Rotzeh B’kiyumo - Definition
QUESTION: What does “rotzeh b’kiyumo” of chametz mean?
ANSWER: It is well known that there is a prohibition to benefit from chametz on Pesach. An example of this is that it is forbidden for a Jew to let his animals eat chametz, since he is benefitting from chametz. Another example is that it is forbidden for a Jew to inhale the smell of chametz on Pesach if his intention is to enjoy the smell. The term “rotzeh b’kiyumo” means that one is not allowed to actively want the chametz to exist on Pesach. There are two types of “rotzeh b’kiyumo”:
- Wanting the chametz to exist on Pesach in a situation where you will have indirect benefit.
- Wanting the chametz to exist on Pesach without any benefit. There is a discussion amongst Poskim if this category of “rotzeh b’kiyumo” is applicable to chametz. Although we find in the laws of avodah zorah that this is forbidden, some say that it does not apply to chametz. The distinction is because by Avodah Zorah there is an obligation to eradicate avodah zorah from wherever it may be even if it is not yours. In regards to chametz, there is no such obligation. If the chametz is not owned by a Jew, there is no obligation to destroy it.
- Examples of both of these types of rotzeh b’kiyumo will be discussed in subsequent Halacha Yomis.
Note: Even if the prohibition of rotzeh b’kiyumo was violated, that chametz will not be assur after Pesach. Since the Biblical prohibition of owning chametz on Pesach was not violated, the k’nas (penalty) of chametz she’avar ha’Pesach does not apply.
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The Gerald & Karin Feldhamer OU Kosher Halacha Yomis is dedicated to the memory of Rav Yisroel Belsky, zt"l, who served as halachic consultant for OU Kosher for more than 28 years; many of the responses in Halacha Yomis are based on the rulings of Rabbi Belsky. Subscribe to the Halacha Yomis daily email here.