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Why don't we apply the midnight deadline to eating matzah like we do to other time-bound mitzvos? The shiur distinguishes between Chag HaPesach (14th Nissan) and Chag HaMatzot (15th Nissan) as overlapping but separate holidays. This framework explains why matzah has different timing rules and resolves questions about when the mitzvah (מצוה) can be fulfilled.
This shiur provides an in-depth analysis of Gemara (גמרא) Pesachim 99b, focusing on the mitzvah (מצוה) of achilas matzah (eating matzah) on Pesach (פסח) night. Rabbi Zweig begins by examining Tosafot's position on the timing of when matzah can be eaten, particularly addressing the question of whether one can fulfill the mitzvah during tosefet yom tov (the early acceptance of the holiday). He presents several complex questions (kashas) on Tosafot's approach, including why we don't apply the same gezeirah (rabbinic decree) to matzah that we apply to other mitzvos like kriyat shema, which must be completed before chatzot (midnight). The shiur explores a fundamental distinction between Chag HaPesach (the holiday of Pesach on the 14th of Nissan) and Chag HaMatzot (the Festival of Matzot beginning the night of the 15th). Rabbi Zweig suggests that these are two separate holidays that overlap on the night of the 15th of Nissan, with different halachic implications. He analyzes how this distinction affects the nature of the mitzvah to eat matzah, citing various sources including the Mechilta and Rambam (רמב"ם). The discussion delves into the Rambam's unique position that distinguishes between the chiyuv (obligation) to eat a kezayit of matzah and the kiyum hamitzvah (fulfillment of the mitzvah) for additional eating throughout the night. Rabbi Zweig addresses why women would be obligated in Hallel al hanes (Hallel for the miracle) according to Tosafot's understanding, and explores the relationship between the Korban Pesach and the mitzvah of eating matzah. The shiur concludes by explaining how this framework resolves various difficulties in understanding the nature and scope of the matzah obligation on Pesach night.
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Pesachim 99b
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