App-ortioned Learning
A frum businessman was returning home from a busy day at work. The seat next to him on the train was empty. A young man who presumably spent the entire day learning at a yeshiva in Manhattan boarded the train at one of…
Seder Nezikin · dafim 2–24
Makkos
Finished May 2, 2025 in this cycle. 8 articles, 2 stories
Map of the dafim
Articles, in daf order
Soaring to New Heights
On May 5, 1980, Eastern Airlines Flight 885 took off from Miami International Airport at 8:56 AM, heading to Nassau International Airport in the Bahamas.
Lifelong Goal
The Gemara quotes the fascinating story surrounding the death of Rav Chisda. It was time for Rav Chisda to return his precious soul to his Creator.
Just Plane Foolish
The other day I told my class a story which included the mention of TWA. One of my students asked me what TWA was. I was taken aback.
Raising the Steaks: Why the Nasi Bought the Cow
Mazal tov on this final countdown to a joyous simcha – the wedding of a beloved son! With excitement swirling like confetti and preparations in full swing, the ultimate wedding day checklist takes shape: clothing for…
Holy Cows
There have been several instances over the past few years of cows running loose through the streets of New York. In fact, a few years ago a cow actually walked past Yeshiva Shaar HaTorah in Queens.
Peyos Prohibitions
The Rambam uncharacteristically adds a reason to the prohibition against cutting peyos. He says it is because the idol worshippers used to cut off their peyos.
Tattoos
A while ago the top news story on one particular day was that Sarah Palin had notes written on her hand. Never mind that there is terrible unemployment in our country or the debt problem in European countries.
Stories in Makkos
Rav Chisda and the Angel of Death
The Angel of Death cannot take Rav Chisda while he learns without pause, until a pillar of the beis midrash snaps and the noise startles him for a moment.
Rabbi Akiva Wakes His Dozing Students
When his students doze off, Rabbi Akiva asks why Queen Esther ruled 127 lands, linking it to Sarah Imeinu's 127 years and hinting at what holy sleep means.