Calling an Avel to the Torah (Aliyah)

You are here:
< Back

Note: This question is from a Gabbai [from another city]:

Dear Rabbi Simon,
Sadly, a member of the community was buried today [Sunday]. Is the avel (brother of the deceased) allowed to receive an aliyah this coming Shabbos in shul?
Avner

Dear Avner,
Torah study (reading) is forbidden during the Shiva, as reading the Torah is a source of joy, which is inappropriate for one in mourning. However, this restriction is applicable specifically during the initial 7 days of avelut. In the present case these “7 days” end on Shabbat morning (Sunday counting as Day 1 and Shabbat is Day 7), therefor strictly speaking he may be called to the Torah on that same morning (See Taz 402:5, Gilyon Maharsha 384:1). Certainly, at mincha would be permitted (if he is a mincha person). If there is a particular reason to call him in the morning, I would allow it. If it can wait for mincha or the following week, that would be better. But if it is a matter of “strike while the iron is hot”, IMO it is permissible to do so. May we only share good news together in the future.
Best wishes
Rabbi Rashi Simon

Next Tallit and Tzitzit
Questions & Answers
this week

Questions and Answers

Ask the Rabbi: Quinoa on Pesach
Dear Rabbi Simon,
Where do you stand on quinoa (and the kitniyot ban) for Pesach?
Many thanks,
Tzippy
***
Dear Tzippy,
In line with other American authorities, I am in favour of quinoa. Although I reject completely the voices (mostly from Israel) seeking to abolish the ban on kitniyot entirely, IMO we do not need to include in the prohibition pseudo-grains that were unknown in the Old World until modern times. Best to buy with a Pesach hechsher though, to be free of any possible wheat contamination.
Rabbi Rashi Simon
Events / Calendar