Chol HaMoed: Difference between revisions
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==Simcha== | ==Simcha== | ||
#There’s a requirement of Simcha on Chol Hamoed just like there is on [[Yom Tov]].<ref>Rambam Hilchot [[Yom Tov]] 6:17. This is | #There’s a requirement of Simcha on Chol Hamoed just like there is on [[Yom Tov]].<ref>Rambam Hilchot [[Yom Tov]] 6:17. This is codified as halacha by Shulchan Aruch HaRav 529:6-7 and Yalkut Yosef (Moadim pg 502). </ref> | ||
#One should fulfill simcha of Chol HaMoed with what makes each person happy | #One should fulfill simcha of Chol HaMoed with what makes each person happy, men should drink wine, women should be given and wear new clothing, and children should get candies.<ref> | ||
*According to the Magen Avraham 530:1, Nimukei Orach Chaim 530:2, Moadim UZmanim 1:29 there’s no obligation to have wine on Chol HaMoed (this may be based on [[Sukkah]] 47b). However, Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (by Rabbi Dovid Zucker [[Siman 1]]) writes that from Rambam 6:17 it seems that all the days of the holiday are equal in fulfilling the mitzvah of Simcha. Similarly, Sh”t Rabbi Akiva Eiger 1 (in the Hashmatot), Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (Buir 1) in name of Rav Yacov Kamenetsky, Rav Moshe Feinstein and the Debersiner Rav hold that there’s a reason to have wine to fulfill simcha. Yalkut Yosef Moadim p. 502 agrees that men should have wine and meat each day.</ref> | *Regarding simcha of [[Yom Tov]], the Gemara Pesachim 109a says that since there's nowadays there's no [[Korbanot]] Shlamim, one fulfills simcha with wine. The Gemara continues that women fulfill their simcha with new clothes and children with toys and candies. This is codified as halacha by the Rambam ([[Yom Tov]] 6:17) and Shulchan Aruch O.C. 529:2. Rambam (Mitzvah 54) and Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 488) hold that Simcha is a Mitzvah Deoritta nowadays, however, Tosfot (Moed Katan 14b s.v. Aseh) holds that Simcha is only Derabbanan nowadays. | ||
*According to the Magen Avraham 530:1, Nimukei Orach Chaim 530:2, Moadim UZmanim 1:29 there’s no obligation to have wine on Chol HaMoed (this may be based on [[Sukkah]] 47b). However, Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (by Rabbi Dovid Zucker [[Siman 1]]) writes that from Rambam 6:17 it seems that all the days of the holiday are equal in fulfilling the mitzvah of Simcha. Similarly, Sh”t Rabbi Akiva Eiger 1 (in the Hashmatot), Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (Buir 1) in name of Rav Yacov Kamenetsky, Rav Moshe Feinstein and the Debersiner Rav hold that there’s a reason to have wine to fulfill simcha. Yalkut Yosef Moadim p. 502 agrees that men should have wine and meat each day. Rav Elyashiv in Kovetz Teshuvot 1:57 writes that one should drink wine every day of chol hamoed and Rav Chaim Kanievsky quoted this from the Chazon Ish as well.</ref> | |||
#According to those who fulfill simcha on Chol HaMoed like simcha on [[Yom Tov]], men should fulfill simcha with wine and not grape juice.<ref>Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (Buir 1:2) quotes Rabbi Moshe Feinstien and the Debersiner Rav who say that grape juice doesn’t fulfill the mitzvah of simcha. Nemukei Orach Chaim 529:2 writes that one should have a reviyat of wine, while Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 3; based on Sh”t Rosh 25:1) writes that a Meloh Lugmav is sufficient. </ref> | #According to those who fulfill simcha on Chol HaMoed like simcha on [[Yom Tov]], men should fulfill simcha with wine and not grape juice.<ref>Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (Buir 1:2) quotes Rabbi Moshe Feinstien and the Debersiner Rav who say that grape juice doesn’t fulfill the mitzvah of simcha. Nemukei Orach Chaim 529:2 writes that one should have a reviyat of wine, while Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 3; based on Sh”t Rosh 25:1) writes that a Meloh Lugmav is sufficient. </ref> | ||
#Initially one should have two bread meals on each day of Chol Hamoed, once at night and once during the day but it isn't an absolute obligation.<ref>Yalkut Yosef Moadim p. 502</ref> | #Initially one should have two bread meals on each day of Chol Hamoed, once at night and once during the day but it isn't an absolute obligation.<ref>Yalkut Yosef Moadim p. 502</ref> | ||
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==Forbidden work== | ==Forbidden work== | ||
#There’s a dispute whether work on Chol HaMoed is a | #There’s a dispute whether work on Chol HaMoed is a biblical prohibition or a Rabbinic one.<ref>Tosfot (Chagiga 18a s.v. cholo) and Rosh (Moed Katan 1:1) hold that the entirety of work on Chol HaMoed is derabanan. Such is the opinion of the Rambam (Yom Tov 7:1), Mordechai (Moed Katan n. 835), and Nemukei Yosef (Moed Katan 1a s.v. Gemara). On the other extreme, the Rashbam (Pesachim 118a s.v. kol) and Yereyim (Mitzvah no. 304) hold that melacha on Chol HaMoed is forbidden by the Torah. Several statements of Chazal indicate this position including Chagiga 18a and Moed Katan 11b. However, Tosfot answer that these Gemaras mean that there is an allusion in the pasuk to the prohibition.<br /> | ||
The Ramban (Moed Katan 2a s.v. od ani) and Rashba (cited by Maggid Mishna Yom Tov 7:1) arbitrate between these two positions and consider melacha on Chol HaMoed from the Torah’s perspective to be dependent solely on whether the melacha is necessary for the holiday. If it is necessary for the holiday, then the melacha is permitted from the Torah and, if not, it is forbidden. The Bach 530:1 supports such an explanation based on the pesukim. On Yom Tov the Torah forbids “melechet avoda” (Vayikra 23:8) and Rashi explains this to mean that one is prohibited to perform even work that will cause one to experience a loss if not done today. The Torat Kohanim (Emor 12:5) states that the prohibition of “melechet avoda” does not apply to Chol HaMoed; therefore, concludes the Bach, it is biblically permitted to do a melacha for the need of the holiday.<br /> | The Ramban (Moed Katan 2a s.v. od ani) and Rashba (cited by Maggid Mishna Yom Tov 7:1) arbitrate between these two positions and consider melacha on Chol HaMoed from the Torah’s perspective to be dependent solely on whether the melacha is necessary for the holiday. If it is necessary for the holiday, then the melacha is permitted from the Torah and, if not, it is forbidden. The Bach 530:1 supports such an explanation based on the pesukim. On Yom Tov the Torah forbids “melechet avoda” (Vayikra 23:8) and Rashi explains this to mean that one is prohibited to perform even work that will cause one to experience a loss if not done today. The Torat Kohanim (Emor 12:5) states that the prohibition of “melechet avoda” does not apply to Chol HaMoed; therefore, concludes the Bach, it is biblically permitted to do a melacha for the need of the holiday.<br /> | ||
In a similar vein, Rav Sobolofsky (“[http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/811776/Rabbi_Zvi_Sobolofsky/Issur_Melacha_On_Chol_Hamoed Issur Melacha on Chol HaMoed],” min 12-15) explained based on the Ritva (Moed Katan 13a s.v. elah) that the primary principle underlying the laws of Chol HaMoed is that one should enjoy the holiday. Thus, activities that further this purpose are permitted, while those which hinder this goal, especially ones that involve excessive effort, are forbidden. <br /> | In a similar vein, Rav Sobolofsky (“[http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/811776/Rabbi_Zvi_Sobolofsky/Issur_Melacha_On_Chol_Hamoed Issur Melacha on Chol HaMoed],” min 12-15) explained based on the Ritva (Moed Katan 13a s.v. elah) that the primary principle underlying the laws of Chol HaMoed is that one should enjoy the holiday. Thus, activities that further this purpose are permitted, while those which hinder this goal, especially ones that involve excessive effort, are forbidden. <br /> | ||
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|Professional Labor||Forbidden <ref>Mishna Brurah 530:1, Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 11) </ref>||Permitted <ref>Mishna Brurah 530:1, Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 36) </ref>||Permitted (under certain conditions) <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 47). | |Professional Labor||Forbidden <ref>Mishna Brurah 530:1, Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 11) </ref>||Permitted <ref>Mishna Brurah 530:1, Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 36) </ref>||Permitted (under certain conditions) <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 47). | ||
Sheloshim Yom Kodem HaChag (vol. 1, p. 168) writes that one may only perform melacha via professional labor for a communal need, provided that all three of these conditions are met: 1) the melakha is l'tzorekh haguf (such as fixing public roads or eating/drinking), 2) the community needs it on the holiday itself, and not after the holiday, and 3) one can complete the melakha on the holiday. </ref>||Permitted <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 51) </ref>||Permitted <ref>Shulchan Aruch O.C. 540:2, 534:3</ref> | Sheloshim Yom Kodem HaChag (vol. 1, p. 168) writes that one may only perform melacha via professional labor for a communal need, provided that all three of these conditions are met: 1) the melakha is l'tzorekh haguf (such as fixing public roads so people don't get hurt or eating/drinking), 2) the community needs it on the holiday itself, and not after the holiday, and 3) one can complete the melakha on the holiday. If one of these conditions is absent, only maaseh hedyot (improfessional labor) is permitted to acomplish the task (ibid). </ref>||Permitted <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 51) </ref>||Permitted <ref>Shulchan Aruch O.C. 540:2, 534:3</ref> | ||
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|Excessive Exertion|| | |Excessive Exertion||Forbidden (see footnote for exceptions) <ref>Chol HaMoed K'Hilchato (perek bet seif 36 & footnotes). Aruch HaShulchan 540:4 forbids great exertion. Pri Megadim M”Z 540:3 permits even great exertion. (Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata 66:38 adds that the pri megadim means that it’s permitted if it’s a maaseh hedyot or shinui.) See Nishmat Adam 110:1. Netivei Moed 7:2 says tzorech hamoed must be hedyot and one should still minimize the exertion. Sheloshim Yom Kodem HaChag (Chol HaMoed p. 163) writes based on Zichron Shlomo that exertion is prohibited whenever the tircha is great relative to the desired outcome. According to this approach, great exertion would be permitted for a great need, and small exertion would be permitted for a small need. But great exertion would not be permitted for a small need. However, Chol HaMoed KeHilchato (perek bet footnote 98) quotes this position of the Zichrom Shlomo and writes that the purpose of his distinction is only to explain contradictions in the poskim and cannot be used to establish new halachic principles. See Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 17). See also Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 17) </ref>||Permitted <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 36) </ref>||Permitted <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 47) </ref>||Forbidden <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 52) </ref>||- | ||
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|Work Delayed for the Holiday||Forbidden <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 61) </ref>||Permitted <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 36) </ref>||Permitted <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 47) </ref>||Forbidden <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 61) </ref>||- | |Work Delayed for the Holiday||Forbidden <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 61) </ref>||Permitted <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 36) </ref>||Permitted <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 47) </ref>||Forbidden <ref>Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 61) </ref>||- | ||
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The Mishna in Moed Katan 13b lists the people who are permitted to shave on Chol HaMoed. The list includes those who were unable to do so before Yom Tov such as someone who just arrived from his travels abroad. The Gemara on 14a explains that the reason that the Rabbis forbade shaving on Chol HaMoed is to encourage people to shave in honor of Yom Tov before Yom Tov. If one were allowed to shave on Chol HaMoed, we are concerned that he would not shave on Erev Yom Tov and he would enter Yom Tov unkempt. S”A 531:1 writes that it is a mitzvah to shave before Yom Tov and in 531:2 records the prohibition to shave on Chol HaMoed. </ref> It’s forbidden to take a haircut even if one took one before the holiday.<ref>S”A 531:2. <br /> | The Mishna in Moed Katan 13b lists the people who are permitted to shave on Chol HaMoed. The list includes those who were unable to do so before Yom Tov such as someone who just arrived from his travels abroad. The Gemara on 14a explains that the reason that the Rabbis forbade shaving on Chol HaMoed is to encourage people to shave in honor of Yom Tov before Yom Tov. If one were allowed to shave on Chol HaMoed, we are concerned that he would not shave on Erev Yom Tov and he would enter Yom Tov unkempt. S”A 531:1 writes that it is a mitzvah to shave before Yom Tov and in 531:2 records the prohibition to shave on Chol HaMoed. </ref> It’s forbidden to take a haircut even if one took one before the holiday.<ref>S”A 531:2. <br /> | ||
Rabbenu Tam (cited in Tur 531) held that since that is the reason for the rabbinic enactment, if one shaved before Yom Tov, he can shave on Chol HaMoed and the enactment would not apply. The Tur himself rejects this logic for two reasons: 1. If someone who shaved before Yom Tov could shave on Chol HaMoed, why is he not listed in the Mishna among the people who can shave on Chol HaMoed? 2. It should be forbidden because nobody can tell that he shaved before Yom Tov. This second reason is based on a question raised in the Gemara there about someone who was too busy to shave on Erev Yom Tov because he was looking for something that he lost. Though the Gemara leaves this question unresolved, the Tur here rules strictly, saying that since nobody can tell why he did not shave before Yom Tov, it is forbidden to do so. Thus he applies the same logic to one who already shaved before Yom Tov and forbids him from shaving on Chol HaMoed itself. | Rabbenu Tam (cited in Tur 531) held that since that is the reason for the rabbinic enactment, if one shaved before Yom Tov, he can shave on Chol HaMoed and the enactment would not apply. The Tur himself rejects this logic for two reasons: 1. If someone who shaved before Yom Tov could shave on Chol HaMoed, why is he not listed in the Mishna among the people who can shave on Chol HaMoed? 2. It should be forbidden because nobody can tell that he shaved before Yom Tov. This second reason is based on a question raised in the Gemara there about someone who was too busy to shave on Erev Yom Tov because he was looking for something that he lost. Though the Gemara leaves this question unresolved, the Tur here rules strictly, saying that since nobody can tell why he did not shave before Yom Tov, it is forbidden to do so. Thus he applies the same logic to one who already shaved before Yom Tov and forbids him from shaving on Chol HaMoed itself. | ||
S”A 531:2 rules explicitly against Rabbenu Tam and says that even one who shaved before Yom Tov cannot shave on Chol HaMoed. Though most rishonim and acharonim rejected the idea of the Rabbenu Tam, the Noda Biyehuda Mahadura Kamma 13 writes that one may rely on Rabbenu Tam on condition that the one cutting his hair is a poor person who does not have what to eat. When asked why he printed such a novel idea, in Nodah Biyehuda Mahadura Tinyana 99-101 he explains that if he didn’t print it, people would go to non-Jewish barbers who use razors and he had another secret reason. The Chatam Sofer 154 writes that the Nodah Biyehuda’s hidden reason was that there were some who shaved daily with a razor and by allowing them to shave on Chol HaMoed he would save them from a | S”A 531:2 rules explicitly against Rabbenu Tam and says that even one who shaved before Yom Tov cannot shave on Chol HaMoed. Though most rishonim and acharonim rejected the idea of the Rabbenu Tam, the Noda Biyehuda Mahadura Kamma 13 writes that one may rely on Rabbenu Tam on condition that the one cutting his hair is a poor person who does not have what to eat. When asked why he printed such a novel idea, in Nodah Biyehuda Mahadura Tinyana 99-101 he explains that if he didn’t print it, people would go to non-Jewish barbers who use razors and he had another secret reason. The Chatam Sofer 154 writes that the Nodah Biyehuda’s hidden reason was that there were some who shaved daily with a razor and by allowing them to shave on Chol HaMoed he would save them from a biblical prohibition of shaving with a razor as long as their hair stayed below some minimal level. In conclusion, the Chatam Sofer disagrees with the Nodah Biyehuda’s leniency as did most other acharonim (see Chida in Yosef Ometz Siman 7) </ref> | ||
#Chazal did not make an exception for someone who was sick and was unable to cut one’s hair before the holiday and forbid him as well.<ref>S”A 531:3 </ref> | #Chazal did not make an exception for someone who was sick and was unable to cut one’s hair before the holiday and forbid him as well.<ref>S”A 531:3 </ref> | ||
#Chazal made a few exceptions and permitted certain people to cut hair on Chol HaMoed including a person who was released from prison on the holiday or late on Erev [[Yom Tov]], one who arrives from over seas on Erev [[Yom Tov]] and was unable to cut one’s hair all of Erev [[Yom Tov]], and one who was a mourner for a relative other than a parent, whose seventh day of [[mourning]] occurred on Erev [[Yom Tov]] which was [[Shabbat]] (and so he was unable to shave before the holiday).<ref>S”A 531:4, Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 27) </ref> Those who Chazal permitted to permitted to cut one’s hair should do so in private.<ref>S”A 531:5 </ref> | #Chazal made a few exceptions and permitted certain people to cut hair on Chol HaMoed including a person who was released from prison on the holiday or late on Erev [[Yom Tov]], one who arrives from over seas on Erev [[Yom Tov]] and was unable to cut one’s hair all of Erev [[Yom Tov]], and one who was a mourner for a relative other than a parent, whose seventh day of [[mourning]] occurred on Erev [[Yom Tov]] which was [[Shabbat]] (and so he was unable to shave before the holiday).<ref>S”A 531:4, Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 27) </ref> Those who Chazal permitted to permitted to cut one’s hair should do so in private.<ref>S”A 531:5 </ref> | ||
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#In general, it's forbidden to shave on Chol HaMoed unless this jeopardizes one’s job.<ref>Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 26) </ref> | #In general, it's forbidden to shave on Chol HaMoed unless this jeopardizes one’s job.<ref>Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 26) </ref> | ||
#Many Ashkenazic authorities permit [[shaving]] on Chol HaMoed for someone who shaves regularly, at least once every three days, on condition that (1) he shaved on Erev Yom Tov and (2) there's a great need or is pained by not [[shaving]]. Also, one who relies on this only to look presentable doesn't have to be protested.<ref>*Nodeh BeYehuda 1:13 writes that one may rely on the opinion of Rabbenu Tam who holds that one who shaved on Erev Chag may shave during Chol HaMoed on condition that the one cutting the hair is a poor person who doesn’t have what to eat. When asked why he printed such a novel idea, in Nodeh BeYehuda 2:99-101 he explains that if he didn’t print it, people would go to non-Jewish barbers who use razors and he had another secret reason. The Chatom Sofer 154 writes that the Nodeh BeYehuda’s hidden reason was that there were some who shaved daily with a razor and by allowing them to shave on Chol HaMoed he would save them from a | #Many Ashkenazic authorities permit [[shaving]] on Chol HaMoed for someone who shaves regularly, at least once every three days, on condition that (1) he shaved on Erev Yom Tov and (2) there's a great need or is pained by not [[shaving]]. Also, one who relies on this only to look presentable doesn't have to be protested.<ref>*Nodeh BeYehuda 1:13 writes that one may rely on the opinion of Rabbenu Tam who holds that one who shaved on Erev Chag may shave during Chol HaMoed on condition that the one cutting the hair is a poor person who doesn’t have what to eat. When asked why he printed such a novel idea, in Nodeh BeYehuda 2:99-101 he explains that if he didn’t print it, people would go to non-Jewish barbers who use razors and he had another secret reason. The Chatom Sofer 154 writes that the Nodeh BeYehuda’s hidden reason was that there were some who shaved daily with a razor and by allowing them to shave on Chol HaMoed he would save them from a biblical prohibition of [[shaving]] with a razor as long as their hair stayed below some minimal level. In conclusion, the Chatom Sofer disagreed with the Nodeh BeYehuda’s leniency. | ||
*Based on the opinion of Rabbenu Tam, Sh”t Igrot Moshe OC 1:163 rules leniently for someone who shaved on Erev [[Yom Tov]] and regularly shaves at least once in every 3 days, and he’s pained by not [[shaving]] or has a great need to shave. His logic is that even the Tur who disagreed with the Rabbenu Tam would agree nowadays, since many people shave regularly and it is well known that one who shaved on Erev [[Yom Tov]] will still have to shave on Chol HaMoed. This addresses the Tur's first question on Rabbenu Tam, however, with regards to his second claim, Rav Moshe offers several potential answers. [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/764803/Rabbi_Shmuel_Marcus/Shaving_on_Chol_Hamoed Rabbi Shmuel Marcus] explains this [[teshuva]] of Rav Moshe.</ref> Some authorities are even more lenient and say that if one shaves daily and shaved on Erev [[Yom Tov]] one should shave on Chol HaMoed.<ref>[http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/733780/Rabbi_Hershel_Schachter/Hilchos_Chol_Hamoed Rav Schachter] (min 50-53) quotes Rav Soloveitchik who said that anyone who had permit to shave should shave in order to look presentable for the holiday. This is also recorded in Nefesh HaRav (p. 189) and "Halakhic Positions of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik" pg. 25. Rav Aharon Lichtenstein (cited in Techumin 2:133 note 37) agrees with this ruling of Rav Soloveitchik.</ref> However, many poskim rejected this leniency <ref>Rav Chaim David Halevi (Aseh Lecha Rav 1:39) notes that most contemporary poskim reject Rav Moshe’s leniency. Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchita (Vol. 2 66:23) is also strict. Rav Avigdor Neventzal (Yerushalayim Bimoadeha Chol HaMoed pg. 237) is strict even for a date or a business meeting. </ref> including most sephardic poskim <ref>Chazon Ovadyah ([[Yom Tov]] pg 190), Yalkut Yosef Moadim pg. 516) and Rabbi Shalom Mesas (Tevuot Shemesh OC 55-56), [http://www.dailyhalacha.com/Display.asp?PageIndex=&ClipID=2478 Rabbi Eli Mansour] on dailyhalacha.com</ref> | *Based on the opinion of Rabbenu Tam, Sh”t Igrot Moshe OC 1:163 rules leniently for someone who shaved on Erev [[Yom Tov]] and regularly shaves at least once in every 3 days, and he’s pained by not [[shaving]] or has a great need to shave. His logic is that even the Tur who disagreed with the Rabbenu Tam would agree nowadays, since many people shave regularly and it is well known that one who shaved on Erev [[Yom Tov]] will still have to shave on Chol HaMoed. This addresses the Tur's first question on Rabbenu Tam, however, with regards to his second claim, Rav Moshe offers several potential answers. [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/764803/Rabbi_Shmuel_Marcus/Shaving_on_Chol_Hamoed Rabbi Shmuel Marcus] explains this [[teshuva]] of Rav Moshe.</ref> Some authorities are even more lenient and say that if one shaves daily and shaved on Erev [[Yom Tov]] one should shave on Chol HaMoed.<ref>[http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/733780/Rabbi_Hershel_Schachter/Hilchos_Chol_Hamoed Rav Schachter] (min 50-53) quotes Rav Soloveitchik who said that anyone who had permit to shave should shave in order to look presentable for the holiday. This is also recorded in Nefesh HaRav (p. 189) and "Halakhic Positions of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik" pg. 25. Rav Aharon Lichtenstein (cited in Techumin 2:133 note 37) agrees with this ruling of Rav Soloveitchik.</ref> However, many poskim rejected this leniency <ref>Rav Chaim David Halevi (Aseh Lecha Rav 1:39) notes that most contemporary poskim reject Rav Moshe’s leniency. Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchita (Vol. 2 66:23) is also strict. Rav Avigdor Neventzal (Yerushalayim Bimoadeha Chol HaMoed pg. 237) is strict even for a date or a business meeting. </ref> including most sephardic poskim <ref>Chazon Ovadyah ([[Yom Tov]] pg 190), Yalkut Yosef Moadim pg. 516) and Rabbi Shalom Mesas (Tevuot Shemesh OC 55-56), [http://www.dailyhalacha.com/Display.asp?PageIndex=&ClipID=2478 Rabbi Eli Mansour] on dailyhalacha.com</ref> | ||
#A man may trim his mustache even if it does not interfere with his eating.<ref>Shulchan Aruch O.C. 531:8, Mishna Brurah 531:21, Kaf Hachaim 531:39 </ref> | #A man may trim his mustache even if it does not interfere with his eating.<ref>Shulchan Aruch O.C. 531:8, Mishna Brurah 531:21, Kaf Hachaim 531:39 </ref> | ||
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#It’s forbidden to launder clothing, towels, linens, or tablecloths on Chol HaMoed as the rabbis prohibited this so that people would prepare properly before the holiday.<ref>Gemara Moed Katan 14a, Shulchan Aruch 534:1, Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 34). The Mishna (13b) states that it is forbidden to launder clothing on Chol HaMoed. Even though it should have been considered a need of the holiday and permitted, Chazal (Gemara Moed Katan 14a) made a specific gezerah not to do laundry on Chol HaMoed lest one neglect to prepare properly for the holiday and not launder his clothing until the holiday comes. Shulchan Aruch 534:1 codifies this as halacha. </ref> It’s also forbidden to launder clothing in a washing machine.<ref>Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 30). Rav Ovadia Yosef (Yabia Omer 7:48:1) writes that it is forbidden to do laundry with a laundry machine on Chol HaMoed since the reason of Chazal, to prevent a person from being unprepared for the holiday, still applies whether or not it takes a lot of effort. Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata 66:63 agrees. </ref> | #It’s forbidden to launder clothing, towels, linens, or tablecloths on Chol HaMoed as the rabbis prohibited this so that people would prepare properly before the holiday.<ref>Gemara Moed Katan 14a, Shulchan Aruch 534:1, Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 34). The Mishna (13b) states that it is forbidden to launder clothing on Chol HaMoed. Even though it should have been considered a need of the holiday and permitted, Chazal (Gemara Moed Katan 14a) made a specific gezerah not to do laundry on Chol HaMoed lest one neglect to prepare properly for the holiday and not launder his clothing until the holiday comes. Shulchan Aruch 534:1 codifies this as halacha. </ref> It’s also forbidden to launder clothing in a washing machine.<ref>Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 30). Rav Ovadia Yosef (Yabia Omer 7:48:1) writes that it is forbidden to do laundry with a laundry machine on Chol HaMoed since the reason of Chazal, to prevent a person from being unprepared for the holiday, still applies whether or not it takes a lot of effort. Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata 66:63 agrees. </ref> | ||
#If a child’s clothing are insufficient because they are soiled frequently it’s permissible to launder them on Chol HaMoed.<ref>Mishna Brurah 534:11 and Aruch HaShulchan 534:8. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach in Shulchan Shlomo 534:3 says that this age is until at most 6 or 7 years old. </ref> If one is [[laundering]] them in a machine one may wash a full load of children’s clothing but adult’s clothing may not be added.<ref>Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 32) </ref> | #If a child’s clothing are insufficient because they are soiled frequently it’s permissible to launder them on Chol HaMoed.<ref>Mishna Brurah 534:11 and Aruch HaShulchan 534:8. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach in Shulchan Shlomo 534:3 says that this age is until at most 6 or 7 years old. </ref> If one is [[laundering]] them in a machine one may wash a full load of children’s clothing but adult’s clothing may not be added.<ref>Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 32) </ref> | ||
# Some allow cleaning an adult's undergarments if they were all cleaned before the holiday and then because they frequently get sweaty or dirty need to be laundered and there aren't any other available, can be washed in the washing machine on Chol Hamoed.<ref>Yalkut Yosef 534:8 based on Magen Avraham 534:2 and Shraga Hameir 7:43:3</ref> Similarly, a niddah who needs to change her white underwear for [[Shiva Nekiyim]] and doesn't have enough can launder it on Chol Hamoed.<ref>Yalkut Yosef 534:6 based on Meiri Moed Katan 14a</ref> | #Some allow cleaning an adult's undergarments if they were all cleaned before the holiday and then because they frequently get sweaty or dirty need to be laundered and there aren't any other available, can be washed in the washing machine on Chol Hamoed.<ref>Yalkut Yosef 534:8 based on Magen Avraham 534:2 and Shraga Hameir 7:43:3</ref> Similarly, a niddah who needs to change her white underwear for [[Shiva Nekiyim]] and doesn't have enough can launder it on Chol Hamoed.<ref>Yalkut Yosef 534:6 based on Meiri Moed Katan 14a</ref> | ||
#One may launder guests' sheets and towels on Chol HaMoed.<ref>[http://www.shemayisrael.com/parsha/ostroff/archives/shabbos6_21.htm Weekly Hilchos Shabbos Shemini] quoting Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata (66 note 263). Mishna Brurah 534:6 explains that it is permitted to launder clothing that get dirty all the time since it is evident that even if one were to clean in advance of the holiday, they would need to be cleaned again on the holiday. Similarly, Chaye Adam adds that it is permitted to clean a handkerchief that gets dirty frequently. Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata (66 no. 263) writes that as an application of this Mishna Brurah one is permitted to launder towels and guest sheets on the holiday since those are frequently cleaned on a regular basis. Interestingly, Shevet HaLevi 8:124 is hesitant to permit laundering undergarments which become dirty frequently on Chol HaMoed if one can wear them again without great discomfort.</ref> | #One may launder guests' sheets and towels on Chol HaMoed.<ref>[http://www.shemayisrael.com/parsha/ostroff/archives/shabbos6_21.htm Weekly Hilchos Shabbos Shemini] quoting Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata (66 note 263). Mishna Brurah 534:6 explains that it is permitted to launder clothing that get dirty all the time since it is evident that even if one were to clean in advance of the holiday, they would need to be cleaned again on the holiday. Similarly, Chaye Adam adds that it is permitted to clean a handkerchief that gets dirty frequently. Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata (66 no. 263) writes that as an application of this Mishna Brurah one is permitted to launder towels and guest sheets on the holiday since those are frequently cleaned on a regular basis. Interestingly, Shevet HaLevi 8:124 is hesitant to permit laundering undergarments which become dirty frequently on Chol HaMoed if one can wear them again without great discomfort.</ref> | ||
#Chazal did not make an exception for someone who was sick and was unable to do laundry before the holiday and forbid him as well.<ref>Mishna Brurah 534:2, Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 30) </ref> | #Chazal did not make an exception for someone who was sick and was unable to do laundry before the holiday and forbid him as well.<ref>Mishna Brurah 534:2, Hilchot Chol HaMoed Zichron Shlomo (pg 30) </ref> | ||
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{{Tefillin on Chol HaMoed}} | {{Tefillin on Chol HaMoed}} | ||
==Work | ==Work Through a Non-Jew== | ||
# | #It is forbidden to instruct a non-Jew to do any activity that’s forbidden for a Jew to do on Chol HaMoed.<ref>Shulchan Aruch O.C. 543:1 </ref> | ||
#It is forbidden to have a non-Jew build one's house on Chol Hamoed. This is forbidden even if it is contracted and isn't fired per hour or day. It is forbidden even if it is outside of the town.<ref>Gemara Moed Katan 12a, Shulchan Aruch O.C. 543:2</ref> | |||
#For a mitzvah it is permitted to ask a non-Jew to do construction on Chol Hamoed.<ref>Mishna Brurah 543:1, Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata end of ch. 68</ref> | |||
==Links== | ==Links== | ||
