Today's Halachos are dedicated in honor of H.S. bas S. May Hashem give her the strength to pass her tests and reward her with the ultimate answer to her sincerest prayers.
1) Mayim Achronim should not be washed onto the floor, as the Ruach Ra (impure spirit) that is in the water will then remain on the floor, and may pose a danger to anyone who steps on the water.
Rather, the water should be washed into a utensil that is designated as a receptacle for the water, which should then be disposed of. (See Biur Halacha Siman 181:2)
However, if the water is being washed onto the floor that is under the table, where nobody will walk, it is permitted to do so. Still, if a utensil is available in which to wash, that is better than doing on the floor under the table (Mishna Berura Siman 181:4-6. See also Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 180:4)
2) Mayim Achronim may be washed directly into the sink, as people who are stringent to use a Revi'is as the Gaon of Vilna held, do in any case. Some maintain that the water must be washed into a utensil, and not in the sink, however the prevalent minhag is not to require this. (See Shu"t Yabia Omer Vol. 5 Siman 2 and Likutei MaHarich end of HanHogas Seudah quoting the Shl"a HaKadosh.)
Care should be taken while washing Mayim Achronim that the water doesn't splash onto the table, especially onto the food, as this may make the food unfit for consumption according to many Poskim. (Mishna Berura Siman 180:7. See also Kaf HaChaim Siman 180:10)
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QUESTION & ANSWER CORNER:
Reader Submitted Questions of interest on topics related to Halachos we covered, as well as other interesting topic and Answers. Taken from the Q & A page on the Halacha For Todaywebsite.
Although the answers I give to questions are taken directly from the Sifrei HaPoskim, and aren't my own, they are still for study purposes only, NOT for Psak Halacha.
Is it permitted to speak lashon hara about a non-jew?
Answer:
There is no prohibition about speaking Lashon Hara about a non Jew. However, if by doing so it can lead to a Chilul Hashem, then it should be avoided.
Also, if by doing so often it will cause us to become lax in lashon Hara to a Jew, or otherwise ruin our charachter, it should also be avoided.
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות - one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Important Numbers
