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Should one aim to start Kriyas Shema before or slightly after the ideal vasikin timing when perfect coordination with sunrise isn't possible? The Rif and Rabbeinu Yonah offer opposing strategies, but the deeper question is whether 'kodem hanetz' represents merely a deadline or an actual starting point for the mitzvah (מצוה) timeframe.
This shiur presents an in-depth analysis of Masechta Berachos 9b, focusing on the halachic requirements for the timing of Kriyas Shema in the morning, particularly relating to the practice of vasikin (praying with sunrise). The Gemara (גמרא) discusses the challenge faced by those who cannot perfectly time their recitation to finish exactly at netz hachamah (sunrise). The Rif's position is examined first, interpreted through the lens of Kivager's commentary. According to this understanding, if one cannot be mechaven (precisely time) the recitation, they should start slightly later rather than earlier. The reasoning is to ensure that Shemoneh Esrei is recited during the day (after sunrise) rather than risking saying it before sunrise, even if this means not achieving perfect coordination with netz hachamah.
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Berachos 9b
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Should one learn Torah full-time trusting in Divine providence, or combine learning with work? The shiur distinguishes between Rabbi Shimon ben Yochai's approach of complete separation from worldly concerns versus Rabbi Shmuel's view that proper work itself becomes part of Torah. The key insight: true emunah means learning without demanding sustenance from either Hashem or community, unlike having a 'contract' expecting payment for learning.
