May one eat and drink in a synagogue or study hall?
Synopsis
The baseline prohibition on eating and drinking in synagogues is unanimous. Exceptions are debated: Torah scholars and their disciples may eat and drink in a study hall when in genuine need (b'dochak). The Rema records a view that in a study hall this is permitted even without pressing need. The Mishnah Berurah, Magen Avraham, and Aruch HaShulchan clarify that eating is conditional on actually learning there regularly.
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