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Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R The Daf Yomi through a Psychological Lens.
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Beitzah 22 In the Dark About Modesty Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 20th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph asks whether it is permitted to extinguish a lamp on Yom Tov in order to have marital relations.  What is the reason that it is considered important to extinguish the lamp before engaging in marital relations?  It is considered to be improper and immodest to engage in sexual intercourse where the private parts of the body can be seen. This is codified in Shulkhan Arukh EH 25:5 and OH 240. This prohibition natura …
Beitzah 21 As the Crow Flies Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 20th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph records an interesting idiom used by Rav Huna in response to a question he did not want to answer.  He told the person, “Look, a raven flies in the sky.” Rashi tells us that it was meant to distract the petitioner, presumably in the hopes that he would leave him alone as he was exhausted at that time from giving shiur and Torah study. Rabbenu Chananel explains that it was actually a criticism, suggesting …
Mum’s the Word Kesuvos 76 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 20th, 2022

As religions go, Judaism tends to be practical and avoids extreme asceticism, at least for the uninitiated. Even though marriage is not only about physical and sexual gratification, Judaism does not ignore the basic sensual and physical needs necessary to form and maintain a loving bond.  Amud Beis discusses marrying and then later discovering a deal breaking blemish. While we are on this topic, Akeidas Yitschok (Chayei Sarah 16) asks a seri …
Adjustment Period Kiddushin 38 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 20th, 2023

The Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses how, on the day of Moses' passing, the Manna ceased, but the Jewish people continued to be sustained by the leftover Manna until the 16th of Nissan. Similarly, the Gemara mentions that the dough-cakes the Jews took from Egypt tasted like the Manna. Is the Gemara merely recounting historical events, or does it hold a deeper significance? Shem Mishmuel, in Shelach 10, offers an explanation that goes beyond histori …
The Truth that is in the Heart Bava Basra 88 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 20th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the extraordinary integrity of Rabbi Safrah. His standard of honesty was so high, that even if he only resolved in his mind to make a sale at a certain price, he would stick with his inner resolution, despite the buyer revealing that he would be willing to pay more. This kind of practice is considered one of many ways that a person “speaks the truth in his heart.”   The idea of “speaking t …
Looking for an Opening Bava Basra 87 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 20th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the practice of making sure that no significant amount of liquid is left behind in the seller’s vessel, to be scrupulously honest:   Anyone who sells wine, oil, or similar liquids is obligated, after he transfers the liquid into the buyer’s vessel, to drip for him three extra drops from the measure.    There is also an aggadic instance of three drops in the Talmud (Menachos 29a):  …
Joseph the Demon Eruvin 43 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 21st, 2020

תָּא שְׁמַע: הָנֵי שָׁב שְׁמַעְתָּא דְּאִיתְאַמְרָן בְּצַפְרָא בְּשַׁבְּתָא קַמֵּיהּ דְּרַב חִסְדָּא בְּסוּרָא, בַּהֲדֵי פַּנְיָא בְּשַׁבְּתָא קַמֵּיהּ דְּרָבָא בְּפוּמְבְּדִיתָא. The Gemara cites another proof: Come and hear a resolution from the incident involving the seven teachings that …
Beauty May be More than Skin Deep, But he Gets Under My Skin Kesuvos 77 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 21st, 2022

As we saw in Psychology of the Daf Kesuvos 75, the Gemara identifies a feminine quality of being able to find a husband attractive and even noble, despite glaring external and personal flaws.  Yet it also is important to realize that this does not happen in a vacuum; she may be looking to find his good side but he also must endeavor to bring it out (see the Ben Yehoyada we quoted.) Our Gemara on Amud Aleph quotes the Mishna that describes ce …
Your Special Mitzvah Kiddushin 39 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 21st, 2023

Our Mishna on Amud Beis presents a cryptic concept, highlighting the potential power of just one mitzvah: Anyone who performs one mitzvah has goodness bestowed upon him, his life is lengthened, and he inherits the land, i.e., life in the World-to-Come. And anyone who does not perform one mitzvah does not have goodness bestowed upon him, his life is not lengthened, and he does not inherit the land of the World-to-Come. The Gemara goes on to explai …
Slow Burn: Why Change Takes Time Zevachim 7
Author:
September 21st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discussed the order and priority of a chattas sacrifice in comparison to an Olah sacrifice.
For what reason is a Chattas brought before an Olah in all circumstances where both are brought? Rabbi Shimon answered: It is comparable to an advocate [lifraklit] who enters before the king to convince him to pardon the defendant. Once the advocate has appeased the king, the gift is brought in after him.
By comparison, the Ch …
The Ends Justify the Means Eruvin 44 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 22nd, 2020

  אִם הָיָה בְּתוֹךְ הַתְּחוּם — כְּאִילּוּ לֹא יָצָא. כׇּל הַיּוֹצְאִים לְהַצִּיל — חוֹזְרִין לִמְקוֹמָן. If he was within his original limit, it is considered as if he had not left his limit, and he may return to his original location. The Sages formulated a principle: All who go out to battle and save lives may return to their original locat …
States of Doubt and Transition Kesuvos 78 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 22nd, 2022

In psychology of the Daf (Kesuvos 70) we discussed the importance of liminal states. Whenever a person is in transition from one state to another, it is symbolic of rebirth. Psychologically speaking, many people regress or reactivate past traumas and attachment patterns when they pass from one life stage to another, such as a graduation or marriage. Rashi on Amud Aleph (Eimar) uses cryptic language to describe a woman when she is betrothed (arusa …
Spiritual Dusting Off Before Shabbos Kiddushin 41 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 22nd, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses how great rabbis would personally tend to Shabbos preparations, even tasks that might be considered menial, to honor the sanctity of Shabbos: Rav Yosef said: It is more fitting that the mitzvah be performed by the person himself than by means of his agent. For example, there is a story of Rav Safra, who would singe the head of an animal on Shabbos eve himself to prepare it for consumption on Shabbos. Similarly, …
Is it Possible to be Forgiven by God Without Repentance? Bava Basra 89 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 22nd, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the moral obligation to be absolutely scrupulous when it comes to honest weights and measures. This obligation and prohibition extends to the degree that one is not even allowed to have an accurate measures around the house, despite using them for other purposes, with no intention to defraud anybody:   A person may not keep in his house a measure that is too small or too large, even if it is used as a chambe …
Timing Is Everything: Pesach, Shelamim, and the Window of Redemption Zevachim 8
Author:
September 22nd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis describes the unique quality of the Pesach sacrifice. The Korban Pesach has a quality similar to that of the sin offering, in that if it is slaughtered with the intention of a different sacrifice it is rendered invalid. Other sacrifices, such as Shelamim and Olah, if they are slaughtered with the intention of a different sacrifice, they are still kosher.
The Korban Pesach has a twist which is different even than the sin …
We are Our Own Worst Enemy Eruvin 45 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 23rd, 2020

  פַּעַם אַחַת הִכִּירוּ בָּהֶן אוֹיְבִים וְרָדְפוּ אַחֲרֵיהֶם, וְנִכְנְסוּ לִיטּוֹל כְּלֵי זֵיינָן, וְנִכְנְסוּ אוֹיְבִים אַחֲרֵיהֶן. דָּחֲקוּ זֶה אֶת זֶה, וְהָרְגוּ זֶה אֶת זֶה יוֹתֵר מִמַּה שֶּׁהָרְגוּ אוֹיְבִים. בְּאוֹתָהּ שָׁעָה הִתְקִ …
Beitzah 24 The Song of Torah Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 23rd, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph uses an interesting idiom. Abaye tells Rav Yosef, in response to his asking of what practical significance is his question, “Gemara Gemor, Zamorta Tehey? Shall the Gemara be as a song?” Meaning, even when there is no practical difference, understanding the Gemara in its depth is important, as it is not merely a song. Pri Tzaddik (VaYikra 6:1) notes that they used to study in sing song in order to promote memor …
Beitzah 23 Rebel Without a Pause Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 23rd, 2021

Our Gemara records that the rabbis were unhappy with Rabbi Elazar ben Azaryah who did not rebuke his neighbor for allowing his cow to wear a strap between its horns on Shabbos, as they considered it forbidden.  The Chiddushei Chasam Sofer Chulin 142a uses this Gemara to explain another Gemara in Chagigah 3a: The sages asked whose turn it was this Shabbos to teach halakha to the masses. When they heard it was Rabbi Elazar ben Azaryah’s …
Charitable Investments, Trust! Kesuvos 80 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 23rd, 2022

Our Gemara engages in a complex legal discussion involving situations where a person provides an unsolicited service of value to another.  Say, for example, you enter into another person’s field and plow and plant it.  While he did not ask for this, the owner will receive some benefit for this, and therefore the halacha is that he must pay for the service nonetheless.  The amount is subject to adjustment though, and depends o …
A Token of Appreciation Kesuvos 79 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 23rd, 2022

It is important to show gratitude.  Sometimes gratitude does not involve much effort or expenditure, so long as it is sincere. Our Mishna on Amud Beis teaches us: הַמּוֹצִיא הוֹצָאוֹת עַל נִכְסֵי אִשְׁתּוֹ הוֹצִיא הַרְבֵּה וְאָכַל קִימְעָא קִימְעָא וְאָכַל הַרְבֵּה מַה שֶּׁהוֹצִיא הוֹצִיא וּמַה שֶּׁאָכַל אָכַל ה …
Good Intentions Aren't Good Enough Bava Basra 90 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 23rd, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the different efforts of the Amoraim, Shmuel’s father and Shmuel himself to prevent hoarding, price manipulation and gouging in the marketplace. Interestingly, with good intentions, they employed opposite strategies. The Gemara also commented on whose intervention was more effective:   אבוה דשמואל מזבין להו לפירי בתרעא חרפא, כתרעא חרפא. שמואל בריה, מש …
A Sin by Any Other Name Zevachim 9 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
September 23rd, 2025

Our Gemara describes the offerings that the nesi’im brought when the Mishkan was inaugurated as Chattas Nachshon. Even though all the nesi’im brought this sacrifice, it was named after Nachshon, the Nasi of Shevet Yehuda because Yehuda was the leader and the first one to bring it.
A typical chattas is to achieve atonement for a sin committed out of ignorance or forgetfulness that would incur the kares punishment if done intentionally. Acco …
Lest the Children Forget about Eiruv Eruvin 46 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 24th, 2020

  וְלֹא אָמְרוּ לְעָרֵב חֲצֵירוֹת, אֶלָּא כְּדֵי שֶׁלֹּא לְשַׁכֵּחַ תּוֹרַת עֵירוּב מִן הַתִּינוֹקוֹת. And they said to establish an eiruv for courtyards only after all the inhabitants of the city merge their alleyways and become like the inhabitants of a single courtyard, so that the law of eiruv should not be forgotten by the children, who may not be awa …
In the Dark About This One Psychology of the Daf Yomi Beitzah 26
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 24th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis refers to an Amora who they considered to have an unreliable memory and confused the Mishnayos and beraisos he quoted. It is interesting that he was regarded with some degree of deference as a sage, despite this major shortcoming. There is no explanation in the commentaries aside from brief statements by Rashi and Shita Mekubetzes who seem to confirm that he was a respected Sage who confused his teachings, and was oddly to …
Nothing Should be Udderly Forbidden Psychology of the Daf Yomi Beitzah 25
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 24th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis mentions the famous Yalta, who was Rav Nachman’s wife and the Nasi’s daughter (see Rashi Gittin 67a). Although ordinarily it’s forbidden to travel on a litter on Yom Tov because it is too conspicuous and resembles weekday activity, they permitted Yalta to be carried this way. She was given this dispensation possibly because she was engaged in community service or that in this regard she had the status of …
Whose Orders Are We Following? Kiddushin 42 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 24th, 2023

In our Gemara, we've been discussing the concept of agency, "shelichut." Several important principles have emerged: It is more honorable to perform a mitzvah oneself rather than appointing an agent, even if the mitzvah could technically be carried out by someone else. The concept of "Letikune Shidarticha" suggests that if an agent performs an action that clearly contradicts the appointer's intent, the agency is not valid for that particular ac …
Exit Strategy Bava Basra 91 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 24th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses famine conditions that could allow a person to leave Eretz Yisroel:   תנו רבנן: אין יוצאין מארץ לחוץ לארץ, אלא אם כן עמדו סאתים בסלע. אמר רבי שמעון: אימתי – בזמן שאינו מוצא ליקח, אבל בזמן שמוצא ליקח – אפילו עמדה סאה בסלע, לא יצא.   The Sages taught: One may not leave Eretz Y …
Spiritual Northstar Zevachim 10 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
September 24th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses that certain sacrifices, including the chattas, requires that it be slaughtered in the North side of the Temple courtyard (Tzafon).
A number of sacrifices must be slaughtered on the north side, with some having it stated explicitly in the relevant verses in the Torah, and other others being derived from derashos. The Bas Ayin (Vayikra 17) raises an interesting question: The verses for the chattas of the King …
בענין סוד הכרובים וסוד הזיווג
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 25th, 2016

בענין סוד הכרובים וסוד הזיווג שמחה פוירמן 718 793 1376 simchafeuerman@gmail.com   כתוב בעשרת הדברות (שמות ×›:ד): ״לֹֽ֣א תַֽעֲשֶׂ֨ה־לְךָ֥֣ פֶ֣֙סֶל֙ ×€ וְכָל־תְּמוּנָ֡֔ה אֲשֶׁ֤֣ר בַּשָּׁמַ֣֙יִם֙ ×€ מִמַּ֡֔עַל וַֽאֲשֶׁ֥ר֩ בָּאָ֖֨רֶץ מִתַָּ֑֜חַת וַאֲשֶׁ֥֣ר ×‘Ö¼Ö·×žÖ¼Ö·Ö …
Gemara as Literature Eruvin 48 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 25th, 2020

Eruvin 48 כִּי אֲתָא לְקַמֵּיהּ דְּרַב פָּפָּא, אֲמַר לֵיהּ: אִי דָּיְיקִינַן כּוּלֵּא הַאי, לָא הֲוֵי תָּנֵינַן. When Rav Mesharshiya’s son came before Rav Pappa, the latter said to him: Were we to be so precise, we would not be able to learn anything at all, as we would be too busy answering such questions. פלא יועץ ערך גרסא גירסא - א …
Wedding Night Trauma Eruvin 47 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 25th, 2020

  In this section we will discuss and an unusual custom that, according to some, was enacted in order to forestall wedding night trauma. Imagine if one year the Moschiach came  and Elijah the prophet announced that this year the Mitzvah on Seder night is to have a Ham on Rye. Even the most devout believer would probably choke while trying to perform the Mitzvah. This is what wedding night trauma is for some couples who have spent their …
Taking Trauma Personally Kesuvos 82 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 25th, 2022

Who wants to get married more, a man or a woman? Elsewhere in Psychology of the Daf (Yevamos 107) we discussed social research on gender attitudes toward marriage and various rabbinic assumptions. Today we will look at a different angle of willingness versus reluctance to marry.  Our Gemara on Amud Beis reports at first they would write the kesuba, but set aside the funds instead of having the husband’s entire estate subject to a lien. …
Don’t Fight, Get Divorced Kesuvos 81 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 25th, 2022

There are times where ambiguity and uncertainty is more painful than direct confrontation, even if the confrontation is objectively more damaging than the pending-but-not-certain-to-be-realized event.  Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses an interesting psychological phenomenon, but to understand it in context we need to learn the sugya for a bit. If a man does Yibum he inherits the kesuba from his deceased brother which becomes re-activated fo …
Repentance: The Ball is in your Court Kiddushin 43 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 25th, 2023

In previous dappim, we learned that except in unusual circumstances, "אין שליח לדבר עבירה" (there is no agency when it comes to sin). That is to say, the one who carries out the act is fully liable since, as the Gemara says, "Whom does one obey, the master or the student?" In other words, God's law takes precedence, and there can never be an assignment of agency that contradicts God's command. Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses a …
Money Over Matter Bava Basra 92 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 25th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a case in which a buyer and seller are in dispute over if the purchased ox was sold for labor purposes or for slaughter. The difference being, that if it was found to be an unruly ox known to gore, the purchase would be deemed under false pretenses and be refunded. However, the seller maintains that he sold the ox under the presumption that it was for slaughter, thus the ox’s nature is irrelevant, and the p …
Oily or Late Zevachim 11 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
September 25th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis describes the requirement that the Menorah in the Temple must have a measure of oil so that it will burn from evening until morning. Everyone is familiar with the famous question of the Beis Yosef (O.C. 670) regarding the miracle of Chanuka. Why do we light for eight days to commemorate a miracle that lasted eight days, when if there was enough oil for only one day, the miracle would actually be seven days? One of the …
Beitzah 27 Blather, Rinse, Repeat Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 26th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis tells of a Shaalah asked of Rava close to Yom Tov evening while he was already washing his hair for the holiday. It’s important to note the emotional availability and patience the rabbis had for pressing, last minute questions. Of course, many readers are familiar with the famous incident in Gemara Shabbos (31a) where two pranksters made a wager to see if they could make Hillel lose his patience. Hillel too was prepa …
Not So Respectful Discourse Kiddushin 44 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 26th, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph relates a scene that occurred in the Beis Midrash where Reish Lakish was screaming like a "cruchia" bird, and no one paid attention to his halakhic argument. What was this "cruchia" bird? Some translate it as a crane, which apparently makes a very loud cawing sound. However, Rashi here identifies it as an Agur. Elsewhere, an Agur bird is identified with a parrot (see Radak Yirmiyahu 8:7. Radak himself learns that "cruchia …
The Cult of Self-Care Bava Basra 93 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 26th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses an interesting protocol from Talmudic times:   עוד מנהג גדול היה בירושלים – מפה פרוסה על גבי הפתח; כל זמן שמפה פרוסה – אורחין נכנסין. נסתלקה המפה – אין האורחין נכנסין.   The baraisa continues: Another great custom that was followed in Jerusalem was that when one made a feast, there would be a clo …
Mixed Motives Zevachim 13 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
September 26th, 2025

Our Mishna on Amud Aleph discusses the case of one had two mixed intentions in the critical parts of the sacrificial offering that require Lishmah. For example, if one sprinkled the blood of a chattas offering having in mind the owner/sinner who dedicated the sacrifice, and to slaughter it for another person as well, it would still be invalidated.
On a simple level, we see that when there are mixed intentions, the invalidating intention is not …
No-Return Policy? Zevachim 12 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
September 26th, 2025

Our Gemara discussed the concept of diychuy, which means that if a animal is set aside for a sacrifice, and then for various reasons, it becomes ineligible. Even if the animal reverted back to a technical eligibility, it is tainted and cannot be any more used for a sacrifice. On the surface, this is an issue of honor and respect. By the way of metaphor, would one offer to a king a “like new open box special” even if technically the item …
Multi-Tasking: The Real Deal Eruvin 50 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 27th, 2020

  אַמַּאי? לֵימָא: כׇּל שֶׁאֵינוֹ בְּזֶה אַחַר זֶה — אֲפִילּוּ בְּבַת אַחַת אֵינוֹ! According to Rabba’s opinion, the question arises: Why should the produce be rendered fit for consumption? Let us say and apply his principle: Anything that cannot be accomplished sequentially; even simultaneously it cannot be accomplished. Since one may not designate two tenths seq …
Making Meaning out of Trauma Eruvin 49 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 27th, 2020

  וּכְגוֹן זֶה כּוֹפִין עַל מִדַּת סְדוֹם. In a case such as this, one compels another to refrain from behavior characteristic of Sodom. We force a person to waive his legal rights in order to prevent him from acting in a manner characteristic of the wicked city of Sodom. If one denies another use of his possessions, even though he would incur no loss or damage by granting use of his property, his conduct is …
Beitzah 31 Calling a Spade, a Spade Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 27th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis uses interesting and graphic terminology to describe the two sides of an axe, and its halakhic implications: It is taught in the mishna that even when it is permitted to chop wood on a Festival, one may not do so with an axe. Rav Ḥinnana bar Shelemya said in the name of Rav: They taught this prohibition only with regard to a case where one chops with its female side, i.e., the broad side of the axe, as was normally done. …
Beitzah 30 The Unintentional Sins of Rebuke Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 27th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph makes a statement about times when it is better not to argue with people who seem to insist they are correct, and will not be receptive to guidance, despite them being erroneous and sinful: Leave the Jews alone; it is better that they be unwitting sinners and not be intentional sinners. When it comes to family members who do what we believe is wrong, it is so hard to keep quiet and take the long game. It is embarrassing a …
Beitzah 29 Power Sift Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 27th, 2021

The Gemara relates that Rav Ashi’s wife was once sifting flour onto a table on Yom Tov, rather than into a bowl in the usual manner. Rav Ashi said: This one of ours, my wife, is the daughter of Rami bar Ḥama, and Rami bar Ḥama is a master of good deeds who is meticulous in his performance of mitzvos. Had my wife not observed this practice in her father’s house, she would not have acted in this manner. Therefore, one can learn the …
Beitzah 28 My Body, God’s Choice Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 27th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis mentions two prohibitions:  Bluris, which was a hairstyle that left the hair in the middle while cutting the sides, perhaps looked like a Mohawk, and was offered as a dedication to a pagan deity (See Rambam Laws of Idolatry 11:1). By extension, rabbinic literature refers to Bluris as any gentile style haircut which is at times forbidden if truly a prohibited gentile custom, and at times frowned upon as too secular, ev …
Compliance is not the Same as Agreement Kiddushin 45 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 27th, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a scenario where a daughter who is a minor accepts marriage in front of her father but without his explicit consent. The Gemara discusses what to make of his silence: is it assent or seething anger? This highlights an important aspect of human nature – a person can feel so trapped in a situation that he will externally comply while internally boiling with anger. As parents and educators, when we find oursel …
It Doesn’t Grow on Trees, You Know! Or…Does It? Bava Basra 95 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 27th, 2024

Our Gemara on this daf discussed wine that begins to become vinegary, and at what point does it lose its status of wine. In such a case, the blessing might revert from “Hagafen - He who creates the fruit of the vine” back to “Shehakol”, the universal blessing that one makes for foods that do not grow or have a specific status, drinks, meat, and other items.  Food items that have distinction or unique status tend to ge …
Don’t Invite a Heavenly Audit Bava Basra 94 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 27th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses an interesting psychological and legal phenomenon. There are certain thresholds of defects or deficiencies in a purchased item which are tolerated, if not expected. Therefore, while one is not allowed to deliberately adulterate grains or beans, if a minor and typical amount of dirt, sediment or pebbles etc are found in the mixture, the buyer has no recourse. Furthermore, if he finds the product to have an amount …
Public Vs Public Confession Kesuvos 84 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 28th, 2022

Does repentance halakhically depend on a verbal itemization in confession, or is it sufficient to simply confess that one has sinned? This is subject to a debate in Yoma (86b) between Rabbi Yehuda ben Bava and Rabbi Akiva. Rabbi Akiva holds that it is sufficient to confess sin in general, without specifying each trespass.  Our Gemara on Amud Beis states a general rule regarding halakha and Rabbi Akiva. The halakha is in accordance with Rabbi …
A Cucumber in Hand is Worth Two in the Bush Kesuvos 83 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 28th, 2022

What is more motivating? A cheap reward that comes quickly or a significant reward that takes much longer to obtain? Our Gemara on Amud Beis references an adage, “בוצינא טב מקרא”.  Rashi translates botzina as a small gourd and Kara as a large gourd. The idea is the same as, “A bird in hand is worth two in the bush.” That is, a person would prefer a small gourd, which he can eat right now, instead of waitin …
A Historical Footnote on the Disputes of Shammai and Hillel Kiddushin 46 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 28th, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the rule that a woman cannot be betrothed by allowing her to keep money she had previously borrowed. This is because the marriage bond needs to be effectuated via a transfer of a tangible object. The loan is not tangible, and even if the money was not spent and thus still tangible, the transfer of money to her domain occurred as a loan, and not an exchange for marriage. A second rule discussed is that if a woman …
The Eye of the Shteiger Zevachim 14 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
September 28th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph states that the doorway space of the Temple is considered part of the Temple. 
This Gemara about the entrance to the sanctuary brings to mind a famous adage regarding repentance, and may also give us more insight into its text:
“God says, make an opening the size of the point of a needle, and I will make you an opening the size of the hallway into the Temple.”
Actually, this adage appears in a number of …
How to Get Paid Faster Kiddushin 48 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 29th, 2023

Our Gemara on amud Aleph and Beis discusses how we view the obligation to pay a worker’s wages, and how it would affect a betrothal that was done via an agreement for the groom to perform a task as the exchange of an object of value: תַנְיָא: ״עֲשֵׂה לִי שִׁירִים נְזָמִים וְטַבָּעוֹת, וְאֶקַּדֵּשׁ אֲנִי לָךְ״, כֵּיוָן שֶׁעֲשָׂאָן – מְקוּדֶּשׁ …
Spiritual Food Kiddushin 47 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 29th, 2023

This daf continues the halakhic discussion of betrothal using money forgiven from a loan. As we explained on Daf 46, a woman cannot be betrothed by allowing her to keep money she had previously borrowed. This is because the marriage bond needs to be effectuated via a transfer of a tangible object. The loan is not tangible, and even if the money was not spent and thus still tangible, the transfer of money to her domain occurred as a loan, and not …
In Vino Veritas Bava Basra 96 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 29th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a principle of Oenology, which has halachic and metaphysical implications:   דאמר רבא: כל חמרא דלא דרי על חד תלת מיא – לאו חמרא הוא   Rava said: Any wine that does not contain three parts water to one part pure wine is not regarded as wine, as it is excessively strong.   In those days, the original wine mixture was so potent, that when they actually dran …
Clothes make the man Zevachim 15 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
September 29th, 2025

Our Mishna on Amud Beis rules that a Cohen who performs a sacrificial service without the appropriate priestly investments is considered as if he is a non-Cohen, and the service is invalidated. Gemara Sanhedrin (83b) states, “So long as their priestly investments are upon them, they are considered to be of the priestly caste. If they are not wearing their investments, their priestly status is no longer upon them.”
Indeed the clothing makes …
Don’t Suppress Feminine Instinct Kesuvos 59 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 2nd, 2022

  Elsewhere in Psychology of the Daf (Moed Kattan 9, Ta’anis 13, and Yevamos 34) we discussed the importance of beauty. It is a natural feminine instinct to want to appear attractive, and like any instinct, the Torah approach is to respect it and work with it without overindulgence or excessive asceticism. (See Rambam Deos, chapters 1-2.) Our Gemara on Amud Beis brings up this idea as well, however I think it may be misinterpreted by o …
Law of Attraction Bava Basra 69 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 2nd, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis offers a proof text for the concept of field boundaries within a sale  from the biblical story of Avraham’s purchase of the Ma’aras Hamachpela cave from Efron (Bereishis 23:17). וַיָּ֣קׇם  שְׂדֵ֣ה עֶפְר֗וֹן אֲשֶׁר֙ בַּמַּכְפֵּלָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֖ר לִפְנֵ֣י מַמְרֵ֑א הַשָּׂדֶה֙ וְהַמְּעָרָ֣ה אֲשֶׁר־בּ֔וֹ ו …
Slave to Desire Avodah Zarah 76 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author:
September 2nd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis tells us about two Jewish persons who encounter King Shapur:Mar Yehuda, an important personage of the house of the Exilarch, and Bati bar Tuvi, a wealthy man, who were sitting before King Shapur, the king of Persia.
The king’s servants brought an esrog before them. The king cut a slice and ate it, and then he cut a slice and gave it to Bati bar Tuvi. He then stuck the knife ten times in the ground (to scour away any n …
Throwing a Desk at the Rebbe
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 30th, 2017

Throwing a Desk at the Rebbe Hesped for my father, Rabbi Dr. Chaim Feuerman ZT'L (Reprinted from the Jewish Press) On Tuesday evening, September 19, 2017, 29 Elul 5777 Rabbi Dr. Chaim Feuerman finished giving his two classes at Yeshiva University, said “I need to take a few minutes to rest”, and then stopped breathing.  The petira of this giant of a man, on Erev Rosh Hashana has many connotations.  One of the most meaningful …
Doing by NOT Doing Eruvin 52 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 30th, 2020

  Eruvin 52 The Gemara quotes the verse in Isaiah 58:13 אִם־תָּשִׁ֤יב מִשַּׁבָּת֙ רַגְלֶ֔ךָ עֲשׂ֥וֹת חֲפָצֶ֖יךָ בְּי֣וֹם קָדְשִׁ֑י וְקָרָ֨אתָ לַשַּׁבָּ֜ת עֹ֗נֶג לִקְד֤וֹשׁ יְהוָה֙ מְכֻבָּ֔ד וְכִבַּדְתּוֹ֙ מֵעֲשׂ֣וֹת דְּרָכֶ֔יךָ מִמְּצ֥וֹא חֶפְצְךָ֖ וְדַבֵּ֥ר ד …
Honest to God Kesuvos 87 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 30th, 2022

When a person rationalizes his sins, the personal dishonesty might causes additional distortion beyond the original sins, with even more toxic effects.  Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes a verse (Devarim 19:15) that is used to describe the powers and limitations of a singe witness versus a pair: לֹֽא־יָקוּם֩ עֵ֨ד אֶחָ֜ד בְּאִ֗ישׁ לְכׇל־עָוֺן֙ וּלְכׇל־חַטָּ֔את בְּכׇל־חֵ֖טְא …
Honest Intentions and Responsible Actions Kesuvos 86 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 30th, 2022

Are honest intentions the same as honesty?  If a person fully commits to something but later is unable to fulfill his pledge due to an unforeseen and legitimate change in circumstance, is that considered dishonest? Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses the idea of perias baal chov mitzvah, that there is a specific Torah directive to repay a loan.  But what is the scriptural source? Rashi uses the derasha found in Bava Metzi’a (49a): …
Pressed Grapes Bava Basra 97 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 30th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses processes of wine production and sedimentation. According to some traditions, it was actually wine that was the forbidden fruit of theTree of Knowledge. Bereishis Rabbah (19:5) tells us that Chava squeezed a grape bunch and gave Adam to drink from it.   Note that the Midrash does not say, “gave him to eat from the grapes”, instead it says “squeezed the grapes and gave him to drink wine&rdqu …
Standing Room Only Zevachim 16 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author:
September 30th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the requirement that a cohen stand when he performs the Avodah, and if not, the service is invalidated. Based on this, the Magen Avraham (beginning of Siman 48, OC) rules that when reciting the liturgy that contains the verses and teachings regarding the sacrifices, one must also stand, because the recitation of the relevant portions is considered a substitute for the Avodah.Sefer Daf Al Daf quotes the Tevuos Sh …
Choice Theory Eruvin 25 Psychology of the Daf Rabbi Simcha Feuerman LCSW-R, DHL
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 3rd, 2020

Eruvin 25 אֲמַר לֵיהּ רַב פַּפִּי: מִשּׁוּם דְּאַתּוּ מִמּוּלָאֵי אָמְרִיתוּ מִילֵּי מוּלְיָיאתָא. הָנָךְ מְחִיצוֹת, לְגַוַּאי — עֲבִידָן, לְבָרַאי — לָא עֲבִידָן. Rav Pappi said to him: Because you come from truncated [mula’ei] people, as Rav Beivai’s family traced their lineage to the house of E …
Beitzah 5 We Had a Good Few Days Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 3rd, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the idea that once a matter is forbidden by a rabbinic vote, it requires a vote to lift the prohibition, even If the original reason no longer applies. Rav Yosef derives it from the verses that require celibacy from the Jewish people prior to the giving of the Torah. Even though it was clearly a temporary ban, in order to focus and prepare for this spiritual event, the verse later seemed to require an additional …
Beitzah 4 Eggs-xaggerated Prohibitions Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 3rd, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph tells us that sometimes even the language of the Mishna can be an exaggeration to emphasize a point. In our Gemara one Tanna, to emphasize the permissibility of an egg, declared that even the shells are permitted to eat! The Gemara (Tamid 29a) actually catalogues instances where the Torah, the prophets and the Mishna chose to use exaggerated expressions. Today, we are going to look at one exaggeration from the Zohar, that …
Beitzah 3 Count Yourself In Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 3rd, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the concept that certain items are not nullified even when mixed with large quantities.  The standard Torah rule is that a majority of a permitted substance nullifies a minority of a forbidden substance, if they become mixed together. (If there is a transfer of taste in the mixture, then additional amounts are required to the point that the taste of the forbidden substance is no longer detectable, which is e …
Lav at First Sight Kiddushin 21 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 3rd, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Beis initiates the discussion on the laws of Eishes Yefas Toar, a woman taken captive during war, and the permissibility of marrying her. Given the intense and primal urges that often emerge during the heat of battle, the Torah, rather than tolerating rampant sexual violence in wartime, outlines specific conditions under which a captive woman may be taken as a wife. The Sages taught: Concerning a captive, the verse states: "And …
The Psychology and Ethics of Legal Loopholes Bava Basra 70 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 3rd, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis describes a legal loophole, that allows for something akin to charging interest, which is normally forbidden. It is the framework on which modern day heterei iskas are formulated. Without going into the legal technicalities, we must ask ourselves is it moral to take advantage of a loophole. But in order to answer that, we must ask ourselves what is the function of a loophole.   Law is confining and constricting. It do …
Right, Left, and Everything in Between Horiyos 2 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author:
September 3rd, 2025

Our Gemara on this daf, and many pages in this mesechta, discuss situations where the judges of the Sanhedrin make a mistaken ruling. All humans can make mistakes—even great sages, and even the entire supreme body of Torah law—though we shall soon see this is nuanced.For example, we learn on our daf that an ordinary person who is told by the Sanhedrin that a particular kind of fat is permitted is exempt from a private sacrifice because he was …
A Holy Family is a Healthy Family Eruvin 27 Rabbi Simcha Feuerman LCSW-R, DHL
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 4th, 2020

  וּכְלָלָא הוּא דְּכׇל מִצְוַת עֲשֵׂה שֶׁהַזְּמַן גְּרָמָא נָשִׁים פְּטוּרוֹת? הֲרֵי מַצָּה שִׂמְחָה וְהַקְהֵל, דְּמִצְוַת עֲשֵׂה שֶׁהַזְּמַן גְּרָמָא הוּא, וְנָשִׁים חַיָּיבוֹת. Is it a general principle that women are exempt from all time-bound, positive commandments without exception? B …
Easy Does It Eruvin 26 Psychology of the Daf Rabbi Simcha Feuerman LCSW-R, DHL
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 4th, 2020

  וִישַׁעְיָהוּ מַאי בָּעֵי הָתָם? אָמַר רַבָּה בַּר בַּר חָנָה אָמַר רַבִּי יוֹחָנָן: מְלַמֵּד שֶׁחָלָה חִזְקִיָּה, וְהָלַךְ יְשַׁעְיָהוּ וְהוֹשִׁיב יְשִׁיבָה עַל פִּתְחוֹ. The Gemara asks about the Biblical narrative cited above: What did Isaiah need to do there in the middle court, i.e., why wa …
Enmeshment: Momma’s Boys and Daddy’s Girls Kesuvos 60 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 4th, 2022

Our Gemara mentions a problematic pattern of behavior that can, according to the Gemara, even affect a woman’s likelihood of conceiving:  Redufa leylech el beis aviha, When there is contention in the marriage and the woman tends to return back to her father’s home.There is a normal human pattern for young women to connect to and seek guidance from their mothers, as we saw by Rivkah (Bereishis 24:28): וַתָּ֙רׇץ֙ הַֽנ …
Misery Loves Company Kiddushin 22 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 4th, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph teaches us that, although a Jewish slave often has the option to choose to continue his servitude after undergoing the ritual of having his ear pierced, there are certain situations where he will not be allowed to remain a slave under any circumstances. This is because the verse states, "I love my master" (Shemos 21:5), implying a state of relative equivalence and harmony between master and servant. Thus, the Gemara rules …
To Pray Like a Newborn Baby Bava Basra 71 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 4th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph continues the sugya of ayin yaffa, that certain sales and/or gifts are done with a generous spirit which implies that certain extras may be included in the sale or gift. As we have seen in other blogposts, the idea of a gift of being given generously with extras also applies to spiritual gifts.   Siach Sarfei Kodesh (Erev Shabbos Kodesh) uses this principal to explain an unusual phrase in the Shabbos morning Amidah. …
Judgment Calls and Subjectivity in Halacha Horiyos 4 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author:
September 4th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis continues to discuss the criteria for an erroneous ruling that would require the Sanhedrin to bring a sacrifice. Since it first needs to be a fully qualified ruling, if it later turned out one of the judges was unfit, no obligation for a sacrifice is incurred since the ruling was never complete. One example given of a judge who is unfit is an “old man, no longer fit to have children.”
There is some dispute among com …
Do Not Mix the Pleasure of Business With the Business of Pleasure Horiyos 3 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author:
September 4th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph references the verses that describe King Solomon’s inauguration of the Temple (I Kings 8:65). Although our Gemara uses these verses as proof for what constitutes a distinct “congregation,” the Gemara Moed Kattan (9a) uses this as a proof text for the concept of ein me’arvin simcha b’simcha—we do not combine two joyous events. Solomon first celebrated the inauguration and then Succos for a total of 14 days, ins …
Beitzah 6 Verbal Archeology Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 5th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph tells us that If one died on the first day of a Festival, gentiles should attend to his burial. Now the Gemara mentions an interesting phrase to refer to gentiles, “amemim”, literally nations. This is an usual phrase and not frequently used. Usually “Akum” or “Nuchri” is used. Is there any significance to this particular language? Linguistically, the term “Amemim” means &ldq …
Can Eliyahu Hanavi Come and Visit? Kesuvos 61 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 5th, 2022

A fixture of Jewish lore is Giluy Eliyahu, that is a revelation of Eliyahu the Prophet. What is this experience and how does it compare to prophecy and Ruach Hakodesh? Is it something that can still be experienced today? The Gemara (Sotah 48b) speaks of a cessation of the ability to experience prophecy and ruach Hakodesh in successive generations but notably never ruled out a final mode of divine revelation, the bas kol. (Elsewhere in Psychology …
The Messenger is the Message Kiddushin 23 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 5th, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Beis delves into a recurring question throughout Shas concerning the status of the Cohanim's service in the Temple: When they offer sacrifices, are they acting as our representatives or as agents of God? The Gemara concludes that the Cohanim are indeed acting as agents of God, carrying out His directives (while, of course, one of those directives is to offer sacrifices on our behalf). Bas Ayin (Emor 23) expands on the role of a …
Psychological and Spiritual Anchors Bava Basra 73 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 5th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph delineates the parts of a boat that are included, and those not included in a sale. One part is the anchor, in Hebrew the word is igun. The Mishna gives a proof text from what Na’ami told Rus and Arpah, to discourage them from a quixotic return with her. She says (Rus 1:13): הלהן תשברנה עד אשר יגדלו הלהן תעגנה לבלתי היות לאיש  [Even if I had children in old age] should …
Who Got Esau’s Goat? Bava Basra 72 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 5th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph continues the sugya of ayin yaffa, that certain sales and/or gifts are done with a generous spirit which implies that certain extras may be included in the sale or gift. As we have seen in other blogposts, the idea of a gift of being given generously with extras also applies to spiritual gifts. Siach Sarfei Kodesh (Erev Shabbos Kodesh) uses this principal to explain an unusual phrase in the Shabbos morning Amidah. We say: …
Eye-Conic Leadership Horiyos 5 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author:
September 5th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes a verse (Bamidbar 15:24) that refers to the Sanhedrin as the “Eyes of the Congregation.” This is a curious term, and let us study the implications of describing the Sanhedrin or its leadership as the Eyes of the Congregation.
The entire Jewish people are as one body, with different personalities, castes, and roles serving various parts of the whole. The Cohanim, Levites, common folk, royalty, sages, and craft …
Herbal Fertility Potion Eruvin 28 Psychology of the Daf Rabbi Simcha Feuerman LCSW-R, DHL
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 6th, 2020



וּבְגוּדְגְּדָנִיּוֹת מִי מְעָרְבִין? וְהָתַנְיָא: גּוּדְגְּדָנִיּוֹת — מְרוּבֵּי בָנִים יֹאכֵלוּ, חֲשׂוּכֵי בָנִים לֹא יֹאכֵלוּ. וְאִם הוּקְשׁוּ לְזֶרַע — אַף מְרוּבֵּי בָּנִים לֹא יֹאכֵלוּ! The Gemara asks: But may one establish an eiruv with sweet clover? Was …
Beitzah 8 Why Did the Chicken NOT Cross the Road Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 6th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis mentions a concept discussed numerous times in the Gemara and in poskim, aseh docheh lo taaseh, that a positive command in the Torah generally overrides a negative prohibition. For example, a linen four cornered cloak can have wool Tzitizs attached to it, even those this is shaatnez. The sugya in the beginning of Yevamos discusses the sources in depth, but what is the actual meaning behind this order of operations? On a lo …
Beitzah 7 Temptation, Fear and Attachment Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 6th, 2021

  Our Gemara on Amud Aleph through Beis tells us that though technically a hen can lay an unfertilized egg at any time, we assume the rooster׳s presence would keep the hen waiting and desirous of the rooster. Hence she will wait to lay her eggs after she has a chance to mate with the rooster. The Gemara discusses the exact circumstances of the rooster’s presence, such as being able to hear the rooster's crow. In Hilchos Yichud, there …
Don’t Come Home Late Kesuvos 62 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 6th, 2022

How important is it to keep your word, even about the small things? I believe that trust, not just the literal kind, but the deep emotional kind, is built on consistent and reliable connection. If you say you’ll be home by a certain time, or will complete a certain task, keep your word. If you can’t, send an update. Our Gemara on Amud Beis tells as tragic story of a righteous man who was unable to keep his word, which highlights the d …
Trauma Response Kiddushin 24 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 6th, 2023

In our Gemara on Amud Aleph, we explore a question regarding the status of a Canaanite slave who sustains injuries inflicted by his master. If these injuries affect an organ such as an eye, tooth, or other limb, the slave is automatically freed. However, the Gemara delves into a nuanced discussion regarding whether an injury to the slave's ear or eye caused by the master making a loud and frightening noise is considered a direct injury, which wou …
Unbreakable Love Bava Basra 74 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 6th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes the visions of Rabbah Bar Hanna. In one of them he sees Mount Sinai and scorpions were encircling it. He heard a Divine Voice saying: Woe is Me that I took an oath; and now that I took the oath, who will nullify it for me? When he reported this vision to the sages, they rebuked him: You should have said to God: Your oath is nullified. The Gemara explains: Rabba bar bar Ḥana did not nullify the oath because he …
Being Realistic about Ability & Mood Eruvin 29 Psychology & the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 7th, 2020

  אָמַר רָבָא: הֲרֵינִי כְּבֶן עַזַּאי בְּשׁוּקֵי טְבֶרְיָא. אֲמַר לֵיהּ הָהוּא מֵרַבָּנַן לְרָבָא: תַּפּוּחִים בְּכַמָּה? אֲמַר לֵיהּ: וְכִי מְעָרְבִין בְּתַפּוּחִים? Rava once said when he was in an especially good mood: Behold, I am like the intellectually sharp ben Azzai, who would regularly expound …
Attuned Relationships Kiddushin 25 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 7th, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph, we encounter an incident involving a group of elders from the city of Nezonya who declined to attend a Shiur (lecture) by Rav Chisda: סָבֵי דְנָזוֹנְיָא לָא אֲתוֹ לְפִירְקֵיהּ דְּרַב חִסְדָּא, אֲמַר לֵיהּ לְרַב הַמְנוּנָא: זִיל צַנְּעִינְהוּ. אֲזַל אֲמַר לְהוּ: מַאי טַעְמָא לָא אֲתוֹ רַבָּנ …
Public and Private Immortality and Technology Horiyos 6 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author:
September 7th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph quotes a verse in Ezra that refers to a series of sacrifices brought in Ezra’s time to atone for the idolatry committed during the time of Tzidkiyahu.
The Gemara asks: but we do not bring an atonement sacrifice after the sinner is deceased, so how could they have brought a sacrifice for the people of a previous generation? The Gemara answers that this applies only to the sin offering of an individual. Regarding a con …
Don't be Small-Minded about Giants Eruvin 30 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 8th, 2020

  וּמִי אָמַר רַבִּי שִׁמְעוֹן בֶּן אֶלְעָזָר הָכִי? וְהָתַנְיָא, רַבִּי שִׁמְעוֹן בֶּן אֶלְעָזָר אוֹמֵר: עוֹג מֶלֶךְ הַבָּשָׁן — פִּיתְחוֹ כִּמְלוֹאוֹ! The Gemara raises a difficulty with the aforementioned baraita: Did Rabbi Shimon ben Elazar really say this? Wasn’t it taught in another baraita pertaini …
Suffering in Silent Desperation Kesuvos 64 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 8th, 2022

While conventional wisdom holds that men suffer from sexual deprivation more than women, the Talmudic perspective is more nuanced. The Gemara on Amud Beis tells us: אֲמַר לֵיהּ רַבִּי חִיָּיא בַּר יוֹסֵף לִשְׁמוּאֵל: מָה בֵּין מוֹרֵד לְמוֹרֶדֶת? אֲמַר לֵיהּ: צֵא וּלְמַד מִשּׁוּק שֶׁל זוֹנוֹת, מִי שׂוֹכֵר אֶת מִי? דָּבָר …
When Will You Trust Me Again? Kiddushin 27 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 8th, 2023

In our Gemara on Amud Beis, we delve into the intricate process of "Gilgul Shevua," a unique legal procedure. When a defendant is obligated to make an oath to defend their claim, the plaintiff has the opportunity to levy additional accusations, compelling the defendant to take oaths on those matters as well. Remarkably, this applies even when the subsequent accusations lack substantial legal basis, drawing inspiration from the repetition of "Amen …
Pinpoint Analysis Kiddushin 26 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 8th, 2023

In our Gemara on Amud Aleph, a discussion arises regarding the concept of "kinyan agav karka," which pertains to the acquisition of movable property through the acquisition of land. The question at hand is whether the movable property must physically be present on the parcel of land being acquired: אִיבַּעְיָא לְהוּ: בָּעֵינַן צְבוּרִים, אוֹ לָא? אָמַר רַב יוֹסֵף: תָּא שְׁמַע: רַב …
Much Ado About Nothing Bava Basra 75 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 8th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph teaches us about the end times:   וְאָמַר רַבָּה אָמַר רַבִּי יוֹחָנָן: עָתִיד הַקָּדוֹשׁ בָּרוּךְ הוּא לַעֲשׂוֹת סוּכָּה לַצַּדִּיקִים מֵעוֹרוֹ שֶׁל לִוְיָתָן,    And Rabba says that Rabbi Yoḥanan says: In the future, the Holy One, Blessed be He, will prepare a sukka for the righteous from the sk …
The Real Reason for the Mitzvos Eruvin 31 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 9th, 2020

Eruvin 31 דְּכוּלֵּי עָלְמָא מִצְוֹת לָאו לֵיהָנוֹת נִיתְּנוּ The Gemara answers that Rava could have said to you: If they hold that one may establish an eiruv only for the sake of a mitzva, all would agree that the eiruv may be placed on a grave because mitzvot were not given for benefit. for Video Shiur click here to listen:  Psychology of the DAF Eruvin 31 The Maharal in Tiferes Yisrael beginn …
Beitzah 10 Alive and Unpredictable Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 9th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis Discusses assumptions to make about the states of various items. For example if one set aside $100 of tithes, but then came back and found $200. Shall he assume this is a totally new $200 and it’s not sacred, or shall he assume that $100 is still from the tithe? And a similar question came up regarding live animals, such as if one designated three doves for slaughter and use on Yom Tov, and he came back and found onl …
Beitzah 9 Yom Tov Depression Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 9th, 2021

Our Gemara discussed various leniencies that can be enacted in order to maintain a feeling of joy on Yom Tov, such as making sure certain foods are available.  This got me wondering about people who find it challenging to enjoy Yom Tov. The Shalah (Aseret HaDibrot Shabbos Ner Mitzva) quotes a Kol Bo that discusses a state of being called “Yiush Simchas Yom Tov”, giving up on the the joy of Yom Tov.  There are people who expe …
Mixed Motives Kesuvos 66 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 9th, 2022

There are times where we must do distasteful things. The overall good or needs of the moment may override certain moral or ethical sensitivities. What should be your mindset so the experience is less corrupting? Mei HaShiloach (Lech Lecha 7) darshens our Gemara to elaborate on this theme. Avraham finds himself in a position where he was victorious in the war to win back his nephew, Lot. He is offered the spoils yet declines to take them because ( …
Loosening Up Kesuvos 65 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 9th, 2022

I want to address a sensitive topic regarding sexual challenges that can affect couples of all ages, especially but not exclusively, the newly married. A person may have a degree of misplaced piety and be overly scrupulous about sexuality, or just plain feel uncomfortable with sexual feelings and sensuality. Sometimes, being overscrupulous in the area of intimacy and halakha can be the result of naiveté and/or anxiety. After all, if a reli …
The Oral Torah and Blank Spaces Bava Basra 76 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 9th, 2024

There are certain conventions in the Talmud that are difficult for the new learner to comprehend. Frankly, they would be difficult for many seasoned lamdanim as well, but after years and years of seeing the same phrase being used, I suspect that some have ceased to become curious or troubled by it. Yet, I am unsure if they became particularly wiser as to what it means and how it works – just more accepting of it. One of the most troubling c …
Commandment or Prerequisite Psychology of the Daf Horiyos 8
Author:
September 9th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis suggests that idolatry was the first command given to the Jewish people by Moshe from Hashem. This idea is rejected because there is a tradition that other mitzvos were taught earlier at Marah. Regardless, we see that at least in the Aseres Hadibros, the Ten Commandments, the first mitzvos were regarding idolatry.The verses state (Shemos 20:2–3):
I the LORD am your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt, the hou …
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