Rulings and insights from the Lubavitcher Rebbe - Rabbi Chaim Wolosow

The Rebbe outlines three levels of replacing korbanos: reciting pesukim for atonement, studying the laws as if performing the avodah, and tefillah as the actual substitute. Korban Pesach uniquely combines these, creating a powerful connection and longing for the Beis HaMikdash.

https://www.torahrecordings.com/shulchan_menachem/orach_chayim/232_002

The Rebbe explains that the Alter Rebbe omits comparing reciting Korban Pesach to tefillah because it is even greater. Describing the korban in detail is considered a more direct connection, as if one is actually performing it.

https://www.torahrecordings.com/shulchan_menachem/orach_chayim/232_001

Beyond not eating matzah on Erev Pesach, the Rebbe notes a Chabad custom to avoid foods used in the Seder—maror and charoses ingredients—until after Korech of the second Seder, enhancing the mitzvah experience.

https://www.torahrecordings.com/shulchan_menachem/orach_chayim/231

The Rebbe addresses whether completing a tractate of the Jerusalem Talmud qualifies as a siyum. He strongly affirms that it does, noting that even smaller works or partial completions have been accepted—certainly a full tractate of Yerushalmi qualifies.

https://www.torahrecordings.com/shulchan_menachem/orach_chayim/230

The Rebbe analyzes whether keilim are included in mechiras chametz and if they require tevilah afterward. Despite being included in the sale, the conclusion is that the keilim do not require immersion when reacquired after Pesach.

https://www.torahrecordings.com/shulchan_menachem/orach_chayim/227

The Rebbe discusses how to handle shirayim containing chametz before Pesach. Despite possible halachic solutions like selling or hefker, the accepted minhag is to consume them beforehand, preserving their sanctity without retaining chametz.

https://www.torahrecordings.com/shulchan_menachem/orach_chayim/226

The Rebbe discusses whether eating chametz on Pesach, while prohibited, may technically fulfill the mitzvah of destroying chametz. He presents differing views, noting that although it removes the chametz, it remains a serious violation.

https://www.torahrecordings.com/shulchan_menachem/orach_chayim/225_004

The Rebbe analyzes whether Bedikas Chametz should be done alone or with family. While the obligation rests on the head of the household, the Rebbe explains that involving family members is proper, allowing all to participate in the mitzvah.

https://www.torahrecordings.com/shulchan_menachem/orach_chayim/225_002

The Rabbi Selling Chometz on Behalf of the Community

https://www.torahrecordings.com/shulchan_menachem/orach_chayim/225_001

The Rebbe rules that matzah from the previous year remains valid, as it retains its quality and is still fit for consumption. He supports this from the practice of eiruv chatzeros, where matzah is used and relied upon even for over a year, including leap years.

https://www.torahrecordings.com/shulchan_menachem/orach_chayim/223