New Publication Delves Into The Challenges and Misconceptions Around The Halacha of the Beard
The publication of Lema’an Yeidu: Divrei Shalom Ve’Emes marks a significant new contribution to the ongoing halachic discourse surrounding the mitzvah of beard growth and the prohibition of shaving. Authored by Rabbi Moshe Nisan Wiener, known for his widely studied sefer Hadras Ponim Zokon, this new volume compiles responsa, clarifications, and source-based refutations addressing recently published challenges and misconceptions regarding the halachic, traditional, and spiritual foundations of maintaining the beard.
Drawing on extensive Torah sources from the Rishonim and Acharonim, as well as letters and testimonies from leading Gedolei Torah across generations, Lema’an Yeidu meticulously presents the authentic mesorah of Torah authorities concerning the sanctity and significance of the beard — including the teachings of contemporary authorities and previously unpublished materials.
The volume opens with an introduction underscoring the timeless words of the prophet Isaiah — “The Lord G-d has given me the skill to speak…I did not hide my face from insult…The Lord G-d helps me, so I will not be ashamed” — and the author’s aspiration “to clarify the truth of Torah, to present the words of our sages in their full beauty and integrity, that the people may see and judge.”
Among its notable sections are:
– The authentic Lithuanian Torah tradition regarding beard growth and how Gedolei Torah related to grooming practices in the great pre-war yeshivos.
– The halachic stance of leading authorities on modern shaving instruments (electric shavers and depilatory agents).
– Historical documentation of rabbinic opposition to shaving practices.
– Analysis of the positions of the various authorities, including the Chasam Sofer, the Ramchal, the Ben Ish Chai, the Chofetz Chaim, Rav Kook, the Chazon Ish, Rav Aharon Kotler, Rav Moshe Feinstein, Rav Ovadia Yosef, Rav Yosef Sholom Elyashiv, Rav Aharon Yehuda Leib Steinman, Rav Chaim Kanievsky, and others on shaving and beard growth.
– Supplementary appendices reproducing rabbinic endorsements, letters, and halachic opinions from across the Torah world.
– Continuing the legacy of sefer Hadras Ponim Zokon — now recognized as a definitive halachic work on the subject — this new publication seeks not to introduce new controversy but to clarify the Torah’s position with scholarship, balance, and fidelity to tradition, as expressed in the book’s subtitle: “A Collection of Responsa and Clarifications Addressing Recently Raised Challenges Regarding the Cutting and Growth of the Beard.”
The publication is now available on Amazon and can be viewed at no cost in digital format for broader availability.
