Halachic Guidance
Torah sources and perspectives on learning as a merit for the departed.
The concept of learning Torah l'iluy Nishmas (for the elevation of the soul) is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and supported by numerous halachic sources. The learning of Torah, recitation of Tehillim, and performance of Mitzvos dedicated to the memory of the departed are among the most meaningful ways we can benefit their Neshamos. Below is an overview of the halachic foundations for each learning track offered on Lzecher.
Learning Mishnayos
The widespread custom of learning Mishnayos for the Niftar is based on the well-known teaching from the Zohar that the letters of "Mishna" (משנה) are the same as "Neshama" (נשמה), indicating a deep spiritual connection between Mishna study and the soul. The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 376) discusses the practice of learning Torah for the departed, and the Mishna Berura and various Acharonim emphasize the special power of Mishna learning in particular. It is customary to complete all of Shisha Sidrei Mishna within the first year after passing, and again on each Yahrzeit. When divided among many participants, the collective completion carries an even greater Zechus.
Reciting Tehillim
Reciting Tehillim has been a universal Jewish practice for centuries, both as a merit for the living and for the departed. Dovid HaMelech composed Tehillim with Ruach HaKodesh (divine inspiration), and their recitation carries a special spiritual power that transcends all other forms of prayer. The Chida (Rabbi Chaim Yosef David Azulai) discusses at length the profound merit that Tehillim generates for the departed, and it is a practice embraced by all communities — Ashkenazi, Sephardi, and Mizrachi alike. Completing the entire Sefer Tehillim as a community multiplies this merit.
Shnayim Mikra v'Echad Targum
The obligation to read the weekly Torah portion twice in the original text and once in Aramaic translation (or with Rashi's commentary) is rooted in the Gemara (Berachos 8a), which teaches that a person should always complete their Parshiyos with the community. This is a well-established halachic obligation that Jews fulfill every week. Dedicating this weekly learning as a merit for a loved one adds a beautiful dimension of Chessed Shel Emes — true kindness performed for those who cannot repay it. By organizing the 54 Parshiyos among participants, Lzecher enables a full year of Shnayim Mikra dedication.
Personal Kabalos
Personal Kabalos are commitments individuals take upon themselves as a Zechus for the Neshama of the departed. Unlike Torah learning which is divided into discrete units, Kabalos are personal commitments that any number of participants can take on simultaneously — the more who commit, the greater the Zechus for the Neshama. Examples include Shemiras Halashon, daily Tzedakah, Hakaras Hatov to Hashem, lighting Shabbos candles, Hafrashas Challah, Bikur Cholim, or any personal Kabalah. The Gemara in Kiddushin (40b) teaches that the acceptance of a Mitzvah commitment is itself considered as if one has performed it, creating immediate spiritual merit.
The Power of Communal Learning
The merit of communal Torah learning is considered especially powerful. When multiple people join together to learn, the collective Zechus is greater than the sum of its parts. The Midrash teaches that Torah learned in a group carries a unique dimension of Kedusha. Lzecher facilitates this by making it simple to divide and coordinate learning among many participants, enabling families and communities to unite in this beautiful act of Chessed Shel Emes.