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===Bracha=== | ===Bracha=== | ||
#Before the Bedika one should make the Bracha of Asher Kidishanu BeMitzvotav VeTzivanu Al [[Biur Chametz]]. <ref>Tur and | #Before the Bedika one should make the Bracha of Asher Kidishanu BeMitzvotav VeTzivanu Al [[Biur Chametz]]. <ref>Tur and Shulchan Aruch O.C. 432:1, Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 111:7. Mishna Brurah 432:3 and Chazon Ovadia Part 1 page 44 explain that we don't recite al bedikat chametz because the search is only for the purpose of the destruction. </ref> If one accidentally made the Bracha of Al [[Bitul Chametz]] after the fact one has fulfilled the obligation.<ref>Mishna Brurah 432:3 </ref> One has also fulfilled his obligation if he recites "livaer chametz." <ref>Chazon Ovadia [[Pesach]] 5763 Part 1 page 44. See Rosh (Pesachim 1:10) as to why the bracha is with "Al Biur" and not "Leva'er". </ref> | ||
#One may not speak between the Bracha and beginning the Bedika, and if one did make an interruption not related to the Bedika one must make another Bracha. <ref>S”A 432:1, Mishna Brurah 432:5 </ref> | #One may not speak between the Bracha and beginning the Bedika, and if one did make an interruption not related to the Bedika one must make another Bracha. <ref>S”A 432:1, Mishna Brurah 432:5 </ref> | ||
#After one began it’s preferable not to speak until one completes the Bedika, however it’s permissible to speak even in matters not related to Bedika. <ref>S”A 432:1, Mishna Brurah 432:6 </ref> | #After one began it’s preferable not to speak until one completes the Bedika, however it’s permissible to speak even in matters not related to Bedika. <ref>S”A 432:1, Mishna Brurah 432:6 </ref> | ||
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#One should perform bedikat chametz in the beginning of the night on the fourteenth of Nisan.<ref>Shulchan Arukh O.C. 431:1. Mishna Brurah (431:1) writes that according to the Shulchan Arukh one should check after tzeit ha-kochavim. Raavad in Katuv Sham on Rif Pesachim 2a writes that the language of the Mishna ''אור'' implies that bedika should be done while there is light outside in the beginning of the night. Ran 1a quotes this Raavad and explains it should be done at the beginning of the night so you don't delay and become lazy about it or forget. However, The Gr”a (431:1) cites the Raavad as holding that it should be done while there is light outside because that is more accurate than saying it should be done at night. See Maaseh Rav (#178) who says that the Gra would begin Bedika slightly before [[Tzet HaKochavim]]. Nonetheless, Rabbi Eliyahu Spira in Eliyah Rabbah (431:5) explains that even the Raavad agrees that one shouldn’t begin until [[tzeit ha-kochavim]], however, at that time there still is a little bit of light outside.</ref> Generally, one may not do it earlier by day or the night before.<ref>Baal Hameor Pesachim 4a writes that it is acceptable to do the bedikat chametz on the day of the thirteenth as long as one uses a candle. However, the Ramban (Milchamot 4a) argues that there's an insistence on night in the Gemara since a candle is more effective at night than the day. He proves this from the Yerushalmi Pesachim 1:1 as well. Raavad (Katuv Sham 4a), Ran 1b, Ritva 4a, and Maharam Chalavah 4a all accept the position of the Ramban and reject the Baal Hameor. Furthermore, the Maharam Chalavah Pesachim 4a s.v. amar writes that one may not do bedika on the night of the thirteenth since one may not do a complete job since it isn't the time for the mitzvah and then one will rely on that incomplete bedika.</ref> | #One should perform bedikat chametz in the beginning of the night on the fourteenth of Nisan.<ref>Shulchan Arukh O.C. 431:1. Mishna Brurah (431:1) writes that according to the Shulchan Arukh one should check after tzeit ha-kochavim. Raavad in Katuv Sham on Rif Pesachim 2a writes that the language of the Mishna ''אור'' implies that bedika should be done while there is light outside in the beginning of the night. Ran 1a quotes this Raavad and explains it should be done at the beginning of the night so you don't delay and become lazy about it or forget. However, The Gr”a (431:1) cites the Raavad as holding that it should be done while there is light outside because that is more accurate than saying it should be done at night. See Maaseh Rav (#178) who says that the Gra would begin Bedika slightly before [[Tzet HaKochavim]]. Nonetheless, Rabbi Eliyahu Spira in Eliyah Rabbah (431:5) explains that even the Raavad agrees that one shouldn’t begin until [[tzeit ha-kochavim]], however, at that time there still is a little bit of light outside.</ref> Generally, one may not do it earlier by day or the night before.<ref>Baal Hameor Pesachim 4a writes that it is acceptable to do the bedikat chametz on the day of the thirteenth as long as one uses a candle. However, the Ramban (Milchamot 4a) argues that there's an insistence on night in the Gemara since a candle is more effective at night than the day. He proves this from the Yerushalmi Pesachim 1:1 as well. Raavad (Katuv Sham 4a), Ran 1b, Ritva 4a, and Maharam Chalavah 4a all accept the position of the Ramban and reject the Baal Hameor. Furthermore, the Maharam Chalavah Pesachim 4a s.v. amar writes that one may not do bedika on the night of the thirteenth since one may not do a complete job since it isn't the time for the mitzvah and then one will rely on that incomplete bedika.</ref> | ||
#If one usually follows רבינו תם, some say that one should make sure to start the Bedika after [[Tzet HaKochavim]] of רבינו תם.<ref>Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:10). Haggadah of the Roshei Yeshivah (pg 13) records Rav Moshe's minhag to start the Bedika 50 minutes after sundown which according to many opinions is [[Tzet HaCochavim]] of Rabbenu Tam. </ref> and some say that one should begin before [[Tzet HaKochavim]] of רבינו תם at the time of accepted [[Tzet HaKochavim]] (while it’s still slightly light outside).<ref>Moadim UZmanim (Vol 4 Siman 286 pg 46), Piskei Teshuvot 431:3 </ref> | #If one usually follows רבינו תם, some say that one should make sure to start the Bedika after [[Tzet HaKochavim]] of רבינו תם.<ref>Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:10). Haggadah of the Roshei Yeshivah (pg 13) records Rav Moshe's minhag to start the Bedika 50 minutes after sundown which according to many opinions is [[Tzet HaCochavim]] of Rabbenu Tam. </ref> and some say that one should begin before [[Tzet HaKochavim]] of רבינו תם at the time of accepted [[Tzet HaKochavim]] (while it’s still slightly light outside).<ref>Moadim UZmanim (Vol 4 Siman 286 pg 46), Piskei Teshuvot 431:3 </ref> | ||
#If one is praying with a [[minyan]] one should pray first and then perform Bedika. However, if one is praying at home, preferably one should appoint someone else to do Bedika while one prays, otherwise, pray first, unless one usually prays at home in which case some say one should check first and some say one should pray first.<ref>Mishna Brurah 431:8</ref> Some recommend for a person davening at home that they should daven maariv at the ideal time, which is Tzet Hakochavim, and then starting the bedika.<ref>[https://www.torahanytime.com/#/lectures?v=106099 Rav Shmuel Fuerst (min 1-5)]</ref> | #If one is praying with a [[minyan]] one should pray first and then perform Bedika.<ref>Mishna Brurah 431:8, Rav Moshe Feinstein (cited by A Guide to Practical Halacha v. 5 p. 41 n. 1)</ref> However, if one is praying at home, preferably one should appoint someone else to do Bedika while one prays, otherwise, pray first, unless one usually prays at home in which case some say one should check first and some say one should pray first.<ref>Mishna Brurah 431:8</ref> Some recommend for a person davening at home that they should daven maariv at the ideal time, which is Tzet Hakochavim, and then starting the bedika.<ref>[https://www.torahanytime.com/#/lectures?v=106099 Rav Shmuel Fuerst (min 1-5)]</ref> | ||
#If one is going to come home after [[Tzet HaKochavim]] one should appoint someone as an agent (Shaliach) so that it can be done at the proper time. However, if the man is working at night and wants to fulfill the mitzvah himself, he may appoint his wife to do Bedika (with a Bracha) on the whole house except for one room and then do Bedika (with a Bracha) in that room when he returns. <ref>Sh”t Teshuvot VeHanhagot 2:214. Listen to “Bedikas Chametz part 1” (min 3:30) by Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz who asks on this. For possible resolution of this question see Mishna Brurah 431:8. </ref> | #If one is going to come home after [[Tzet HaKochavim]] one should appoint someone as an agent (Shaliach) so that it can be done at the proper time. However, if the man is working at night and wants to fulfill the mitzvah himself, he may appoint his wife to do Bedika (with a Bracha) on the whole house except for one room and then do Bedika (with a Bracha) in that room when he returns. <ref>Sh”t Teshuvot VeHanhagot 2:214. Listen to “Bedikas Chametz part 1” (min 3:30) by Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz who asks on this. For possible resolution of this question see Mishna Brurah 431:8. </ref> | ||
#If a person did Bedikat Chametz on the 13th at night he doesn't need to redo the bedikat on the 14th at night, though the institution was to check on the 14th at night specifically.<ref>Pri Chadash 433:11, Olot Tamid 433:8, [https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=1318&st=&pgnum=5 Nechpeh Bkesef v. 2 p. 1], Chok Yakov 433:23, Mekor Chaim 433:15, Chazon Ovadia Pesach p. 40. The Nechpeh Bekesef is addressing the concern of the Mikraei Kodesh that if a person does bedika on the 13th he needs to do it again because of marit ayin. He holds that there's no marit ayin since it is done inside the house. However, Bach 433:1 concludes that if someone checked the night of the 13th they need to check again the night of the 14th since the institution was to do bedika the night of the 14th in all cases.</ref> Some say that one doesn't need to do Bedika again but one should do at least one room again.<ref>Mishna Brurah 433:6</ref> | #If a person did Bedikat Chametz on the 13th at night he doesn't need to redo the bedikat on the 14th at night, though the institution was to check on the 14th at night specifically.<ref>Pri Chadash 433:11, Olot Tamid 433:8, [https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=1318&st=&pgnum=5 Nechpeh Bkesef v. 2 p. 1], Chok Yakov 433:23, Mekor Chaim 433:15, Chazon Ovadia Pesach p. 40. The Nechpeh Bekesef is addressing the concern of the Mikraei Kodesh that if a person does bedika on the 13th he needs to do it again because of marit ayin. He holds that there's no marit ayin since it is done inside the house. However, Bach 433:1 concludes that if someone checked the night of the 13th they need to check again the night of the 14th since the institution was to do bedika the night of the 14th in all cases.</ref> Some say that one doesn't need to do Bedika again but one should do at least one room again.<ref>Mishna Brurah 433:6</ref> | ||
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#One who is an [[Onen]], one who is in the first day of [[mourning]], must appoint a שליח to do Bedika in his place.<ref>Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:8) </ref> | #One who is an [[Onen]], one who is in the first day of [[mourning]], must appoint a שליח to do Bedika in his place.<ref>Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:8) </ref> | ||
==Leaving for Pesach== | ==Bedika before Leaving for Pesach== | ||
#If a person leaves one’s house more than 30 days before [[Pesach]] and doesn’t plan to return for [[Pesach]] one doesn’t have to do Bedika.<ref>Gemara Pesachim 6a, Rif Pesachim 2b, Rambam Chametz Umatza 2:19, Rosh Pesachim 1:8, Shulchan Aruch O.C. 436:1.</ref> Nonetheless one must do Bitul when the times comes wherever one is.<ref>*Rashi Pesachim 6a s.v. afilu holds that it is unnecessary even to do bitul if one is leaving prior to 30 days. He doesn't explain why there is no problem of Baal Yiraeh owning chametz on Pesach. The Bach 436:1 answers that chametz left out for 30 days will be destroyed by dicentrgrating, putrifying, or being eaten by rodents or bugs. Thus, it is possible on a Torah level not to be concerned for the chametz if it was left in the house for 30 days.[https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=20516&st=&pgnum=254 Baal Haitur (Biur Chametz p. 120a)] seems to explain that Rashi is lenient because it is like chametz that a wall fell upon. Even though it is true that even if a wall collapses upon chametz bitul is still necessary (Gemara Pesachim 31b) that is only rabbinic and might not apply in this case (see Bach). See Petach Dvir (fnt. 80 to Baal Haitur) who rejects that understanding of the Baal Haitur. | #If a person leaves one’s house more than 30 days before [[Pesach]] and doesn’t plan to return for [[Pesach]] one doesn’t have to do Bedika.<ref>Gemara Pesachim 6a, Rif Pesachim 2b, Rambam Chametz Umatza 2:19, Rosh Pesachim 1:8, Shulchan Aruch O.C. 436:1.</ref> Nonetheless one must do Bitul when the times comes wherever one is.<ref>*Rashi Pesachim 6a s.v. afilu holds that it is unnecessary even to do bitul if one is leaving prior to 30 days. He doesn't explain why there is no problem of Baal Yiraeh owning chametz on Pesach. The Bach 436:1 answers that chametz left out for 30 days will be destroyed by dicentrgrating, putrifying, or being eaten by rodents or bugs. Thus, it is possible on a Torah level not to be concerned for the chametz if it was left in the house for 30 days.[https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=20516&st=&pgnum=254 Baal Haitur (Biur Chametz p. 120a)] seems to explain that Rashi is lenient because it is like chametz that a wall fell upon. Even though it is true that even if a wall collapses upon chametz bitul is still necessary (Gemara Pesachim 31b) that is only rabbinic and might not apply in this case (see Bach). See Petach Dvir (fnt. 80 to Baal Haitur) who rejects that understanding of the Baal Haitur. | ||
*The Tosfot Harosh Pesachim 6a s.v. iy, Chidushei Haran Pesachim 6a, Ran on Rif 2b s.v. garsinan dispute Rashi and all hold that it is necessary to do bitul even when you leave before 30 days and are exempt from bedika. The Bet Yosef 436:1 quotes the Ran without any dispute and Rama 436:1 codifies it as the halacha. The Gra 436:4 clarifies that it indeed a biblical problem if one doesn't do bitul. Sephardim also agree with this Rama as the Kaf HaChayim on Shulchan Arukh Orach Chayim 436:12:1 writes.</ref> | *The Tosfot Harosh Pesachim 6a s.v. iy, Chidushei Haran Pesachim 6a, Ran on Rif 2b s.v. garsinan dispute Rashi and all hold that it is necessary to do bitul even when you leave before 30 days and are exempt from bedika. The Bet Yosef 436:1 quotes the Ran without any dispute and Rama 436:1 codifies it as the halacha. The Gra 436:4 clarifies that it indeed a biblical problem if one doesn't do bitul. Sephardim also agree with this Rama as the Kaf HaChayim on Shulchan Arukh Orach Chayim 436:12:1 writes.</ref> | ||
#If a person leaves one’s house within 30 days of [[Pesach]] and doesn’t plan to return for [[Pesach]] one must do Bedika with a candle the night before one leaves and then do [[Bitul Chametz]] afterwards, however the Bedika is done without a Bracha.<ref>Shulchan Aruch O.C. 436:1 </ref> Even if one plans on returning before Pesach one should do bedika before leaving in case one gets delayed until right before Pesach when it is too late to do bedika upon returning.<ref>Rambam Chametz Umatza 2:19 writes that if one leaves and intends to return home for Pesach one should do bedika before leaving in case one gets delayed and can't bedika when one returns. Shulchan Aruch O.C. 436:1 agrees. Rashi Pesachim 6a s.v. dayto implies that only if one intended to return in the middle of pesach is it necessary to do bedika before leaving, otherwise one could do beidka upon returning. Ran Pesachim 2b s.v. chemso spells this out and notes the disagreement with the Rambam. He supports Rashi's reading based on the Yerushalmi.</ref>This only applies if one left for a long trip but if one left for a short trip then there's no concern that one will be delayed. The determination of what is a long trip or short trip all depends on the circumstances. The most factor is whether one left oneself enough time to return home to do bedika even in the event of a delay.<ref>Mishna Brurah 436:9 | #If a person leaves one’s house within 30 days of [[Pesach]] and doesn’t plan to return for [[Pesach]] one must do Bedika with a candle the night before one leaves and then do [[Bitul Chametz]] afterwards, however, the Bedika is done without a Bracha.<ref>Shulchan Aruch and Rama O.C. 436:1. Biur Halacha 436:1 s.v. vlo notes that according to many rishonim and poskim one should recite a bracha when doing bedika before the night of the 14th. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Halichot Shlomo ch. 5 fnt. 29) writes that the minhag is not to recite a bracha. </ref> Even if one plans on returning before Pesach one should do bedika before leaving in case one gets delayed until right before Pesach when it is too late to do bedika upon returning.<ref>Rambam Chametz Umatza 2:19 writes that if one leaves and intends to return home for Pesach one should do bedika before leaving in case one gets delayed and can't bedika when one returns. Shulchan Aruch O.C. 436:1 agrees. Rashi Pesachim 6a s.v. dayto implies that only if one intended to return in the middle of pesach is it necessary to do bedika before leaving, otherwise one could do beidka upon returning. Ran Pesachim 2b s.v. chemso spells this out and notes the disagreement with the Rambam. He supports Rashi's reading based on the Yerushalmi.</ref>This only applies if one left for a long trip but if one left for a short trip then there's no concern that one will be delayed. The determination of what is a long trip or short trip all depends on the circumstances. The most factor is whether one left oneself enough time to return home to do bedika even in the event of a delay.<ref>Mishna Brurah 436:9</ref> | ||
#However, if possible it’s preferable to appoint a שליח to do Beidika for oneself at the proper time. <ref>Mishna Brurah 436:1 </ref> Some say that it’s better to do it oneself before going rather than have a non-family member (such as a neighbor) do it for oneself. <ref>Piskei Teshuvot 436:1 </ref> | |||
#However if possible it’s preferable to appoint a שליח to do Beidika for oneself at the proper time. <ref>Mishna Brurah 436:1 </ref> Some say that it’s better to do it oneself before going rather than have a non-family member (such as a neighbor) do it for oneself. <ref>Piskei Teshuvot 436:1 </ref> | |||
#If one plans on returning before [[Pesach]] if there’s a fear one will return on Erev [[Pesach]] without time for Bedika one should do it before going, otherwise do it when one returns.<ref>Mishna Brurah 436:9 </ref> | #If one plans on returning before [[Pesach]] if there’s a fear one will return on Erev [[Pesach]] without time for Bedika one should do it before going, otherwise do it when one returns.<ref>Mishna Brurah 436:9 </ref> | ||
===Early Bedika=== | |||
#If one is not going to be home for [[Pesach]] it is sufficient to do a proper Bedika according to the law by just looking for the Chametz (though not just a superficial look) and one doesn’t have to drive oneself crazy like one does every year.<ref>Rav Schachter on [https://oukosher.org/passover/webcast/pre-pesach/ou-kosher-pre-pesach-webcast-5771-2011/ OU Pre-Pesach Webcast 5771] between minutes 2:30 and 5 </ref> | |||
# When doing bedika before the night of the fourteenth one should still scatter the pieces of chametz before bedika. Some say one shouldn't scatter the pieces when doing bedika early.<ref>[https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=46447&pgnum=81 Nitai Gavriel (v. 1 8:10)] explains that according to the reason of the Chok Yakov that scattering the pieces is to motivate checking well that also applies before the 14th. Also, the Arizal's reason for scattering chametz also applies before the 14th. He also quotes Minchat Yitzchak 8:35 who held that one shouldn't scatter them when checking before the 14th so that one doesn't accidently forget one. Dirshu 436:10 quotes Rav Elyashiv (Kovetz Teshuvot 3:73) as holding that one should scatter the pieces even when doing the bedika before the 14th.</ref> | |||
# When doing bedika early a person should sweep or vacuum like he would normally would for bedika.<Ref>[https://www.sefaria.org/Kaf_HaChayim_on_Shulchan_Arukh%2C_Orach_Chayim.436.6.1?vhe=Kaf_Hachayim,_Orach_Chayim_vol._I-IV,_Jerusalem_1910-1933&lang=bi Kaf Hachaim 436:6]</ref> | |||
# The night before he leaves he should do bedika and it is forbidden to do melacha or eat before bedika just like bedika on the night of the 14th.<Ref>Pri Megadim E"A 436:1, [https://www.sefaria.org/Kaf_HaChayim_on_Shulchan_Arukh%2C_Orach_Chayim.436.6.1?vhe=Kaf_Hachayim,_Orach_Chayim_vol._I-IV,_Jerusalem_1910-1933&lang=bi Kaf Hachaim 436:6]</ref> | |||
===Personal Obligation to Do Bedika=== | ===Personal Obligation to Do Bedika=== | ||
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===Yeshiva Student=== | ===Yeshiva Student=== | ||
#If a Yeshiva student is leaving his dorm or apartment within 30 days of [[Pesach]], even if he isn’t returning on [[Pesach]], he has an obligation to do Bedikat Chametz the night before he leaves, without a Bracha <ref>The Gemara Pesachim 6a says that one who leaves his house within 30 days of [[Pesach]], should do Biur even if he doesn’t plan on being home during [[Pesach]]. Rambam (Chametz 2:16) explains that this includes doing Bedika. Shulchan Aruch 436:1 agrees. Mishna Brurah 436:6 writes that one should do Bedika with a candle the night before leaving. Rama 436:1 writes that there’s no Bracha for this Bedika since it’s not performed on the night of the 14th. Torat HaYeshiva 14:2 applies this halacha to a Yeshiva student in dorms. </ref>, but with a candle or flashlight <ref>Halachos of [[Pesach]] (p. 86) quotes Rav Moshe saying that a flashlight is better than using a candle and Rav Aharon Kotler as saying it is equivalent to a candle. Halichot Shlomo 5:11 writes that if one can’t use a candle, one should use a flashlight. Chazon Ovadyah (p. 38) | #If a Yeshiva student is leaving his dorm or apartment within 30 days of [[Pesach]], even if he isn’t returning on [[Pesach]], he has an obligation to do Bedikat Chametz the night before he leaves, without a Bracha <ref>The Gemara Pesachim 6a says that one who leaves his house within 30 days of [[Pesach]], should do Biur even if he doesn’t plan on being home during [[Pesach]]. Rambam (Chametz 2:16) explains that this includes doing Bedika. Shulchan Aruch 436:1 agrees. Mishna Brurah 436:6 writes that one should do Bedika with a candle the night before leaving. Rama 436:1 writes that there’s no Bracha for this Bedika since it’s not performed on the night of the 14th. Torat HaYeshiva 14:2 applies this halacha to a Yeshiva student in dorms. </ref>, but with a candle or flashlight <ref>Halachos of [[Pesach]] (p. 86) quotes Rav Moshe saying that a flashlight is better than using a candle and Rav Aharon Kotler as saying it is equivalent to a candle. Rav Moshe Feinstein (cited by A Guide to Practical Halacha v. 5 p. 41 n. 4) writes that some start with a candle and then switch to a flashlight because of areas that a candle would be dangerous. Halichot Shlomo 5:11 writes that if one can’t use a candle, one should use a flashlight. Chazon Ovadyah (p. 38) and the Debrecener (cited by A Guide to Practical Halacha v. 5 p. 41 n. 5) agree.</ref>, and then do Bitul. <ref>Taz 436:2 writes that besides the Bedika, one should do Bitul on [[Erev Pesach]]; Magen Avraham 436:1 argues that one should also do Bitul after the Bedika as one does by Bedika on the 14th. Biur HaGra 436:4, Mishna Brurah 436:3, and Kaf HaChaim 436:8 agree. </ref> | ||
#One shouldn’t eat, work, or learn prior to performing this Bedika, just like one who performs Bedika on the 14th.<ref>Pri Megadim E”A 436:1 writes that one who does Bedika the night before leaving his house, shouldn’t eat, work, or learn just like one who performs Bedika on the 14th. Kaf HaChaim 436:7 and Nitei Gavriel 28:4 agree. Kovetz MeBet Levi (Nissan 5761 pg 85) writes that this also applies to a Yeshiva Student doing Bedika in his dorm the night before he leaves. See [[#Eating or working before Bedika|above]] regarding the laws of not eating, working, or learning within a half hour of Tzeit Hakochavim. </ref> | #One shouldn’t eat, work, or learn prior to performing this Bedika, just like one who performs Bedika on the 14th.<ref>Pri Megadim E”A 436:1 writes that one who does Bedika the night before leaving his house, shouldn’t eat, work, or learn just like one who performs Bedika on the 14th. Kaf HaChaim 436:7 and Nitei Gavriel 28:4 agree. Kovetz MeBet Levi (Nissan 5761 pg 85) writes that this also applies to a Yeshiva Student doing Bedika in his dorm the night before he leaves. See [[#Eating or working before Bedika|above]] regarding the laws of not eating, working, or learning within a half hour of Tzeit Hakochavim. </ref> | ||
#If a student in Yeshiva is in Yeshiva on [[Pesach]], he is obligated to perform Bedika in his dorm room and if it’s done on the 14th at night it should be done with a Bracha. <ref>Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:17), Dinim VeHanhagot 17:18 quoting the Chazon Ish, Siddur [[Pesach]] KeHilchato 12:9, Kovetz MeBet Levi (Nissan 5756), Chut HaSheni ([[Pesach]] pg 88), and Torat HaYeshiva write that a yeshiva student should perform Bedika in his dorm with a Bracha if it’s done on the 14th. </ref> However, some hold that the Bedika should be made without a Bracha. <ref>Teshuvot VeHanhagot 1:287, Chovat Hadar (end of Sefer Dinei Bedikat Chametz), Mishpat HaSechirut 5:32 </ref> | #If a student in Yeshiva is in Yeshiva on [[Pesach]], he is obligated to perform Bedika in his dorm room and if it’s done on the 14th at night it should be done with a Bracha. <ref>Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:17), Dinim VeHanhagot 17:18 quoting the Chazon Ish, Siddur [[Pesach]] KeHilchato 12:9, Kovetz MeBet Levi (Nissan 5756), Chut HaSheni ([[Pesach]] pg 88), and Torat HaYeshiva write that a yeshiva student should perform Bedika in his dorm with a Bracha if it’s done on the 14th. </ref> However, some hold that the Bedika should be made without a Bracha. <ref>Teshuvot VeHanhagot 1:287, Chovat Hadar (end of Sefer Dinei Bedikat Chametz), Mishpat HaSechirut 5:32 </ref> | ||
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See [[Selling Chametz]] for the main topic of selling chametz. | See [[Selling Chametz]] for the main topic of selling chametz. | ||
#If someone rents their house and sells the chametz in it to a non-Jew for Pesach, if he sells it on the 14th (standard sale of chametz) some say he isn't obligated to do bedikat chametz, while others hold he is obligated since it wasn't sold at the time of bedika. | |||
#If someone | # If he rents his house and sell the chametz in it on the 13th (early sale), he is certainly exempt from doing bedikat chametz.<ref>Mishna Brurah 436:31 quotes a major dispute between the Mekor Chaim and Binyan Olam. The Mekor Chaim thinks that the rooms which were only sold on the 14th are obligated in bediakt chametz since at the time of bedikat chametz they were in the hands of a Jew. Chayei Adam agrees. However, the Binyan Olam holds that they aren't obligated in bedikat chametz since they aren't going to be sold tomorrow. Chatom Sofer 131 agrees as long as one leaves out a room to do bedikat chametz on. Eshel Avraham agrees. He concludes that this is the minhag. Nonetheless, it is better to sell it on the 13th and then certainly it is exempt from bedikat chametz. Kaf HaChayim on Shulchan Arukh Orach Chayim 436:54:1 agrees with the Mishna Brurah that the minhag is like the Binyan Olam but it is better to sell on the 13th. Dirshu 436:24 cites the Chazon Ish (Chut Shani p. 107, Orchot Rabbenu 2:7) and Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Halichot Shlomo Dvar Halacha 5:6) who hold that the rooms sold on the 14th are exempt from bedikat chametz.</ref> | ||
#Some say that one should specifically rent the rooms and not sell them in order that the rooms not become exempt in [[mezuzah]] over Pesach and then after Pesach the mezuzah's are invalid since they were exempt and then left up.<ref>Dirshu 436:19 cites the Rav Elyashiv (Ashrei Haish 3:51:36, Halichot Vahanhagot p. 15) as holding that if the rooms were sold to a non-Jew for the duration of Pesach then the rooms were exempt from mezuzah during Pesach and afterwards even though the mezuzah's are already there it is a problem. Mezuzah's need to be taken down and put back up, otherwise they were never put up properly since they were left hanging up from when they were previously exempt (''taseh vlo min ha'asuy'', trans. "do it and not have it done", Hebrew:תעשה ולא מן העשוי). To obviate this issue one should rent the rooms and not sell them.</ref> | #Some say that one should specifically rent the rooms and not sell them in order that the rooms not become exempt in [[mezuzah]] over Pesach and then after Pesach the mezuzah's are invalid since they were exempt and then left up.<ref>Dirshu 436:19 cites the Rav Elyashiv (Ashrei Haish 3:51:36, Halichot Vahanhagot p. 15) as holding that if the rooms were sold to a non-Jew for the duration of Pesach then the rooms were exempt from mezuzah during Pesach and afterwards even though the mezuzah's are already there it is a problem. Mezuzah's need to be taken down and put back up, otherwise they were never put up properly since they were left hanging up from when they were previously exempt (''taseh vlo min ha'asuy'', trans. "do it and not have it done", Hebrew:תעשה ולא מן העשוי). To obviate this issue one should rent the rooms and not sell them.</ref> | ||
#Some poskim question if it is proper to use these leniencies to exempt oneself from bedikat chametz altogether without a reason.<ref>Halichot Shlomo (v. 1, p. 101 fnt. 14) </ref> | |||
===Office=== | ===Office=== | ||
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===Car=== | ===Car=== | ||
#It’s proper to check one’s car(s) for Chametz on the night of the 14th using a flashlight. Otherwise, one should check it during the day. No Bracha is required for performing Bedika in a car.<ref>Yechave Daat 1:5 and Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:5) write that one should check the cars on the night of the 14th and if not then it should be checked on the day. Halichot Shlomo and Halachos of [[Pesach]] (pg 71) in name of Rav Moshe Feinstein hold that no Bracha is made on this Bedika. Yechave Daat 1:5 also agrees. </ref> This is true even of a car that will not be used on Pesach itself.<ref>Yechave Daat 1:5 </ref> Some say that one can check the car with a flashlight by day even initially.<ref>Nitai Gavriel 1:21:1 reasons that since one doesn't use a candle in a car since it is difficult to do so he may check it even during the day like the Eshel Avraham said about checking for chametz in pockets by day.</ref> | #It’s proper to check one’s car(s) for Chametz on the night of the 14th using a flashlight. Otherwise, one should check it during the day. No Bracha is required for performing Bedika in a car.<ref>Yechave Daat 1:5 and Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:5) write that one should check the cars on the night of the 14th and if not then it should be checked on the day. Rav Moshe Feinstein (cited by A Guide to Practical Halacha v. 5 p. 41 n. 2) agrees. Halichot Shlomo and Halachos of [[Pesach]] (pg 71) in name of Rav Moshe Feinstein hold that no Bracha is made on this Bedika. Yechave Daat 1:5 also agrees. </ref> This is true even of a car that will not be used on Pesach itself.<ref>Yechave Daat 1:5 </ref> Some say that one can check the car with a flashlight by day even initially.<ref>Nitai Gavriel 1:21:1 reasons that since one doesn't use a candle in a car since it is difficult to do so he may check it even during the day like the Eshel Avraham said about checking for chametz in pockets by day.</ref> | ||
#Public bus companies or airplane companies that are Jewish must check for Chametz before Pesach.<ref>Yechave Daat 1:5 </ref> | #Public bus companies or airplane companies that are Jewish must check for Chametz before Pesach.<ref>Yechave Daat 1:5 </ref> | ||
#If one checked the car and it is clean before the night of the 14th some say that it doesn't need to be checked the night of the 14th.<ref>[https://www.torahanytime.com/#/lectures?v=106099 Rav Shmuel Fuerst (min 1-5)] explained that a car is considered a vessel and not a house and as long as it is cleaned before the night of the bedika it doesn't need to be checked that night.</ref> | #If one checked the car and it is clean before the night of the 14th some say that it doesn't need to be checked the night of the 14th.<ref>[https://www.torahanytime.com/#/lectures?v=106099 Rav Shmuel Fuerst (min 1-5)] explained that a car is considered a vessel and not a house and as long as it is cleaned before the night of the bedika it doesn't need to be checked that night.</ref> | ||
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#One should check using a single wax candle and not a torch (or even two candles together).<ref>Shulchan Aruch and Rama O.C. 433:2, Mishna Brurah 431:3 </ref> | #One should check using a single wax candle and not a torch (or even two candles together).<ref>Shulchan Aruch and Rama O.C. 433:2, Mishna Brurah 431:3 </ref> | ||
#If one is unable to use a candle, one should use a flashlight.<ref>Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:11), Haarot of Rav Elyashiv Pesachim 8a, Piskei Teshuvot 431:2. However, Chut Shani (Pesach p. 59) writes that one may not use a flashlight for bedikat chametz.</ref> Some say that one can fulfill the obligation with a flashlight, but the minhag is to use a candle or to begin with a candle.<ref>Halachos of [[Pesach]] (pg 86) quoting Rav Aharon Kotler and Rav Moshe Feinstein that the flashlight suffices. Yechave Daat 1:4 completely allows using a candle for bedikat chametz. His reasoning is that an electric bulb isn't considered a torch like the Tzitz Eliezer 1:20:11 suggested since it is all a connected unit. Additionally, when people use flashlights they're not afraid that it will start a fire as long as they're careful. Lastly, the filament that is red hot is considered a fire and since the glass is very clear a person can see the candle through the glass. He just concludes that the minhag is to use a candle.</ref> | #If one is unable to use a candle, one should use a flashlight.<ref>Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:11), Haarot of Rav Elyashiv Pesachim 8a, Piskei Teshuvot 431:2. However, Chut Shani (Pesach p. 59) writes that one may not use a flashlight for bedikat chametz.</ref> Some say that one can fulfill the obligation with a flashlight, but the minhag is to use a candle or to begin with a candle.<ref>Halachos of [[Pesach]] (pg 86) quoting Rav Aharon Kotler and Rav Moshe Feinstein that the flashlight suffices. Yechave Daat 1:4 completely allows using a candle for bedikat chametz. His reasoning is that an electric bulb isn't considered a torch like the Tzitz Eliezer 1:20:11 suggested since it is all a connected unit. Additionally, when people use flashlights they're not afraid that it will start a fire as long as they're careful. Lastly, the filament that is red hot is considered a fire and since the glass is very clear a person can see the candle through the glass. He just concludes that the minhag is to use a candle.</ref> | ||
#One doesn’t have to turn off the electric lights while performing the Bedika.<ref>Halachos of [[Pesach]] (pg 86) quoting Rav Moshe Feinstein, Minchat Asher responsa 3:31, Piskei Teshuvot 431:2 saying that such is the minhag, Mishna Halachot 15:92, Shalmei Moed p. 312 citing Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, Halichot Shlomo p. 110 fnt. 57, Or Letzion 3:7:7, and Nitei Gavriel ([[Pesach]] v. 1, p. 112). Avnei Derech 13:100:2 cites numerous poskim who allow leaving on the lights during bedikat chametz including Hagadah Shel Pesach Hachazon Ish p. 19, Chut Shani (Pesach p. 59), Chazon Ovadia Pesach p. 40, Orchot Rabbenu (v. 2 p. 2 Pesach n. 6), Shevut Yitzchak Pesach p. 34, and Hilchot Chag Bchag 5:7 p. 78. Rav Shlomo Zalman (Halichot Shlomo) is cited as having turned on the lights. The only one who cites on the other side is that the Torat Hamoadim p. 433 writes that the Brisker Rav would turn off the lights for bedikat chametz. Also, Imrei Sofer (Halichot Vehanhagot 8:6 p. 53) writes that a person should turn off the electric lights when doing bedikat chametz and this was the minhag of the Hitorerut Teshuva (Minhagei Raboteynu 3:4). [https://www.torahanytime.com/#/lectures?v=144287 Rav Yitzchak Yosef (Motzei Shabbat Parshat Vayakel Pekudei 5781 min 10)] said that Rav Tzvi Pesach Frank and Rav Chaim Pinchas Sheinburg would turn off the lights before doing the bedika, but most others like Rav Moshe Feinstein, Rav Elyashiv, and Rav Ovadia did not turn off the lights.</ref> | #One doesn’t have to turn off the electric lights while performing the Bedika. Furtherfore, some say that specifically one should turn on the lights because one can check better with the lights on.<ref>Halachos of [[Pesach]] (pg 86) quoting Rav Moshe Feinstein, A Guide to Practical Halacha v. 5 p. 42 n. 5 quoting Rav Moshe Feinstein, Minchat Asher responsa 3:31, Piskei Teshuvot 431:2 saying that such is the minhag, Mishna Halachot 15:92, Shalmei Moed p. 312 citing Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, Halichot Shlomo p. 110 fnt. 57, Or Letzion 3:7:7, and Nitei Gavriel ([[Pesach]] v. 1, p. 112). Avnei Derech 13:100:2 cites numerous poskim who allow leaving on the lights during bedikat chametz including Hagadah Shel Pesach Hachazon Ish p. 19, Chut Shani (Pesach p. 59), Chazon Ovadia Pesach p. 40, Orchot Rabbenu (v. 2 p. 2 Pesach n. 6), Shevut Yitzchak Pesach p. 34, and Hilchot Chag Bchag 5:7 p. 78. Rav Shlomo Zalman (Halichot Shlomo) is cited as having turned on the lights. The only one who cites on the other side is that the Torat Hamoadim p. 433 writes that the Brisker Rav would turn off the lights for bedikat chametz. Also, Imrei Sofer (Halichot Vehanhagot 8:6 p. 53) writes that a person should turn off the electric lights when doing bedikat chametz and this was the minhag of the Hitorerut Teshuva (Minhagei Raboteynu 3:4). [https://www.torahanytime.com/#/lectures?v=144287 Rav Yitzchak Yosef (Motzei Shabbat Parshat Vayakel Pekudei 5781 min 10)] said that Rav Tzvi Pesach Frank and Rav Chaim Pinchas Sheinburg would turn off the lights before doing the bedika, but most others like Rav Moshe Feinstein, Rav Elyashiv, and Rav Ovadia did not turn off the lights.</ref> | ||
#See also [[Hebrew sources for using a flashlight for Bedikat Chametz]] | #See also [[Hebrew sources for using a flashlight for Bedikat Chametz]] | ||
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#Some say that if one sold one’s Chametz before [[Pesach]] and then one finds Chametz on [[Pesach]], one should store it away with the other Chametz that’s sold to the non-Jew and not burn it.<ref>Mikrei Kodesh 1:74, Piskei Teshuvot 446:1 </ref> | #Some say that if one sold one’s Chametz before [[Pesach]] and then one finds Chametz on [[Pesach]], one should store it away with the other Chametz that’s sold to the non-Jew and not burn it.<ref>Mikrei Kodesh 1:74, Piskei Teshuvot 446:1 </ref> | ||
== | ==Performing a Cursory Bedika== | ||
#Nowadays, when people clean the house of Chametz in advance, it’s enough to quickly double check to see if that area was cleaned from Chametz and if it wasn’t to remove the Chametz.<ref>Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:1), Piskei Teshuvot 433:8, Or Yisrael (vol 35, pg 100-102, article by Rav Shlomo Wolfson) </ref> However, others disagree and hold that even if one cleaned the house well it is necessary to do a serious and thorough bedika. One is strict will be blessed.<ref>Chazon Ovadia p. 36 quotes Mahari Shapira who writes that nowadays when people clean very well for pesach in advance it is sufficient to do a cursory check for bedikat chametz. Machzik Bracha 433:6 and Shaarei Teshuva 433:11 quote this. Chazon Ovadia, however, quotes Mikrei Kodesh who disagrees and adds that Shulchan Aruch O.C. 433:11 implies this as well. Chazon Ovadia concludes that one who is strict will be blessed.</ref> | |||
#Nowadays when people clean the house of Chametz in advance, it’s enough to check to see if that area was cleaned from Chametz and if it wasn’t to remove the Chametz.<ref>Halichot Shlomo (vol 1, 5:1), Piskei Teshuvot 433:8, Or Yisrael (vol 35, pg 100-102, article by Rav Shlomo Wolfson) </ref> | #A person doesn’t have to make themselves crazy, one just to be reasonable not to overwork oneself so that one can enjoy [[the Seder]]. <ref>Rav Schachter on [https://oukosher.org/passover/webcast/pre-pesach/ou-kosher-pre-pesach-webcast-5771-2011/ OU Pre-Pesach Webcast 5771] between minutes 19:30 and 21 </ref> It’s a judgment call and one should do a peripheral check (not too peripheral).<ref>Rav Yisrael Belsky on [https://oukosher.org/passover/webcast/pre-pesach/ou-kosher-pre-pesach-webcast-5771-2011/ OU Pre-Pesach Webcast 5771] between minutes 24 and 25. See Haggadah of the Roshei Yeshiva (pg 13) which records the minhag of Rav Moshe to perform a bedika in his small apartment for longer than an hour. This bedika doesn't need to be done as if no cleaning was done, but is required anyway. This is the opinion of Sha’arei Teshuvah 433:2, Daat Torah 433:2, Chochmat Shelomo 433:11, Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach quoted in Mevakshei Torah Ohr Efrayim page 532), Kinyan Torah 2:122.</ref> | ||
# Even if a person works really hard to check every crevice of the house for chametz, as is necessary in a house with little kids, he should know that according to his effort he is rewarded.<ref>Chazon Ovadia p. 36. [https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=58135&st=&pgnum=45 Maaseh Rav 178] records Gra's practice to do a thorough bedikat chametz for a very long time.</ref> | |||
==Scattering Ten Pieces of Chametz== | ==Scattering Ten Pieces of Chametz== | ||
#The minhag is to scatter | #The minhag is to scatter ten<ref>Mishna Brurah 432:13 quotes that Arizal held that specifically ten pieces should be scattered before bedika. [https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=46447&pgnum=79 Nitai Gavriel (v. 1 8:4)] quotes this as well.</ref> pieces of Chametz to be found during the Bedika.<ref>Rama O.C. 432:2, Mishna Brurah 432:13, [https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=46447&pgnum=78 Nitai Gavriel (v. 1 8:1)]. Rama (432:2) quotes one opinion who says that the minhag to leave pieces of bread around the house is to ensure that one finds chametz to prevent a berakhah of biur chametz being said in vain. However, the Rama concludes, that it is not necessary since one’s intent in the berakhah is to destroy the chametz that one finds. Taz (432:4) discourages this minhag because one may misplace one of the placed pieces. On the other hand, Rabbi Yaakov Reischer in Chok Yaakov (432:13) defends the minhag and argues that putting out pieces encourages one to do a thorough check and not abandon the job if chametz is not found immediately. </ref> | ||
#These pieces should be hard Chametz that doesn’t cause crumbs and it should be placed in an area that’s protected from children or mice.<ref>Mishna Brurah 432:12 </ref> Additionally, it may be advisable to wrap it so that it doesn’t make crumbs.<ref>Halachos of | # Nowadays, when people clean the house of Chametz in advance, some poskim maintain that it is an absolute obligation to put out pieces of chametz, while others hold it is still just a minhag.<ref>Shaar HaTziyun 432:12 quotes the Emek Halacha who maintains that nowadays when people clean the house in advance one must put out these 10 pieces of Chametz so that the Bracha on Bedika isn’t a Bracha Levatala. Rav Ovadia Yosef (Chazon Ovadia Pesach p. 36, Yabia Omer 9:88:12, 9:92:2, Yachava Daat 5:31) and [https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=46447&pgnum=78 Nitai Gavriel (v. 1 8:2)] agree with the Emek Halacha. However, Halichot Shlomo 5:12 argues that one can still make the Bracha without putting out these pieces because the Bedika includes checking that the areas have been cleaned properly, nonetheless it’s still the minhag to do so. </ref> | ||
#One should be careful not to | #These pieces should be hard Chametz that doesn’t cause crumbs and it should be placed in an area that’s protected from children or mice.<ref>Mishna Brurah 432:12 </ref> Additionally, it may be advisable to wrap it so that it doesn’t make crumbs.<ref>Halachos of Pesach (pg 80) </ref> | ||
#One should be careful not to lose any of the pieces.<ref>Mishna Brurah 432:13 </ref>Therefore, it is a wise practice to write down where the pieces were hidden so that they're not accidentally forgotten.<ref>[https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=46447&pgnum=80 Nitai Gavriel (v. 1 8:8)]</ref> | |||
#Each of the pieces of chametz should be less than a kezayit so that in case one is lost there will be no question that bitul chametz suffices to nullify it.<ref>Chazon Ovadia p. 36, [https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=46447&pgnum=80 Nitai Gavriel (v. 1 8:7)]</ref> | |||
# The minhag is that some family member hides the pieces and someone else finds them. If he is doing bedika by himself he should nonetheless hide the pieces and find them himself.<ref>[https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=46447&pgnum=79 Nitai Gavriel (v. 1 8:5)]. He writes that this was the practice of the Steipler.</ref> | |||
# | |||
==If one found Chametz after the Bedika== | ==If one found Chametz after the Bedika== | ||
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[[Category:Pesach]] | [[Category:Pesach]] | ||
[[Category:Holidays]] | [[Category:Holidays]] | ||
{{Pesach}} | |||
