Covid-19 FAQs

Watch this page for vital halachic updates regarding the developing situation

Medical faqs

SHOULD SOMEONE WHO HAS RECOVERED FROM COVID-19 BENSCH HAGOMEL?

Those who have suffered the illness would fall under one for the following three categories:

a/ One who is seriously ill – choleh mesuken – eg. Hospitalised with/without oxygen or ventilator

b/ One who is bedridden at home for at least 3 days

c/ One whom feels he may have the virus and suffers as though he has a bad flu

Ashkenazim would only bench Gomel if they were seriously ill (case a). Sefardim would bench Gomel if they were bedridden for at least 3 days (case b).

HOW SHOULD GOMEL BE SAID?

Under normal circumstances, Gomel should be said in front of a minyan of 10 people. Where this is not possible, it may be said alone. But best to gather family members to hear the brocho so that they can say Omein.

IF I CURRENTLY CAN’T SAY THE BROCHO IN FRONT OF A MINYAN BUT WILL BE ABLE TO IN FUTURE SHOULD I WAIT?

If this will mean waiting more than 30 days, you should say the Brocho now without waiting. If you are confident that within the coming 30 days you will be in the position to join a legitimately arranged minyan then you should wait for this opportunity.

financial & beis din faqs

I HAVE A FINANCIAL QUESTION ARISING FROM COVID-19. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

For guidance and pesokim from the Federation Beis Din on matters relating to your financial obligations in light of the Covid crisis, please click here.

sefira faqs

ARE THERE SITUATIONS WHERE IT WOULD BE PERMITTED TO LISTEN TO MUSIC DURING THE SEFIRA?

Generally the strong minhag in Klal Yisroel is to avoid any and all music at this time. This should be followed wherever possible.

But for someone who is genuinely struggling, there is room to be lenient on the following: a. acepella music b. slow or classical recorded or music which one can’t dance to. As above, this is best avoided.

The following is also allowed: a. practising an instrument if one may lose their skill, b. someone who is depressed and needs music may listen to any music.

other issues

how can i arrange for other topical issues to be dealt with on these pages?

To request guidance on other issues or to suggest other topics to be covered here, please text anonymously to Shailatext on 07403 939 613. Or click here to submit your question online.