Authorization to Sell Ḥametz 5785

The Torah prohibits the ownership of hametz (leavened grain) during Pesach (Passover). If possible, all hametz – food not acceptable during Pesach, or materials containing such unacceptable food – should be destroyed or given away before the holiday begins. Should this be impossible, the hametz may be stored in such a way that one is sure to not use it during the holiday. Its actual ownership is transferred to a non-Jew until the holiday ends.

The transfer, mekhirat hametz, is accomplished by appointing an agent, usually the rabbi, to handle the sale. It is a valid and legal transfer of ownership. At the end of the holiday, the agent arranges for the reversion of ownership of the now-permitted hametz. If ownership of the hametz was not transferred before the holiday, the use of this hametz is prohibited after the holiday as well.

It is appropriate to make a gift of tzedakah when appointing an agent for the sale of hametz. Upon completion of the form below, you will be redirected to a page at which you can make a donation.

Please complete and return this form no later than 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 11, 2025.

By completing the form below, I hereby make and appoint Rabbi Berkenwald as the true and lawful representative to act on my behalf, to sell all hametz owned and possessed, knowingly or unknowingly, as stated in the Torah and defined by the sages of Israel (e.g., hametz; hashash hametz – suspect hametz; and all kinds of ta’arovet hametz– hametz mixtures); also, hametz that tends to harden and to adhere to the surface of pans, pots, or other cooking or eating utensils, of whatsoever nature, and to lease all places wherein the aforementioned hametz owned or possessed by me may be found, especially in the premises located below. Rabbi Berkenwald has the full authority and power to sell said hametz and to lease said places wherein said hametz may be found, upon terms and conditions as discretion dictates. Rabbi Berkenwald has the full power and authority to assign or appoint a substitute or substitutes to act with all the same powers and authority invested in the rabbi. I hereby ratify and confirm all that Rabbi Berkenwald or a rabbinic substitute lawfully does or causes to be done.