Halachic Questions on Charity Intentions and Resurrection Marital Status Answered by Rabbi Aharon Botbol

Rabbi Aharon Botbol addresses two distinct halachic questions in the latest issue of the 'Achvata' bulletin from Achvat Torah, a Haredi organization. The first question concerns whether a person who thought about giving charity during prayer but the poor person left before the donation was made is halachically obligated to give the money. The answer depends on differing rabbinic opinions about whether mere intention constitutes a binding vow. While some authorities, like the Rashba, hold that intention in charity is binding, others, including the Shulchan Aruch, rule leniently that thought alone does not obligate the giver. Ashkenazi custom, following the Rema, tends to be stricter, requiring fulfillment of the intended charity, though some leniencies exist, especially with annulment of vows before Rosh Hashanah.

The second question explores the halachic status of a person who experienced clinical death but was successfully resuscitated, and whether such a person must remarry his wife. Rabbi Botbol explains that since halachic death was not established, the marriage remains valid and no new kiddushin (marriage ceremony) is required. However, regarding the biblical resurrection of the dead, there is debate among authorities. The Ben Ish Chai suggests that resurrection brings a new status, possibly requiring new marriage ceremonies. Other sources, including the Zohar and Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, discuss whether a resurrected woman returns to her first husband if remarried. The Rambam cautions against excessive speculation on these matters, noting that clarity will come with the actual resurrection.

The article was published in the Achvata bulletin distributed across Israel, with contact details provided for receiving the publication by PDF or email and for synagogue distribution.