#287: The Condition of “Biyad” – Silverware

1. We mentioned yesterday that one may not sort on Shabbat using a specialized sorting utensil even when the other conditions are fulfilled (of immediate use and removing the food from the waste). Poskim agree that in this context, silverware are not considered utensils and one may sort with them when the other conditions are fulfilled. For example, one may use a spoon to remove pieces of cucumber from a salad mixed with other vegetables or use a knife to remove a peel (in cases where it is permitted, which we will discuss in future posts).

2. Some of the reasons given that silverware are not considered specialized utensils include: a) silverware usually are used simply to prevent one’s hands from getting dirty (Igrot Moshe, Orach Chaim 1:124), b) silverware are primarily used as part of the act of eating rather than for food production (Orchot Shabbat, ch.3, n.98), and c) sorting is not a natural function of silverware (Chazon Ovadia, vol.4, Borer n.1).

[Poskim disagree as to whether one may serve a large amount of food before a meal that one is sure will not be eaten, just so one can serve a respectable amount of food for guests. The Ben Ish Chai and Shemirat Shabbat K'hilchata are lenient, while R. Ovadia Yosef is strict.]

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Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for the hostages to be released safely to their families and may everlasting peace come to Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.