Author Rabbi Yaakov Goldstein

The Mayim Achronim vessel: Pouring versus dipping? The Mayim Achronim water must be poured onto the hands, as explained in Halacha 6. Thus, a vessel is commonly used for the pouring, and it does not suffice to simply dip the hands in a sink, or river. See Q&A below for […]

The laws of the liquids used for Mayim Achronim?[1] What liquids are valid? All liquids are valid for Mayim Achronim, including oil, honey, and milk, with exception to wine.[2] [Nevertheless, initially if water is available one is to use water for Mayim Achronim.[3] However, in a case that water is […]

Blessing:[1] A blessing is not recited upon performing Mayim Achronim.[2] _________________________________________________________________ [1] Admur ibid; Michaber 181:7; Rosh Brachos 8:6 [2] The reason: Those who plan to be Yotzei Birchas Hamazon with another person [and hence only have the 2nd reason applicable to them] do not recite a blessing upon performing […]

Must one wash his hands after touching salt?[1] Some Poskim[2] rule that one is to wash his hands after touching salt.[3] Practically, the worldly custom is not to be particular in this matter.[4] _____________________________________________________________________ [1] See Piskeiy Teshuvos 181:3 [2] Chulin 105b; Ben Ish Chaiy Shlach 13; Kaf Hachaim 181:2 […]

If one’s hands are dirty, must he wash his hands prior to saying a blessing? Some Poskim[1] rule that one whose hands are dirty [with food, oil or other substance], is obligated to wash his hands prior to saying any blessing, as the law of Mayim Achronim is not limited […]

What is one to do if there is no water available?[1] One is required to search for water up to a Mil’s distance from his location [i.e. 18/24 minutes] to perform Mayim Achronim. If water is not available for this distance, then one is to wipe his hands on earth […]

The reasons for Mayim Achronim:[1] There are three reasons recorded behind the Rabbinical institution of Mayim Achronim: Kedusha:[2] It is a Mitzvah due to Kedusha to sanctify oneself prior to blessing Hashem for one’s food, as after eating, the hands are dirty [i.e. Mezuhamos] from the food and are invalid […]

The Mitzvah:[1] The obligation: [It is an obligation to wash Mayim Achronim.[2]] The Sages instituted the washing of hands at the end of a meal of bread in order so one recites Birchas Hamazon in purity [i.e. Kedusha] and cleanses his hands from the leftover food. This obligation applies whether […]