Purim - Mishloach Manos Messenger

QUESTION: Is it better to send mishloach manos with a messenger, or to deliver it yourself?

ANSWER: Each method has its advantages. The Mishnah Berurah (695:18) cites the Teshuvos Binyan Tzion who writes that perhaps one is required to send mishloach manos with a messenger, since the Megillah describes the mitzvah as “mishloach” manos (sending portions). He suggests that perhaps the mitzvah requires a messenger. He reasons that sending with a messenger is more respectful, and thus gives the gift greater significance and will foster greater friendship. Although some say that lechatchila it is best to send mishloach manos through a messenger, if one did not do so, there are many proofs that the mitzvah was fulfilled. Moreover, the Eshel Avrohom (Buchach 695:3) writes that it is preferable to deliver mishloach manos yourself and not to have it delivered by a messenger, since the general rule is “mitzvah bo yoseir mi’bishlucho” (it is preferable to do a mitzvah yourself than to have it performed by an agent).

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