Does speech between netilat yadayim and eating constitute a problematic interruption (hefsek), and how long a delay is problematic?
Synopsis
The Rosh washed last specifically to avoid speech and delay; the Magen Avraham questions whether speech is truly a hefsek given other halachic principles, while the Mishnah Berurah affirms the universal custom to avoid even brief speech.
More in Bread Cooked or Fried
When one defecates and then wants to eat, must he wash his hands twice (once for Asher Yatzar and once for Netilat Yadayim), or is a single washing sufficient?
8 opinions across 3 eras
When one washes twice (before eating, after relieving oneself), must the second washing (for Netilat Yadayim) be performed with a full revi'it, and how does the rubbing/scrubbing between pours relate to the validity of the washing?
4 opinions
When multiple people are dining together, in what order should they wash their hands — does the most distinguished person wash first or last?
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Should a person check whether he needs to relieve himself before washing hands for a meal?
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Discussion
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