Hi,
We have been learning about mourning during the Omer period.
Taking a haircut is considered to be an act of grooming that increases one's joy, and therefore one does not take a haircut during this mourning period.
In some years there is an exception to that rule - If Rosh Chodesh (the 1st day of Iyyar) is a Friday, then on that day one honors Rosh Chodesh as well as the Shabbat that comes the next day. In such a case, many authorities rule that one may take a haircut that day, despite its being during the Omer.
(Code of Jewish Law Orach Chaim 493:2; Mishneh Berurah 493:5)
Have a great day,
Mordechai
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Is the question of purchasing new clothing during the Omer, a halachic or hashkafic question?
ReplyDeleteMichael Felder
Hi Michael,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your question.
The matter is halachic, although it makes a point of hashkafah in teaching us the lessons of the death of Rabbi Akiva's students.
Hi Mordechai,
ReplyDeleteThe question came up because a family member of mine wanted to buy me some new clothes (as a present) just a few days before Lag B'Omer. I assume some alterations may be needed to trousers/jacket. So, just to restate the obvious-- I understand that purchasing new clothings is assur. Would there be a difference between the clothing being purchased during the Omer but not being picked up and worn until after the Omer? Or is this looking for a kula whwere one does not exist?
Thanks, Michael
Hi Michael,
ReplyDeleteNow I see why you asked as you did at first. My answer is that it's halachic - and therefore I'd prefer your local rabbi answer.