Smoking on Yom Tov
Question: Do most contemporary Poskim permit smoking on Yom Tov?
Discussion: In the past, there were conflicting opinions whether or not smoking is permitted on Yom Tov, but today, most contemporary Poskim do not permit it. The change is because of the following:
There is a general rule that kindling a fire, besides being permitted for cooking and lighting candles, is likewise permitted for any Yom Tov purpose. However, there is a limitation: the Yom Tov purpose must be considered a “universal need” (shaveh lechol nefesh).
Years ago, when smoking was commonplace, socially and medically accepted, some Poskim viewed it as being a “health benefit” and permitted it on Yom Tov. Yet, even in those days, other Poskim prohibited it.
But for the past few decades, the medical community has recognized that smoking is hazardous to one’s health. Smoking is also much less common than it used to be (primarily due to the heightened awareness of the dangers of smoking). Therefore, many Poskim maintain that smoking can no longer be classified as a “universal need” and, therefore, smoking on Yom Tov is prohibited – even according to the opinions who permitted it in past.22
All of the above applies, as well, to cigars, pipes, and hookah. E-cigarettes are in a different category altogether and are obviously forbidden, since they use electricity.
22 See Beiur Halachah to 511:4, ד"ה אין; Orchos Rabbeinu, vol. II, Yom Tov 20, citing Chazon Ish; She’arim Metzuyanim Behalachah 98:19; Minchas Shlomo II:11, 58-6; Mevakshei Torah, Yom Tov, vol. I, page 264, citing R’ Yosef Shalom Elyashiv; Teshuvos Vehanhagos I:316; and Yom Tov Kehilchaso 4:20 with footnotes.