Unattractive Etrog - In a Closed Box
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Question
I bought an etrog at a sale by the Rabbinical Committee in a closed box that can only be opened after payment. The etrog cost 60 shekels. The local rabbi checked several times and after some deliberation said that according to the basic law it is kosher, so he cannot give instructions to replace it, although he does not know if it is worth the price. I buy there every year and have never encountered an etrog with so many blemishes. I know that for me it is not worth the money, and if so, I will need to buy a new one. The question is whether there is room to exchange it or since it is kosher for the blessing, not?
Answer
Hello,
Usually, the instructions for rabbis at such sales are not to approve exchanges unless there is a deficiency in kashrut, not for a deficiency in beauty.
And this is probably the answer the local rabbi gave you.
The buyer in a closed box knows that he will not be choosing beauty according to his taste.
[Nevertheless, if it is an etrog that really looks bad due to blemishes, you can try to get approval from those in charge. From experience, such approvals exist].