Can I plant tomatoes next to cucumbers?
Can I milk a cow on Shabbos?
Does my barn or my RV require a mezuzah?

These and many other fascinating questions are explored in Down to Earth Halachos. With clarity and depth, this sefer delves into the practical halachic issues faced by farmers, outdoorsmen, and anyone else curious about the Torah’s guidance on real-life situations beyond the city limits. Whether you’re living off the land or simply intrigued by halachah in the wild, this sefer offers clear insights, solid sources, and surprising answers to questions you never imagined you’d ask.

“[This is an] amazing compilation of halachos related to farming and country living, which until now were never updated to reflect today’s reality.”
Reb Elya Brudny

About the author:
Rabbi Rafi Levitan learned in Yeshiva Bais Meir, led by Rav Shlomo Friedman, in Lakewood, New Jersey, where he developed a lifelong connection with the rosh yeshiva and the hanhalah. He later moved with his wife to Eretz Yisrael, where he learned b’chavrusa with the rosh yeshiva of Ohr Torah, Rav Aharon Rubinstein. Over time, he built a close relationship with Rav Rubinstein, the rebbetzin, and their family—so much so that his children lovingly referred to the rebbetzin as “Bubby Rubinstein.”
During his time in Eretz Yisrael, he also had the zechus to learn the halachos presented in Down to Earth with Reb Akiva Zitter, a chashuve talmid chacham and true eved Hashem. That limud laid the foundation for both this sefer and a friendship that remains strong to this day.
The author currently resides in North Miami Beach with his family. Though he walks the path of Zevulun, his heart and soul and everyday activities remain anchored in the world of Yissachar.
Rabbi Levitan can be contacted at question@downtoearthhalachos.com.