Sheva Berachos - Panim Chadashos

Q. Why are the berachos of Sheva Berachos only recited if there are Panim Chadashos (new guests)?

A. The Gemara (Kesubos 7b) states that Birchas Chasanim (i.e., Sheva Berachos) is said in the presence of a minyan for seven days. Rav Yehuda adds that these berachos may only be recited if there are Panim Chadashos. The Rambam and Rosh offer two different reasons for the Panim Chadashos requirement.

The Rambam (Hil. Berachos 2:10) explains that Sheva Berachos are recited repeatedly during the seven days for the benefit of the new guests (Panim Chadashos) who did not hear the blessings at the wedding. What does the Rambam mean? Why do new guests have to hear the Sheva Berachos? The Aruch Hashulchan (EH 62:24) explains that whoever is at a festive meal with the Chosson and Kallah is required to bless the couple through the words of Sheva Berachos. When the Panim Chadashos attend a festive meal with the new couple, they are obligated to bless the Chosson and Kallah, since they did not hear the Sheva Berachos at the wedding. The Sheva Berachos are recited specifically for the Panim Chadashos, and they discharge their obligation either by reciting Sheva Berachos themselves, or by answering Amen, which is tantamount to reciting the Berachos.

The Rosh (Kesubos 1:13) offers a different explanation. He maintains that when Panim Chadashos are present, the Chosson and Kallah re-experience the simcha with the new guests, and it is appropriate to recite an additional set of Sheva Berachos for the enhanced simcha. Shulchan Aruch (EH 62:7) rules in favor of the Rosh.

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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.