further supported by the implication in Pri Megadim E”A 532:2 that it is only permitted to do melacha for a chol shein bo sakana, a person who is sick even though it isn’t mortal danger. Mishna Brurah’s (532:5) formulation echoes that of Pri Megadim and implies that melacha is only permitted for someone who is sick, but not just to relieve pain. Pitchei Teshuvot 532:3 and Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (Biurim 6) are strict.

	===B. Well Visits and Checkups===		On the other hand, Rav Moshe (Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1) implies that it is permitted to do melacha to treat pain on Chol Hamoed. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata ch. 66 fnt. 88) also agrees with this.

			It seems to emerge that there is a major dispute whether it is permitted to do melacha to relieve pain. However, this understanding is questionable. Chaye Adam’s approach is based on assuming that treating an illness is similar to doing melacha to avoid a dvar ha’aved, a loss. The same idea can be found in the Meiri (m"k 10b s.v. makizin). Therefore, that only allows doing melacha for someone who is sick but not to relieve pain. If, however, one were to consider the melacha in terms of tzorech hamoed, a need for the moed, it should be permitted to do unskilled melacha that doesn't involve excessive effort to relieve pain. This is the ruling of Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), even though he is strict for Chaye Adam, Pri Megadim, and Mishna Brurah.

			In summary, it is permitted to do unskilled melacha without excessive effort to relieve pain. In terms of doing skilled labor to treat pain that should be a practical ramification between the different opinions above. According to Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), treating pain is only permitted is because it is unskilled labor and tzorech hamoed. However, according to Shemirat Shabbat Kehichata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> treating pain should be permitted even with skilled labor since it is considered like ochel nefesh, for which even skilled labor is permitted.<ref>Shulchan Aruch O.C. 533:5, Mishna Brurah 530:1</ref>

			=== B. Well Visits and Checkups ===
	All of the above is regarding treating an illness or relieving pain, but is it permitted to practice healthcare just to guard one’s health?		All of the above is regarding treating an illness or relieving pain, but is it permitted to practice healthcare just to guard one’s health?

	Meiri<ref>m"k 10b s.v. makizin</ref> writes that it is permitted to do medical care on Chol Hamoed because that is considered dvar ha'aved. He adds that it is even permitted to treat someone to protect his health even if he's not sick. It isn't clear if he permits melacha for someone who isn't sick, or he only permitted that person to take medicine.		Meiri<ref>m"k 10b s.v. makizin</ref> writes that it is permitted to do medical care on Chol Hamoed because that is considered dvar ha'aved. He adds that it is even permitted to treat someone to protect his health even if he's not sick. It isn't clear if he permits melacha for someone who isn't sick, or he only permitted that person to take medicine.

	Rav Elyashiv<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 62 fnt. 12)</ref> allowed a regular cleaning at the dentist during Chol Hamoed. The reason is that he considers this to be included in doing melacha for healthcare that is permitted. Rav Sheinberg<ref>ibid.</ref> goes further and permits scheduling a doctor appointment for Chol Hamoed. His reason is that he compares treating a person’s health to ochel nefesh, preparing food, which is permitted even if he planned to do it on Chol Hamoed. Rav Schachter<ref>Rav Schachter [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/733780/Rabbi_Hershel_Schachter/Hilchos_Chol_Hamoed (Hilchot Chol Hamoed, min 29-30)]</ref> and Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> agree.		Rav Elyashiv<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 62 fnt. 12)</ref> allowed a regular cleaning at the dentist during Chol Hamoed. The reason is that he considers this to be included in doing melacha for healthcare that is permitted. Rav Sheinberg<ref>ibid.</ref> goes further and permits scheduling a doctor appointment for Chol Hamoed. His reason is that he compares treating a person’s health to ochel nefesh, preparing food, which is permitted even if he planned to do it on Chol Hamoed. Rav Schachter<ref>Rav Schachter [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/733780/Rabbi_Hershel_Schachter/Hilchos_Chol_Hamoed (Hilchot Chol Hamoed, min 29-30)]</ref> and Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> agree.

	However, Rav Moshe<ref>Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1</ref> writes that it is forbidden to go to the dentist for a well visit since there the dentist is going to do melacha and there is no reason to permit it. Since a person isn’t in pain there’s no reason to permit the melacha.		However, Rav Moshe<ref>Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1</ref> writes that it is forbidden to go to the dentist for a well visit since there the dentist is going to do melacha and there is no reason to permit it. Since a person isn’t in pain there’s no reason to permit the melacha.

	Similarly, the Debretziner<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (teshuva n. 35)</ref> forbids making an appointment with a Jewish doctor for a well visit since the doctor is going to need to do melacha and that is forbidden for someone who is well. Also, it is only permitted to go to a non-Jewish doctor if he didn’t plan to go before the Moed. He may not schedule the visit before the Moed.		Similarly, the Debretziner<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (teshuva n. 35)</ref> forbids making an appointment with a Jewish doctor for a well visit since the doctor is going to need to do melacha and that is forbidden for someone who is well. Also, it is only permitted to go to a non-Jewish doctor if he didn’t plan to go before the Moed. He may not schedule the visit before the Moed.

	===C. Elective Surgery===		=== C. Elective Surgery ===
	Mishmeret Moed<ref>by Rabbi Tzion Boaharon p. 76</ref> writes that it is forbidden to schedule an elective surgery on Chol Hamoed since that inflicts pain on a person on Chol Hamoed, which diminishes his simchat hamoed. This concept that it is forbidden to diminish a person’s simchat hamoed in the Mishna.<ref>m”k 7a regarding declaring a metzora to be tameh.</ref> However, Aruch Hashulchan<ref>532:2</ref> dismisses this concept. He writes that it is permitted to do medical treatment that is painful on Chol Hamoed because of its ultimate purpose.		Mishmeret Moed<ref>by Rabbi Tzion Boaharon p. 76</ref> writes that it is forbidden to schedule an elective surgery on Chol Hamoed since that inflicts pain on a person on Chol Hamoed, which diminishes his simchat hamoed. This concept that it is forbidden to diminish a person’s simchat hamoed in the Mishna.<ref>m”k 7a regarding declaring a metzora to be tameh.</ref> However, Aruch Hashulchan<ref>532:2</ref> dismisses this concept. He writes that it is permitted to do medical treatment that is painful on Chol Hamoed because of its ultimate purpose.

	~~=== D. Personal Needs ===~~
	The concept of treating personal needs like ochel nefesh is found in the Ramban,<ref>Piskei Chol Hamoed s.v. Kishut Haguf</ref> Ritva,<ref>m"k 8b s.v. oseh and 14a s.v. vshaar</ref> and Biur Halacha,<ref>546:5 s.v. kol</ref> however, Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo<ref>Biurim 6</ref> argues that it is not accepted as the halacha. His proof is from Rashba and Kol Bo.<ref>cited by Magen Avraham 251:5</ref>

	~~<references />~~

YitzchakSultan1 at 19:31, 5 May 2024

2024-05-05T19:31:49Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:31, 5 May 2024
Line 2:		Line 2:

	=== A. Melacha to Relieve Pain ===		=== A. Melacha to Relieve Pain ===
	Shulchan Aruch O.C. 532:2 permits healthcare on Chol Hamoed. What remains unclear is whether he permitted it for everyone and whether this permit includes melacha or only taking medicine. Magen Avraham ~~532:2~~ writes that ~~Shulchan Aruch~~ permitted taking medicine. ~~This~~ is certainly justified based on the sources for ~~Shulchan Aruch~~. ~~That~~ is, ~~Shulchan Aruch’s~~ ruling ~~is based on~~ a ~~Tosefta that~~ permits a person to drink medicinal drinks ~~on Chol Hamoed~~, which is codified by ~~the Rif~~ and ~~Rosh~~. ~~Magen Avraham~~ implies ~~that~~ only ~~taking~~ medicine ~~is permitted~~ but actual melacha ~~for~~ healthcare is forbidden ~~on Chol Hamoed~~. ~~This is~~ further supported ~~by the~~ implication in ~~Pri Megadim E”A~~ 532:2 ~~that~~ it ~~is only permitted to~~ do ~~melacha for a chol~~ shein bo sakana, ~~a person~~ who is sick even though it isn’t mortal danger. ~~Mishna Brurah’s~~ (532:5) formulation echoes ~~that~~ of ~~Pri Megadim and implies that melacha is only permitted for~~ someone ~~who is~~ sick, ~~but~~ not just to relieve pain. ~~Pitchei Teshuvot~~ 532:3 ~~and Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo~~ (~~Biurim~~ 6) are strict.		Shulchan Aruch<ref>O.C. 532:2</ref> permits healthcare on Chol Hamoed. What remains unclear is whether he permitted it for everyone and whether this permit includes melacha or only taking medicine. Magen Avraham<ref writes="" that="" shulchan="" aruch="" permitted="" taking="" medicine.="" this="" is="" certainly="" justified="" based="" on="" the="" sources="" for="" aruch.="" is,="" aruch’s="" ruling="" a="" tosefta="" permits="" person="" to="" drink="" medicinal="" drinks="" chol="" hamoed,="" which="" codified="" by="" rif="" and="" rosh.="" magen="" avraham="" implies="" only="" medicine="" but="" actual="" melacha="" healthcare="" forbidden="" hamoed.="" further="" supported="" implication="" in="" pri="" megadim="" e”a="" 532:2="" it="" do="" shein="" bo="" sakana,="" who="" sick="" even="" though="" isn’t="" mortal="" danger.="" mishna="" brurah’s="" (532:5)="" formulation="" echoes="" of="" someone="" sick,="" not="" just="" relieve="" pain.="" pitchei="" teshuvot="" 532:3="" hilchot="" hamoed="" zichron="" shlomo="" (biurim="" 6)="" are="" strict.="" other="" hand,="" rav="" moshe="" (igrot="" oc="" 3:78:1)="" treat="" pain="" zalman="" auerbach="" (shemirat="" shabbat="" kehilchata="" ch.="" 66="" fnt.="" 88)="" also="" agrees="" with="" this.="" seems="" emerge="" there="" major="" dispute="" whether="" however,="" understanding="" questionable.="" chaye="" adam’s="" approach="" assuming="" treating="" an="" illness="" similar="" doing="" avoid="" dvar="" ha’aved,="" loss.="" same="" idea="" can="" be="" found="" meiri="" (m"k="" 10b="" s.v.="" makizin).="" therefore,="" allows="" pain. if,="" one="" were="" consider="" terms="" tzorech="" need="" moed,="" should="" unskilled="" doesn't="" involve="" excessive="" effort="" (p.="" 61="" biurim="" 6),="" he="" strict="" adam,="" megadim,="" brurah.="" summary,="" without="" skilled="" labor="" practical="" ramification="" between="" different="" opinions="" above.="" according="" because="" shemirat="" kehichata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> treating pain should be permitted even with skilled labor since it is considered like ochel nefesh, for which even skilled labor is permitted.<ref>Shulchan Aruch O.C. 533:5, Mishna Brurah 530:1</ref>

	On the other hand, Rav Moshe (Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1) implies that it is permitted to do melacha to treat pain on Chol Hamoed. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata ch. 66 fnt. 88) also agrees with this.		===B. Well Visits and Checkups===

	It seems to emerge that there is a major dispute whether it is permitted to do melacha to relieve pain. However, this understanding is questionable. Chaye Adam’s approach is based on assuming that treating an illness is similar to doing melacha to avoid a dvar ha’aved, a loss. The same idea can be found in the Meiri (m"k 10b s.v. makizin). Therefore, that only allows doing melacha for someone who is sick but not to relieve pain. If, however, one were to consider the melacha in terms of tzorech hamoed, a need for the moed, it should be permitted to do unskilled melacha that doesn't involve excessive effort to relieve pain. This is the ruling of Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), even though he is strict for Chaye Adam, Pri Megadim, and Mishna Brurah.

	In summary, it is permitted to do unskilled melacha without excessive effort to relieve pain. In terms of doing skilled labor to treat pain that should be a practical ramification between the different opinions above. According to Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), treating pain is only permitted is because it is unskilled labor and tzorech hamoed. However, according to Shemirat Shabbat Kehichata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> treating pain should be permitted even with skilled labor since it is considered like ochel nefesh, for which even skilled labor is permitted.<ref>Shulchan Aruch O.C. 533:5, Mishna Brurah 530:1</ref>

	=== B. Well Visits and Checkups ===
	All of the above is regarding treating an illness or relieving pain, but is it permitted to practice healthcare just to guard one’s health?		All of the above is regarding treating an illness or relieving pain, but is it permitted to practice healthcare just to guard one’s health?

	Meiri<ref>m"k 10b s.v. makizin</ref> writes that it is permitted to do medical care on Chol Hamoed because that is considered dvar ha'aved. He adds that it is even permitted to treat someone to protect his health even if he's not sick. It isn't clear if he permits melacha for someone who isn't sick, or he only permitted that person to take medicine.		Meiri<ref>m"k 10b s.v. makizin</ref> writes that it is permitted to do medical care on Chol Hamoed because that is considered dvar ha'aved. He adds that it is even permitted to treat someone to protect his health even if he's not sick. It isn't clear if he permits melacha for someone who isn't sick, or he only permitted that person to take medicine.

	Rav Elyashiv<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 62 fnt. 12)</ref> allowed a regular cleaning at the dentist during Chol Hamoed. The reason is that he considers this to be included in doing melacha for healthcare that is permitted. Rav Sheinberg<ref>ibid.</ref> goes further and permits scheduling a doctor appointment for Chol Hamoed. His reason is that he compares treating a person’s health to ochel nefesh, preparing food, which is permitted even if he planned to do it on Chol Hamoed. Rav Schachter<ref>Rav Schachter [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/733780/Rabbi_Hershel_Schachter/Hilchos_Chol_Hamoed (Hilchot Chol Hamoed, min 29-30)]</ref> and Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> agree.		Rav Elyashiv<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 62 fnt. 12)</ref> allowed a regular cleaning at the dentist during Chol Hamoed. The reason is that he considers this to be included in doing melacha for healthcare that is permitted. Rav Sheinberg<ref>ibid.</ref> goes further and permits scheduling a doctor appointment for Chol Hamoed. His reason is that he compares treating a person’s health to ochel nefesh, preparing food, which is permitted even if he planned to do it on Chol Hamoed. Rav Schachter<ref>Rav Schachter [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/733780/Rabbi_Hershel_Schachter/Hilchos_Chol_Hamoed (Hilchot Chol Hamoed, min 29-30)]</ref> and Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> agree.

	However, Rav Moshe<ref>Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1</ref> writes that it is forbidden to go to the dentist for a well visit since there the dentist is going to do melacha and there is no reason to permit it. Since a person isn’t in pain there’s no reason to permit the melacha.		However, Rav Moshe<ref>Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1</ref> writes that it is forbidden to go to the dentist for a well visit since there the dentist is going to do melacha and there is no reason to permit it. Since a person isn’t in pain there’s no reason to permit the melacha.

	Similarly, the Debretziner<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (teshuva n. 35)</ref> forbids making an appointment with a Jewish doctor for a well visit since the doctor is going to need to do melacha and that is forbidden for someone who is well. Also, it is only permitted to go to a non-Jewish doctor if he didn’t plan to go before the Moed. He may not schedule the visit before the Moed.		Similarly, the Debretziner<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (teshuva n. 35)</ref> forbids making an appointment with a Jewish doctor for a well visit since the doctor is going to need to do melacha and that is forbidden for someone who is well. Also, it is only permitted to go to a non-Jewish doctor if he didn’t plan to go before the Moed. He may not schedule the visit before the Moed.

	=== C. Elective Surgery ===		===C. Elective Surgery===
	Mishmeret Moed<ref>by Rabbi Tzion Boaharon p. 76</ref> writes that it is forbidden to schedule an elective surgery on Chol Hamoed since that inflicts pain on a person on Chol Hamoed, which diminishes his simchat hamoed. This concept that it is forbidden to diminish a person’s simchat hamoed in the Mishna.<ref>m”k 7a regarding declaring a metzora to be tameh.</ref> However, Aruch Hashulchan<ref>532:2</ref> dismisses this concept. He writes that it is permitted to do medical treatment that is painful on Chol Hamoed because of its ultimate purpose.		Mishmeret Moed<ref>by Rabbi Tzion Boaharon p. 76</ref> writes that it is forbidden to schedule an elective surgery on Chol Hamoed since that inflicts pain on a person on Chol Hamoed, which diminishes his simchat hamoed. This concept that it is forbidden to diminish a person’s simchat hamoed in the Mishna.<ref>m”k 7a regarding declaring a metzora to be tameh.</ref> However, Aruch Hashulchan<ref>532:2</ref> dismisses this concept. He writes that it is permitted to do medical treatment that is painful on Chol Hamoed because of its ultimate purpose.

			=== D. Personal Needs ===
			The concept of treating personal needs like ochel nefesh is found in the Ramban,<ref>Piskei Chol Hamoed s.v. Kishut Haguf</ref> Ritva,<ref>m"k 8b s.v. oseh and 14a s.v. vshaar</ref> and Biur Halacha,<ref>546:5 s.v. kol</ref> however, Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo<ref>Biurim 6</ref> argues that it is not accepted as the halacha. His proof is from Rashba and Kol Bo.<ref>cited by Magen Avraham 251:5</ref>

			<references />

YitzchakSultan1 at 19:20, 5 May 2024

2024-05-05T19:20:59Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:20, 5 May 2024
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	Similarly, the Debretziner<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (teshuva n. 35)</ref> forbids making an appointment with a Jewish doctor for a well visit since the doctor is going to need to do melacha and that is forbidden for someone who is well. Also, it is only permitted to go to a non-Jewish doctor if he didn’t plan to go before the Moed. He may not schedule the visit before the Moed.		Similarly, the Debretziner<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (teshuva n. 35)</ref> forbids making an appointment with a Jewish doctor for a well visit since the doctor is going to need to do melacha and that is forbidden for someone who is well. Also, it is only permitted to go to a non-Jewish doctor if he didn’t plan to go before the Moed. He may not schedule the visit before the Moed.

	C. Elective Surgery		=== C. Elective Surgery ===

	Mishmeret Moed<ref>by Rabbi Tzion Boaharon p. 76</ref> writes that it is forbidden to schedule an elective surgery on Chol Hamoed since that inflicts pain on a person on Chol Hamoed, which diminishes his simchat hamoed. This concept that it is forbidden to diminish a person’s simchat hamoed in the Mishna.<ref>m”k 7a regarding declaring a metzora to be tameh.</ref> However, Aruch Hashulchan<ref>532:2</ref> dismisses this concept. He writes that it is permitted to do medical treatment that is painful on Chol Hamoed because of its ultimate purpose.		Mishmeret Moed<ref>by Rabbi Tzion Boaharon p. 76</ref> writes that it is forbidden to schedule an elective surgery on Chol Hamoed since that inflicts pain on a person on Chol Hamoed, which diminishes his simchat hamoed. This concept that it is forbidden to diminish a person’s simchat hamoed in the Mishna.<ref>m”k 7a regarding declaring a metzora to be tameh.</ref> However, Aruch Hashulchan<ref>532:2</ref> dismisses this concept. He writes that it is permitted to do medical treatment that is painful on Chol Hamoed because of its ultimate purpose.

YitzchakSultan1 at 19:20, 5 May 2024

2024-05-05T19:20:41Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:20, 5 May 2024
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	Is it permitted to make a doctor appointment on Chol Hamoed?		Is it permitted to make a doctor appointment on Chol Hamoed?

	A. Melacha to Relieve Pain		=== A. Melacha to Relieve Pain ===
			Shulchan Aruch O.C. 532:2 permits healthcare on Chol Hamoed. What remains unclear is whether he permitted it for everyone and whether this permit includes melacha or only taking medicine. Magen Avraham 532:2 writes that Shulchan Aruch permitted taking medicine. This is certainly justified based on the sources for Shulchan Aruch. That is, Shulchan Aruch’s ruling is based on a Tosefta that permits a person to drink medicinal drinks on Chol Hamoed, which is codified by the Rif and Rosh. Magen Avraham implies that only taking medicine is permitted but actual melacha for healthcare is forbidden on Chol Hamoed. This is further supported by the implication in Pri Megadim E”A 532:2 that it is only permitted to do melacha for a chol shein bo sakana, a person who is sick even though it isn’t mortal danger. Mishna Brurah’s (532:5) formulation echoes that of Pri Megadim and implies that melacha is only permitted for someone who is sick, but not just to relieve pain. Pitchei Teshuvot 532:3 and Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (Biurim 6) are strict.
	Shulchan Aruch O.C. 532:2 permits healthcare on Chol Hamoed. What remains unclear is whether he permitted it for everyone and whether this permit includes melacha or only taking medicine. Magen Avraham 532:2 writes that Shulchan Aruch permitted taking medicine. This is certainly justified based on the sources for Shulchan Aruch. That is, Shulchan Aruch’s ruling is based on a Tosefta that permits a person to drink medicinal drinks on Chol Hamoed, which is codified by the Rif and Rosh. Magen Avraham implies that only taking medicine is permitted but actual melacha for healthcare is forbidden on Chol Hamoed. This is further supported by the implication in Pri Megadim E”A 532:2 that it is only permitted to do melacha for a chol shein bo sakana, a person who is sick even though it isn’t mortal danger. Mishna Brurah’s (532:5) formulation echoes that of Pri Megadim and implies that melacha is only permitted for someone who is sick, but not just to relieve pain. Pitchei Teshuvot 532:3 is strict.

	On the other hand, Rav Moshe (Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1) implies that it is permitted to do melacha to treat pain on Chol Hamoed. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata ch. 66 fnt. 88) also agrees with this.		On the other hand, Rav Moshe (Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1) implies that it is permitted to do melacha to treat pain on Chol Hamoed. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata ch. 66 fnt. 88) also agrees with this.

	It seems to emerge that there is a major dispute whether it is permitted to do melacha to relieve pain. However, this understanding is questionable. Chaye Adam’s approach is based on assuming that treating an illness is similar to doing melacha to avoid a dvar ha’aved, a loss. Therefore, that only allows doing melacha for someone who is sick but not to relieve pain. If one were to consider the melacha in terms of tzorech hamoed, a need for the moed, it should be permitted to do unskilled melacha that doesn't involve excessive effort to relieve pain. This is the ruling of Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), even though he is strict for Chaye Adam, Pri Megadim, and Mishna Brurah.		It seems to emerge that there is a major dispute whether it is permitted to do melacha to relieve pain. However, this understanding is questionable. Chaye Adam’s approach is based on assuming that treating an illness is similar to doing melacha to avoid a dvar ha’aved, a loss. The same idea can be found in the Meiri (m"k 10b s.v. makizin). Therefore, that only allows doing melacha for someone who is sick but not to relieve pain. If, however, one were to consider the melacha in terms of tzorech hamoed, a need for the moed, it should be permitted to do unskilled melacha that doesn't involve excessive effort to relieve pain. This is the ruling of Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), even though he is strict for Chaye Adam, Pri Megadim, and Mishna Brurah.

	~~Therefore, it is permitted to do unskilled melacha without excessive effort to relieve pain~~.

	B. ~~Well Visits~~ and ~~Checkups~~		In summary, it is permitted to do unskilled melacha without excessive effort to relieve pain. In terms of doing skilled labor to treat pain that should be a practical ramification between the different opinions above. According to Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), treating pain is only permitted is because it is unskilled labor and tzorech hamoed. However, according to Shemirat Shabbat Kehichata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> treating pain should be permitted even with skilled labor since it is considered like ochel nefesh, for which even skilled labor is permitted.<ref>Shulchan Aruch O.C. 533:5, Mishna Brurah 530:1</ref>

			=== B. Well Visits and Checkups ===
	All of the above is regarding treating an illness or relieving pain, but is it permitted to practice healthcare just to guard one’s health?		All of the above is regarding treating an illness or relieving pain, but is it permitted to practice healthcare just to guard one’s health?

	Meiri (m"k 10b s.v. makizin) writes that it is permitted to do medical care on Chol Hamoed because that is considered dvar ha'aved. He adds that it is even permitted to treat someone to protect his health even if he's not sick. It isn't clear if he permits melacha for someone who isn't sick, or he only permitted that person to take medicine.		Meiri<ref>m"k 10b s.v. makizin</ref> writes that it is permitted to do medical care on Chol Hamoed because that is considered dvar ha'aved. He adds that it is even permitted to treat someone to protect his health even if he's not sick. It isn't clear if he permits melacha for someone who isn't sick, or he only permitted that person to take medicine.

	Rav Elyashiv (Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo p. 62 fnt. 12) allowed a regular cleaning at the dentist during Chol Hamoed. The reason is that he considers this to be included in doing melacha for healthcare that is permitted. Rav Sheinberg (ibid.) goes further and permits scheduling a doctor appointment for Chol Hamoed. His reason is that he compares treating a person’s health to ochel nefesh, preparing food, which is permitted even if he planned to do it on Chol Hamoed. Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata (ch. 66 fnt. 88~~) agrees~~.		Rav Elyashiv<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 62 fnt. 12)</ref> allowed a regular cleaning at the dentist during Chol Hamoed. The reason is that he considers this to be included in doing melacha for healthcare that is permitted. Rav Sheinberg<ref>ibid.</ref> goes further and permits scheduling a doctor appointment for Chol Hamoed. His reason is that he compares treating a person’s health to ochel nefesh, preparing food, which is permitted even if he planned to do it on Chol Hamoed. Rav Schachter<ref>Rav Schachter [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/733780/Rabbi_Hershel_Schachter/Hilchos_Chol_Hamoed (Hilchot Chol Hamoed, min 29-30)]</ref> and Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata<ref>ch. 66 fnt. 88</ref> agree.

	However, Rav Moshe (Igrot Moshe 3:78:1) writes that it is forbidden to go to the dentist for a well visit since there the dentist is going to do melacha and there is no reason to permit it. Since a person isn’t in pain there’s no reason to permit the melacha.		However, Rav Moshe<ref>Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1</ref> writes that it is forbidden to go to the dentist for a well visit since there the dentist is going to do melacha and there is no reason to permit it. Since a person isn’t in pain there’s no reason to permit the melacha.

	Similarly, the Debretziner (Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo teshuva n. 35) forbids making an appointment with a Jewish doctor for a well visit since the doctor is going to need to do melacha and that is forbidden for someone who is well. Also, it is only permitted to go to a non-Jewish doctor if he didn’t plan to go before the Moed. He may not schedule the visit before the Moed.		Similarly, the Debretziner<ref>Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (teshuva n. 35)</ref> forbids making an appointment with a Jewish doctor for a well visit since the doctor is going to need to do melacha and that is forbidden for someone who is well. Also, it is only permitted to go to a non-Jewish doctor if he didn’t plan to go before the Moed. He may not schedule the visit before the Moed.

	C. Elective Surgery		C. Elective Surgery

	Mishmeret Moed (Rabbi Tzion Boaharon p. 76) writes that it is forbidden to schedule an elective surgery on Chol Hamoed since that inflicts pain on a person on Chol Hamoed, which diminishes his simchat hamoed. This concept that it is forbidden to diminish a person’s simchat hamoed in the Mishna m”k 7a. However, Aruch Hashulchan 532:2 dismisses this concept. He writes that it is permitted to do medical treatment that is painful on Chol Hamoed because of its ultimate purpose.		Mishmeret Moed<ref>by Rabbi Tzion Boaharon p. 76</ref> writes that it is forbidden to schedule an elective surgery on Chol Hamoed since that inflicts pain on a person on Chol Hamoed, which diminishes his simchat hamoed. This concept that it is forbidden to diminish a person’s simchat hamoed in the Mishna.<ref>m”k 7a regarding declaring a metzora to be tameh.</ref> However, Aruch Hashulchan<ref>532:2</ref> dismisses this concept. He writes that it is permitted to do medical treatment that is painful on Chol Hamoed because of its ultimate purpose.

YitzchakSultan1: Created page with "Is it permitted to make a doctor appointment on Chol Hamoed? A. Melacha to Relieve Pain Shulchan Aruch O.C. 532:2 permits healthcare on Chol Hamoed. What remains unclear is whether he permitted it for everyone and whether this permit includes melacha or only taking medicine. Magen Avraham 532:2 writes that Shulchan Aruch permitted taking medicine. This is certainly justified based on the sources for Shulchan Aruch. That is, Shulchan Aruch’s ruling is based on a Tose..."

2024-05-05T18:54:57Z

Created page with "Is it permitted to make a doctor appointment on Chol Hamoed? A. Melacha to Relieve Pain Shulchan Aruch O.C. 532:2 permits healthcare on Chol Hamoed. What remains unclear is whether he permitted it for everyone and whether this permit includes melacha or only taking medicine. Magen Avraham 532:2 writes that Shulchan Aruch permitted taking medicine. This is certainly justified based on the sources for Shulchan Aruch. That is, Shulchan Aruch’s ruling is based on a Tose..."

New page

Is it permitted to make a doctor appointment on Chol Hamoed?

A. Melacha to Relieve Pain

Shulchan Aruch O.C. 532:2 permits healthcare on Chol Hamoed. What remains unclear is whether he permitted it for everyone and whether this permit includes melacha or only taking medicine. Magen Avraham 532:2 writes that Shulchan Aruch permitted taking medicine. This is certainly justified based on the sources for Shulchan Aruch. That is, Shulchan Aruch’s ruling is based on a Tosefta that permits a person to drink medicinal drinks on Chol Hamoed, which is codified by the Rif and Rosh. Magen Avraham implies that only taking medicine is permitted but actual melacha for healthcare is forbidden on Chol Hamoed. This is further supported by the implication in Pri Megadim E”A 532:2 that it is only permitted to do melacha for a chol shein bo sakana, a person who is sick even though it isn’t mortal danger. Mishna Brurah’s (532:5) formulation echoes that of Pri Megadim and implies that melacha is only permitted for someone who is sick, but not just to relieve pain. Pitchei Teshuvot 532:3 is strict.

On the other hand, Rav Moshe (Igrot Moshe OC 3:78:1) implies that it is permitted to do melacha to treat pain on Chol Hamoed. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata ch. 66 fnt. 88) also agrees with this.

It seems to emerge that there is a major dispute whether it is permitted to do melacha to relieve pain. However, this understanding is questionable. Chaye Adam’s approach is based on assuming that treating an illness is similar to doing melacha to avoid a dvar ha’aved, a loss. Therefore, that only allows doing melacha for someone who is sick but not to relieve pain. If one were to consider the melacha in terms of tzorech hamoed, a need for the moed, it should be permitted to do unskilled melacha that doesn't involve excessive effort to relieve pain. This is the ruling of Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo (p. 61 and Biurim 6), even though he is strict for Chaye Adam, Pri Megadim, and Mishna Brurah.

Therefore, it is permitted to do unskilled melacha without excessive effort to relieve pain.

B. Well Visits and Checkups

All of the above is regarding treating an illness or relieving pain, but is it permitted to practice healthcare just to guard one’s health?

Meiri (m"k 10b s.v. makizin) writes that it is permitted to do medical care on Chol Hamoed because that is considered dvar ha'aved. He adds that it is even permitted to treat someone to protect his health even if he's not sick. It isn't clear if he permits melacha for someone who isn't sick, or he only permitted that person to take medicine.

Rav Elyashiv (Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo p. 62 fnt. 12) allowed a regular cleaning at the dentist during Chol Hamoed. The reason is that he considers this to be included in doing melacha for healthcare that is permitted. Rav Sheinberg (ibid.) goes further and permits scheduling a doctor appointment for Chol Hamoed. His reason is that he compares treating a person’s health to ochel nefesh, preparing food, which is permitted even if he planned to do it on Chol Hamoed. Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata (ch. 66 fnt. 88) agrees.

However, Rav Moshe (Igrot Moshe 3:78:1) writes that it is forbidden to go to the dentist for a well visit since there the dentist is going to do melacha and there is no reason to permit it. Since a person isn’t in pain there’s no reason to permit the melacha.

Similarly, the Debretziner (Hilchot Chol Hamoed Zichron Shlomo teshuva n. 35) forbids making an appointment with a Jewish doctor for a well visit since the doctor is going to need to do melacha and that is forbidden for someone who is well. Also, it is only permitted to go to a non-Jewish doctor if he didn’t plan to go before the Moed. He may not schedule the visit before the Moed.

C. Elective Surgery

Mishmeret Moed (Rabbi Tzion Boaharon p. 76) writes that it is forbidden to schedule an elective surgery on Chol Hamoed since that inflicts pain on a person on Chol Hamoed, which diminishes his simchat hamoed. This concept that it is forbidden to diminish a person’s simchat hamoed in the Mishna m”k 7a. However, Aruch Hashulchan 532:2 dismisses this concept. He writes that it is permitted to do medical treatment that is painful on Chol Hamoed because of its ultimate purpose.