Touching without washing hands, necktie knot, afternoon nap
Question
A few questions:How is it permitted to eat food that was touched by the hands of non-religious Jews (such as in restaurants), since they don’t wash netilat yadayim in the morning, and it’s forbidden to touch food before washing hands?Is it actually permitted to tie a necktie on Shabbat?Is it really a problem to take a nap in the afternoon (whether during bein hazmanim, when it’s important to rest a bit, or even in general)? From the Sefarim it seems like it’s better not to sleep — what’s the real explanation? Is it truly better not to sleep? And even if it is allowed, should it be limited to just half an hour or only a short nap?
Answer
Shalom UvRacha,
- Be'dieved (after the fact), food touched with unwashed hands is not forbidden.
- A knot that comes undone with a single pull — like a standard necktie knot — is permitted.
- It all depends on what a person needs.
Comments
Have an additional question on this topic or need clarification? Leave your comment below. (Please note that the comment will not be published but will be sent directly to the answering Rabbi for review and a private response)
Become our patrners in supporting and spreading the Torah
Help us answer more questions faster and better
Join the mission

Your Weekly Torah Connection
Add meaning to your week with:
- Top halachic Q&A
- Practical festival halachot