Torah

Question: May one use maaser k’safim funds to purchase an aliyah to the Torah?

 Short Answer: Maaser k’safim funds can be used to purchase an aliyah if you intended to use maaser k’safim funds at the time of the purchase. There is a disagreement, however, whether the funds have to ultimately reach poor people or whether they can be used for shul upkeep. Regardless, some poskim only allow the purchaser to use maaser k’safim funds for the extra amount paid to outbid his friend.

Discovering the Deeper Meaning of Gomel Chasadim Tovim

In our previous installment, we explored the extraordinary opportunity presented by the pasuk “Va’ani b’chasdecha” — “As for me, I have trusted in Your lovingkindness.” We discussed how recalling Hashem’s countless acts of lovingkindness of the past can strengthen our confidence in His chesed for the future, bringing greater serenity and menuchas hanefesh into our lives.

Question: May a person deduct business expenses before giving maaser k’safim? May he offset profits with losses from a different transaction?

Short Answer: Most Acharonim allow business expense deductions before giving maaser k’safim. Many Acharonim also allow offsetting profits with losses so long as the transactions occurred in the same maaser year or before maaser was calculated.

Transforming A Familiar Pasuk Into A Daily Exercise In Bitachon

Every morning, toward the conclusion of Hodu, we recite a remarkable declaration of bitachon: “Va’ani b’chasdecha batachti, yagel libi bishuasecha; ashirah laHashem ki gamal alai.” “As for me, I have trusted in Your kindness; my heart shall rejoice in Your salvation. I will sing to Hashem, for He has dealt kindly with me.” (Tehillim 13:6)

Question: May one use maaser k’safim funds for kimcha d’Pischa, the special charity given before Pesach?

Short Answer: According to most poskim, since there is no set amount or specific community tax for kimcha d’Pischa, it can be paid for with maaser k’safim funds.

The Power Of Preparing Before We Daven

We all want our tefilos to be more meaningful. We want to feel that we are truly speaking to Hashem, rather than simply reciting familiar words. Yet how often do we arrive in shul, open our siddur, and begin davening almost immediately, without giving ourselves even a moment to consider what we are about to do?