Ask the Rabbi
- Family and Society
- Finance and Halacha
- Banking and Interest
Question
Does Shmitat Kesaffim apply to loans made with a heter iska (and no prozbul) or are those loans halachically deemed to be investments and not loans so it wouldnt apply?
Answer
Loans made with a Heter Iska, are officially considered a "half loan and half security deposit". Accordingly, without a Prozbul, Shmitat Ksafim annuls the loan half, and one cannot collect it. Accordingly, all Jews who have used the Heter Iska, should do a Prozbul as we approach this coming Shmitta year, and for sure in Israel, for bank accounts in all Israeli banks, are done based upon the Heter Iska.

Arguing with the mother about taking interest
Rabbi Yoel Lieberman | Sivan 23, 5779
Ribit
Rabbi Daniel Kirsch | Tevet 25, 5785

Question of Interest
Rabbi Jonathan Blass | 25 Tammuz 5763

Interest in a late fee
Rabbi Jonathan Blass | 24 Av 5763

Rabbi Ari Shvat
Lectures at various yeshivot, michlalot and midrashot. Has published many books & Torani articles and is in charge of Rav Kook’s archives.

Keeping non-definite chametz and staying in a dorm
Nisan 3, 5771

A Day is a thousand years
Adar I 23, 5771

Fasting or giving Tzedaka on seeing Sefer Torah fallen
Shevat 7, 5771




