Which spices are invalid for the Havdalah blessing and why?
Synopsis
The Mechaber rules that spices placed in a bathroom, spices placed atop a corpse's bier, and spices at a gentile feast (which are functionally used for idolatry) may not be used for the Havdalah blessing. The Mishnah Berurah and Aruch HaShulchan elaborate on the reasoning for each category.
More in Havdalah — Time and Conditions
Is the spice blessing required as part of Havdalah, and must one seek out spices if none are available?
3 opinions
May one use spices that gentiles placed in wine barrels (to impart flavor) for the Havdalah blessing?
3 opinions
Is myrtle (hadas) the preferred spice for Havdalah, and may one bless over dry myrtle?
5 opinions
May someone who cannot smell make the Havdalah blessing over spices, and can he thereby discharge the obligation of others?
5 opinions
Is peppers (pilpelin) valid for the Havdalah spice blessing?
3 opinions
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