Leaving the Place of Eating for the Purpose of a Mitzvah
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Question
The Shulchan Aruch in Siman 184, paragraph 1, states that one who has finished his meal should recite Birkat Hamazon before leaving his place. In Siman 178, paragraph 2, it is written in the Shulchan Aruch that this also applies if one wants to leave for the purpose of a mitzvah. Is it also necessary to recite the blessing before leaving one's place if one wants to leave for a temporary mitzvah, even if by doing so he will miss the mitzvah?
Answer
Shalom Rav,
It is permissible to leave before Birkat Hamazon for the purpose of a temporary mitzvah.
Source
Rema Orach Chaim, Siman 178, paragraph 2
Nevertheless, initially one should not leave his place without a blessing, as there is a concern that he may forget to return and eat (Rav Menachem and Ran); however, for the purpose of a temporary mitzvah, such as if the time for prayer has arrived, it is permitted.