This sugya discusses two similar halachic concepts – Hirhur K’Dibbur (i.e. Thinking is considered Speaking) and Shome’a K’Oneh (Listening is considered Speaking).

The concept of Hirhur K’Dibbur is debated by the Amoraim (i.e. is hirhur - sufficient to fulfill a chiyuv that requires verbal expression?). However, all agree that the second concept, Shome’a K’Oneh, is considered to be a fulfillment of one’s obligation.  This booklet discusses at length the fundamental differences between these two concepts.

Among the wide range of topics discussed:

• Does “hirhur” mean thinking the actual words (instead of saying them), or does it mean concentrating on the meaning of these words?
• It is forbidden to discuss divrei chol on Shabbos. May one think about divrei chol?
• If one is unable to daven (i.e. due to illness, or being in a place where it is forbidden to daven), should he “think” the words of the Tefillos/Brachos instead?
• May one listen to Kedushah while davening Shemoneh Esrei, or is that considered a hefsek in his davening (due to Shome’a K’Oneh)?

(The first section of the booklet discusses at length the Ma’amad of Mattan Torah and how it pertains to Hirhur K’dibbur.  Towards the end of the sugya, we feature a Teshuva from Rav Akiva Eiger discussing the concepts of dibbur by Sefiras Ha’omer.)