Hilchot Ha'aretz

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.

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

Matanot Aniyim, Chapter 1: Laws of Pe'ah

An overview of the laws of pe'ah: where does it apply and is a corner of the field still left today?

Matanot Aniyim, Chapter 2: Laws of Leket

A brief overview of the laws of leket.

Matanot Aniyim: Chapter 4, Laws of Peret

A brief overview of the laws of peret.

Matanot Aniyim, Chapter 5: Laws of Olelet

A brief overview of the laws of olelet.

Matanot Aniyim, Chapter 3: Laws of Shichechah

A brief overview of the laws of shichechah.

Orlah, Chapter 3b: 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.

Matanot Aniyim: Chapter 6, Laws of Chadash

A brief overview of the laws of chadash. Rabbi Eyal Ben David, updates by Rabbi Moshe Bloom

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.