Eating While Wearing Tefillin

Question: We have a learning program after Shacharis during which we are encouraged to keep our tefillin on. Is it permissible to eat while still wearing tefillin?

Answer: The Gemara (Berachos 23b) teaches that one should remove their tefillin before sitting down to eat a full meal. Rashi explains that this is because a person might become distracted or even intoxicated while eating, leading to a lack of the proper reverence due to the tefillin. The Tiferes Yisrael (Yadayim, Yachin 2:4:35) infers from Rashi that this concern applies mainly when alcohol is involved. Therefore, he suggests that eating a full meal without wine could theoretically be permitted. Nevertheless, both Rambam (Tefillin 4:16) and the Shulchan Aruch (OC 40:8) rule that one should only eat a light snack while wearing tefillin.

The Mishna Berura (40:19) questions whether this hetter applies only to those who are accustomed to wear tefillin throughout the day (see Aruch Hashulchan OC 40:5). However, R’ Eliezer Waldenberg (Tzitz Eliezer 7:27:1) notes that even though, in the time of the Shulchan Aruch, people no longer generally wore tefillin all day, the Shulchan Aruch still allowed one to have a light snack while wearing them.

Similarly, the Kaf Hachaim (OC 40:35) writes that it is permissible to drink tea or coffee while wearing tefillin. The Dirshu Mishna Berura (40:n31) records that the Chazon Ish allowed one to have a small snack, while R’ Yosef Shalom Elyashiv held that it is praiseworthy to avoid eating or drinking altogether while wearing tefillin.

The Piskei Teshuvos (40:8) adds that if a person wishes to have a small snack or drink, such as coffee or a biscuit, to help them focus better on learning, they may keep their tefillin on. However, if one intends to eat a proper meal, the tefillin should be removed beforehand.

In conclusion, one should not eat a full meal while wearing tefillin. However, it is permissible to have a light snack or drink, such as coffee, tea, or a small bite to eat, if it will help one concentrate better on learning.

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