Hand-washing and Haircuts

Hi,

One should wash his hands ritually after having a haircut. This may be done in the barbershop, or after leaving.

(Rivivot Ephraim 1:7:3)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

Haircuts for Lag ba'Omer this year

Hi,

There is an interesting quirk in this year's calendar: Lag ba'Omer occurs on Motzaei Shabbat and Sunday.

The Rama mentioned an Ashkenazi practice of taking haircuts on the Friday preceding Lag ba'Omer when Lag ba'Omer is a Sunday, in honor of Shabbat. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 493:2) [Note that this would not affect any of the other mourning practices associated with the first part of the omer, such as listening to musical performances.]

As always, please consult your community's rabbinic authorities in determining your practice.

Have a great day,
Mordechai

Haircuts during the Three Weeks of Mourning

Hi,

We have begun learning about the Three Weeks of Mourning, which begin Sunday July 20 this year.

We refrain from haircuts during this time period. This includes cutting the hair of a minor, if the minor is old enough to understand the concept of mourning.

Many authorities permit shaving for business up until the first day of the month of Av. They also permit women to shave facial hair, and men to shave mustaches which interfere with eating, as these types of shaving do not create great joy.

(Code of Jewish Law Orach Chaim 551:12-14; Mishneh Berurah 551:79-82)

Have a good day,
Mordechai