Relatively lengthy halachic responsum [over 40 words], including nine important and interesting innovative halachic rulings. Entirely handwritten by the gaon Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky shlit”a [Bnei Brak, 1995].
This letter was sent in response to questions asked by Rabbi Yisrael Teplin; interesting questions that do not have clear answers in halachic literature, so there was no choice but to turn to the rabbinic leader of the generation. Rabbi Kanievsky responded to these interesting questions one at a time, as is his way, clearly and decisively. These concise responsa involve comprehensive familiarity with all realms of Torah. The questions deal with a wide range of topics, including some regarding daily life.
Some of the interesting questions include: Is a child to be taught Torah from the moment he can speak, or only from the age of three? Rabbi Kanievsky responded that they are not to be taught Torah at all before three years of age. Another question: Should a person pray by himself if he feels that he can do so with more intent and feeling? Rabbi Kanievsky responded “One should not do so regularly.” And further questions that touch upon practical halachah.
As is known, responsa by Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky are brief and concise, often consisting of only one word – hitting the nail on the head. As such, it is usually not possible to understand what the question was for letters of responsa by Rabbi Chaim occasionally offered for sale, due to the brevity of the answer. This responsum stands in contrast (aside from the inestimable segulah value as a manuscript by the rabbinic leader of the generation), as the inquirer was wise enough to keep a copy of his questions for himself, so that we have complete questions-and-answers before us: The interesting questions and the clear answers, as to Moshe from G-d’s mouth.
[1] aerogram. Approximately 20×28 cm.
Very fine condition: Fold marks. Tiny tears in the margins as a result of opening the letter, far from the text.