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ARCHIVES: HILCHOS SEUDA / OCHLIN/ BIRCHAS HAMAZON
(Halachos pertaining to eating meals and food)
Revised 2014
Revised 2014
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Halachos for Wednesday, August 6, 2014
1) One
who owns animals or birds may not begin his/her own meal before feeding
them (Making
sure that they already were fed, or having someone else go and feed them, is
also acceptable)
However,
it is permitted to drink before giving the animals to eat or drink. (See Mishna Berura Siman 167:40. See
Shu"t Har Tzvi Siman 90 for the reasoning behind this.)
According
to some opinions, this is a biblical requirement. (See Biur Halacha 167:6 Dibur
HaMaschil Umikal Makom in the name of the Mogen Avraham.)
This
directive includes feeding fish in a fish tank that you own. (Shu"t Sh'eilas Ya'avetz Vol. 1
Siman 17, Shu"t Mishneh Halachos Vol. 6 Siman 216)
This only
applies to animals that one owns, and not to any other animals that may be in
his/her home or property. (See MaHaril Diskin Parshas Noach)
2) If one
has small children that cannot feed themselves, they take precedence over the
animals and he/she must feed them first. (See Sefer Peleh Yoetz: Ba'al Chai
and Shu"t Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 2 end of Siman 52)
If one
has guests, feeding the guests takes precedence over feeding the animals, as
the Mitzvah of Hachnosas Orchim is such a great and important Mitzvah that
Avraham Avinu gave it precedence to greeting the Shechina! (Sefer Pardes Yosef Parshas Chayei
Sara 24:19)
Halachos for Thursday, August 7, 2014
1) When
eating "fruits of the ground (i.e. vegetables)" the Bracha recited is
"Baruch Ata Hashem Elokeinu Melech HaOlam Borei Pri HaAdama- Blessed are
You Hashem, Master of the world, Creator of the fruits of the ground"
However,
when eating bread (which should really suffice with the Bracha of Ha'Adama,as it, too,
comes from the ground) a special Bracha of "Baruch Ata
Hashem...Hamotzi Lechem Min HaAretz- Blessed are You Hashem...who brings forth
bread from the ground" is recited.
This is
due to the importance of wheat/bread as the Posuk (Tehillim 104:15) states that
bread is unique in that it satiates mankind more than any other food. (See
Shulchan Aruch HaRav 167:1)
2) When
reciting the Bracha of "Hamotzi" care should be taken to pause
slightly between the word "Lechem" and the word "Min",
otherwise the 2 "Mem" sounds will be swallowed into each other and it
will sound like "LecheMin" (Mishna Berura 167:21. Besides for the
Halachic reasons for this,which apply to any two such words in Tefilah/Brachos,there
are kabalistic reasons as well to be careful with this particularly in the
Bracha of Hamotzi. The Chida writes that one who is scrupulous in this will be
protected from harm befalling him/her during that meal. See Elya Rabba 167:4)
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, August 8, 2014
Double Portion L’Kavod Shabbos Kodesh
Halachos
for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1)When
reciting the Bracha of "Hamotzi", the bread should be held with both
hands, and when Hashem's name is uttered, the bread should be lifted up.
If the
Bracha was recited while the bread was on the table, and not being held at all,
B'dieved it is OK. (Mishna Berura 167:22)
2) It is
proper to hold the bread with all 10 fingers touching the bread.
The
reason for this is that there are 10 Mitzvos that are associated with the
process of making bread (During the plowing of the field: 1) an ox and a donkey may
not be used together, during the planting phase: 2) one may not plant 2
different species together, During the reaping phase: 3) Leket, 4) Shikcha and
5) Peah, 6) the ox that is used may not be muzzled while working, After the
baking phase:7) Teruma to the Kohen, Ma'aser Rishon to the
Levi, 9) Ma'aser Sheini and 10) Challah to the Kohen)
It is for
this reason that there are 10 words in the Bracha of Hamotzi and 10 words in
each of the Pesukim that refer to the bread of mankind (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 167:4 and
Mishna Berura 167:23 ad 24. The verses are: 1) V'Yiten lecha H'Elokim...
(Bereishis 27:28) 2) Eretz Chita U'Seora... (Devarim 8:8) 3) Matzmiach chatzir
L'Behaima... (Tehillim 104) 4) Einei Kol Ailecha Yesabeiru...(Tehillim 145,
better known as the psalm of Ashrei)
Some
people have a Minhag on Shabbos not to place their fingers directly on the
Chalos, rather to place their hands on the Challah cover. However, the
prevalent minhag according to most Poskim is to place all 10 fingers on the
Chalos, even on Shabbos. (See Mishna Berura 271:41, Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 6
Siman 134 and Sefer Minhag Yisroel Torah Siman 271).
Halachos
for Shabbos Kodesh
1)Before
reciting the Bracha of Hamotzi on bread it is proper to make a small tear
in the bread (small enough that when you lift the torn piece, the rest of the
piece will still be lifted along with it) so that it will be easier to rip off
the piece immediately after the Bracha, and thus prevent any extra pausing
between reciting the Bracha and eating the bread.
However,
the piece should not be entirely broken off before the Bracha, as it is proper
to make a Bracha on a complete piece of bread.
2) Even
if the bread being eaten is not a "complete" loaf (e.g. a slice of
bread) the above still applies, as it is proper to recite the
Bracha on as large a piece of bread as possible. (Mishna Berura 167:5 and Shulchan
Aruch HaRav 167:3)
Halachos for Sunday, August 10, 2014
1) On
Shabbos and Yom Tov, when we are required to recite the Bracha on two complete
loaves, the Halacha of tearing a piece of the bread before the Bracha does not
apply.
However,
a small cut should be etched into the Challah, as an indicator where to start
cutting upon the completion of the Bracha.
If one
did in fact tear a small piece on Shabbos or Yom Tov, as is done in the
weekdays, B'dieved it is still considered complete "Lechem
Mishna" (see
Mishna Berura 167:10 and 11 and 274:5)
2) The
Halacha of cutting a small piece of the bread only applies to bread, Challah,
bagels, rolls etc., and not to Matza or thin bread (pita) which takes no time
after the Bracha to break/cut off a piece. (Shulchan Aruch HaRav ibid.,Biur
Halacha 167:1 Dibur HaMaschil V'Tzarich. The Kaf HaChaim 167:18 goes so far as
to suggest that it is better to take a Matza or thin bread that doesn't require
this cutting, as then you will have a real complete bread (Shalem). However,
the Chayei Moshe quotes the Toras Chaim to Sanhedrin 102a who maintains that
even thin bread requires a "cut", and this cut is more important than
having a real Shalem.)
Halachos for Monday, August 11, 2014
1) On
Shabbos (or anytime) when giving out the Challah to those seated around the
table, the bread should not be placed into their hands, rather it should be
placed in front of them, as placing it directly in their hands is a "Siman
Ra- bad omen" of mourning. One should be careful with this even when giving
bread to his/her small children.(Mishna Berura 167:90, Ben Ish Chai Parshas Emor Siman 18)
When
giving bread to a mourner, it is indeed placed into his/her hands. However, on
Shabbos it should be placed in front of him/her , as public signs of mourning
are not displayed on Shabbos in front of other people. (Mishna Berura 167:89)
2) Bread
should never be thrown across the table in a disrespectful way, especially the
Challah at the Shabbos Seudah with which a Mitzvah was performed. (Mishna Berura 167:88. However,
some people actually have the minhag to "throw" the Challah to each
person at the table. This was the Minhag of the Chasam Sofer and the Divrei
Chaim of Sanz. See Shu"t Hisorerus Teshuva Vol. 1 Siman 178. Even those
whose custom it is to throw it, should do so in a respectful manner)
Halachos for Tuesday, August 12, 2014
1) When
breaking/cutting the piece of bread on which Hamotzi was recited, it is best
not to cut a piece that is smaller than a Kzayis, as doing so seems like a
"Tzar Ayin- a less than generous person".
It is
also best not to cut a piece that is bigger than a usual piece, as doing so
seems like a "Ra'avson- a gluttonous person" (See Mishna Berura 167:8 and 9.
See also Shu"t Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 5 Siman 16 for a more in depth
discussion about this)
However,
if the big piece that is cut will not be eaten from, rather smaller pieces will
be broken off from it throughout the meal, it is permitted. (Mishna Berura 167:9)
2) On
Shabbos it is a Mitzvah to cut a large enough piece that will last for the
entire meal, as doing so shows our love for the Mitzvah of Seudas Shabbos, and
we don't say that it looks gluttonous. (Mishna Berura 167:12)
Some
Poskim maintain that the above is true by any Seudas Mitzvah, not just
Shabbos. (See
Ketzos HaShulchan Siman 37:13)
Halachos for Wednesday, August 13, 2014
1)It is a
Mitzvah for there to be salt on the table before beginning to eat.
The
reason for this is that the table is likened to the Mizbeach (altar) in the Bais
HaMikdash, and the food we eat is likened to the Korbanos (ritual sacrifices)
that were offered on the Mizbeach. All Korbanos required salt, hence the table
requires salt. Having salt on the table also protects from misfortune. (Ram"a 167:5 and see Mishna
Berura)
Furthermore,
it's a Mitzvah to dip the bread of Hamotzi into salt before eating. (Not as
some people mistakenly do and "Sprinkle" the salt on the read). Some
have the custom to dip it three times. (Mishna Berura 167:33)
2) If no
salt is available, according to some Poskim, it should be dipped into sugar.(As the Korbanos were allowed to be
salted with sugar. See Shu"t Halachos Ketanos Siman 218, Shu"t Divrei
Chaim Yoreh Deah Siman 25. The Chasam Sofer also had this custom when no salt
was available. However, the Kaf HaChaim 167:37 maintains that sugar is not an
acceptable substitute)
If sugar
is also unavailable, it is best to dip the bread into a salty food item (fish,
spread or dip) that is on the table, as to give the bread the taste of the
salt. (See
Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 4 Siman 50. See also Shulchan Aruch HaRav
167:8)
Halachos for Thursday, August 14, 2014
1)When
one person is making the Hamotzi for others (as is common in many households on
Shabbos and Yom Tov) it is best for the one that makes the Bracha to eat a
piece of the Challah/bread before distributing pieces to the rest of the people
at the table, as to avoid an interruption between his Bracha and his eating.(Psak of the Mishna Berura
167:79, although the Rama and others Pasken like Tosefos and the Mordechai that
he may slice all the pieces, give them out and then eat, as they hold
doing so is not a Hefsek)
However,
there is no need for him to swallow his piece before distributing the rest, as
he may L'Chatchilah give out the Challah while still chewing. (See Sefer Toras Shabbos Siman 274:4)
2) When
distributing the Challah, a man should give his wife first and then the rest of
the participants according to chashivus (importance, e.g. Talmid Chacham, Kohen
etc.), or age. (As
heard from a recognized, prominent Posek)
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, August 15, 2014
Double Portion L’Kavod Shabbos Kodesh
Halachos
for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1)It is a
Mitzvah to say words of Torah during every meal, as a meal that lacks Torah is
considered as if it was a meal (sacrifice) offered to Avoda Zarah (idol worship).
Even
people who cannot have lengthy Torah discussions at their meals, should at
least say a short Halacha or even a Mizmor of Tehillim (Preferably, psalm 23) to satisfy
this obligation, and avoid the punishments detailed in the Seforim for
partaking of a meal that is totally lacking of any Torah. See Mishna Berura
170:1. See also Aruch HaShulchan 170:1)
Birchas
HaMazon does not suffice to satisfy the requirement for Torah.(ibid.)
2) One
should not talk while eating, even a simple "Gezuntheit" to a sneeze
or even words of Torah, as it is a choking hazard to talk while eating.
Obviously,
this is only while chewing, and doesn't apply between bites. (Mishna Berura ibid. See also Aruch
HaShulchan 170:2 who has a more lenient approach, as does the Ben Ish Chai
Parshas Behar Siman 5. However most contemporary Poskim are stringent with this
Halacha, and it is indeed advisable to be cautious and not talk with food in
the mouth.)
Halachos
for Shabbos Kodesh
1)When
sitting around the table at a meal, it is prohibited to begin eating before the
head of the household or an important person (i.e. Talmid Chacham, Osek
B'Tzorchei Tzibbur etc.) at the table eats first.
This
applies even if all the people around the table have their own plates of food,
still they should not begin eating before the important person. (Mishna Berura 170:28)
This
applies only to the main dishes, and not to salads and drinks, though waiting
for these items as well, is considered an act of Derech Eretz.
2) One
who does not wait, and eats first, is considered a "Gargaran" (Shulchan Aruch Siman 170:12
based on the Mishna in Maseches Derech Eretz Rabbah Perek 7:1. I am not sure of
the exact literal translation of this word, but it from the commentaries on the
Mishna it seems to mean something to the effect of a disrespectful,
immodest, haughty person; definitely not something to want to be.)
Halachos for Sunday, August 17, 2014
1) It is
imperative to eat with Derech Eretz, in a dignified way.
According
to the Rambam (Sefer
HaMitzvos, Lo Ta'aseh 195) and other Poskim, eating in a non dignified
manner may be a transgression of one or more biblical transgressions. (See
Aruch HaShulchan Siman 157:1 and Elya Rabbah Siman 170:23 what he quotes
from the Shl"a)
2) One
should not eat while standing. (Rambam Hilchos Dayos 4:3. See also Ben Ish Chai Parshas
B'Har Siman 11)
L'Chatchila,
it is also best not to drink while standing. Though many people are not
stringent with this, and they do have on whom to rely, the AriZal was very
careful with this. (Mishna Berura Siman 296:6. See also Shu"t Rav P'Alim Vol. 2 Siman
45)
Some
Poskim maintain that only Talmidei Chachamim (Torah scholars) need to be
stringent not to drink while standing, but other people need not be stringent
with this. (See
Shulchan Aruch Harav Siman 296:15. Though, from his language it seems that even
non Talmidei Chachamim should try and emulate the Talmidei Chachamim in this
matter when possible)
Halachos for Monday, August 18, 2014
1) One
should not eat in the street, in public, as doing so is an indication that one
has no shame, and can even lead to being disqualified as a witness in a Jewish
court of law. (See
Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Siman 34:18, based on the Gemara (Kiddushin 40b)
that says that one who eats in public is likened to a dog. SeeQ&A #161 for more on this topic)
2) One
should not drink an entire [normal sized] cup of wine in one gulp, as doing so
seems like a gluttonous way to drink (Gargaran).
Nor
should it be drunk in too many sips, as that seems haughty, rather the proper
way to drink it is in two gulps.
If the
cup is very small (less than a Revi'is), then it may be finished in one gulp.
If the cup is larger than normal, it may be finished in more than two
gulps. (Shulchan
Aruch and Ram"a Siman 170:8. See Mishna Berura S"K 20-22 for some
other exclusions)
Some
Poskim maintain that by Kiddush and Havdalah the above doesn't apply, and the
entire Becher of wine may be drunk in one gulp. (See Shu"t Mishne Halachos Vol.
8 Siman 33)
Soft
drinks, juices, water or other drinks are not subject to the above Halacha, as
it only pertains to wine.
Halachos for Tuesday, August 19, 2014
1) It is
proper to leave over a little bit of what was in your plate, and not totally
finish everything down to the last crumb. (See Ben Ish Chai Parshas B'Har Siman
14 and Sefer Eitz Hasadeh Chapter 19:13 quoting Rav Chaim Kanievsky shlita that
it is good to be stringent with this.)
One who
took a bite out of a piece of bread[or other food items], should not put it
back in middle of the table, as it is unappetizing to other people and they
will not eat from it after it was bitten from. Rather he/she should make sure
to finish the entire piece. (Mishna Berura 170:36)
2) During
the meal, it is important to refrain from doing things that may disgust others
at the table, such as killing a fly on the table. (Sha'ar HaTzion 167:26)
One
should not spit, burp, blow their nose ludly, or similar things, in front of
another person at the table. (See Aruch HaShulchan Siman 170:12 that these things should
not be done in front of others anytime, even not during a meal, based on the
Talmud Chagiga 5a and Eiruvin 99a)
One whose
hands are unclean should not eat at a table with others. (Kaf HaChaim 163:14)
It is
important to ensure that children do not touch the food in the serving plates
on the table directly with their hands, as they are usually unclean, and as
such will disgust the adults at the table. (Sefer Chasidim Siman 829)
Many
people refrain from allowing small children to sit and/or stand on a table.(Based on an incident brought in the
Sefer Chasidim Siman 920, for reasons of Sakana, danger)
Halachos for Wednesday, August 20, 2014
1) After
eating fish, before eating meat or chicken (and vice versa), many people are
stringent to wash their hands, as not doing so may lead to danger (and we are more stringent with
danger than with Halachic prohibitions; See Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah Siman
116)
However,
nowadays many Poskim are lenient with the above as they maintain that certain
circumstances changed from the times of the Talmud, and it is no longer a
Sakana, danger (Mogen
Avraham, quoted in Mishna Berura 173:3. See also Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol.
6 Siman 111. The Kaf HaChaim 173:4 and others argue with the Mogen Avraham and
maintain that it is still in force today, and pasken that it is still required)
2) Even
those who are lenient with washing the hands, should eat or drink something to
separate between the fish and the meat.
(Mishna
Berura 173:4)
Those who
are stringent and wash, do not need to wash with all the requirements of
Netilas Yadayim (utensil, Chatzitza etc.), they simply need to "rinse
off" the hands, and dry them (as it is repulsive to eat with wet hands)
before resuming to eat. (Mishna Berura 173:6)
Halachos for Thursday, August 21, 2014
1)
Food (raw or cooked) or drink that were stored under a bed that someone
slept on , even if they were covered, should not be eaten, as a Ruach Ra,
impure spirit, rests on this food/drink. (Aruch HaShulchan Siman 165:4 based on the Shulchan
Aruch Yoreh Deah Siman 116:5. See also Shulchan Aruch HaRav Hilchos Shmiras
HaGuf V'Hanefesh Siman 67, Chachmas Adam Siman 68:3. The Gaon of Vilna was also
extremely stringent with this.)
Even if
the food was in a utensil, and that utensil was covered by another utensil, it
still gets the Ruach Ra and should not be eaten even B'Dieved. (Psak of Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach
Zatzal in Halichos Shlomo Perek 13:17)
The
prohibition applies to vitamins as well as food, but does not apply to
medicines. (ibid.
footnote 27)
Therefore,
it is important to not store food there, and thus necessitate discarding them
and transgressing the sin of Bal Tashchis, wasting food.
2) Some
Poskim are lenient in cases of great monetary loss and allow the food to be
eaten, B'Dieved. (Based on Psak of the Shvus Yaakov quoted in the Pirush of Rav Akiva
Eiger, Pischei Teshuva and Yad Efraim to Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah 116:4
and 5.)
As
always, for Halacha L'Ma'aseh a Rav should be consulted.
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, August 22, 2014
Double Portion L’Kavod Shabbos Kodesh
Halachos
for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1) Some
people do not eat food or drink that was in a bathroom. (See Likutei MaHarich Seder Hanhogas
HaSeuda Dibur Hamaschil H'Ochel Pas in the name of MaHarsh of Belz)
However,
according to most Poskim there is no Halachic problem with eating food that was
in a bathroom.
Still, it
is best not to bring food/drink into a bathroom as doing so is a Bizayon, an
act of disrespect. (See Mogen Avraham Siman 166:3, Shu"t Tzitz Eliezer Vol.14 Siman 2,
Shu"t Be'er Moshe Vol. 5 Siman 1 and Shu"t Har Tzvi Vol. 1
Siman 50. See also Shu"t Yabia Omer Vol. 3 Siman 1 and Vol. 4 Siman5)
2) The
above is only for the room that has the toilet, and does not apply to a room
that has in it a only a bath/shower with no toilet, as in such a room it is
permitted to store food. (See Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos Vol. 1 Siman 11 and Sefer
Ishei Yisrael Perek 53 footnote 82 where he quotes Rav Chaim Kanievsky
Shlita saying that the Chazon Ish Zatzal stored food in a bathtub that was in a
room without a toilet)
Storing
medicines in a medicine cabinet in a bathroom is permitted (Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos
ibid.)
However,
actually eating or drinking in a bathroom is prohibited according to
everyone. (Be'er
Heitev Siman 3:2)
Halachos
for Shabbos Kodesh
1) One
who causes food or drink to become ruined transgresses two sins:
a) Bal
Tashchis, the prohibition against destroying any useful item [in a destructive
manner] (See
Rambam Hilchos Brochos Perek 7:9 and Hilchos Melochim Perek 6:8.)
b) Bizui
Ochlin, a separate prohibition against destroying food/drink, or treating them
disrespectfully.
The
reason behind this prohibition is that doing so is being ungrateful to Hashem
Who has bestowed so much good into this world. (See Rashi to Taanis 20b Dibur
HaMaschil Ain Ma'achilin Oso L'Behaima. See also Rabbeinu Yona in Sha'arei
Teshuva Sha'ar 3 Os 230 regarding the severity of destroying, or even talking
bad about, Hashem's food)
2) It is
especially important not to discard or ruin bread, if it is a piece larger than
a Kzayis. (Shulchan
Aruch Siman 180:3)
If the
bread is no longer edible, it may be discarded, though according to many Poskim
it may be best to feed to the birds instead of discarding it.(See Chayei Adam Klal 45:5 who quotes
a Zohar that is stringent even with crumbs, not to discard them)
If bread
[or other food] must be thrown out, it should be wrapped respectfully (e.g. in
a bag or piece of paper) and then discarded. (See Sefer V'Zos Habracha end of
Chapter 2)
Crumbs
[that collectively are less than a Kzayis] may be discarded, but should not be
stepped on or otherwise treated disrespectfully, as doing so may lead to
becoming poor. (Mishna
Berura Siman 180:10)
Halachos for Sunday, August 24, 2014
1) It is important
to treat all food respectfully. Thus if one sees food on the floor or in
another state of disrespect he/she should pick it up or otherwise place it in a
respectful place. (See Shu"t Igros Moshe Yoreh Deah Vol. 2 Siman 174:3 and
Shu"t Minchas Yitzchok Vol. 3 Siman 45)
All the
prohibitions that we discussed , and will discuss in the future, regarding
ruining food are only if done so intentionally with your hands.
However,
it is permissible to refrain from eating food even if by doing so you will
cause the food to rot/spoil. Similarly, as we mentioned a few days ago, it is
derech Eretz to leave over a little bit in your plate after eating, and doing
so is not a problem of Bal Tashchis.
Therefore,
if one starts eating an apple, for example, and doesn't feel like finishing it,
there is no problem of Bal Tashchis if the remainder is discarded. (Also, Bal Tashchis of the body
is more important than Bal Tashchis of food, thus eating for the sake of
finishing the food, when you really aren't hungry may be a transgression of Bal
Tashchis D'Guf, doing something harmful to your body (See Talmud Shabbos 140b)
2) It is
permissible to "use" food for purposes of curing a sickness, even if
the food will get ruined in the process. (Mishna Berura Siman 171:4)
The above
is even for aches and pains, and not strictly for sicknesses that may
jeopardize the person's health.
Many
Poskim allow using cosmetics that contain food, as long as they are used in the
normal manner in which they are used by most people.
Similarly,
if a food item (such as lemon juice, vinegar etc.) is needed to clean clothing,
remove stains or similar uses that are normal practice amongst society, it is
permitted. (See
Shu"t Avnei Yashfey Vol. 1 Siman 34)
Halachos for Monday, August 25, 2014
1) Food
should not be thrown, if by doing so it may be ruined and become too disgusting
to eat.
Therefore,
soft foods should never be thrown, and even hard foods should not be thrown
into a disgusting place.
However,
hard foods may be thrown into a clean place, if the food will be picked up
afterwards. (Mishna
Berura Siman 171:10 and 11)
It is for
this reason that it is permissible to throw nuts [in their shells], wrapped
candy and similar items at a Chasan and Kallah (bride and groom). Raisins and
other soft items may not be thrown at them. (Mishna Berura Siman 171:21)
2)
However, bread should never be thrown under any circumstances. (which is
why when giving out the Challah for Hamotzi, care should be taken
not to throw the Challah across the table, rather to place in front of each
person at the table, unless following the minhag of the Chasam Sofer and Rav
Chaim of Sanz who allowed throwing in this situation, as we discussed a few
days ago)(Mishna
Berura Siman 171:9.)
Wheat may
be thrown. (See
Sha'ar Hatzion 171:20)
Halachos for Tuesday, August 26, 2014
1) One
should not sit on a box/container that contains food, if by doing so there is a
chance that the food inside will get ruined.
However,
if the box is sturdy or if there is otherwise no chance at all that your
sitting on it will affect the food, it is permissible. (Mishna Berura Siman 171:12-14)
2) Food
that is intended for humans should not be given to animals or birds to eat.
However,
if no other food is available to feed them, it is permissible to give them
human food. (Mishna
Berura 171:11 based on Rashi to Ta'anis 20b.Other Poskim are more lenient with
this and maintain that it is permissible to feed regular food to animals in
many situations. For more on this topic See Shu"t Shoel U'Meishiv,
MaHadura Tinyana Vol. 2 Siman 72, Shu"t Minchas Yitzchok Vol. 3
Siman 45, Chayei Adam Klal 45:5. The Me'iri to Ta'anis 20b learns that only
human food that was prepared for human consumption is part of this prohibition,
but food that is edible to humans, but wasn't yet prepared for consumption, is
not a problem to give to animals)
Halachos for Wednesday, August 27, 2014
1)It is
obligatory to wash the hands after eating, before reciting Birchas HaMazon,
even if the hands are clean. This washing is known as "Mayim
Achronim"(Shulchan
Aruch Siman 181:1. See Mishna Berura ibid. S"K 1 regarding where Chazal
derived this Halacha and some of its reasons)
Although
the Shulchan Aruch quotes a more lenient opinion about this (in Siman 181:10) , the
Poskim are extremely stringent with this and dismiss the leniencies even
nowadays, based on many deep kabalistic reasons, and implore everyone to
be careful in the observance of Mayim Achronim (See Mishna Berura
181:21, Shl"a Sha'ar HaOsiyos, Kuf, Aruch HaShulchan 181:3 and 4,
Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 44:1. The Kaf HaChaim 181:27 writes that one that
is lenient with Mayim Achronim, risks having his life shortened.)
2) Even
those that are not careful with Mayim Achronim when eating with others, should
be extra careful when eating alone, as the impure spirits can cause much more
harm when one eats alone. (Kaf HaChaim 181:1. See also the piercing words of the Pele
Yoetz in "Netilas Yadayim")
Even
those who are not so careful with Mayim Achronim during the weekdays, should be
extra stringent with this on Shabbos and Yom Tov. (Leket Yosher in Hilchos
Seudah, quoting the Terumas HaDeshen. See also Mateh Efraim Siman 583:4 and
Siman 619:1 and in the Elef L'mateh ibid.)
Even
though one of the reasons given for Mayim Achronim is to prevent blindness that
may arise from touching the eyes with hands that touched certain salts, it is
still incumbent upon a blind person to wash Mayim Achronim, as there are many
other reasons for this washing. (Psak of Rav Moshe Sternbuch Shlita)
Halachos for Thursday, August 28, 2014
1) It is
a good practice to train children in the washing of Mayim Achronim (Rav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita, quoted
in Sefer Otzar Hamayim Chapter 4)
In
certain communities it is customary for women to also wash Mayim Achronim ,
while in other communities it is less prevalent for women to do so. Both
Minhagim are acceptable. (See Aruch HaShulchan 181:5, Shu"t Teshuvos
V'hanhagos Vol. 1 Siman 174, Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 4Siman 23 and Shu"t
V'Yevarech Dovid Siman 30)
If one
did not wash Mayim Achronim and recited Birchas HaMazon, he should wash after
completing Birchas HaMazon, or even in the middle of Birchas Hamazon if he
remembers, as it's not a Hefsek as it is necessary for the Bracha.(Mishna Berura 181:2, Sefer Otzar
haMayim Chapter 4:52 quoting Rav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita)
2)
Ideally, Mayim Achronim should be washed with water.
The water
used, should be cold. If hot water was used the obligation for Mayim Achronim
has not been satisfied. warm water is acceptable B'Dieved. (Mishna Berura 181:7 and 8. See also
Yalkut Yosef 181:10)
If no
water is available, and it would be difficult to attain water, Mayim Achronim
may be washed with other beverages, besides for wine, due to its importance. (Mishna Berura 181:21)
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, August 29, 2014
Double Portion L’Kavod Shabbos Kodesh
Halachos
for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1) Mayim
Achronim does not require a utensil, nor does it require "Koach Gavra,
force of a human" like the washing of Netilas Yadayim.
There are
no problems of Chatzitza for Mayim Achronim, and the water only needs to pour
over the hands one time. (Mishna Berura 181:21)
2) There
is no minimum amount of water necessary for Mayim Achronim, rather as small an
amount as is necessary to clean the hands is sufficient. (we will elaborate on this in the
near future iy"H)
The Gaon
of Vilna was scrupulous with Mayim Achronim and required a Revi'is to be
used (Mishna
Berura 181:19)
Though
drying the hands after Mayim Achronim is not mandatory, it is best to be
stringent and dry the hands to fulfill the opinion of the Rambam who requires
drying the hands (ibid.)
Halachos
for Shabbos Kodesh
1) When
washing Mayim Achronim, the fingers must be washed at least until the second
knuckle [and the first knuckle for the thumb], as generally the hands do not
get dirtied past there from eating.
However,
if one's hands indeed did get dirty higher than the second knuckle, the dirtied
areas must be washed before being allowed to recite Birchas HaMazon. (See Mishna Berura 181:10, where he
writes that he unfortunately sees people who simply dab a little water on their
fingertips and by doing so they do not satisfy the obligation of Mayim
Achronim, and it is a bad practice to do this.)
Some
opinions require washing until the joints of the fingers. L'Chatchilah, if
water is available it is best to do this. (Biur Halacha 181:4)
2) The
Gaon of Vilna required washing the entire hand. (See Shu"t Teshuvos V'Hanhagos
Vol. 1 Siman 174).
However,
some Poskim maintain that for kabalistic reasons it is best not to wash for
Mayim Achronim with more water than necessary (unlike Netilas Yadayim
where it is a Mitzvah to wash with an abundance of water) (See Ben Ish Chai Parshas Sh'lach
Siman 8 , 9 and 12 and Kaf HaChaim 181:6)
Halachos for Sunday, August 31, 2014
1) Mayim
Achronim should not be washed onto the floor, as the Ruach Ra (impure spirit)
that is in the water will then remain on the floor, and may pose a danger to
anyone who steps on the water.
Rather,
the water should be washed into a utensil that is designated as a receptacle
for the water, which should then be disposed of. (See Biur Halacha Siman 181:2)
However,
if the water is being washed onto the floor that is under the table, where
nobody will walk, it is permitted to do so. Still, if a utensil is available in
which to wash, that is better than doing on the floor under the table (Mishna Berura Siman 181:4-6. See
also Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 180:4)
2) Mayim
Achronim may be washed directly into the sink, as people who are stringent to
use a Revi'is as the Gaon of Vilna held, do in any case. Some maintain that the
water must be washed into a utensil, and not in the sink, however the prevalent
minhag is not to require this. (See Shu"t Yabia Omer Vol. 5 Siman 2 and Likutei
MaHarich end of HanHogas Seudah quoting the Shl"a HaKadosh.)
Care
should be taken while washing Mayim Achronim that the water doesn't splash onto
the table, especially onto the food, as this may make the food unfit for
consumption according to many Poskim. (Mishna Berura Siman 180:7. See also Kaf HaChaim Siman
180:10)
Halachos for Monday, September 1, 2014
1) When
Birchas HaMazon will be recited on a Kos (cup) of wine, it is proper to
fill up the cup before washing Mayim Achronim. (Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 181:6,
Kaf HaChaim 181:3)
2) The
one who will be leading the Benching or the most respected member at the table
should wash Mayim Achronim first before the rest of the people at the table.(Although the Mishna Berura 181:12,
paskens like the Shulchan Aruch that this is only the case when there is up to
5 people present, the accepted custom is that the leader always washes first,
no matter how many people are present. See Rambam Hilchos Brachos Perek 7:12
and Kesef Mishna on the Rambam. See also Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 44:1 and Likutei
MaHarich end of Hilchos Hanhogas HaSeudah who quotes many Rishonim that hold
this way.)
The rest
of the people at the table should wash in order that they are sitting, and not
according to age or wisdom. (Mishna Berura 181:14)
The one
leading the Birchas HaMazon should wait for everyone at the table to finish
washing Mayim Achronim before starting the Zimun. (See Ketzos HaShulcahn Siman 43:5)
Halachos for Tuesday, September 2, 2014
1) Mayim
Achronim needs to be washed immediately before Birchas HaMazon, and no
unnecessary interruptions, talking or even quietly waiting should take place
between the washing and the start of Birchas HaMazon. (See Mishna Berura Siman 179:1 and 2.
The Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman Siman 181:6 is less stringent and even allows 2
or 3 words to be spoken.)
In the
event that many people are eating together, it is best to prepare a few cups of
water from which to wash, as to minimize the long wait that having only one cup
for everyone would cause. (See Biur Halacha Siman 181 Dibur Hamaschil Min Hakatan)
Even
speaking words of Torah or singing Zemiros are prohibited between the washing
of Mayim Achronim and the beginning of Birchas HaMazon. (Mishna Berura Siman 181:24)
Therefore,
the recital of Shir Hamalos (on Shabbos) or Al Naharos Bavel (in the weekdays)
which is customary to say before benching should be said before washing Mayim
Achronim. (See
Aruch HaShulchan 181:9 and K'tzos HaShulchan Siman 43:1 where he says that if
it was inadvertently said after Mayim Achronim, the hands should be rewashed.
See also Mishna Berura 179:1 where he says that if any interruptions were made,
L'Chatchilah the hands should be rewashed. See Sha'ar Hatziyun 179:9. See also
Shu"t Az Nidberu Vol. 13 Siman 30:4 regarding if Asher Yatzar is a Hefsek
for Mayim Achronim)
Talking
between Mayim Achronim and Benching can be a Sakana (danger) besides for the
Halachic Hefsek detailed above. (Based on the Arizal, quoted in the Pri Megadim, Aishel
Avraham 181:10)
2) Many
have the custom, immediately after Mayim Achronim, to rub their wet hands over
their lips to wash away any food particles that may be there.
Some
Poskim, however, maintain thatthis should not be done. (See Shu"t Hisorerus
Teshuva Siman 83 and Kaf HaChaim 181:21. See also Elya Rabbah 181:2 and Ben Ish
Chai Parshas Sh'lach Siman 68)
Many
people have the custom to cover the Mayim Achronim water, or even to remove it
entirely from the table before beginning to recite Birchas HaMazon (See Kaf HaChaim 181:8 and Ohr
L'Tzion Vol. 2 Siman81:6. See also Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 8 Siman 168
and Orchos Rabbeinu page 83 where he writes that the Steipler Zatzal would
cover the Mayim Achronim with a paper napkin.)
Halachos for Wednesday, September 3, 2014
1) One
who eats bread, and it satisfies their hunger, is biblically obligated to
recite Birchas HaMazon (Benching), as the Posuk Says(Devarim 8:10) "V'Achalta,
V'Savata, U'Verachta- You shall eat, You shall be satiated, and you shall bless
[and thank Hashem]" (See Talmud Brachos 48b)
The sages
required reciting Birchas HaMazon after eating a Kzayis of bread (approximately
1.1 fl. oz.) within a certain time frame known as Kdei Achilas Pras (around 3-4
minutes), even if it hasn't satiated you.
If less
than a Kzayis of bread was eaten, no Benching (or any Bracha Achrona) is
required. (Unlike the Bracha of Hamotzi, where even on a small bite, the Bracha
is required.) (Mishna
Berura Siman 184: 21 and 22)
Women are
obligated in Birchas HaMazon. (Though there is a debate amongst the Poskim if their
obligation is biblical or rabbinical. See Mishna Berura Siman 186:1 and 2. See
also Shu"t Chasam Sofer Orach Chaim Siman 48, Aruch HaShulchan 184:3 and
Shulchan Aruch HaRav 184:1)
2)
Geirim, converts to Judaism, are biblically obligated in Birchas HaMazon. They
may also say the second blessing which includes the words "Al SheHinchalta
L'Avoseinu Eretz Chemda... [Thank you Hashem for] giving to our forefathers the
land [of Eretz Yisroel]...", as the land was given to Avraham Avinu who is
referred to as "Father of all Nations", and thus Geirim are also
descendants of Avraham Avinu. (See Mishna Berura Siman 199:7)
Minors (boys under 13 and girls under 12,
provided they reached the age of Chinuch) are obligated in Birchas HaMazon
M'Drabanan, even if they ate only a Kzayis in more time than Kdei Achilas Pras
(3-4 minutes), in order to be Mechanech (train) them in Mitzvah
observance. (Mishna Berura Siman 186:4. See Kobetz MiBeis Leivi
Vol. 5 page 93, what is quoted from Rav Shmuel Wosner Shlita. See also Aruch
HaShulchan 186:4 who maintains that minor girls are not obligated in Birchas
HaMazon, however, most contemporary Poskim do not follow this opinion and
require the Chinuch of minors equally for boys and girls)
Halachos for Thursday, September 4, 2014
1) Small
children who do not yet know the entire text of Birchas HaMazon, may be trained
to say a small part of each Bracha until they eventually learn how to recite
the entire text. (Mishna Berura Siman 187:4 and Shulchan Aruch HaRav 187:4)
According
to some Poskim, children who do not yet know the entire text of Birchas HaMazon
should say the following abridged version:"Brich Rachmana Elakana Malka
D'Alma Marei D'Hai Pita. Brich Rachmana D'Zan Kulah- Blessed is Hashem our
G-d, master of the world, creator of this bread, blessed is Hashem who sustains
the entire world" (Brought in the Siddur Ya'avetz who says that B'dieved,
adults can satisfy their obligation with this Nusach as well, if necessary. See
Mishna Berura ibid. and Sharei Tziyun 187:6 that this suffices for children
until the age of
However,
many contemporary Poskim maintain that it is best not to train children
in the abridged version, rather let them slowly get used to the regular
version, lest they never learn how to bentch properly. (Psak of Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach in
Halichos Shlomo Chapter 1:8, as well as other Poskim)
2) While
reciting Birchas HaMazon, it's halachically considered as if you are davening
Shemona Esrei, and thus it is prohibited to talk or make any interruptions.
Even
simply stopping in middle of, or between any of the Brachos should be avoided.
According
to many Poskim it is even prohibited to answer D'varim SheBikedusha (Kadish,
Yehei Shmei Rabbah, Barchu etc.) while bentching, even between the Brachos. (See Kaf HaChaim 183:45, Ben
Ish Chai Parshas Chukas Siman 63 and Shu"t Yabia Omer Vol. 1 Siman 11)
However,
other Poskim allow answering D'varim SheBikedusha between the Brachos, and some
Poskim allow even in middle of the Bracha. (See Chazon Ish Orach Chaim Siman
28:3, Aruch HaShulchan 183:8 and Ta'amei HaMinhagim page 86)
If one
did make an interruption or even talked between the Brachos, B'dieved he/she is
Yotzei and there is no need to repeat the Bracha.
However,
if the interruption was because he/she was prohibited from continuing to bentch
(e.g. needed the restroom, or the place where they were bentching became
Halachically unclean) that Bracha must indeed be repeated according to
many Poskim. (See
Mishna Berura Siman 183:25 and Biur Halacha Dibur Hamaschil Afilu Im Sach)
Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, September 5, 2014
Double Portion L’Kavod Shabbos Kodesh
Halachos
for Erev Shabbos Kodesh
1)Birchas
HaMazon should be recited with Kavanah, concentration, and all the words should
be enunciated slowly and properly, and their meaning understood.(See Mishna Berura Siman 64:10 that
biblical Mitzvos, such as Bentching, require Kavanah according to all
opinions).
It is
proper to recite Birchas HaMazon from a Siddur (or Bentcher) as doing so
induces Kavanah. (See Mishna Berura Siman 185:1 what he brings from the Sefer Chasidim
about not using a Siddur)
2) If
Birchas HaMazon was recited without Kavanah at all,
it doesn't suffice even B'dieved according to some Poskim. (See Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 185:1
and 2 who is stringent, and the Aruch HaShulchan 185:7 is more lenient)
One who
is scrupulous in the recital of Birchas HaMazon will merit having Parnassah
B'kavod his/her entire life. (See Bach towards the end of Siman 185 quoting the Sefer
HaChinuch Mitzvah 430)
Halachos
for Shabbos Kodesh
1) It is
proper to recite Birchas HaMazon out loud, as doing so will bring to better
Kavanah, and also prevent skipping any added parts, such as Retzei on Shabbos
and Ya'aleh V'Yavo on Yom Tov and Rosh Chodesh. (Mishna Berura 185:3)
2)
Birchas HaMazon should be recited sitting down, even if the eating was done
while standing or walking around, as bentching while standing or walking cannot
be done with proper Kavanah.
Even
those listening to the bentching from another person and being Yotzei with
their bentching must be sitting. (Mishna Berura 183:33)
However,
if it was recited while standing or walking around [within the room where
he/she ate] , B'dieved he/she has satisfied their obligation.
Moreover,
if one is walking to a destination and stopping to bentch will cause
him/her to arrive late, the Bentching may L'Chatchila be said while walking,
provided that the eating was also done while walking.
If one
ate in a car, bus or train, he/she must sit and bentch in his/her seat. (Mishna Berura 183:36 and Siman63:10)
Halachos for Sunday, September 7, 2014
1) The
first 3 Brachos of Birchas HaMazon are biblical obligations, and were
originally able to be recited in any Nusach (text) that each individual
saw fit, as long as the following ideas were mentioned: Thanking Hashem for
sustenance, the land of Israel, the covenant between Hashem and Klal Yisroel,
the Torah and the kingdom of the house of Dovid (Talmud Brachos 49a)
2)
However, in later years, Moshe Rabbeinu (HaZan), Yehoshua Bin Nun (Nodeh
Lecha), Dovid HaMelech and Shlomo HaMelech (Bonei Yerushalayim), respectively,
instituted the text that needed to be recited for the first 3 Brachos.
After the
destruction of the Bais HaMikdash, Ezra HaSofer instituted the text of the
fourth Bracha (HaTov V'HaMeitiv), and this text is what needs
to be recited until the Bais HaMikdash is rebuilt (very soon iy"H). (See Tashbatz Vol. 2 Siman 161. See
also Rambam Hilchos Brachos Perek1:5 and Perek 2:2, Sefer HaChinuch Mitzvah
430, Shulchan Aruch HaRav 187:1-3 and Aruch HaShulchan 187:1)
Halachos for Monday, September 8, 2014
1) After
finishing the third Bracha of Birchas HaMazon (...Bonei [B'Rachamav] Yerushalayim),
Amen is recited.
Although
usually we do not answer Amen to our own Blessings, it is done here to show
that this point is the end of the biblical blessings, and from here and on
begins the rabbinical blessings.
2) The
aforementioned Amen should not be said in one breath with the Bracha,
rather after the word Yerushalayim there should be a short pause, and then
"Amen" said.
It is
proper to answer this Amen quietly, though the custom of most people is to in
fact say it out loud. (Mishna Berura 188:2. See also Aruch HaShulchan 188:3 that even if not
said quietly, it still should not be said very loudly.)
Halachos for Tuesday, September 9, 2014
1) After
the first 4 Brachos of Birchas HaMazon are recited, the "HaRachaman"
requests are recited.
These
HaRachamans are said even on Shabbos. Even though we usually do not ask
Bakashos, requests, on Shabbos, the HaRachamans have become part of the text of
the Birchas HaMazon and are thus allowed. (Mishna Berura Siman 188:9. The Gaon
of Vilna, however, was of the opinion that the HaRachamans should not be
recited on Shabbos, as he held it was still considered Bakashos)
2) It is
for this reason that the HaRachamans are not considered a Hefsek between the
Birchas HaMazon and the drinking of the cup of wine on which Birchas HaMazon
was recited, as it has become a part of the Birchas HaMazon. (Shulchan Aruch HaRav 189:7)
After
each HaRachaman that you hear someone recite, Amen should be answered (Mishna Berura Siman 189:5)
Halachos for Wednesday, September 10, 2014
1) It is
very important to leave the tablecloth on the table, and not totally clear off
the table, before Bentching. The reason for this is because this way it will be
evident that you are reciting Birchas HaMazon on the bread that Hashem has
given you.
Another
reason for this is that blessings do not rest upon "empty" things.
For this reason, many people are scrupulous to not leave any empty utensils
(e.g. empty soda bottle, empty serving bowl) on the table at the time of
Birchas HaMazon. (See Mishna Berura Siman 180:1.The Zohar Hakadosh was extremely insistent
on this.See Kaf HaChaim 180:4)
2) One
who does not leave over bread on the table will never see blessing in his/her
lifetime. (Language
of the Shulchan Aruch Siman 180:2)
If no
bread was left over besides some crumbs, a new loaf of bread should not be
brought out, as doing so looks like an offering to Avoda Zara
(idol
worship)
However,
if even no crumbs were left over, it is permissible [and according to the
Zohar, commendable] to bring out a new loaf. (Mishna Berura 180:4)
Halachos for Thursday, September 11, 2014
1) If
there is a knife on the table, it is proper to cover it while Birchas HaMazon
is being recited.
Some have
the custom to remove the knife entirely from the table. (See Mishna Berura 180:11 for 2
reasons for this Halacha)
The above
is only during the week, as on Shabbos the custom is to allow the knife to
remain uncovered on the table. (See Be'er Heitev 180:4 for an explanation)
2) Some
have the custom to cover the bread that's on the table during Bentching [when
reciting Birchas HaMazon on a cup of wine], however, the prevalent Minhag is
not to cover the bread. (See Mogen Avraham 180:4 and Kaf HaChaim 180:16. See also Kaf
HaChaim 180:3 regarding not removing other items from the table before
Bentching, Al Pi Kabala)