Blessings on the Torah before listening to a lesson | Sheilot

Blessings on the Torah before listening to a lesson

Question

If someone listens to a lesson in the synagogue, are they required to say the blessings on the Torah beforehand?

Answer

The listener of a lesson is required to say the blessings on the Torah beforehand. Whether listening to a live lesson or a live broadcast, they must bless. Listening is considered as responding. However, if one listens to a recorded lesson or a lesson by a minor, they are not required to say the blessings on the Torah, as it is considered learning in thought.
Answered 1 November 2022 How answers are reviewed
Answered by
Answers questions at Rav Amram Fried's Beit Horaah
Smicha "Yoreh-Yoreh" (2012), Rav Amram Fried's Beit Horaah
Orach Chaim, Yoreh Deah
About the Rabbi

Source

Shaarei Teshuva, Siman 47, Subsection 2, citing Halachot Ketanot, Part 2, Siman 159. Mishnah Berurah, Siman 586, Subsection 5 and Shulchan Aruch, Siman 592, Subsection 10, regarding the shofar. See also in Shaarei Teshuva (Subsection 3) citing Zaken Aharon (Siman 60).

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