Halachic Guides

Laws of ma'aser sheni

Redeeming ma'aser sheni and handling with the coin in our days is complex and can be daunting. In this article we will explain the main halachic guidelines.

Kilei Ilan (grafting): scion and rootstock combinations for trees and vegetables

Laws of kilei ilan (grafting): permitted and prohibited scion and rootstock combinations for fruit trees, citrus trees, ornamental trees, and vegetables (update: Tevet 5785-January 2025).

Intermediate plant classification as vegetables or trees

While most plants fall into neat categories as trees or vegetables, some are on the seam and have characteristics of both. This chart classifies such intermediate plants, which has bearing on the laws of orlah, berachot and kila’im. Hilchot Ha'aretz, 133.

Text for separating terumot & ma'aserot with side-by-side translation

This formula for separating terumot and ma'aserot is accompanied by a side-by-side English translation. It is an excerpt from the booklet Mitzvot of the Land in a Nutshell

The practical laws of orlah

Orlah is a biblical prohibition, even today. In this article we will discuss a few of its practical halachot. From The Laws of Orlah for the Backyard, Part II.

Shehechiyanu: practical information

In today’s age, the concept of “seasonal fruit” is constantly changing. This article features a list of more than 100 common and rare fruits and vegetables and notes each one's halachic status. The list is current as of Tammuz 5778.

Shehechiyanu on new fruit today

This article reviews methods that make fruits and vegetables accessible year-round, and discusses how they impact on making the shehechiyanu blessing today.

Shemitah, Introduction#1: Shemitah—a National Mitzvah

Shemitah as a national mitzvah as well as a mitzvah for the individual. What is a hidur mitzvah as a consumer during Shemitah?

Shemitah, Introduction#2: Safeguards of Sanctity

Is it a proper way to always be machmir on shemitah laws?

Shemitah, Introduction#3 - Instructions to the Reader

Introduction to the English version of the book hilchot shemitah.