General Holidays

As in Hilchos Shabbos, in Hilchos Yom Tov we have followed the "derech kitzora" (path of brevity), and have concentrated primarily on acquainting the reader with the main principles of the laws of Yom Tov. In addition, we have presented a number of practical applications. Thus, one will be equipped to ask one's Rav for further guidance after studying this sefer.

In Hilchos Shabbos we organized the sefer in accordance with the sequence used by the Chayei Adam in his sefer Zichru Toras Moshe. Likewise, in Hilchos Yom Tov as well, we have organized the sefer according to the arrangement of the Chayei Adam, which follows the order of the thirty-nine Melachos. Thus, each chapter in this sefer parallels the corresponding chapter in Kitzur Hilchos Shabbos.

The advantage to this system is that one who has already studied the laws of Shabbos from our sefer can now easily find the halachos of Yom Tov relevant to that subject in the same chapter as that topic is discussed in Hilchos Shabbos. Moreover, within each chapter, one can frequently follow the order of the numbers assigned to each subtopic, and thereby see how the halacha in regard to Yom Tov differs from Shabbos. Learn More

How much thought do we give to the essence of an upcoming Yom Tov? Many of us get so caught up in the preparations that we are left with precious little energy to delve into its true meaning and significance.

The dates of our Yamim Tovim and the Jewish months of the year are determined by the waxing and waning of the moon. Our personalities and character traits are shaped, to a degree, by the mazal of the month under which we were born. By exercising our power of choice in a positive manner, as in walking in the ways of Torah, we can actually circumvent our lackluster mazal. It is up to each of us to strive to rise above our tendencies that could be bogging us down and preventing us from maximizing our potential.

The timeless stories and essays contained within these pages will shine into your heart and soul and inspire you to strive to grow as you follow the rhythm of the entire year! Learn More

The Festivals in Our Lives Learn More