Tzedakah for those who rely on it in Israel

Hi,

When setting priorities for tzedakah, one should give precedence to the needy of Israel before the needy of other places. However, halachic authorities contend that one who is able to support himself outside of Israel, and then moves to Israel knowing that he will need to rely on tzedakah there, does not have precedence over others.

(Tzedakah uMishpat 3:14 and footnote 38)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

When do I become Israeli?

Hi,

We have noted the difference in observance of Yom Tov Sheni, the second day of Yom Tov, in Israel and outside of Israel. At what point is a non-Israeli considered Israeli?

Some authorities rule based on acquiring a permanent dwelling - see R' Moshe Feinstein in Igrot Moshe Orach Chaim 3:74. Others require twelve months, based on Bava Batra 7b. There is still further debate regarding one whose plans are uncertain; Rav Moshe Feinstein (Igrot Moshe Orach Chaim 4:108) ruled that one who is scouting in Israel still observes the second day of Yom Tov.

The Aruch haShulchan (Orach Chaim 496:5) ruled that one who has decided to move to Israel, and is in the process of overcoming a specific obstacle, is considered an Israeli already.

Have a great day,
Mordechai