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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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Yoma 79 Don’t Get HANGRY Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 28th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph notes that Rabban Gamliel and Rabbi Yochanan Ben Zakkai conducted themselves with extra legal stringency in not eating anything out of the Succah. Yet notably the Gemara reports that Rav Zaddok was lenient in this as well as a variety of other matters related to eating. There are a number of interesting, and possibly related facts: These Tannaim were from the generation of the Churban, of which it is said in Bava Metzia …
Yoma 15 Does True Evil Exist Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 25th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discussed the directive that one should always turn toward the right side. This is a pervasive value statement which comes up in numerous halachos. The right side is treated as more important. Pele Yoetz under the entry for “Yamin” lists several halakhic procedures that should be done right side first. The right shoe should be placed on first, and the right side of a garment should be put on first, especially E …
Yoma 80 Does the Torah Change? Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 27th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph states: Rabbi Elazar said: One who unwittingly eats forbidden fat even today must write down the exact measure that he ate, lest another court come in the future and increase the measure. The Gemara appears to be saying that the Rabbis of a future Sanhedrin would have the ability to change the halakha, based on how they will interpret matters. Indeed, Rashi says as much explicitly: …Perhaps the Temple will be rebui …
Yoma 74 Does God Send Us Tests? Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 23rd, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis references the verses about the Manna, and how the Jews were tested by God (Deuteronomy 8:2-3)  זָכַרְתָּ֣ אֶת־כׇּל־הַדֶּ֗רֶךְ אֲשֶׁ֨ר הוֹלִֽיכְךָ֜ יְהֹוָ֧ה אֱלֹהֶ֛יךָ זֶ֛ה אַרְבָּעִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה בַּמִּדְבָּ֑ר לְמַ֨עַן עַנֹּֽתְךָ֜ לְנַסֹּֽתְךָ֗ לָדַ֜עַת אֶת־אֲשֶׁ֧ר בּ …
Yoma 52 Do Away With The Middleman Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 1st, 2021

The Gemara on Amud Aleph says: חֲבִיבִין יִשְׂרָאֵל שֶׁלֹּא הִצְרִיכָן הַכָּתוּב לְשָׁלִיחַ. The Jewish people are beloved by God, as the Torah did not require them to make use of an agent, e.g., an angel, to intercede on their behalf. Instead, God hears the nation’s prayers directly. Consequently, the High Priest, who represents the people on Yom Kippur, need not approach in a roundabo …
Yoma 57 Depression is the Mother of Invention Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 6th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph records a jibe from Rav Yirmiya regarding the Babylonian scholars: “Foolish Babylonians! Since you live in a dark climate, you offer teachings which are unclear and dim.” There is an intuitive truth to the idea that climate and environment affect mood and function. There is a form of depression, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which seems to be brought on in the dark winter months as a result of los …
Yoma 30 COVID: Psychological, Social and Actual Contagions Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 10th, 2021

Our Gemara mentions an interesting social fear, that of being called a Kerus Shafecha.  What is a Kerus Shafecha?  Kerus shafecha literally means a cut pipe, a deformation or injury to the urethra or male organ, often stemming from a botched Bris Milah that leads to a dysfunction in the ability to properly urinate and ejaculate.  In fact, this deformity would invalidate the person as a marriage partner, and also it was believed med …
Yoma 67 Cosmic String Theory Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 15th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis tells us an interesting discussion between Rabbi Eliezer and a “wise woman”: A wise woman asked Rabbi Eliezer: Since all bore equal responsibility for the incident of the Golden Calf, due to what factor were their deaths not equal? Some of the people were killed by the sword of Moses and the Levites, some were killed in a plague, and others were struck with an intestinal illness. He said to her: There is no wis …
Yoma 76 Common Sense Birth Control Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 25th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph records an interesting hypothetical vignette imagined about a typical family man during the 40 years that the Jews wandered in the wilderness: So too, in the case of the Jewish people, someone who had four or five children would be worried and say: Perhaps the manna will not fall tomorrow and we will all die of starvation. Consequently, everyone directed their hearts to their Father in heaven every day. The manna that fel …
Yoma 19 Cold Feet and Insomnia Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 29th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis Records a practice of helping the Cohen Godol stay awake by placing his feet on the cold marble floor. Indeed, there is a scientific basis for this idea.  A paper published in the Journal Nature (1999)  https://www.nature.com/articles/43366.epdf?sharing_token=CfJJi5x59F3F2Zdd5qZuctRgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0McdLoGBqBWDxzYnDuZ89VSsOd_gDIC6yu7SbDYXsM9a63iLB7KHJyKS_Os-MtnAFZReWxUmFpT8xd8_HyFdpoMYMXGDBhQMfwABn_AKxbPCfBP2kwn …
Yoma 60 Cloak and Gagger Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 9th, 2021

Our Gemara tells us that though the Cohen Godol wore בגדי לבן on Yom Kippur for services related to the Holy of Holies, which were really the same as the Cohen Hedyot. they would not be recycled for Cohen hedyot use during the year.  On the topic of Bigdei Lavan, we find that one time in history a non-cohen wore the white priestly clothes and performed the service in the inner sanctuary. Moshe served as Cohen Godol during the seven in …
Yoma 83 Can’t You Just Get Over It? Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 2nd, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes a verse from Mishle (14:10), “The heart knows the soul’s bitterness” as a support for the idea that even when the expert physicians do not consider a condition life-threatening, if the person himself does, we treat it as valid. The simple meaning from the Gemara is that we should not judge another person’s pain. Many experiences of mental illness such as trauma, depression, anxiety and the li …
Yoma 59 Bricks and Martyr Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 8th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph references a verse (Shemos 24:10) that describes the vision the Elders had at Sinai. There is a cryptic phrase, which I’ll do my best to translate: וַיִּרְא֕וּ אֵ֖ת אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל וְתַ֣חַת רַגְלָ֗יו כְּמַעֲשֵׂה֙ לִבְנַ֣ת הַסַּפִּ֔יר וּכְעֶ֥צֶם הַשָּׁמַ֖יִם לָטֹֽהַר׃ ⁦and they saw the God of Israel …
Yoma 86 Betrayals: When Will You Finally Forgive Me? Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 5th, 2021

The Gemara on Amud Beis states: ⁦Rabbi Eliezer ben Ya’akov says, If one confesses in subsequent years, all the more so is he praiseworthy, as he remembers his earlier sins and is thereby humbled, as it is stated: “For I know my transgressions; and my sin is ever before me” (Psalms 51:5).” This principle is used by our Gemara in reference to obtaining and maintaining God’s forgiveness. However, in my experience, thi …
Yoma 8 Be Wary of Spiritual Shortcuts Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 19th, 2021

This Daf discusses a number of topics that I would like to tie together thematically with a derash.  First, the sanctity of Tefilin is discussed and the requirement to be aware of them at all times while wearing them.  Second, we discussed the odd case of somebody who wrote G-d’s name on his body. The Gemara deals with the technical issue of how he may undress in front of G-d’s name (Tosafos), or possibly the fear of it bei …
Yoma 67 Basket Case Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 16th, 2021

The Gemara on Amud Aleph explains the practice of offering water and food to the appointee who walks the scapegoat to the cliff through the wilderness. At each and every booth people there say to him: Here is food; here is water, if you need it. It was taught: No man who escorted the goat ever needed this food and water. However, they would offer it to him anyway, because one who has bread in his basket is not similar to one who does not have bre …
Yoma 53 Balanced Prayer & Balanced Personality Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 2nd, 2021

The Gemara on Amud Beis tells us : The High Priest recites a brief prayer in the outer chamber. The Gemara asks: What does he pray? Rava bar Rav Adda and Ravin bar Rav Adda both said in the name of Rav that this was his prayer: May it be your will, Lord our God, that this year shall be rainy and hot. The Gemara immediately expresses surprise at this request: Is heat a good matter? Why should he request that the year be hot? Rather, say and emend …
Yoma 12 Avoiding Relationship Gridlock Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 23rd, 2021

Our Gemara discusses the problem of what happens when a new Cohin Godol is nominated due to an invalidation of the prior Cohen Godol.  When the original Cohen Godol recovers from whatever it is that invalidated him, he is restored the office. What do we do with the second appointee? The Gemara says that we cannot demote him back to ordinary service because that would be a diminution of holiness. However, he cannot remain and share the office …
Yoma 36 Asking for Too Much from God? Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 16th, 2021

Our Gemara records a machlokes between Rabbi Meir and the Rabbanan regarding the words and order of the viduy confession. Rabbi Meir follows the order of the verse used by Moshe, Avon, Pesha and Chata’a.  The Rabbis cannot accept that because logically, the confession should go in order of severity: Chet (unintentional), Avon (intentional) and Pesha (Rebellious).  If so, why indeed did Moshe use a different order?  It was to …
Yoma 21 Amen, and A-Women! Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 30th, 2021

Our Gemara lists a number of miracles that occurred in the Beis HaMikdash, including that a pregnant woman never miscarried as a result of smelling the cooking sacrificial meats and craving them, as well as that the Coeh Gadol never had a nocturnal seminal emission on Yom Kippur night. What was the exact miracle regarding the pregnant women not miscarrying?  Some quote in the name of Rashi that the women would feel cravings for the meat, not …
Yoma 39 Addiction, Emotional Occlusion and Timtum Halev Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 19th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph quotes a teaching from Rabbi Yishmael:   Sin obstructs and clogs the heart of the sinner. On a simple level, the Gemara is noting that the momentum of sinful behaviors makes a person more callous and less sensitive to wrongdoing and morals in general.  Presumably, this is the Timtum halev that the rabbis meant. A clogging of the heart and a contraction of open-heartedness and sensitivity. Arvei Nachal (Bere …
Yoma 11 A Kalter Litvak Rationalist Undergoes a Conversion Psychology & the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 22nd, 2021

The Gemara tells us the requirement of checking a mezuzah: The mezuza belonging to an individual is examined twice every seven years to determine whether it was stolen or became disqualified. And in order to avoid excessive burden on the community, the mezuza belonging to the public is examined twice in a fifty-year Jubilee period. I would like to tell you a story from my personal life, actually two stories, about Mezuzos. Many people have the cu …
Yoma 44 A Different Kind of L’shon Hora Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 24th, 2021

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph teaches us that the incense achieves atonement for L’shon Hara, slander. Let something that is done in secret, i.e., the incense, which is burned in seclusion within the Sanctuary, come and effect atonement for an act done in secret, i.e., slander, which is generally said in private. Ramah in Toras HaOlah III:7 says a number of chiddushim in regard to this Gemara: The incense is brought in seclusion, meaning that no …
Yoma 31 A Different Kind of Lesson for the Day of Judgment Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 11th, 2021

Two small psychological observations from two different points discussed in the Gemara. On Amud Beis the Gemara explains that they used a linen sheet as a mechitza between the Cohen Godol and the crowd, to cover him while he changed clothes for the service. The Gemara asks why specifically a sheet of linen? The Gemara answer that since the Yom Kippur avodah was with linen clothes, unlike all year round, they also used a linen sheet. It’s no …
Yom Kippur’s Scapegoat: Atoning for the Unknown Killer Shavuous 8!Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 9th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the forms of transgression that the sacrificial goat on Yom Kippur atones for. When the Gemara turns this discussion toward the sin of murder, it wonders what kind of murder sin would require such atonement. If one killed intentionally, he would be subject to punishment. If he killed unintentionally but through negligence, he would be obligated to go into exile. One of the answers the Gemara offers is regarding …
Yom Kippur’s Annual VIP Pass to God’s Inner Sanctum Shavuous 10 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 11th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph quotes a verse in Vayikra (16:34) that refers to the sacrificial rites of Yom Kippur as “once a year.” We also have a similar verse in Shemos (30:10), which actually mentions that the Yom Kippur service is “once a year” two additional times in that verse. It is fair to say that most every holiday happens only “once a year,” so what is the Torah expressing when it emphasizes this annual …
Yin and Yang Eruvin 56 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 2nd, 2020

  אָמַר שְׁמוּאֵל: אֵין תְּקוּפַת נִיסָן נוֹפֶלֶת אֶלָּא בְּאַרְבָּעָה רִבְעֵי הַיּוֹם, אוֹ בִּתְחִלַּת הַיּוֹם אוֹ בִּתְחִלַּת הַלַּיְלָה, אוֹ בַּחֲצִי הַיּוֹם אוֹ בַּחֲצִי הַלַּיְלָה. On the topic of the previous discussion with regard to calculating the directions of the world based …
Yichus Versus Achievement Yevamos 15 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
March 22nd, 2022

Our Gemara on Amud Beis tells us how they inquired of Rabbi Yehoshua to rule over the dispute of Shammai and Hillel regarding the co-wife of a forbidden relation who falls to Yibum. He declares that he does not want to “stick his head between two great mountains”, i.e., between two great disputing opinions, between Beit Shammai and Beit Hillel, “out of fear lest these two mountains break my skull.” Ben Yehoyada wonders why …
Yes Does Not Mean Yes Gittin 74 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 28th, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph describes various situations where a wife may be bashful to ask for payments or property promised to her, even though it rightfully belongs to her. While in some ways, female and male patterns of behavior have changed in modern times, it is important to respect that there are also patterns of behavior that remain feminine or masculine for many people. These patterns need to be respected and not ignored. Men and women have …
Yeridas Hadoros DeGeneration Shabbos 112
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 28th, 2020

Mareh Mekomos for Video Shiur click here to listen: for Video Shiur click here to listen:  Psychology of the DAF Shabbos 112 DAF YOMI from a psychological perspective. Mareh Mekomos    קרי עליה לית דין בר אינש איכא דאמרי כגון דין בר אינש אמר רבי זירא אמר רבא בר זימונא אם ראשונים בני מלאכים אנו בני אנשים ואם ראשונים בני א …
Years and Tears Later: The Price of Lies and the Price of Truth Kesuvos 13 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 19th, 2022

  Our Gemara on this daf continues a discussion of case law where important information was allegedly withheld prior to marriage and discovered later.  In yesterday's Psycholgy of the Daf, we discussed the obligations of others to reveal information. Continuing this theme, we will discuss the halachos and psychology of self-disclosure of flaws prior to marriage. There is a Teshuva of Rav Moshe Feinstein regarding a young woman who was s …
Yearning Versus Learning Sanhedrin 51 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
February 6th, 2025

Our Gemara on amud beis refers to a concept known as Hilchesa Lemishicha and Drosh Vekabel Sachar—meaning that certain laws, though not currently applicable, are studied either in preparation for their observance in Messianic times or simply for the inherent reward of Torah study. The Laws of Sanhedrin and the Laws of Sacrifices fall into this category, as they will only be practically fulfilled after the arrival of Moshiach.   Th …
Written Correspondence Nedarim 70 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 3rd, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph quotes a verse in Bamidbar (30:7-8): וְאִם־הָי֤וֹ תִֽהְיֶה֙ לְאִ֔ישׁ וּנְדָרֶ֖יהָ עָלֶ֑יהָ א֚וֹ מִבְטָ֣א שְׂפָתֶ֔יהָ אֲשֶׁ֥ר אָסְרָ֖ה עַל־נַפְשָֽׁהּ׃  If she should become someone’s [wife] while her vow or the commitment commitment Lit. “utterance of her lips.” to which she bound herself is sti …
Work for Your Freedom Bava Metzia 73 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 10th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses an interesting, ethical law, that is not utilized in modern times:   The Gemara relates: Rav Se’oram, the brother of Rava, would forcefully seize people who were not acting properly and have them carry Rava’s palanquin. Rava said to him: You acted correctly, as we learn: If you see a Jew who does not behave properly, from where is it derived that you are permitted to have him work as a slave? The …
Woe Onto Him and Woe Onto Her Yevamos 29 Psychology of the Daf Yom
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 5th, 2022

Our Mishna on Amud Aleph discusses a scenario where unfortunately a person can end up having to divorce a woman whom he “married” through the action of ma’amar (which is the rabbinic Kiddushin-prelude to formal Yibum.) Should a second brother who was married to this woman’s sister also die childless, he now will have to divorce his current wife and do chalitzah to her, and do chalitzah to the sister. Why? Since ma’am …
Without Safety There is No Intimacy Kesuvos 88 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 2nd, 2022

What are some of the psychological functions of the kesuba?  We saw earlier in Psychology of the Daf (Kesuvos 82) that financial security is important for the woman to feel safe in the marriage. Our Gemara on Amud Aleph considers that a special allowance is made for a widow in that she can collect payment of her kesuba from her husband’s possessions even if he is not present. Or as discussed on 84a, the ability of the widow to collect …
Withholding Forgiveness Bava Kamma 105 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
February 15th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses a scenario where someone swore falsely and denied possession of an object.  If he confesses and wishes to repent, part of his responsibility is to return the principal object as well as one fifth additional payment.  This requirement is so extensive, that even if the victim moved to far flung regions, the strict letter of the law requires that he incur the trouble and the expense to restore the object …
With Privilege Comes Responsibility Kiddushin 57 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 5th, 2023

In our Gemara on Amud Aleph, Rabbi Akiva's renowned derasha asserts that when the Torah adds ״את״ (es) to the commandment ״אֶת ה׳ אֱלֹהֶיךָ תִּירָא״, it obligates us to fear Torah sages as we fear God. The statement of Rabbi Akiva is that “Es”, comes to add an obligation to fear Torah sages as one fears God. Translating "es" into English is challenging, but it signifies an association, even when it seems obv …
With Enemies Like These, Who Needs Friends? Nedarim 40 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 4th, 2022

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph remarks about the benefit of good friends and the danger of friends of a lower caliber. Good friends will give you the right advice and guide you, such as Na’aman Who is able to take advice from his peers. However bad friends, such as Rechavam’s friends, give poor advice. Rechavam’s friends advised him to take a harsh stand as a new king, demanding even more taxes which led to a rebellion (see Melachim I …
Wise Women and Warfare Eruvin 87 Psychology of the Daf Eruvin 25
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 4th, 2020

Wise Women and Warfare   This Daf refers to a city knows as Eyvel.  It is an unusual name.  It is mentioned in Tanach in regard ot the rebellion of Sheva ben Bichri against the King David (II Samuel 20).   וַתִּקְרָ֛א אִשָּׁ֥ה חֲכָמָ֖ה מִן־הָעִ֑יר שִׁמְע֤וּ שִׁמְעוּ֙ אִמְרוּ־נָ֣א אֶל־יוֹאָ֔ב קְרַ֣ב עַד־הֵ֔נָּה וַאֲדַבְּרָ …
Wine and Romance Nedarim 68 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 1st, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the husband’s right to annul a vow made by his wife, in regard to matters that will affect their personal relationship. Sometimes, we are able to get an indirect glimpse at various values, ethics and morals that Chazal endorsed by studying certain halachos. In this vein, I will discuss the idea of a wife drinking alcohol with her husband as a way to enhance romance and good experiences. There is no shortag …
Why Do We Hate that Which We Used to Love? Bava Basra 98 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 1st, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Alephs comments on the relational consequences of arrogance:   One who is haughty is not accepted even by the members of his household, as it is stated: “The haughty man abides not” (Habakkuk 2:5). What does the phrase “abides [yinveh] not” mean? It means that even in his abode [naveh], he is not accepted.   Pesach Einayim wonders: If so, why do we see women who are attracted to a man specifica …
Why Do They Throw Stuff at the Chosson? Kesuvos 15 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 21st, 2022

Our Mishna on Amud Beis refers to a custom where they would give out roasted grain at the wedding ceremony of a virgin.  What is the basis and symbolism of this custom? Abudarham Laws of Blessings Ninth Gate Blessings on Commandments Marriage Blessings, quoting a verse (Tehilim 147:14) השם גבולך שלום חלב חטים ישביעך which equates peace with abundance of plump grain.  Thus, we are wishing upon the marriage peace …
Why Do People Fake Their Identity? Kesuvos 24 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 29th, 2022

Our Gemara discusses what kinds of testimony is valid to establish lineage. The Gemara has much skepticism about individuals claiming certain lineage.  This makes me wonder, lomdus aside, why not trust a person who declares his identity, especially when in many situations of issur v’heter we trust a person's own testimony, even relating to their food or other personal halakhic issues? We have recently learned of many agunah situations …
Why Can’t You Just Move On? Kiddushin 19 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
September 1st, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph addresses the exemption of a minor from capital punishment, even when they are the offender in an adultery case. Tosafos pose the question of why there should even be a debate, since minors are generally exempt from punishments. Tosafos in Arakhin (3a, "Limutei") suggest another line of thought, contemplating whether even a minor should be executed due to "Kalon," which can be translated as "disgrace." What precedent do T …
Why Averos Are not Nullified by Mitzvos Zevachim 74 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
November 22nd, 2025

Continuing our discussion about nullification and exceptions to the rule, our Gemara on Amud Beis references the principle of something that potentially can be permitted. The idea is that an item that gets blended in a majority, which ordinarily should be nullified, if it is something that could eventually be permitted, the nullification process does not work. A classic example is an egg laid on Yom Tov, which is muktzah; even if it gets mixed in …
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 …
Whom Do We Venerate? The Mitzvah or the One Who Performs It? Bava Kamma 9 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 10th, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the principle of Hiddur Mitzvah. There is an additional requirement beyond fulfillment of a mitzvah; that is to honor a mitzvah by somehow beautifying it. Rabbi Zeira said that for the embellishment of the performance of a mitzvah, one should spend up to one-third more than the cost. There is an apparent dispute between Rashi and Tosafos regarding the interpretation of "⅓ more." According to Rashi, one should s …
Who Wears The Pants in The Family? Eruvin 86 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 3rd, 2020

Maseches Eruvin 86 גמ׳ אמר רב הלכה כרבי שמעון ודוקא בתו אבל בנו לא דאמרי אינשי נבח בך כלבא עול נבח בך גורייתא פוק: GEMARA: Rav said: The halakha is in accordance with the opinion of Rabbi Shimon. The Gemara comments: And this is the halakha only if one went to his daughter’s house; but if he went to his son’s house, no, this is not the halakha. One cannot be sur …
Who is Wrong? The Rebbe or the Student? Sotah 4 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 2nd, 2023

People from my parents’ generation used to draw a comparison to the old style of chinuch versus the new post Dr. Spock generation. In the old days, if a child came home from school and was crying that the teacher hit him, the parent would hit him again and say, I“If your teacher hit you, it must be for a good reason!“ While in our times, if a child came home, complaining that the teacher hit him, the parents would rush to the sc …
Who is Testing Whom? Bava Basra 34 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 29th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses certain legal situations where both claimants have an equally valid argument, and one has no default assumption of ownership over the other:   There was an incident where two people dispute the ownership of property. This one says: It belonged to my ancestors and I inherited it from them, and that one says: It belonged to my ancestors and I inherited it from them. There was neither evidence nor presumptive o …
Who is a Torah Ignoramus? Sotah 22 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 20th, 2023

Our Gemara on amud aleph lists various criteria that describe an ignoramus (in Torah), as called by the Gemara, an Am-Ha’aretz: תָּנוּ רַבָּנַן: אֵיזֶהוּ עַם הָאָרֶץ? כֹּל שֶׁאֵינוֹ קוֹרֵא קְרִיאַת שְׁמַע שַׁחֲרִית וְעַרְבִית בְּבִרְכוֹתֶיהָ, דִּבְרֵי רַבִּי מֵאִיר. וַחֲכָמִים אוֹמְרִים: כֹּל שֶׁא …
Who is a Man and Who is a Beast? Sanhedrin 99 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
March 26th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the role and responsibility of a human being in this world: Rabbi Elazar says: Every man was created for labor, as it is stated: “Man is born for toil” (Iyov 5:7). Based on this verse, I do not know whether he was created for the toil of the mouth—speech—or for the toil of labor. When the verse states: “For his mouth presses upon him” (Mishlei 16:26), you must say that he was c …
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: …
Who Gets Married First? Nazir 24 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
February 16th, 2023

  Our Gemara on Amud Aleph (and the previous Amud) takes a positive spin on the incestuous actions of Lot’s daughters. From their perspective, seeing the destruction of Sodom, they thought the world had come to an end. They saw it as their duty to repopulate the earth even if it meant having relations with their father. As such, since it was in their mind a mitzvah, so it was. (See yesterday’s Psychology of the Daf, Nazir 23.) א …
Who Deserves Wealth? Bava Metzia 35 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 3rd, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses a judgment that people seem to have when comparing the wealthy to the impoverished. In certain halachic/legal situations, there is an assumption that the borrower trusts the lender’s financial assessment but not the reverse; the lender does not trust the borrower. One reason given for this by the Gemara is that people assume God would not have rewarded this man with wealth unless he was trustworthy. Conver …
White Out: When Impurity Turns Inside Out Zevachim 49 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
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 …
Whine About Wine Zevachim 17 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author:
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 …
Wherever You Go, That's where You'll Be Eruvin 55 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 2nd, 2020

  רָבָא אָמַר: ״לֹא בַשָּׁמַיִם הִיא״ — לֹא תִּמָּצֵא בְּמִי שֶׁמַּגְבִּיהַּ דַּעְתּוֹ עָלֶיהָ כַּשָּׁמַיִם, וְלֹא תִּמָּצֵא בְּמִי שֶׁמַּרְחִיב דַּעְתּוֹ עָלֶיהָ כַּיָּם. Expounding the verse differently, Rava said: “It is not in heaven” means that Torah is not to be found in som …
Where Charity Begins Bava Metzia 82 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 20th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a teaching of Rav Yitschak, regarding the status of a collateral object. Is the object considered still in the possession of the borrower, or once the collateral is taken, it is fully owned by the lender until such a time as the borrower repays the loan? One halachic outcome that depends on this distinction is if the object was lost due to unforeseeable circumstances. If the object is fully possessed by the lende …
When You Point a Finger, Three Other Fingers Point Back at You Nazir 2 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 25th, 2023

We have discussed many times in Psychology of the Daf (see Nedarim 78), Chazal were ambivalent about pious declarations of abstention, such as the vows of the Nazirite, and as the Gemara on daf 4b explains in regard to Shimon Hatzaddik’s suspicion regarding the sincerity of Nazirite vows. Yet, with proper intention and maturity to handle this period of abnegation, it can be a catalyst for humility and change. Our Gemara on Amud Aleph tells …
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 …
When Torah and Your Emotional Needs Conflict
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 2nd, 2019

When Torah and Your Emotional Needs Don’t Feel Compatible   Persons who go through therapy and find access to their deeper feelings can become aware of conflicts that others may not be consciously aware of. For example, unfortunately there are a number of people who habitually talk in Shul. Some may get serious, develop self control, begin to appreciate the value of prayer and solemnity, and stop this behavior. Others may continue for …
When to Meddle and When Not Psychology of the Daf Shabbos 148
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 31st, 2020

אֶלָּא: הַנַּח לְיִשְׂרָאֵל, מוּטָב שֶׁיְּהוּ שׁוֹגְגִין וְאַל יְהוּ מְזִידִין. Rather, in these matters we rely on a different principle: Leave the Jewish people alone, and do not rebuke them. It is better that they be unwitting in their halakhic violations and that they not be intentional sinners, for if they are told about these prohibitions they may not listen anyway. for Vid …
When to Fight and When to Be Still: Understanding Divine Intervention Sanhedrin 60 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
February 14th, 2025

Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses an intriguing biblical figure: Ravshakeh. He was an agent of the King of Assyria, engaging in psychological warfare by speaking directly to the Jewish soldiers in Chizkiyahu’s army—in Hebrew, no less—encouraging them to surrender, as he claimed it was their destined fate to lose. Ravshakeh even went so far as to assert that God Himself approved of Assyria’s impending conquest (Melachim II …
When There is Coercion, There Also is Obligation Kesuvos 29 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
August 4th, 2022

  Continuing our theme from yesterday’s daf about fear in the classroom and pedagogy, there is another dynamic involved in a relationship of dominance.  Whether ideal or not, when one party coerces and dominates the other party, there also is a moral obligation about the dominant party to provide for the subjugated party.  It is a truism in human nature.  For example, though the master may have many servants and obviousl …
When the Sacrifice is Not to Sacrifice Shavuous 11 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 2nd, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the principle of lev beis din masneh, which essentially means that the rabbinic court allows itself an assumption that sacrifices are dedicated with a conditional clause subject to the judicial will of the sages. Therefore, in certain isolated situations when there is no choice, something that was sanctified and dedicated for a sacrifice can be reversed and annulled because the entire dedication was under an ass …
When the Letter of the Law is to Go Above It Bava Metzia 83 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 21st, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses an incident where Rabbah bar Chanan’s hired porters broke a barrel of wine. Though they were legally hired as watchmen and thus responsible for the mishap, his teacher (Rav) required him to not only release them of liability for the broken barrel, but to even pay them their wages! Rabbah bar Chanan asked Rav, “Is this really the required Halacha?” Rav answered, “Yes it is”, quoting …
When the Holy Charge Is Discharged Zevachim 46 Psychology of the Daf
Author:
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 …
When the Ches Points Upwards Sanhedrin Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 19th, 2025
When Stolen Waters are not so Sweet Bava Kamma 118 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
February 28th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the prohibition to buy stolen goods. The Rambam (Law of Theft 1:1) warns that to buy stolen goods of any kind is a grave sin, as it encourages the thief’s behavior.  Based on this, Yam Shel Shelomo (58:1) rules that it is still prohibited to purchase from a thief even if he technically acquired the item via making substantial changes so that it is no longer the same object, such as weaving wool into a …
When Silence Speaks Louder Than Action Sanhedrin 41 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 27th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the status of the Sanhedrin in the years leading up to the destruction of the Temple: “Forty years before the destruction of the Second Temple, the Sanhedrin was exiled from the Chamber of Hewn Stone and sat in a store near the Temple Mount… And no longer judged cases of capital law. Once the Sanhedrin left the Chamber of Hewn Stone, their ability to judge capital cases was nullified.” A simpl …
When Second Place is First Class Bava Kamma 109 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
February 19th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the status of the Biblically penalty of an extra fifth imposed for one who confesses that he denied a theft under oath. The particular case is regarding someone who stole from his father, and then denied it under oath, and before he can make restitution, his father dies. Technically, he inherited part of the fine due to his father, and one might think that his percentage of the inheritance should be deducted off …
When Does Life Become Holy Yevamos 67 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 13th, 2022

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the idea that עוּבָּר בִּמְעֵי זָרָה זָר הוא. A fetus in the womb of a non-Cohen who is married to a Cohen, is not considered a Cohen until it is born. This has halakhic implications in terms of the slaves in the household who ordinarily are allowed to eat Terumah as they are part of the Cohen’s household. However, in this case because they are partially owned by this fetus who is …
What’s Worse? Being Constantly Cruel or Ending a Marriage? Sotah 3 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
March 31st, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses an opinion that even though the Sotah ritual is activated by the husband according to a formula prescribed by the Torah, this act of jealously warning her to not to be alone with a certain suspected person is forbidden, because it causes strife (see Rashi).  Shitta Mekubetzes raises an obvious logical objection. If it turns out that he legitimately suspects his wife of immoral behavior, and he is not just b …
What We Have When We Have Nothing Gittin 68 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 23rd, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Beis recounts a period in Solomon's life when he was usurped by the Asmadai demon, who took his place, forcing Solomon into exile. The verse, "And this was my portion from all of my toil" (Ecclesiastes 2:10), raises a question: What is the meaning of the expression "And this"? The Gemara explains that this expression typically refers to an item that is actually in the person's hand or can be shown. Rav and Shmuel offer differen …
What Makes a Jew Jewish? Kiddushin 68 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 20th, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the status of a child born from a Gentile father and Jewish mother. The child is not a halakhic mamzer but is seen to be of inferior lineage and cannot marry into the priestly families.   This would seem to be contradicted by the following verse in Vayikra (24:10):   וַיֵּצֵא֙ בֶּן־אִשָׁ֣ה יִשְׂרְאֵלִ֔ית וְהוּא֙ בֶּן־אִ֣ישׁ מִצְרִ֔י בְּת֖ …
What loneliness is more lonely than distrust? Pesachim 13 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 4th, 2020

What loneliness is more lonely than distrust? George Eliot   Likewise, collectors of food for the charity plate, who would collect food in large vessels for the poor to eat, who do not have poor people to whom to distribute the food, sell the food to others and do not sell it to themselves, as it is stated: “And you shall be clear before God and before Israel” (Numbers 32:22). It is not sufficient that a person is without sin in …
What Kind of Suffering Merits Forgiveness? Gittin 42 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 27th, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Beis delves into the sources and specific laws concerning the automatic release of a Canaanite slave whose master causes him to lose a limb. While the scripture mentions a tooth or eye, the halakhic interpretation extends it to any limb (See Shemos 21:27). Sefer Daf Al Daf presents an insightful derush and analysis of Aggadah by Rav Tzvi Pesach Frank (Vaera 6:5). When Moshe expresses concern over the continued suffering of the …
What is Torah Study? Psychology of the Daf Eruvin 2
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
August 11th, 2020

  סוכה דאורייתא תני פסולה מבוי דרבנן תני תקנתא The Gemara answers: With regard to sukka, since it is a mitzva by Torah law, the mishna teaches that it is unfit, as if it is not constructed in the proper manner, no mitzva is fulfilled. Whereas with regard to an alleyway, where the entire prohibition of carrying is only by rabbinic law, the mishna teaches the method of rectification, as the cross beam comes …
What is Torah? Shavuous 41 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 11th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph asks what the practical differences are in practice in a Jewish court between an oath that is obligated biblically or due to a rabbinic enactment. The Gemara endeavors to find distinctions. Rav Yosef Engel in Gilyonei Hashas asks: There is a simpler difference between a biblical oath and a rabbinic oath. If there are two cases that need to be adjudicated, one involving a biblical oath and another involving a rabbinic oath …
What is the POINT, really? Eruvin 53 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 1st, 2020

  מַר רַבִּי יוֹחָנָן: לִבָּן שֶׁל רִאשׁוֹנִים כְּפִתְחוֹ שֶׁל אוּלָם, וְשֶׁל אַחֲרוֹנִים כְּפִתְחוֹ שֶׁל הֵיכָל, וְאָנוּ — כִּמְלֹא נֶקֶב מַחַט סִידְקִית. Similarly, Rabbi Yoḥanan said: The hearts, i.e., the wisdom, of the early Sages were like the doorway to the Entrance Hall of the Temple, which was twen …
What is Mazal? Psychology of the Daf Shabbos 146
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 29th, 2020

שֶׁבָּא נָחָשׁ עַל חַוָּה הֵטִיל בָּהּ זוּהֲמָא, יִשְׂרָאֵל שֶׁעָמְדוּ עַל הַר סִינַי — פָּסְקָה זוּהֲמָתָן, גּוֹיִם שֶׁלֹּא עָמְדוּ עַל הַר סִינַי — לֹא פָּסְקָה זוּהֲמָתָן. אֲמַר לֵיהּ רַב אַחָא בְּרֵיהּ דְּרָבָא לְרַב אָשֵׁי: גֵּרִים מַ …
What Halachos Will Eliyahu Explain? Bava Metzia 37 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 5th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses several scenarios where there is an unresolved disposition of ownership:   In the case of two people who deposited money with one person, and this one deposited one hundred dinars and that one deposited two hundred dinars, and when they come to collect their deposit, this one says: My deposit was two hundred dinars, and that one says: My deposit was two hundred dinars, the bailee gives one hundred dinars to …
What Does it Take to Achieve Forgiveness for Sin? Nazir 38 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
March 2nd, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the principle that one does not receive the punishment of lashes for violating a general prohibition “lav shebichlalos”. The prohibition must be a specific item and not a broad or general category. Presumably, any time a negative commandment which also has some factor that lessens the intensity of the prohibition, it somewhat reduces the degree of punishment or reaction. There are other examples as we …
What Do the Dead Know? Bava Metzia 16 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
March 15th, 2024

Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses the idea that a repentant thief may be disturbed that his reputation as a thief would be discovered after his death. This implies that dead people have an awareness of the goings on in the physical world. However this is subject to debate in Gemara Berachos (18b) with a number of incidents with various sagely and pious persons, the dead and the living.   In one case, a man receives messages from a deceased …
What Do Angels Know? Sotah 33 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 1st, 2023

Our Gemara on amud Aleph tells us that while prayers can technically be said in any language, there are metaphysical barriers when the prayer is not in the holy tongue, l’shon kodesh: תְּפִלָּה רַחֲמֵי הִיא כׇּל הֵיכִי דְּבָעֵי מְצַלֵּי It is stated in the mishna that the Amida prayer may be recited in any language. The reason for this is that since prayer is a request for divine mercy, one may …
What Difference Does It Make as Long as You Get There Menachos 13 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author:
January 23rd, 2026

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the parallels of the sacrificial rituals of an animal versus a mincha. For example, the handful of flour that is taken from the mincha for the altar is parallel to slaughtering, as it activates the sacrifice. The Gemara wonders how placing the handful in the vessel is comparable to accepting the blood in the vessel.
At first, the Gemara considers this not parallel, as it declares: “If we say that the meal-of …
What Belongs to Us Chaggigah 8 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
February 16th, 2022

Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes a verse in Devarim 16:17 Describing the expectations of devotional sacrifices one should bring on the festival: אִ֖ישׁ כְּמַתְּנַ֣ת יָד֑וֹ כְּבִרְכַּ֛ת הֹ אֱלֹקיךָ אֲשֶׁ֥ר נָֽתַן־לָֽךְ׃  ⁦but each with his own gift, according to the blessing that the LORD your God has bestowed upon you. The Shalah ( של״ה תורה שבתב ראה דרך חי …
Weighing Sin Bava Metzia 41 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 9th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Beis considers the relative legal severity of two different kinds of watchmen: The free watchman, and the hired watchman. On a simple level, the hired watchman has more legal liability and severity than the free watchman. The hired watchman is liable for theft, and forms of non-negligent loss, while the free watchman can claim the object was stolen and be exempt, so long as he takes an oath that he employed an expected standard …
Wedding Night Trauma Yevamos 41 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 15th, 2022

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph references the custom in Judea (Mishna Kesuvos 1:5) of allowing the betrothed bride and groom to have a period of time to be alone together. (They are married through Kiddushin but have not yet completed nisuin.)
Rashi (“Chutz”) explains:
“That he be accustomed and playful with her, so they not be embarrassed of each other when they consummate on the wedding night.”
While this cus …
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 …
Weaving a Good Peshat Yevamos 5 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
March 11th, 2022

Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses the prohibition of Shaatnez, a mixing of wool and linen, and how despite this general prohibition, it is permitted to mix wool and linen in Tzitzis. The Recanti (Ki Tetze 12) “weaves” a Brilliant symbolic explanation of both the prohibition of Shaatnez and why it’s permitted in Tzitzis. I will borrow from what he said, summarize and inject some of my own psychological understanding. It all begin …
We THINK we are Mordechai, but Maybe we are Just Achashveirosh Yevamos 9 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
March 16th, 2022

Since today is Ta’anis Esther we will tie something from the Daf to a Maharal on Megillas Esther. Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the concept of the Hebrew letter vav, which within scripture, can indicate that whatever is taught in the latter clause also applies to the former clause. In the Maharal’s Commentary on Megillas Esther (Ohr Chadash 1:10) he notes an interesting configuration of letter vavs in the verse that lists Achashv …
We Shape Our Own Heaven or Hell Psychology of the Daf Yomi Gittin 48
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 3rd, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Beis delves into the matter of payment and the varying forms it can take depending on the nature and circumstances of the obligation. It teaches us that someone who causes damage and is required to pay from their land assets must pay from the best of their land. However, a debtor who utilizes land may use land of medium quality. In a metaphorical and spiritual sense, mystics discuss how one should perceive sin and its consequen …
We Only Have What We Give Pesachim 35 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 25th, 2020

We Only Have What We Give - Isabelle Allende There is a wonderful Alshich on the following verse (Devarim 14:25-27) quoted by our Gemara: וְנָתַתָּ֖ה בַּכָּ֑סֶף וְצַרְתָּ֤ הַכֶּ֙סֶף֙ בְּיָ֣דְךָ֔ וְהָֽלַכְתָּ֙ אֶל־הַמָּק֔וֹם אֲשֶׁ֥ר יִבְחַ֛ר יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ בּֽוֹ׃ you may place the money. Wrap up the money in your hands and take …
We Knead to Be Productive Sotah 24 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 21st, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Beis uses specific terms to describe two different levels of mental incapacity that would allow Beis Din to act on behalf of the husband, should his wife be suspected of adultery. In the first case they describe a Shoteh, which is a degree of mental incapacity (see Chagigah 3b which defines a Shoteh, as well as an interesting Psychology of the Daf, Chagigah 3, click here: https://nefesh.org/SimchaFeuerman/chaggigah--talmudic-we …
We Hold These Truths to be Self-Evident Nazir 61 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
March 24th, 2023

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph implies that Gentiles are not specifically obligated in the commandment to honor thy father and mother. Likewise, Kiddushin (31a) indicates that even the notable Dama ben Nesina, whose stories of honoring his father were legendary examples and object lessons for the sages, was still technically not obligated in honoring his father.  A number of commentaries (see Yad Avraham and Rabbi Akiva Eiger on Shulkhan Arukh YD …
We Have Met the Enemy and He Is Us Avodah Zara 45 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author:
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 …
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 …
We Are Not Alone Bava Metzia 81 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 19th, 2024

Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses what happens when two people agree to watch each other’s possessions.  Since they are both doing it in exchange, they are considered to be paid watchmen and liable for theft that could have been prevented by more vigilance.  However, the Gemara raises an objection:   But why is this the halacha? It is a case of safeguarding with the owners simultaneous involvement! There is a principle that …
We Are All in the Same Boat Kesuvos 99 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 13th, 2022

What is shelichus or agency at its core?  On the one hand, it makes sense that we should be able to appoint another person as an agent to represent us and execute transactions. On the other hand, it is absurd. How can anyone ever really speak for us and stand in our place?  Even more puzzling, how is it that certain mitzvos can be accomplished by agency, and others not?   (Generally, the rule of thumb is that a mitzvah that mu …
Waxing Spiritual: Illuminating the Shekhina Through the Moon Sanhedrin 42 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
January 28th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph compares one who fulfills the mitzvah of blessing the new month at its proper time to one who has seen the face of the Shekhina. What is the connection between the mitzvah of blessing the Moon and encountering the Shekhina? Various commentaries offer interpretations, each expressing a different dimension of our relationship with God. The Meiri explains that observing and blessing the renewal of the Moon brings about an aw …
Waxing Philosophical: The Ledger of Life Shavuous 45 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 15th, 2025

Our Gemara on amud aleph discusses the evidence that a storekeeper may use from his writings on his ledger. The Gemara’s term for this ledger is a “pinkas.” My father Z”L, who was a scholar in Torah and learned in Greek and Latin, always took pains to correctly pronounce the Greek words in the Gemara. What we Yeshivishe folk call a pinkas is actually a pinaks (πίναξ), a kind of tablet that used beeswax as a …
Was Pharaoh a Lamdan? Yevamos 96 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 10th, 2022

Our Gemara on Amud Beis states that a halachic male minor who is nine years and one day old can perform the mitzvah of Yibum.  However, the status of this marriage is not complete until he consummates as a bar mitzvah, and if he dies before doing so, and now his wife falls to yibum to another brother, she must have chalitza and not yibum.  There is some discussion amongst the Rishonim about whether the marriage is valid according to Tor …
Walls and Self-Deception Kesuvos 41 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
August 16th, 2022

    Self-deception and unconscious self-destructive urges are confounding.  At times, we make best and sincerest efforts to avoid falling into certain patterns and dysfunctional behavior.  Despite this, like lemmings, we hurl ourselves over the cliff to our doom. Our Gemara on Amud Beis quotes a verse (Devarim 22:8) that instructs one to make their home safe: כִּ֤י תִבְנֶה֙ בַּ֣יִת חָדָ֔שׁ וְעָש …
Wake Up Call Psychology of the Daf Shabbos 136
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 20th, 2020

אֲמַר לֵיהּ רָבִינָא לְרַב שֵׁרֵבְיָא: בְּאוּרְתָּא אֲמַר רָבָא הָכִי, לְצַפְרָא הֲדַר בֵּיהּ. אֲמַר לֵיהּ שְׁרִיתוּהָ? יְהֵא רַעֲוָא דְּתִשְׁרוֹ תַּרְבָּא. Ravina said to Rav Sherevya: In the evening Rava indeed said so, as you said; however, in the morning he retracted his statement, and that is what I cited. Rav …
Waiting for the Dust to Settle Bava Basra 165 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
December 6th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud aleph makes an observation about human nature and that certain sins are almost impossible to avoid: The majority of people succumb to sin with regard to financial dishonesty and theft, and a minority of people succumb to sin with regard to sexual matters, and everyone succumbs to sin with regard to malicious speech. The Gemara asks: Can it enter your mind that all people sin with regard to malicious speech? The Gemara answers: …
Vulnerable to Vulnerability Nedarim 24 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 18th, 2022

The commentary of the Rosh on Amud Aleph explains why a person may be reluctant to accept his host’s invitation without being able to reciprocate, based on the aphorism expressed in Mishley (15:27): וְשׂוֹנֵ֖א מַתָּנֹ֣ת יִחְיֶֽה He who spurns gifts will live long We can well understand why this might be a good character trait, but why does it specifically confer long life? Maharal in Nesivos Olam, Nesiv Haosher (1 …
Verbal Self-Defense Kesuvos 14 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
July 20th, 2022

  Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses an interesting scenario of the Mamzer Veshasak, which means that a person is accused of being a mamzer, but does not object.  This can be seen as an indicator of admission.  However, in apparent contradiction to this,  the Gemara in Kiddushin (71b) tells us: When two people quarrel with each other, observe which of them becomes silent first. We can assume the silent party is of finer lineage …
Vain Vows and a Meaningful Life Shavuous 29 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
May 30th, 2025

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the halachic principle of an oath made in vain. Various oaths fit this category, such as swearing to affirm something obviously false or, ironically, the opposite—affirming something already well-known and obviously true (see Rambam Shavuos 1:5 and Shulchan Aruch YD 236:4). To make an oath for no purpose is considered a disrespectful act, as it invokes God’s name over a trivial matter. Likkutei Halac …
Vain Leadership Nedarim 18 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 11th, 2022

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the idea that swearing falsely is more severe than merely violating a neder. Swearing falsely has an additional injunction by which God declared that, “I will not cleanse those who bear my name in vain” (Shemos 20:6). What is this special quality about swearing falsely, compared to other sins, that that draws this particular reaction? In regard to this, God says he will not cleanse. Further developin …
Duty and the Beast Eruvin 69 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 16th, 2020

  ״מִן הַבְּהֵמָה״ — לְהָבִיא בְּנֵי אָדָם הַדּוֹמִין לִבְהֵמָה. מִכָּאן אָמְרוּ: מְקַבְּלִין קׇרְבָּנוֹת מִפּוֹשְׁעֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל, כְּדֵי שֶׁיַּחְזְרוּ בִּתְשׁוּבָה. חוּץ מִן הַמּוּמָר, וְהַמְנַסֵּךְ יַיִן, וְהַמְחַלֵּל שַׁבָּתוֹת בְּפַ …
Use It or Lose It Zevachim 20 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author:
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 …
Uplink to the Heavenly Cloud Yevamos 93 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
June 8th, 2022

On amud beis we find Rav Yannai troubled by a dream that he had, of a splintered reed. He the dream to mean that he made a halakhic mistake, by relying on a weak proof. Rav Chiyyah comforted him, by reading the dream as the opposite, implying a broken reed is humble and therefore merits to see the truth: How did the Gemara treat dreams?  Are they prophetic, or to be ignored as the result of random images and impulses firing during the night? …
Unrecognizable Differences Kesuvos 49 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
August 24th, 2022

What do you do when you do not recognize your children?  Of course, I do not mean physically, as that would be unlikely.  I mean, if their behavior is so foreign to you, that you wonder, “How do I even know this person, how can I love him or her?” Our Gemara on Amud Beis discusses a contradiction between two teachings, where one says that the Raven cares for its young, while another teaching implies that Ravens do not care f …
Unqualified Love Eruvin 58 Psychology of the Daf
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 6th, 2020



תַּנְיָא, אָמַר רַבִּי יְהוֹשֻׁעַ בֶּן חֲנַנְיָא: אֵין לְךָ שֶׁיָּפֶה לִמְדִידָה יוֹתֵר מִשַּׁלְשְׁלָאוֹת שֶׁל בַּרְזֶל, אֲבָל מַה נַּעֲשֶׂה שֶׁהֲרֵי אָמְרָה תּוֹרָה: ״וּבְיָדוֹ חֶבֶל מִדָּה״. It was taught in a baraita that Rabbi Yehoshua ben Ḥananya said: You have not …
Unpaid Debts of the Dead Bava Basra 157 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
November 29th, 2024

Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the idea that there is a degree of responsibility for a child to pay his deceased parent’s debts. The poskim analyzes the nature and basis of this obligation, which also suggest ideas about the limits and obligations of the commandment to honor one’s parents. This obligation is beyond a financial lien, such as if the parent did not leave real estate (in the times of the Gemara, non-real estate holdin …
Unorthodox Trauma
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
April 12th, 2020

The following post is written by my wife Chaya Feuerman, LCSW-R who is guesting in this blog: Trauma takes many forms. Many people are blocked from living life as their best Selves due to past or present traumatic experiences. Some people don't even recognize that their experiences have traumatized them and are the cause of difficulties in how they respond to life's stressors including their relationships. Traumatic events are frighteni …
Unnatural Responses to Natural Temptations Kiddushin 40 Psychology of the Daf Yomi
Author: Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, DHL, LCSW-R
October 5th, 2023

  Our Gemara on Amud Aleph tells us that if one successfully overcomes a particular temptation to sin, they will merit miraculous salvation. Ben Yehoyada explains that this is "Middah K'neged Middah," a measure for measure response from God. In other words, if we, as individuals, choose to forgo immediate gratification of our natural desires and drives for a higher spiritual purpose, God reciprocates by suspending natural laws and granting u …
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