Good afternoon. Today, we engage in an afternoon session of Beki'im Ba'Halakha, specifically the Vicko Mizrahi edition, dedicated to Chaim ben Mazal for a full recovery. This is the Beki'im Ba'Halakha 5, which is the Daniel Kohel edition, day 92, page 248. Our discussion today centers on an important question: When one is wearing tefillin, are they permitted to drink alcoholic beverages such as scotch, arak, or other liquors?
The halakha states that it is forbidden to consume these types of drinks while wearing tefillin. However, there seems to be a misunderstanding in the text. It suggests that drinking a kebeitza, which is approximately 54 ounces, is prohibited. To clarify, consuming 54 ounces of scotch would necessitate serious intervention, and it is likely that the intended measure was 54 cc, which is closer to 2 ounces. For context, a revi'it, often required for kiddush, is about 3 ounces or 86 cc. Therefore, a kebeitza is roughly 56 to 57 cc, translating to about 2 ounces for practical purposes.
It is worth noting that while hard liquor is restricted, one is free to consume other beverages like coffee, water, or soft drinks without any issues while wearing tefillin. The crux of the matter lies with intoxicating beverages. Many Hasidim, particularly in the Chabad community, have a custom of consuming schnapps after services, often to commemorate a yahrtzeit or significant event. I recall observing the Chabad Rabbi Lipsker, who would lift his tefillin shel rosh, take a drink, and then return the tefillin to their place. This practice raises the question: Is it permissible?
According to the notes, there is a custom regarding taking a shot in honor of a yahrtzeit. A standard shot is approximately one ounce, which would be acceptable. However, exceeding that amount could lead to halachic issues. Rabbi Shulchan Esh has stated that according to Shulchan Shelomo, it is forbidden to snack while wearing tefillin. Nevertheless, our position differs; we maintain that if an individual intends to continue wearing their tefillin to learn, they may snack. As discussed previously, one can consume up to 2 ounces of mezonot without concern. Thus, a shot of about 1.5 ounces at a siyum would be permissible.
Moving on to another topic, we consider the act of smoking cigarettes while wearing tefillin. While the sages are generally reluctant to address smoking, it is recognized that some individuals are addicted and may require a cigarette to concentrate. Halachically, smoking is akin to snacking since it involves inhalation. Therefore, if someone feels the need to smoke to focus better, they may do so while wearing tefillin, although it is not the most aesthetically pleasing sight. However, caution is advised due to the health risks associated with smoking.
Rabbi Rivobot Ephraim, a notable figure from Memphis, Tennessee, and a student of Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, has also weighed in on this matter. He has stated that while cigarette smoking should be avoided, using snuff could be permissible, as it similarly aids concentration and is not worse than a snack.
Now, let us discuss an intriguing halachic point: Is one allowed to place something on their head while wearing tefillin shel rosh? For example, if it is raining and one wishes to cover their head with a towel or handkerchief, the halacha states that this is forbidden. The Ben Ish Chai asserts that such items do not belong on one's head while wearing tefillin. In this case, one must remove the tefillin to cover their head properly. Items like a hoodie or a hat, which are designed to be worn on the head, are acceptable.
Furthermore, it is forbidden to pull a jacket or cloak over one’s head while wearing tefillin shel rosh, as this is not the normal way of wearing such garments. The halacha emphasizes that it is disrespectful to the tefillin to have something on the head that is not customary. The Shulchan Aruch notes that anyone carrying a load on their head must first remove their tefillin until they have taken off the load, regardless of its size, even if it is just a handkerchief.
When it comes to taking out the garbage, one must be particularly careful. Historically, refuse was often carried on the head in baskets. The halacha states that even a small amount of refuse is forbidden to be placed on the head while wearing tefillin, as it constitutes a lack of respect for the tefillin. If someone must carry refuse, they should remove their tefillin first.
However, wearing something on the head while wearing tefillin shel yad is not problematic, as there is no direct connection. Yet, one should not carry something in their hand that touches the tefillin, as this could displace them. Additionally, it is advised not to carry refuse in one's hand if it touches the tefillin, even if it is covered by clothing.
Lastly, we address the issue of carrying something under the armpit. This practice can obstruct the connection between the tefillin and the heart, which is not acceptable. The Sefer Hasidim states that it is forbidden to carry a load on one side, as it separates the heart from the tefillin. Although the halacha does not specify this concern when clothing is involved, it is still an important consideration.
In summary, we have covered several halachic points today. First, consuming hard liquor while wearing tefillin is generally prohibited, with leniency for small amounts. Soft drinks, coffee, and other non-alcoholic beverages are permissible. Smoking may be allowed for those who are addicted, but it is not ideal. It is forbidden to place anything on one’s head that does not belong there while wearing tefillin, and taking out garbage while wearing tefillin requires caution. Lastly, carrying items under the arm should be avoided to maintain the connection between the tefillin and the heart. We will continue our discussion tomorrow.