Rabbi Benjamin Hotah Explains Halacha for Listening to Selichot via Radio and Internet

Rabbi Benjamin Hotah, a prominent halachic authority, presents a daily brief segment called "Halacha in 60 Seconds" on Kikar HaShabbat, focusing on current Jewish law and customs. In a recent episode, he addressed the halachic rules regarding listening to Selichot prayers through modern media channels. According to Rabbi Hotah, those who hear Selichot via radio fulfill the obligation and respond "Amen" without issue. However, listening to Selichot through the internet poses halachic challenges and is considered problematic.

This guidance is part of a broader series that clarifies Jewish legal questions relevant to contemporary practice. The segment includes a video explanation and is accompanied by related content, such as discussions on the proper way to check mezuzot during the month of Elul. The program aims to provide accessible and concise halachic rulings for daily observance.

The coverage also references recent powerful Selichot gatherings, including events at the Prison Professions College with Rabbi Yigal Cohen and at Belz with prominent rabbis like Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef and Rabbi Yisrael Grossman, highlighting the ongoing spiritual significance of Selichot prayers in the community.