Netilas Yadayim - Negel Vasser (Cont'd)

QUESTION: In the previous Halacha Yomis, we listed three explanations as to why we wash netilas yadayim upon waking in the morning: The Rosh holds it is because one’s hands touch covered parts of the body while sleeping; the Rashba holds it symbolizes the Kohen’s washing before serving Hashem; and according to the Zohar, it is to remove spiritual impurity. What are the practical differences between these three opinions?

ANSWER:

If one slept while wearing gloves: According to Rosh, there is no reason to wash hands, since they did not become dirty. In contrast, according to Rashba and Zohar they must be washed regardless of the gloves: according to Rashba one must sanctify himself each morning anew, and according to Zohar, the spiritual impurity must be removed (see Biur Halachah s.v. im hayah).

If one woke up in the middle of the night, washed his hands and does not go back to sleep: Rosh and Zohar would say there is no need to wash his hands again when morning dawns; according to Rosh they have not become dirty, and according to Zohar the ru’ach ra’ah has already been removed. However, Rashba would say that he is required to wash, as he must sanctify himself for the new day when morning dawns (Biur Halachah s.v. kol halaylah). Other poskim maintain that when day breaks (Alos Hashachar) the ru’ach ra’ah appears on the hands even if one washed already.

Does one need to use a cup for negel vasser? According to Rosh, the obligation stems from the need to clean his hands; if so, there is no need for a cup. However, according to Rashba and Zohar, it is proper to use a cup: according to Rashba it is proper to use a cup since negel vasser is akin to a Kohen sanctifying himself from the Kiyor (a large water vessel that was in the Beis Hamikdash), and according to the Zohar a cup should be used since the water must be poured, but if one has a method to pour water without using a cup, a cup is not needed (see Mishnah Berurah 4:17).

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