Talmud Tips

For the week ending 4 May 2013 / 23 Iyyar 5773

Eruvin 58 - 64

by Rabbi Moshe Newman
Become a Supporter Library Library

Rabbi Shmuel bar Inia said in the name of Rav, "Torah study is more important than the offering of the daily sacrifices."

  • Eruvin 63b

“One who is slightly intoxicated (“shatui”) should not pray, but if he prays his prayer counts; whereas one who is significantly intoxicated (“shikur”) should not pray, and if he prays his prayer is considered an abomination.”

The above halacha is taught on our Daf by Rava bar Rav Huna and is codified in Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 99:1).

What is the difference between shatui and shikur? The former refers to one who drank a revi’it (approximately 86-150 cc) of wine or other intoxicating beverage, but is sober enough to speak in front of a king. The stricter status of “shikur” applies when the drinker is unable to speak coherently in front of a king.

There are other factors that need to be taken into account in any ruling today (see Mishna Berurah in siman 99), and a Rav should be asked for a psak in any actual case as always. But the message is clear: Don’t drink and daven.

  • Eruvin 64a

© 1995-2024 Ohr Somayach International - All rights reserved.

Articles may be distributed to another person intact without prior permission. We also encourage you to include this material in other publications, such as synagogue or school newsletters. Hardcopy or electronic. However, we ask that you contact us beforehand for permission in advance at ohr@ohr.edu and credit for the source as Ohr Somayach Institutions www.ohr.edu

« Back to Talmud Tips

Ohr Somayach International is a 501c3 not-for-profit corporation (letter on file) EIN 13-3503155 and your donation is tax deductable.