Should the mezamen (leader) say 'Nevarekh' (let us bless) or may he say 'Barekhu' (bless!) when leading zimun?
Synopsis
The standard formula is 'Nevarekh' (including the leader), though with four or more 'Barekhu' is technically permissible. The authorities strongly prefer 'Nevarekh' to avoid separating oneself from the group.
More in Zimmun and Joining Groups
Is zimun (invitation formula before Birkat HaMazon) obligatory when three or more adults eat together?
2 opinions
Should the mezamen add 'u-v'tuvo chayinu' (and by His goodness we live) in his opening formula 'Nevarekh she-akhalnu mi-shelo'?
6 opinions
Should the assembled diners answer 'Amen' after the mezamen concludes his response ('Baruch she-akhalnu mi-shelo u-v'tuvo chayinu')?
4 opinions
Should 'Baruch Hu u-varuch Shemo' be said after the mezamen mentions God's name in the zimun formula?
5 opinions
When zimun is said with ten or more, must God's name ('Eloheinu') be mentioned in the zimun formula?
3 opinions
Is it permitted to say 'Nevarekh l'Eloheinu' (with a lamed prefix — 'to our God') in the zimun formula?
3 opinions
Is it permitted to deviate from the standard zimun nusach — e.g., saying 'al ha-mazon she-akhalnu,' 'le-mi she-akhalnu mi-shelo,' 'mi-tuvo' instead of 'u-v'tuvo,' or 'chayyim' instead of 'chayinu'?
6 opinions
Before zimun, should one verbally announce the intention to bentch (recite Birkat HaMazon)?
3 opinions across 3 eras
Related from other topics
Discussion
Discussion coming soon.
The Daily Law
One question. Every opinion. Every morning.
A new halakhic question and the full spectrum of rabbinic thought, delivered daily.