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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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Constructive Conflict Zevachim 60 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
November 13th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis records a reaction of Rabbi Yirmiya to a suggested legal argument from a Babylonian scholar: “Foolish Babylonians! Because they dwell in a dark land, they state halachos that are dim.”
Such a statement about the relative dimness of the Babylonian scholars versus those from Israel is particularly ironic, since Rabbi Yirmiya himself originally emigrated from Babylonia. Abaye and Rava in Kesuvos (75a) make this exact p …
The Pintele Yid Zevachim 59 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
November 12th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the dimensions of the altar:“Rabbi Yehuda says: It is stated here that the altar built in the time of Moses was: ‘Square’ (Exodus 27:1), and it is stated there, in Ezekiel’s prophetic description of the altar, that it is: ‘Square’ (Ezekiel 43:16). Just as, there, in Ezekiel’s vision, he was measuring the distance in each direction from its center, so too here, the verse was measuring the altar that …
Cover Ups and Fig Leaves Zevachim 58 Psychology of the Daf
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November 11th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph mentions that the second arrangement of wood on the altar was made from the wood of a fig tree, which was used to produce the charcoals for the incense. Rashi states this wood was used because “through it man was repaired in that they (Adam and Chavah) fashioned loin belts (to cover their nakedness).” This is based on the verse in Bereishis (3:7).The Gemara Berachos (40a) offers various opinions regarding what species …
Procrastination Nation Zevachim 57 Psychology of the Daf
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November 10th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses one of the Rabbis’ interesting practices regarding mitzvos whose deadline was the end of the night. The Paschal offering must be consumed by midnight, though technically it can be eaten all night (according to Rabbi Akiva). Similarly, Berachos (2a) explains that one has the entire evening to recite Shema, but the Rabbis required it by midnight. The reason offered is that by making an earlier deadline, a person …
It is All About the Base Zevachim 56 Psychology of the Daf
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November 9th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the laws of the firstborn offering, the animal tithe offering, and the Paschal offering:“Their slaughter is anywhere in the Temple courtyard, and their blood requires one placement, provided that the priest places it so that the blood goes on the base of the altar.”These offerings do not require sprinkling the blood on the altar’s corners, likely because they are not for explicit sins. Yet, there is one min …
Thank You, Next Day Zevachim 55 Psychology of the Daf
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November 7th, 2025

Our Mishna on Amud Aleph discusses the rule of the thanksgiving offering: it can only be eaten on the day and subsequent evening of its offering. A thanksgiving sacrifice is brought in response to an event where a person was in mortal danger and saved. This one-day time window is different from other shelamim, which allow an additional day.
The Abravanel (Tzav) explains that since the owner has only one day to eat all that meat, he will invite …
Building the World Within Zevachim 54 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
November 7th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis describes Dovid HaMelech and Shmuel’s process for determining the proper area to build the Temple:
“Rava taught: What is the meaning of that which is written concerning David: ‘And he and Samuel went and dwelt in Naioth. And it was told Saul, saying: Behold, David is at Naioth [beNayot] in Ramah’ (I Samuel 19:18–19)? But what does Naioth have to do with Ramah? They are in two distinct places. Rather, this mean …
Holy Envy: When Coveting Is Kosher Zevachim 53 Psychology of the Daf
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November 6th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis relates an aggadah about how Binyamin (the tribe—or his spirit) agonized over a small portion of their land that had part of the altar on it, which also was encroached upon by the Tribe of Judah:“A strip of land emerged from the portion of Judah and entered into the portion of Benjamin, and the southeast corner of the base was on that strip. And the tribe of Benjamin the righteous would agonize over it every day, desir …
Loss and Found: Child Death and Parental Grieving Zevachim 52 Psychology of the Daf
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November 5th, 2025

Our Mishna on Amud Beis discusses the sin offering brought on Rosh Chodesh. We have discussed in other articles various reasons for this sin offering and what it atones for. The Levush (OC 422) offers a different reason that I had not seen before. He says it provides specific atonement and protection that children should not die of askara, a disease that was a major cause of infant mortality. Mateh Moshe (524) says this is hinted at in the Musaf …
Mitzvos, Aveiros and Free Passes Zevachim 51 Psychology of the Daf
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November 4th, 2025

Tosafos on Amud Aleph (“Asher Pesach”) discusses the principle of Ein Ma’avirin Al Hamitzvos — one does not pass over a mitzvah. A daily example of this principle is when starting to pray: the talis should be donned first, and then the tefilin, so as to elevate in holiness (Shulchan Aruch 25:1). Yet, if his hands pass over the tefilin first, he is not allowed to bypass them and must put them on first before the Talis (Mishna Berura ibid:3 …
Thank G-d, I am Guilty: The Psychology of Gomel Zevachim 50 Psychology of the Daf
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November 3rd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the thanksgiving offering, noting that since it is voluntary, maaser sheni can be used. While one should bring a thanksgiving sacrifice, it is apparently not as obligatory as a chattas or other ritual requirement.There is an equivalency between the Todah sacrifice and the Gomel blessing said after miraculous salvation—one substitutes for the other (see Rashi Vayikra 17:12; Rashi Ksav Yad Menachos 79b; Rosh Ber …
White Out: When Impurity Turns Inside Out Zevachim 49 Psychology of the Daf
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November 2nd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses an unusual halacha regarding tzaraas, based on the verse:“Then the priest shall look; and behold, if the leprosy has covered all his flesh, he shall pronounce the one who has the mark pure; it is all turned white—he is pure” (Vayikra 13:13).Why should tzaraas that spreads over the entire body result in purity? One would think it indicates corruption beyond repair.
The Gemara Sanhedrin (97a) uses this hal …
Cold Front: The Northern Exposure of the Yetzer Hara Zevachim 48 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
October 31st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis notes that while most sin offerings are slaughtered to the north (tzafon) of the Altar, the chattas Nachshon—the sacrifices offered by the princes during the inauguration of the Mishkan—is not. Rashi explains that this is because the chattas Nachshon was not for any particular sin.Though Rashi does not explain why, we see a link between the North side of the Temple courtyard and sin offerings. How does the North come t …
Mindless Offerings: Study on Autopilot Zevachim 47 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
October 31st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the principle of misasek (performing an act without any awareness that one is doing so) as it applies to sacrifices. If one slaughtered an offering without intending to perform the act of slaughter at all, but rather inadvertently while occupied with other matters, the offering is disqualified.A sacrifice, by definition, is a devotional act toward God; therefore, it’s logical that if the sacrifice—or any asp …
When the Holy Charge Is Discharged Zevachim 46 Psychology of the Daf
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October 30th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph explains a general rule regarding the sanctification of sacrificial material and when it is subject to me’ilah (being violated when used for a profane, secular purpose or benefit). The Gemara declares: “There is no item whose mitzvah has been performed that is still subject to the prohibition of misusing consecrated property.”The idea is that sacrificial material remains in a sacred state up until the time the ritua …
Torah for its Own Sake Zevachim 45 Psychology of the Daf
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October 29th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph records that Rava objects to the issuance of a halachic ruling about sacrifices that would only become relevant once the Beis HaMikdash is rebuilt in the times of Mashiach.Abaye asks incredulously: If that is a concern, let the tanna not teach all the halachos of the slaughter of sacrificial animals, as it is entirely a halacha for the messianic period! Rather, one studies these halachos to delve into Torah and receive re …
Cultivating the Sacred Routine Zevachim 44 Psychology of the Daf
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October 28th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses some of the qualities of the Cohen Godol’s daily mincha offering. Unlike most meal offerings, no portion is consumed by the Cohen, as it is fully offered as a sacrifice.Sefer Hachinuch (137) explains a possible reason for this uniqueness. If the Cohen were to eat from it, it would feel more routine—part of his daily eating habit—and would lose its sense of being a special devotional act.I wonder, if so, wh …
Everyone Together Under the Law Zevachim 40
Author:
October 27th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the log of oil offered by the metzora (a log is a Biblical measure approximately equal to six eggs; see Bartenura, Mishnah Eduyos 1:2). This was one of the eight subsidies of sacred foods given to the kohanim.
Continuing the theme from yesterday’s daf and blogpost zavachim 42, the Maaseh Rokeach (Seder Moed, Yoma) explains that the eight sprinklings of blood in the Holy of Holies from the kohen gadol’s bu …
Everyone Together Under the Law Zevachim 43
Author:
October 27th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the log of oil offered by the metzora (a log is a Biblical measure approximately equal to six eggs; see Bartenura, Mishnah Eduyos 1:2). This was one of the eight subsidies of sacred foods given to the kohanim.
Continuing the theme from yesterday’s daf and blogpost zavachim 42, the Maaseh Rokeach (Seder Moed, Yoma) explains that the eight sprinklings of blood in the Holy of Holies from the kohen gadol’s bu …
Endearing Distinctions Zevachim 42
Author:
October 26th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis relates a dispute about the total number of blood sprinklings from the bull and goat during the Yom Kippur service—43, 47, or 48—in the various sections of the sanctuary and the altar. The difference depends on whether the High Priest mixes the blood of the bull and goat before placing it on the corners of the inner altar, or places each separately. The additional 48th sprinkling depends on whether the pouring of the b …
Loving Distance Zevachim 41
Author:
October 24th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis compares the chattas of the Kohen Gadol and the chattas of the congregation. Certain differences in how the ritual is described in the Torah imply messages about the nature of the sin and the status of the sinner:“The school of Rabbi Yishmael taught: For what reason are the diaphragm and the two kidneys stated with regard to the bull for an unwitting sin of the anointed priest, and they are not explicitly stated with reg …
Cloud Cover Zevachim 40
Author:
October 24th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses a halachic requirement for inner sin offerings, such as those brought on Yom Kippur whose blood is sprinkled in the Holy of Holies: if there is a breach in the roof, the service may not be performed.Likkutei Halakhos (Yoreh Deah, Laws of Vows 4) notes that the Succah recalls the Clouds of Glory—the Shekhina that enveloped the Jewish people in the wilderness. This is the same “cloud” that greets the Cohen G …
The Sin of the New Level Zevachim 39
Author:
October 23rd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis deduces that the chattas sacrifice of the festivals and Rosh Chodesh is not for a specific transgression. Though it atones for inadvertent defilement while entering the Beis HaMikdash or eating sacrificial meat in impurity, this is not a specific, known sin (Rosh Hashanah 4b).Kedushas Levi (Likkutim, Parashas Vayera) offers a fascinating peshat, also addressing the difficult aggadah of Avraham taking counsel from Mamreh be …
Holy Whip: Penance in the Kodesh HaKodashim Zevachim 38
Author:
October 22nd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes the motion of sprinkling the blood in the Holy of Holies during the Yom Kippur service: the sprinkling was “like a matzlif.” The Gemara explains that Rav Yehuda demonstrated with his hand—it means like one who whips, striking not repeatedly in one place but one lash beneath the other.
The word matzlif alludes to a process similar to lashes with a whip. According to Hon Ashir (Mishnah Yoma 5:3), this is …
Totafos and the Tongues of the World Zevachim 37
Author:
October 21st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis offers a scriptural source for the four compartments in the tefillin that rest on the head. The Torah uses the word “Totafos,” an unusual term, perhaps translated as a front piece of jewelry, though it lacks a clear etymology. Our Gemara, quoting Rabbi Akiva, sees it as a composite of two words meaning “two,” in two exotic languages. “Tat” in the language of Katfei means two, and “Pat” in the language of Af …
Gem of Habit Zevachim 36
Author:
October 11th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis uses an interesting phrase to describe a teaching that Rav Dimi bar Chinenah preserved regarding sacrificial laws: “Margelah Be-Pumei.”
Rashi (Sanhedrin 50b and Berachos 17a) explains that it comes from the root R-G-L, similar to regular or habit, meaning it was a teaching that he worked to say over many times in order to remember, because it was outside of the regular beraisa chain.
This phrase appears regarding …
Sealed the Deal with Zeal Zevachim 35
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 11th, 2025


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Twin Peaks Zevachim 34
Author:
October 11th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis describes the metaphysical procedural link between the twin sacrifices on Yom Kippur—the Azazel scapegoat and the chattas goat whose blood is sprinkled in the Holy of Holies. According to Rabbi Yehuda, if the blood of the goat sacrificed to God spilled from the cup before it was sprinkled, the scapegoat is left to die. Similarly, if the scapegoat died, the blood of the goat sacrificed to God should be spilled, and two ot …
Do Not Delay: Pray Today Zevachim 33
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 10th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses a principle that the placing of the hands (semicha) on the sacrifice must be immediately followed by the slaughter.
This is not the only situation in Halacha where one action must immediately follow another. The Gemara Berachos (42a) lists three such pairs:There are three pairs that immediately follow each other: Immediately following placing hands on the head of a sacrifice is its slaughter; immediately foll …
A Halachic EZ Pass? Zevachim 32
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 10th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses an interesting halachic process. Ordinarily, one who is ritually impure due to a seminal emission is forbidden to enter the Temple courtyard until after he immerses in the mikvah and nightfall arrives. However, if he is a metzora, he is permitted to partially enter prior to the evening.
How does this work? After the purification rituals, the metzora is still forbidden to enter the Temple courtyard until after …
Head and Shoulders Below the Rest Zevachim 31
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 10th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph quotes a verse that describes the ignoble demise of Queen Izevel (II Kings 9:10): “And the dogs shall eat Jezebel in the portion of Jezreel.”
She was generally recognized as an idolatrous, wicked, and cruel woman, who murdered prophets and devised a treacherous plot of false witnesses to appropriate a section of land from innocent householders (I Kings 18:4 and I Kings ch. 21). Yet, despite this, Pirkei De-Rabbi El …
The High Standards of Ancient Scholarship Zevachim 30
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 10th, 2025

Our Gemara on amud beis describes an interlude where the sage Levi asked a question of his master, Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi, in a particular way that was multivalent. It is hard to get into the lomdishe particulars, but I'll explain it in terms of process. There were three possible scenarios going from more obviously valid to less obvious, with only the most obvious scenario taught explicitly to Levi. Of course, Levi could have asked about the remaini …
The Power of Repair Attempts Zevachim 29 Psychology of the Daf
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October 13th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph, within the context of of a discussion of various thoughts or actions that could invalidate a sacrifice, wonders if a sacrifice that is delayed also becomes invalidated. What is a delayed sacrifice? If one pledges to offer a sacrifice, it is forbidden to delay past three festivals (Rosh Hashanah 4a.) Although the Gemara rules it is not invalidated, Tosafos finds the question itself difficult. Tosafos wonders why should th …
It is the Thought that Counts Zevachim 28 Psychology of the Daf
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October 12th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis continues to discuss the prohibition of improper intentions that can invalidate the sacrifice when thought during the essential services of the sacrifice, such as the slaughtering or sprinkling of the blood. The two basic categories of invalidating intentions are to eat or offer the sacrifice beyond its allowed time, such as from the shelamim sacrifice on day three, or out of its location, such as on non-consecrated g …
Is a Kvetchy Davening Tircha Detzibbura? Zevachim 27 Psychology of the Daf
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October 10th, 2025

Our Gemara on this daf discusses the improper intentions that can invalidate a sacrifice when thought during the essential services of the sacrifice, such as the slaughtering or sprinkling of the blood. The two basic categories of invalidating intentions are to eat the sacrifice beyond its allowed time, such as the meat from the shelamim  sacrifice on day three, or out of its location, such as on non-consecrated grounds outside the wall …
Ramping Up Your Efforts Zevachim 26 Psychology of the Daf
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October 9th, 2025

Our Gemara on this daf discusses a dispute regarding if the sprinkling of the blood on the ramp of the altar counts as if it was sprinkled on the altar. The simplest explanation of this dispute is whether the ramp is a separate entity, or part of the altar itself.
What is the spiritual significance of this, and for that matter, what is the significance of the ramp itself? The verse states (Shemos 20:23):
“Do not ascend my altar by st …
Slach lanu, Mchal lanu, Kapper lanu Zevachim 25 Psychology of the Daf
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October 5th, 2025

Our Gemara on amud aleph references the bowls in the Temple which are used to collect the sacrificial blood, as kafurei zahav, golden bowls, based on the verse in Ezra (1:10). In a play on words they also derive that the lip of the bowls can be used to wipe the sacrificial knife clean, as the root of the Hebrew word kafurei (K-F-R) implies to clean.
The word Hebrew word “kapper” has some interesting etymological roots and is most often ass …
Do Not Let Your Stuff Get in the Way Zevachim 24 Psychology of the Daf
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October 5th, 2025

Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses the requirement that there be no barriers between the priests and the Temple floor, or their hands with the holy utensils. They must perform the service barefooted, and have direct contact. What is the psychological significance of this requirement?
Rav Hirsch (Shemos 3:5) comments on this in relation to Moshe being told to remove his shoes at the burning bush:
“Understand the high destiny of the gr …
Possessed by Possessions Zevachim 23 Psychology of the Daf
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October 5th, 2025

Our gemara on amud aleph discusses the requirement of the Pesach sacrifice to be slaughtered and eaten only from those who registered as part of a group who share in that sacrifice. What is the psychological significance of such a requirement?
The Benei Yisaschar (Nisan 4:4) observes that the Paschal sacrifice takes place in the Spring season, an offering of sheep or goats, a hallmark of material wealth and success, at a time when those who ha …
Does the Cohen Make the Cut? Zevachim 22 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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October 6th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis identifies an uncircumcised cohen as unfit for service in the Temple. Rashi says this refers to a person whose brothers died from circumcision, so it is unsafe for him to undergo it. Tosafos (Rabbenu Tam) here and in Yevamos (70a) disagrees. If it is unsafe for him to have a circumcision, he is not penalized. Rabbenu Tam says our Gemara’s case of an unfit uncircumcised cohen refers to one who is technically healthy enoug …
A Procrastinators Dream and their Spouses nightmare Zevachim 21 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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October 5th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis describes two separate reminders for the cohanim to begin the service in the Temple: (1) the noise of the wheel machinery that drew the Basin out of the well, and (2) Gevini the crier, who would notify the priests of the beginning of the service.
The Gemara comments that it is acceptable and not overly redundant to utilize two reminders. Rashash (ibid) notes that there is a similar idea expressed in Succah (55a), where …
Use It or Lose It Zevachim 20 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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October 3rd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph raises a question regarding the lasting effects of the ablution from the waters of the Basin in the Temple:
“Ilfa raises a dilemma: According to the statement of Rabbi Elazar, son of Rabbi Shimon, who says that the disqualification of being left overnight is not determinative with regard to sanctification of the hands and feet, what is the halacha with regard to the water in the Basin? Is it disqualified by being lef …
Hands Down, Feet First Zevachim 19 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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October 3rd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis describes the process by which the cohanim performed the required ablutions:
“The Sages taught: How is the mitzvah of sanctification of the hands and feet performed? The priest lays his right hand on top of his right foot, and his left hand on top of his left foot, and sanctifies them with the water flowing from the Basin.
Rabbi Yosei, son of Rabbi Yehuda, says: He lays both his hands one on top of the other, and l …
Sober Reflections Zevachim 18 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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October 2nd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses Rav’s reluctance to teach publicly after drinking even a small amount of wine:“Rav would not place an interpreter before him, i.e., he would not lecture in public, from the time that he drank wine on one Festival day until the other, the second Festival day, due to drunkenness.”
The Gemara in Kerisus (13b) raises an obvious question: Let Rav teach his lecture, but not issue specific halachic rulings, or …
Whine About Wine Zevachim 17 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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October 1st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes a series of verses (Vayikra 10:9–11) used as proof texts both to prohibit a cohen from performing the Temple service after drinking wine, and also to forbid a judge or rabbi from rendering a halachic ruling while under its influence:
“Drink no wine or other intoxicant, you or your sons, when you enter the Tent of Meeting, that you may not die. This is a law for all time throughout the ages, for you must disti …
Standing Room Only Zevachim 16 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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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 …
The Eye of the Shteiger Zevachim 14 Psychology of the Daf
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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 …
Clothes make the man Zevachim 15 Psychology of the Daf
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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 …
Mixed Motives Zevachim 13 Psychology of the Daf
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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
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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 …
Oily or Late Zevachim 11 Psychology of the Daf
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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 …
Spiritual Northstar Zevachim 10 Psychology of the Daf
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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 …
A Sin by Any Other Name Zevachim 9 Psychology of the Daf
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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 …
Timing Is Everything: Pesach, Shelamim, and the Window of Redemption Zevachim 8
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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 …
Slow Burn: Why Change Takes Time Zevachim 7
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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 …
That New Car Smell (and the First Scratch) Zevachim 6
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September 12th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis notes that the two goats sacrifices brought on Shavuous serve as atonement for defiling of the Temple — by entering it while ritually impure, or for defiling its sacrificial foods by partaking of them while ritually impure.
The Gemara asks: once the blood of the first goat is sprinkled on the altar, thereby atoning for this defilement, for what sin is the second one sacrificed?
The Gemara answers the second goat is …
Spiritual BOGO: Buy One Atonement, Get One Free Zevachim 5
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September 12th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis notes that unlike a chattas sacrifice, which is for one specific sin, an Olah sacrifice can bring atonement for a number of sins simultaneously.The idea that certain atonements can be bundled while others must be performed separately is discussed by the Baal HaTanya (Iggeres HaTeshuva III:3). In prior times when people had greater spiritual fortitude and physical stamina, they followed the practice of teshuvas ha-mishkal, …
Power-Assisted Steering Zevachim 4
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September 18th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis speaks of the responsibility and obligation to fulfill a pledge:
“Once a person said: It is incumbent upon me to bring an offering, it is considered as though the offering is loaded upon his shoulders.”
The idea of a spiritual obligation being felt as a burden upon one’s shoulders is a real phenomenon, but according to Mei Shiloach (Bo) and Sod Yehar (Rosh Hashanah 44), it also changes with time. Just as the Ar …
Too Close for Comfort Zevachim 3
Author:
September 17th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph observes that in Halacha, often that which is similar can be more disruptive than that which is alien. Thus, a chattas offering that is slaughtered with the intention of an Olah offering is rendered invalid, yet a chattas offering that is slaughtered with the intention of eating standard profane food remains a valid chattas. Somehow the thought of a profane food offering is so alien to the chattas that it has no power to …
The Rambam’s Personal Anguish and Resilience Zevachim 2
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 12th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud aleph refers to a Tanna with an unusual descriptor added to his name: Shimon the Brother of Azariah. Usually, people are identified by their father, not their brother. Rashi notes this and gives us the historical back story. Azariah, a businessman, supported his brother Shimon, the scholar. Because they were literally partners in Torah and finances, sharing both, Azariah merited the honor by association in his brother’s title …
Height and Leadership Horiyos 14 Psychology of the Daf
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September 15th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph records a discussion between the sages Abaye, Rava, Rabbi Zeira, and Rabba bar Mattana about who would lead their learning group. As it became apparent that Abaye’s skill was superior, it was conceded that he should lead. The Gemara uses an interesting term: “Rabba saw that Abaye’s head was elevated,” to connote observing this superior quality.A simple reading of the elevated head is a metaphor for being uplifted, …
Earner Learner Horiyos 13 Psychology of the Daf
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September 14th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the hierarchy of various castes and roles in society, such as who receives priority in being rescued, in saving their objects, and other privileges. However, Judaism’s caste system, like its economic system, defies simple categorization. There is a strong free market, but also certain socialistic regulations such as debt cancellation in shemitta, prohibition against usury, and return of ancestral property in y …
Holy Ark-Tifacts Horiyos 12 Psychology of the Daf
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September 12th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes various holy artifacts that were sequestered and hidden along with the Holy Ark so that they would not be plundered when the prophecy of the exile came to pass:When the Ark of the Covenant was sequestered, the anointing oil, the jar of manna (see Shemos 16:33), Aaron’s staff with its almonds and blossoms (see Bamidbar 17:23), and the chest that the Philistines sent as a gift to Israel were all sequestered with …
Birth Order and Your Lot in Life Horiyos 11 Psychology of the Daf
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September 12th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the relative merits of Lot’s daughters, who for the most part had good intentions, thinking the world had come to an end and only they were left to repopulate the Earth. Nevertheless, the younger one was more modest and chose a name that hinted to her child’s incestuous origins in a veiled manner, as opposed to the older daughter who called her son Moav, which straightforwardly means “from my father.” …
Telescopes and Projections Horiyos 10 Psychology of the Daf
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September 11th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph recounts a story where Rabban Gamliel, who frequently journeyed on the sea, was informed by Rabbi Yehoshua about “a star that rises once in seventy years and misleads sailors.”
It is fascinating to note that the Rabbis apparently knew about Halley’s Comet. While this is indeed impressive, it is possible that the Babylonians also knew about Halley’s Comet, as they were sophisticated astronomers. Keep in mind, if …
Status: Default or Earned? Horiyos 9 Psychology of the Daf
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September 10th, 2025

Our Gemara discusses the unique sin offerings brought by a King and a Cohen Godol. The King brings a male goat and the Cohen Godol brings a bull. These sacrifices are unlike that of a private citizen, who brings a female lamb or goat.
The Gemara also discusses what happens when the Cohen Godol and the King commit a sin subsequent to their reign or appointment. The Cohen Godol still must bring his unique offering and not that of a private citiz …
Commandment or Prerequisite Psychology of the Daf Horiyos 8
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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 …
Leader or Led? A Shame Blame Game Horiyos 7 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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September 1st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis cites a verse in Vayikra (4:3) that refers to the erroneous sin of the Cohen Gadol as “Ashmas Ha-Am”, which roughly translates as “the guilt of the people.” What does this phrase connote?
The simple reading is that if the spiritual leader sins, it brings shame and even possibly spiritual consequences upon the people. Taken deeper, it can also mean that the sin of the leader is, in some sense, the fault of the pe …
Public and Private Immortality and Technology Horiyos 6 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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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 …
Eye-Conic Leadership Horiyos 5 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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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 …
Judgment Calls and Subjectivity in Halacha Horiyos 4 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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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
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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 …
Right, Left, and Everything in Between Horiyos 2 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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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 …
Slave to Desire Avodah Zarah 76 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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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 …
Grains of Truth: Sand, Glass, and Jewish Destiny Avodah Zara 75 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 25th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses whether glass vessels require ritual immersion, like metal vessels, which Biblically require immersion when purchased from a gentile—or whether they do not, like earthenware vessels. The Gemara reasons they are similar to metal, because if exposed to enough heat, they melt and can be reformed. (Glass, after all, is made by superheating sand until it liquefies.)
This quality of sand to melt into glass is note …
Rebuke, Rinse, Repeat: The Art of Preaching Avodah Zara 74 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 31st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis uses an interesting linguistic term to refer to the tank that holds the wine in the wine press: na’ava.This usage also appears in a verse (Shmuel I 20:30), when Shaul erupts at his son Yonasan. The trigger for this rage was Yonasan’s defense of David:“Saul flew into a rage against Jonathan. ‘You son of a twisted, rebellious woman—na’avas hamardus!’ he shouted. ‘I know that you side with the son of Yishai— …
Trigger Warning: When One Pain Awakens Another Avodah Zara 73 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 22nd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph continues the discussion regarding nullification of forbidden substances. Another rule emerges: even though an amount sixty times greater can nullify a smaller amount of forbidden substance, if on two different occasions a forbidden substance was poured in—especially if it was prior to the permitted substance—then we look at them as one unit instead of two separate amounts. Therefore, we require sixty times the sum of …
Go With the Flow: Nitzok Chibbur Avodah Zara 72 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 29th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses whether a stream pouring from one vessel to another constitutes a halachic connection (nitzok chibbur)—such that wine in the upper vessel remains kosher even if poured into yeyn nesech.Rav Hunah rules that regarding yeyn nesech, a downward stream is considered a connection. Even though gravity ensures the flow never returns upward, the continuum binds them. In modern terms, we might think of it like electrical …
A Peruta for Your Thoughts Avodah Zara 71 Psychology Of the Daf Yomi
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August 28th, 2025

Our Gemara discusses a halachic rarity: sometimes being Jewish and part of the covenant brings leniency. A Jew who steals less than a peruta’s worth is exempt, while a gentile is fully liable.
Why? Rashi explains that Jews are forgiving about such a small amount; less than a peruta is not considered money.
Likutei Halachos (Choshen Mishpat, Laws of Stealing 1:1) expands: holiness requires boundaries. A person sensitive to holiness places …
Dough and Behold: Fine Flour, Fine Boundaries Avodah Zara 70 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 27th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph relates a teaching of Rebbe Yitschok: “One who finds a wallet on Shabbos may carry it in increments of less than four cubits.”Rebbe Yitschok makes an allowance to violate rabbinic proscriptions because the fear of financial loss is too difficult for the average person. In order to forestall a greater violation, this exception is allowed (see Shabbos 153a).
This is not the only time Rebbe Yitschok makes judgments th …
Square Meals and Circular Logic Avodah Zara 69 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 26th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the halachic phenomenon of bitul, the nullification of prohibited substances. The Gemara states that the basic assumption is that sixty times the permitted substance will nullify the non-kosher material. There are exceptions, such as when the non-kosher food has a distinctive quality that interrupts its nullification, such as an item sold by number (not weight or volume), or chametz on Pesach, which is never nul …
Manna, with Ketchup Please Avodah Zarah 68 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 25th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses ta’am lifgam — when a non-kosher substance mixes in but imparts a foul taste, which may permit it.
The Boruch She’amar Haggadah applies this to the Dayyenu liturgy. For Dayyenu to make sense, each kindness from God in the poem must be valuable on its own. “If God gave us french fries, it would be enough; but He also gave us ketchup” makes sense. The reverse doesn’t, “If God gave us ketchup, we wo …
Kosher on the Inside as well as the Outside Avodah Zarah 67 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 24th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes (Devarim 14:21):
You shall not eat anything that has died a natural death; give it to the stranger in your community to eat, or you may sell it to a foreigner. For you are a holy people (am kadosh) consecrated to your God.
In another verse (Shemos 22:30) referring to an animal torn apart by beasts:
You shall be holy people to Me (anshei kodesh): you must not eat flesh torn by beasts in the field.
The Kes …
Cask and You Shall Perceive Avodah Zarah 66 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 22nd, 2025

Over the next two dappim, various conceptualizations arise about the nature of what transfers or actualizes prohibited food substances. Is it the taste? Is it the name — that is, if two substances are both called “wine” but have different flavors, are they considered a mixture of distinct items or of similar items? This impacts whether or not they can be nullified in majority. Furthermore, if the non-kosher substance mixes but it has — or …
Neurotic Anxiety and Fear of God Avodah Zarah 65 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 22nd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph tells us about an encounter between Rava and a Gentile, Bar Sheshakh, who was not an idolator, but may have been an atheist, cynical of all religion:
Rava brought a gift to a minister named Bar Sheshakh on their festival day. Rava said: I know of him that he does not worship idols. Rava went to him and found him sitting up to his neck in rose water, with naked prostitutes standing before him.
Bar Sheshakh said to hi …
Leniency with Limits Avodah Zarah 64 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 21st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses rabbinic allowances for a convert, such as permitting him to exchange idolatrous portions of an inheritance with gentile siblings for permitted items — something normally forbidden, since money from idolatry retains its prohibition.
Chasam Sofer (ibid) explains that the inheritance of a convert is a rabbinic enactment, not biblical; otherwise, the Sages could not permit such an exchange. The leniency is to …
The Worlds Oldest Profession and the Oldest Rationalization Avodah Zarah 63 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 20th, 2025

Our Gemara continues the discussion about Esnan Zonah from the previous Daf. On Amud Aleph, it debates whether the zonah in question is Jewish or gentile. This invites a deeper look: why does the Torah devote attention to the esnan prohibition, when the act itself is already forbidden?
Our Gemara continues the discussion about Esnan Zonah from the previous Daf. On Amud Aleph, it debates whether the zonah in question is Jewish or gentile. Later …
Heresy and Harlots Avodah Zarah 62 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 19th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the prohibition of Esnan Zonah, the object used to pay for a prostitute. This object has a negative spiritual halo that makes it forever prohibited for use in sacrifices, and may even extend to other sacred objects (see Shulchan Aruch OC 153:21). Our Gemara explores the moment the object becomes forbidden, which depends on when the transaction is finalized.
There is a fascinating Aggadah (Avodah Zara 16b–17a …
Double Doors and Crossbars: The Fortified Inner City Avodah Zara 61 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 17th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph uses a phrase to describe a city with fully secured borders so inhabitants would know when any new person enters. The city is described as having “double doors and a crossbar” — in Hebrew, delasayim ubariach.
This phrase, delasayim ubariach, is a paraphrase from a biblical verse describing the fortified cities of the Canaanites (Devarim 3:5): “All those towns were fortified with high walls, gates, and bars… …
Blessings on the Head: Crowned with Continuity Avodah Zara 60 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 17th, 2025

In our Gemara on Amud Beis, Rav Adda bar Ahava makes a declaration: “May blessings rest upon Rabbi Shimon’s head.”What is the significance of this phrase? What does it mean, “Blessings upon the head” as opposed to simply “blessings upon him”?
This phrase is not only used regarding Rabbi Shimon; the Gemara (Megillah 25b) states that blessings will rest upon the head of one who praises an esteemed person.
Ben Yehoyada (ibid) exp …
Turmusa Trouble: The Bitter Brew of Jewish Boldness Avodah Zara 59 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 15th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the preparatory and cooking process of the Turmusa (lupine) bean, and how this affects its halachic status if cooked by a gentile. Apparently, for this bean to become edible, it requires an extensive process of cooking and re-cooking.A different Gemara (Beitzah 25b) uses the metaphor of the cooking process of the Turmusa to describe the stubbornness of the Jewish people:The lupine [turmus], an extremely bitter l …
A Well-Mixed Maseches Avodah Zara 58 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 15th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis ponders the exact definition of a particular Aramaic word for mixing wine and its relation to its Hebrew form. In the process, it cites a verse from Mishlei (9:2):
“She has prepared the feast, mixed the wine, and also set the table.”
The Aramaic mazag and Hebrew masach both refer to the process of diluting wine with water. In the ancient world, wine was apparently a kind of syrup or thick concentrate, mixed with …
Twelve Months to Forget Avodah Zara 57 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 8th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses one who buys a slave from an idolatrous gentile household. As per Jewish law, the servant now becomes obligated in mitzvos. The question is: When can we safely allow him to touch wine without fear of yayin nesech?
Rav Naḥman said in the name of Shmuel: Even if the slaves were circumcised and immersed, they still render the wine forbidden, as they are accustomed to idolatry, until reference to idol worship d …
Brilliant but Not Yet Bar Mitzvah Avodah Zara 55 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 13th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the case of a child prodigy who, at a young age, mastered the entire tractate of Avodah Zarah. The simple reading implies that they even relied on his halachic rulings. This raises a halachic question: Can one rely on a learned minor?
Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein (Peninei Chashukei Chemed, Vaera, 5779; see also Shulchan Aruch CM 7:3) notes that while Tosafos here understands they were actually asking the child for …
Punishment and Forbearance Even When It Looks Bad Avodah Zara 55 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 12th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph records a polemical discussion with Rabbi Akiva:Zunin said to Rabbi Akiva: Both my heart and your heart know that there is no substance to idol worship. Nevertheless, don’t we see people who are lame go to worship idols and come back with restored function? What is the reason for this?
Rabbi Akiva said to Zunin: I will relate a parable to you. To what is this matter comparable? It is comparable to a trusted person wh …
Man Must Finish the Job Avodah Zarah 54 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 12th, 2025

The Mishna on Amud Beis records a polemic between Roman philosophers and our Jewish sages:
The gentiles asked the Jewish Sages who were in Rome: If it is not God’s will that people should engage in idol worship, why does He not eliminate it?
The Sages said to them: Were people worshipping only objects for which the world has no need, He would eliminate it. But they worship the sun and the moon and the stars and the constellations. Should …
Eye Witnesses Avodah Zarah 53 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 10th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis uses an interesting phrase uttered by Ullah, expressing admiration and respect for Rav and Shmuel:Who shall give us of the dust of the graves covering Rav and Shmuel? We would fill our eyes with that dust, as they were great and holy men.What did Ullah wish to convey with this choice of words? Another Amora, Rav Chanina bar Pappi (Bava Basra 171b), makes the same declaration, so it’s a known idea, but we don’t know exa …
Power Beyond the Stones Avodah Zarah 52 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 8th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis reports on the way in which the Temple was desecrated by the Greeks prior to the Chashmonaim rebellion, victory, and miracles of Chanukah:
They desecrated the stones by using them for idol worship.
This indicates that Temple vessels that were used in idolatrous worship can no longer be used and must be sequestered.
The Maharal (Ner Mitzvah II:8) reflects on the miracles of Chanukah. In reality, the true miracle wa …
The Path of Rationalization Avodah Zarah 51 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 8th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis (through the following daf) records a dispute between Rabbi Yishmael and Rabbi Akiva regarding an idol that was crafted but not yet worshipped. According to Rabbi Yishmael, a gentile’s object of idol worship is not prohibited until it is worshipped, but a Jew’s object of idol worship is prohibited immediately. According to Rabbi Akiva, a gentile’s object of idol worship is prohibited immediately, but a Jew’s object …
Border Patrol Avodah Zarah 50 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 7th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the status of stones near the pile of stones that make up the deity Markulis. If they are within four cubits, they are close enough that they are assumed to be part of the deity and just became detached.The area of four cubits manifests itself with regularity in Halacha. Whether for commerce, mitzvos, or even idolatry, this space around an object has a particular significance of meaning and attachment.
The Ge …
Rock Solid Attitudes Avodah Zara 49 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 6th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis begins a discussion regarding a particular deity known as Markulis. It is not necessarily Mercury, because the way in which the Gemara describes the worship and what we know from Greek mythology does not perfectly match. Regardless of its actual identity, the Gemara and commentaries describe it as being formed by a pile of two rocks and then one rock on top. An aspect of its worship seems to be throwing a rock at it. Inter …
For Whom the Baal Tolls Avodah Zara 48 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 5th, 2025

On this Daf, there are various discussions of how to negotiate the intrusion of idolatry in public spaces. In earlier times of less material wealth and technology, it was not uncommon for the entire town to rely on the town clock, which was typically located on the tallest building—usually a church. Since it is forbidden to receive material benefit from idolatry and idolatrous objects, Poskim have discussed whether it is permissible to tell the …
Impure Motives Avodah Zara 47 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 4th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the halachic impurity of idolatrous material. Rabbi Akiva equates it to tumas niddah.
Chanukas Hatorah (32) uses this to explain Rachel’s evasion when Lavan searched for his stolen idols (Bereishis 31:35). Rachel, hiding them under her, claimed she couldn’t rise due to her period. Though not niddah, she wasn’t lying, as the idols’ impurity equated to tumas niddah.
Impurity in Jewish theology ties to …
Memory That Holds Water Avodah Zara 46 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 3rd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis relates that Rabbi Eliezer taught, forgot, and was reminded by Rabbi Akiva of a rabbinic ban against using the red heifer purification ritual on Shabbos, even if it prevents timely purification for the Paschal offering.
Rav Dovid Kochav asks how Rabbi Eliezer could forget, given Pirke Avos (2:8), where Rabbi Yochanan Ben Zakai praises him as “a plastered cistern that does not lose a drop,” indicating a powerful memo …
We Have Met the Enemy and He Is Us Avodah Zara 45 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 1st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis cites Devarim (12:2–3), urging vigorous eradication of idolatry’s traces.While this exhorts removing pagan worship, Arvei Nachal (Lech Lecha 3 5668) explains a deeper theology: The Jewish people, God’s chosen, channel spiritual life to the world, as stated (Bereishis 12:13): “All the nations of the Earth shall be blessed through you.” The Jewish psyche embryonically contains all nations’ traits, manifesting pos …
The Road to Perfection Contains Much Imperfection Avodah Zara 44 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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August 1st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph cites a verse about David’s initiation as king (Shmuel II 12:30), capturing a crown from the Ammonite kingdom, with halachic implications for idolatrous images. It also symbolizes David’s ascendancy and leadership process.Shem MiShmuel (Bamidbar), quoting the Kotzker Rebbe, observes that this crown represented a secular aspect from the Ammonites, necessary for David’s rule.
The Gemara (Yoma 22b) states:Rav Yehud …
Menorah of Mettle Avodah Zara 43 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 31st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes the makeshift Menorah used by the Chashmonaim after liberating the Temple:
During that era, the Menorah’s branches were fashioned from iron spits [shappudin], covered with tin [beva’atz]. Later, when richer, they made it from silver. When even wealthier, they crafted it from gold.
Pri Tzaddik (Chanukah 7), citing Pesikta Rabbasi (2), explores the Menorah’s structure. Pesikta Rabbasi suggests finding …
Hands-Off Idols Avodah Zara 42 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 30th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses whether finding a hand or foot figure constitutes an idol or merely a fragment:If one found an object shaped like a hand or foot, it is forbidden, as similar objects are worshipped. Rabbi Yoḥanan asks: Why are they forbidden? Aren’t they fragments, which Reish Lakish permits?The Gemara answers: Shmuel interprets the mishna as referring to objects standing on pedestals, showing they were designed as idols ini …
Trojan Dinosaurs Avodah Zara 41 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 29th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph enumerates which statues have indications of idolatry and must be destroyed:
 Any statue holding a staff, bird, or orb symbolizes dominion, indicating it is designated for idolatry.
 The Gemara explains that each item reflects the statue’s supposed divinity, signifying its rule over the world: A staff symbolizes dominion, as the idol rules the entire world, like one rules an animal with a staff. A bird s …
Fin and Dandy: Swimming with the Signs Avodah Zara 40 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 28th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the signs of a kosher fish, which are having fins and scales. It is largely held true that every fish with scales also has fins. This leads the Gemara (Niddah 51b and Chulin 66b) to question the redundancy: why does the Torah need to mention fins if scales alone would suffice to indicate a kosher fish?The Gemara answers: This is in accordance with the verse: “The Lord was pleased, for His righteousness’ …
The Jewish Surrendered Wife Roles, Rules and Relationships Avodah Zara 39 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 20th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph uses an aphorism to illustrate the idea of loyalty and support from a wife to a husband, which transcends a particular religious status:There was an incident involving a certain woman who married a chaver (a sage who belonged to a society of sages who accepted certain vows of piety, such as eating all food with purity requirements as if it were Terumah). This woman would faithfully tie his Tefilin on his hand. She later m …
Religion or Superstition? Avodah Zara 38 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 18th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis recounts a remarkable story about how the officials of the Reish Galusa took murderous revenge against Rav Zvid. (The Reish Galusa is the Jewish person appointed by the Babylonian authorities to lead the Jewish community and depending on the era, could be more or less God fearing.) In this story, Rav Zvid imposed a prohibition upon eggs roasted by a gentile (which at the time was unclear if it was a sufficiently distinct f …
Impure Playdates and Taboos Avodah Zara 37 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 18th, 2025

Our Gemara on the top of Amud Aleph continues its discussion why there is a rabbinic decree that Gentiles have a status of tumas zav. Really Gentiles are not subject at all to the laws of purity, and they are not carriers of tumah (Nazir 62b). So why did the rabbis impose this strict form of impurity upon them?
The Sages were concerned about Jewish children being exposed to inappropriate sexual contact during playtime with their gentile neighb …
The Horse, Heart and Rider Avodah Zara 36 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 24th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph cites a prooftext from Daniel (1:8), which indicates a prototype of the prohibition against gentile wine, oil and other products:
Daniel set the matter upon his heart not to defile himself with the king’s food or the wine he drank, so he sought permission of the chief officer not to defile himself.
Daniel, a young Jewish exile groomed for the royal court, found the strength, resolved in his heart, to create a barr …
The Secret Life of Decrees Avodah Zara 35 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 23rd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses a leadership and governance practice that is alien to modern thinking. As with many ideas and wisdoms in the Gemara, there is no pretense of political correctness — instead, it presents a hierarchical, though generally benevolent, perspective on society.
The Gemara discusses the following rabbinic practice:
When the Sages decreed a decree in the West, Eretz Yisrael, they would not reveal the reason behin …
Kiln Me With Teshuvah Avodah Zara 34 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 22nd, 2025

Our Gemara on the top of Amud Aleph continues a discussion about the qualities of earthenware clay vessels. Unlike metal vessels, which can be purged via boiling water and fully expel the contents absorbed in the walls, earthenware clay vessels absorb foodstuffs and flavors, but cannot be fully purged. Therefore, they are difficult to kasher and can as only be restored by being broken and reformed in a kiln.
Symbolically, some mystics see the …
Observance Fatigue Avodah Zara 33 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 21st, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses an incident where a halachic mistake was made, and the sage’s response—or rather, his non-response.
The topic under discussion is that, although certain jugs may contain the absorbed flavor of gentile wine, it is permitted to store beer in such jugs. This is because the nature of beer is to disrupt and neutralize the taste of wine. Thus, the person derives no benefit from the leftover prohibited wine flav …
The Walking Dead Avodah Zara 32 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 20th, 2025

One of the strongest taboos in Judaism is its revulsion of idolatry. Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses another aspect of this intense aversion:
“They joined themselves also unto Baal of Peor, and ate zivchei meisim—the offerings to the dead” (Tehillim 106:28).
Just as a corpse imparts ritual impurity by means of a tent, so too idolatrous offerings impart ritual impurity by means of a tent.
This idiom for idolatrous sacrifices, zivc …
The Oy in Anxiety Avodah Zara 31 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 18th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the danger of uncovered water, which might contain venom from a snake. The question arises: If so, how do gentiles who don’t follow these precautions not regularly die from such exposure?
The answer:
“They eat repugnant creatures and creeping animals, which heat their bodies and thereby render them less susceptible to the venom.”
The sages believed that non-kosher food created bodily heat that neut …
Alls Well That Ends Well Avodah Zara 29 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
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July 17th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph quotes the verse that describes Rivkah as she goes to the well and encounters Eliezer. To recap, Eliezer prays for God to guide events, asking that the maiden who will offer him and his camels to drink be the appropriate bride for Yitschok (Bereishis 24:15):
“He had scarcely finished speaking, when Rebekah, who was born to Besuel, the son of Milcah, the wife of Avraham’s brother Nachor, came out with her jug on her …
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