Page 116 - Tzurba M'Rabanan Volume1

114 · Hilchot Chukot Hagoyim Tzurba M’Rabanan

rituals and commit licentious acts there.
c. In our times
i. Rav Moshe Feinstein – There is no prohibition in terms of chukot hagoyim,
yet there is a problem of theaters and stadiums being classified as a “moshav
leitzim” and causing bitul Torah.

The Minhag of Kaparot

1. Beit Yosef – The Geonim and Rishonim argued whether this is permitted or
prohibited due to being considered darkei emori.
2. Shulchan Aruch – One should not maintain this custom.

3. Rema – One should maintain this custom.
4. Rav Ovadia Yosef (Yechaveh Daat) – Since the custom has become widespread,
even Sefardim may continue it.

Walking Without a Head Covering

1. Shulchan Aruch – One shouldn’t walk four cubits with one’s head uncovered.

2. Yechaveh Daat – The meaning of the Shulchan Aruch is not that there is a
prohibition, but rather that this is an act of piety.

3. Taz, Mishna Berura – Today there is a prohibition to walk without a kippa because
of chukot hagoyim.

4. Igrot Moshe – Today even the Taz would agree that there is no problem of chukot
hagoyim as they do so only for their own benefit.

5. Yechaveh Daat – In our generation it is important to wear a kippa, both because of
the problem of marit ayin, as well as due to midat chasidut.

Standing for the Siren on Yom HaShoah and Yom HaAtzma’ut

1. Rav Tzvi Yehuda Kook – There is no prohibition, and it is even a mitzva to stand.
2. Yalkut Yosef – Some say there is a prohibition, while others hold it is permitted.
Therefore, it is important not to create a chilul Hashem, and one should stand and
say Tehillim.
3. Peninei Halacha – Thinking about those who gave their life “al kiddush Hashem” is
considered part of the mitzva of talmud Torah. Furthermore, one shouldn’t separate
oneself from the community.

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