May someone who cannot smell make the Havdalah blessing over spices, and can he thereby discharge the obligation of others?
Synopsis
The Mechaber rules that someone who cannot smell may not bless over spices unless intending to discharge the obligation of minor household members being trained in mitzvot, or of someone who does not know how to bless. The Rema (via later authorities) and Mishnah Berurah significantly narrow this permission, ruling that one who cannot smell cannot discharge adults' obligations, and the Taz and Magen Avraham debate the underlying reasoning.
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
Which spices are invalid for the Havdalah blessing and why?
5 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
Is peppers (pilpelin) valid for the Havdalah spice blessing?
3 opinions
Related from other topics
If one has finished all supplications but cannot yet take three steps back because someone is praying behind him, may one respond to Amen and other congregational responses?
Concluding Repetition and Kaddish
What should one say if one cannot finish the 'Ribono Shel Olam' before the Kohanim finish their blessing?
Birkat Kohanim Outside the Temple
What should a person do if they cannot go to the beit midrash due to pressing obligations?
Community Torah Scroll Obligation
What is the obligation for someone who knows only a little Torah — must they still go to the beit midrash and study?
Community Torah Scroll Obligation
Can alternative blessings fulfill the HaMotzi obligation?
HaMotzi Blessing
Is one permitted to say 'Asuta' (a blessing of health) to someone who sneezes during a meal?
Table Conduct
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.