פרשת החודש

This coming Shabbat is פרשת החודש and ויקהל-פקודי. We read החודש on the Shabbat before Rosh Chodesh Nissan, or on Rosh Chodesh. The Parsha discusses the month of Nissan being the first of the months in the Jewish calendar. It also discusses some of the laws related to Pesach preparations and the removal of Chametz from our homes. This section from the twelfth chapter of Shemot also teaches the special permission granted to cook on Yom Tov. This is learned from the words, אך אשר יאכל לכל נפש, “except for that which is needed for food for the soul.” There is a difference of opinion between בית שמאי and בית הלל, regarding carrying on Yom Tov. As usual, Beit Shamai takes the more strict opinion. They only permit carrying which is related to אוכל נפש, the preparation of food. Beit Hillel permits any kind of carrying, even if not related to food. They are more lenient because they felt that שמחת יום טוב, rejoicing on Yom Tov was also important. And carrying was possible to add to the joy of the day. The Halacha is, of course, according to בית הלל.