Unlock the profound wisdom of Jewish tradition and discover the mitzvah of owning Torah books with us. In this episode, we embark on an exploration of Siman 28 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, discussing the sacred obligation of writing or commissioning a Sefer Torah. We'll also reveal how acquiring other Jewish texts, like the Chumash, Mishnah, or Gemara, can fulfill this mitzvah, even for those who cannot commission a full Torah scroll. We'll highlight the accessibility of these sacred texts through publishers like ArtScroll, emphasizing their role in making Torah study available to all.

As we continue our journey, I'll take you through the historical and cultural tapestry that underscores the reverence of holy books and scrolls within Jewish communities. Learn about the halachic guidelines that govern the handling and storage of sacred texts, as well as the practices that reflect these guidelines—such as standing when a Torah scroll is carried and ensuring holy books are treated with respect. Delve into the communal learning traditions shaped by the historic rarity and expense of these texts, and how these practices have helped preserve their sanctity over the ages.

Finally, we’ll explore the respectful use of Torah books and Judaica, focusing on the limitations and proper disposal practices that honor these sacred items. Discover the nuances of handling holy writings, including the respectful rebinding of books and the ethical considerations when purchasing sacred items from non-Jews. Through engaging discussions and insights, this episode illuminates the importance of upholding reverence for our treasured Torah books, ensuring their dignified treatment for generations to come. Join us for a meaningful reflection on these timeless practices that keep the sanctity and reverence of our sacred texts alive.

To have your questions featured on the Ask Away series, please submit your questions at [email protected]

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The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way.
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This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

• Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:
  https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5

This episode (Ep. #41) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on June 8, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on June 18, 2025
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DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
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SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: 

• NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes
• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

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EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected]
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Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!
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