Pesach message from the Rov

Morai V’Rabbosai,

This upcoming Shabbos Parshas Pekudei, is Parshas Hachodesh and Erev Rosh Chodesh Nissan. If we haven’t already we must turn our attention to all things Pesach related.

One of the exalted pre Pesach traditions of Klal Yisroel is Maos Chittin (It is brought in the  Gemara which refers to it as Kimcha D’Pisacha) As its name suggests, it is a Geviyah (collection) mandated by Chazal specifically for the purpose of Pesach food for those less financially fortunate. Many hold. that although it is a form of Tzedaka one cannot your money from Maaser to be mikayaim this  Mitzva M’Dirabanan because it’s a distinct and unique Geviyah. Why we only have such a Mitzva before this Yomtov as opposed to before Succos and/or Shavuos is a question discussed in the Acharonim.

If one is being Mikayaim Kol Dichfin on Pesach (meaning you are having Yesomim ,Almanos and other Nitztrachim at your Seder that is a form of Kiyum of this mitzvah as well. However, this does not include “social invitees” if these guests can afford their own seder they do not count towards your chovas Maos Chittin. While there is no exact shiur for how much to give,one should bear in mind the Rambam’s statement that anyone who eats his own Yomtov meals and fails to provide for the Simchas Yomtov of the financially weaker Yidden are not Mikayaim Simchas Yomtov!!!

Unfortunately I will not be here in Monsey this Shabbos as I must be in Lakewood for family obligations, However I will be back on Sunday and checks for Maos Chittin can be made out to BMCS and I will make certain the money gets where it needs to for you to be Mikayaim the Mitzva.

Mechiras Chometz will Iy’h also begin on Sunday all are welcome to sign up with me initially after Schachris (about 9:05am) and Maariv (at 9pm)

I have the latest kashrus lists available and can answer the usual Shaylos regarding medicines and the like if the need should arise.

Chag Kasher V”Samayach to all.