All in Misconceptions

Common Misconceptions: Muktzah vs. Assur

Devir Kahan
Halacha, Misconceptions, Shabbos

There is an extremely prevalent misconception that certain objects are assur to touch or use on Shabbos because they are muktzah. This has things backwards, however, as the reality is that objects are muktzah because they are assur — not the other way around. The common expression of “You’re not allowed to use that because it is muktzah” should in reality be “That is muktzah because you’re not allowed to use it.”...

Common Misconceptions: Gesticulation During Tefillah

Devir Kahan
Misconceptions

Many have the practice — conscious or not — to raise their hands, or otherwise gesticulate, whilst in the midst of praying. This is most common during the Amidah, more commonly known as Shemoneh Esrei. While for many this comes out of a deep concentration and a genuine emotional state during tefillah, there may be a number of problems with praying in such a manner...