Speaking Between Mayim Achronim and Bentching

Q. Is it permissible to speak after washing mayim achronim?

A. The Gemara (Berachos 42a) states, “Immediately after washing, the beracha is recited”. Which washing and bracha is this referring to? There are various interpretations. Nonetheless, the Magen Avrohom (165:4) writes that the Gemara is also referring to Mayim Achronim and the blessing of birchas Hamazon. The intention is that one should bentch immediately after washing mayim achronim without interruption, and certainly, conversation between mayin achronim and benching is not permitted.

Is a brief conversation of two or three words between mayim achronim and benching permissible? There is an apparent contradiction about this matter in the Magen Avrohom. In 165:4 the Magen Avrohom allows a brief conversation, while in 179:1 he does not. Mishnah Berurah (165:7 and Shar Hatziyun 13) follows the strict viewpoint and does not allow conversation, even of one or two words. If one had to speak or did speak, the Mishnah Berurah (179:1) recommends washing mayim achronim again followed by benching without interruption.

The Aruch Hashulchan (181:1) has a different opinion. He maintains that it is illogical to forbid conversation between mayim achronim and benching. Conversation is only restricted between a brocha and an action (such as between reciting “borei pri hoetz” and eating an apple). Since mayim achronim has no beracha, there is no reason to restrict conversation. What then does the Talmud mean, “Immediately after washing, the beracha is recited”? The intention is that after mayim achronim one may not continue eating because mayim achronim signals the end of the meal, and the initial bracha of hamotzi is no longer operative. However, the Aruch Hashulchan writes that it is not proper to begin a conversation at this time, as benching should commence as soon as possible after washing (Aruch Hashulchan 181:9).

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The Gerald & Karin Feldhamer OU Kosher Halacha Yomis is dedicated to the memory of Rav Yisroel Belsky, zt"l, who served as halachic consultant for OU Kosher for more than 28 years; many of the responses in Halacha Yomis are based on the rulings of Rabbi Belsky. Subscribe to the Halacha Yomis daily email here.