The Twelve Minute Shiur

Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, one of the leading Orthodox poskim(halakhic authorities) of the 20th century, was certainly no liberal or progressive. But his theory of halakhic decision has much to teach us. At least… we think so, and in the next several episodes we’re going to explore that theory, which he sets forth in the הקדמה (introduction, preface) to his collected responsa.

Part 1: why maybe I shouldn’t have been a posek!

Download the source sheet at www.freehofinstitute.org/podcast.

Most Orthodox poskim will tell you that, to be a valid ("kosher") witness, a person must be an Orthodox Jew, that is, observant of ritual halakhah according to Orthodox standards. So: a Jewish wedding ceremony is valid kiddushin only if it is witnessed by two Orthodox Jews. We have two questions: 1) how do they know this? and 2) is it true?

Download the source sheet at www.freehofinstitute.org/podcast

It's a typical halakhic discussion among the rishonim (medieval Talmudic scholars): an analysis of texts concerning the laws of aninut, the period of time that extends from the death of a loved one to the moment of burial.

Typical? Could there be more to it? Does this back-and-forth over seemingly dry and technical details conceal an emotional dispute among members of a grieving family?
​An exercise in reading between the lines of our halakhic texts.

Download the source sheet at www.freehofinstitute.org/podcast.