1. We learned yesterday that one may not directly kill an animal, bird, or insect on Shabbat. One may, however, spray insecticide or ant spray to drive insects away, provided that the spray is not directed at the insects themselves and that they have a way to escape. This is permitted even if some insects ultimately move toward the insecticide and die (Shemirat Shabbat K’hilchatah 25:6). Similarly, if one finds ants in the house, one may spray ant spray or a similar product on a counter or another surface, even if ants or other insects that come into contact with it will die. However, one may not spray the insects directly, as this is considered killing them directly.

2. One may not turn on the tap if there are ants in the sink that will certainly be killed by the water flowing onto them (Orchot Shabbat 14:25-26). However, some authorities permit this in certain circumstances, such as when there is no other practical way to wash the dishes and one cannot simply blow away the ants with one’s mouth to a different location (Peninei Halacha, Shabbat 20:8). This may be permitted because it involves a pesik reisha in a case in which the resulting prohibition is rabbinic for at least two reasons (including that one does not need the dead insect). Similarly, some authorities permit flushing the toilet when live insects are present and will certainly die, due to considerations of kavod haberiyot (human dignity) (Minchat Yitzchak 10:27).

To sign up for the daily halacha via WhatsApp or email, click here.

Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for everlasting peace in Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.