#170: Which Drinks May be Used for Havdalah? (Part 2)
- We learned previously that chamar medinah drinks may be used for Havdalah, according to some only if there is no wine or grape juice available and according to others, in any case where one enjoys chamar medinah more. Chamar medinah literally means “wine of the country,” and according to many commentaries, it refers to drinks that are considered respectable enough to be served to an important person or on an important occasion.
- Poskim discuss which drinks are included in the category of chamar medinah (see Shemirat Shabbat K'hilchatah, ch.60).
- Beer, whisky, and similar alcoholic drinks are generally included according to all opinions.
- Tea and coffee are included according to many opinions, but not all.
- Fruit drinks are included according to some opinions.
- Milk and soft drinks (soda) are included according to a few opinions. (See "Radiance of Shabbos", p.74)
The above order is the suggested order of precedence to use, though there are also other opinions that suggest a different order.
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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.
