🎙️ Podcast Episode Title:
"Chol HaMoed: Enjoyment First, Work Last"
🎧 Description:
What’s the real reason melacha is prohibited on Chol HaMoed? Is it a Torah prohibition—or rabbinic? And why do some melachos feel stricter than others?
In this episode, we clarify the halachic status of work on Chol HaMoed, based on classic sources and contemporary analysis. Some Rishonim hold that melacha is assur de’oraisa, straight from the Torah. Others say it’s derabanan, a rabbinic boundary. But either way, the core idea is the same: these days were designed for enjoyment—spiritual and physical.
That’s why even seemingly minor tasks can be completely forbidden—because they pull you out of the Yom Tov mindset. The Chachamim were given full authority to define which forms of work are allowed and which interrupt simchas Yom Tov.
Whether it’s repairing your shoes, answering emails, or running errands—this episode will help you understand not just the rules, but the reason behind them: to make Chol HaMoed a real celebration, not just a break in routine.
