Halachic Guides
Orlah, Chapter 3a: What is a tree?
The halachic definition of tree vs. vegetables vis-à-vis orlah includes various criteria. An overview of the Talmudic criteria as well as those added by Rishonim and Acharonim. Also, a look at those plants don't fit neatly into a specific category.
Hilchot Orlah
Laws of Ma'aser Rishon
Laws of Ma'aser Rishon, giving it today to a Levi, can we give it to a Kohen? To a bat Levi who is married to an Israel? To a widow of a Levi? And much more
Mitzvot of the Land
Shehechiyanu: Making a 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.
Mitzvot of the Land
Orlah 101
Orlah. A major prohibition that applies to fruit before trees complete three years of growth. A unique mitzva tied to the Land of Israel, since it also applies abroad. This comprehensive alphabetical guide covers diverse orlah-related topics, including how orlah years are calculated and when the prohibition applies.
Mitzvot of the Land
Kilei Ilan - Grafting: a Review
The review below lists the standard stock and scion pairs used in nurseries in Israel. Noted are the cultivar pairs that are halachically permissible for grafting are as well as those that that are problematic. Permissible alternatives are presented when such exist.
Mitzvot of the Land
Kila'im
An abridged guide on the laws of kila'im, forbidden mixtures: kilei zera'im (seeds), kilei ilan (trees), and kilei kerem (vineyards). The parameters of each prohibition, the distance needed between types of seeds, and the application of kila'im outside of the Land of Israel, among others.
Mitzvot of the Land
Shemitat Kesafim and Pruzbul Guide
The Cancellation of Debts Everywhere, Laws of the Shemitat Kesafim and Pruzbul
Mitzvot of the Land
Matanot aniyim, Preface: Matanot aniyim as a model for social policy: "In justice shall you be established"
How do matanot aniyim help propel the poor out of the circle of poverty towards taking initiative and personal responsibility? An overview of the Torah's unique system to promote a just and compassionate society, based on personal obligation. Rabbi Azriel Ariel
Hilchot Matanot Aniyim
Orlah, Preface: The prohibition of orlah, a mitzvah dependent on the Land of Israel
What makes a mitzvah "dependent on the Land of Israel"? On the definition of these special mitzvot and the sanctity inherent in the soil and its produce. Also, on orlah's unique status inasmuch as it also applies abroad.
Hilchot Orlah
Terumot and Ma’aserot 101: a Halachic Guide
The 40 basic concepts below relate to all aspects of terumot and ma’aserot. This guide describes the various gifts, when they are given, and more.
Mitzvot of the Land