Is it permitted to engage in idle conversation (devarim beteilim) on Shabbat?
Synopsis
The Mechaber rules that one should not speak on Shabbat as on a weekday and that even idle talk (not business-related) should be curtailed. The Rema permits stories and news for those who enjoy them as oneg Shabbat.
More in Instructing a Non-Jew (Amira L'Akum)
May one tell a non-Jew to perform melacha (forbidden labor) on Shabbat?
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May one hint to a non-Jew on Shabbat to perform melacha?
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May one give money to a non-Jew before Shabbat to make a purchase?
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May one instruct a non-Jew to perform a rabbinically prohibited act (shevut d'shevut) for the sake of a mitzvah, illness, or great need?
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May one calculate past expenses on Shabbat?
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May one say 'I will go to such-and-such city tomorrow' on Shabbat when the trip involves a potential prohibition?
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May one use the term 'halveini' (lend me) when borrowing on Shabbat?
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May one read a guest list or menu written before Shabbat on Shabbat?
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Related from other topics
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Is it permitted to engage in idle conversation during the prayer leader's repetition of the Amidah?
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May a Jew give merchandise to a non-Jew to sell on a set-wage basis, and is this permitted even if the non-Jew sells on Shabbat?
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Is it permitted to lend or rent tools (keilim) to a non-Jew who will use them for work on Shabbat?
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Discussion
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