Q. I work as an accountant for a large company that has important relations with British and Commonwealth companies. The company is celebrating King Charles III’s coronation with a party that will play the recording of the event. Taking into account the proper Kosher food and drinks needed for the Jewish employees, I wonder if there is a mitzva to attend the party as there is a mitzva to see a king?
A. In principle there is a mitzva to go and see rulers and kings, whether they are Jewish or not and there is a special brocho to be recited for each. ( Shulchan Aruch O.H. 224: 8.)
Talmud Berochos 58a teaches that Rabbi Yoḥanan said: One should always strive to run toward kings of Israel to greet them. And not only should he run toward kings of Israel, but also toward kings of the nations of the world, so that if one will be privileged to witnesses in the future the glory of the Messiah (Rashi) and in the World-to-Come, he will distinguish between the kings of Israel and the kings of the nations of the world.
On question 3889 regarding if one can attend a memorial ceremony done in an Orthodox shul in memory and honor of Queen Elizabeth II, we wrote; As mentioned above, it is proper to pray and be active in undertakings and initiatives for the welfare of the State one is living in. On that spirit, Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that living in Canada, a Commonwealth Country, one can attend such ceremonies as an act of thanks and recognition.
On question 1548 in regard to meeting with President Trump we wrote: “Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that because of the character and nature of the prevalent democracy, the Presidency of the U.S., has become so open to criticism, disparagement and condemnation, even when unwarranted and gratuitous. Therefore it would hardly qualify as an honour comparable to the Creator’s, and no brocho at all should be recited.”
The Rov maintains that a similar ruling may apply nowadays to the new king.
As far as a company party and ceremony for honoring the new king it could be attended. However, even when Kosher food is served, no alcoholic drinks should be consumed. (See question 4235).
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Shlomo Miller, Horav Dovid Pam, Horav Aharon Miller and Horav Chanoch Ehrentreu Shlit’a
Important Numbers
