A few months ago, we reviewed on the Torat Imecha Halacha platform many of the halachot related to the first series of prohibited melachot on Shabbat, through the melachah of lash (kneading). The next melachah in the order is bishul (cooking), and over the next two or three months, we will review many of its practical applications. Since some of these issues are detailed and build upon one another, it is recommended to review the material periodically to help retain what we’ve learned. In addition, many questions that arise along the way will be addressed in the halachot sent out on subsequent days. Nevertheless, anyone who wishes to ask a follow-up question is invited to send an email to ozarowsk@gmail.com.

1. The biblical melachah of bishul, or cooking, includes both cooking (in liquid) and baking (without liquid, using heat) (Tractate Shabbat 74b). In addition, it also includes other forms of preparing food using heat, such as roasting or frying in oil (Mishnah Berurah 318:1).

2. The melachah is violated when heating raw food on Shabbat to the point where solids are at least ma’achal ben derosai, defined as at least one third cooked, or for a liquid, when it reaches the temperature of yad soledet bo (too hot for one’s hand to remain inside). Although the precise temperature of yad soledet bo is subject to debate, practically it is generally considered to be between 104-113 degrees Fahrenheit (40-45 degrees Celsius) (see Shemirat Shabbat K’hilchatah 1:1; Igrot Moshe, O.C. 4:74; Ohr L’tzion 2:30).

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Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for everlasting peace in Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.