May one read a letter received on Shabbat when its contents are unknown?
Synopsis
The Mechaber permits reading a received letter if one does not know its contents (it may contain urgent matters), but only silently (without vocalizing). If brought from outside the techum, one should preferably not handle it.
More in Instructing a Non-Jew (Amira L'Akum)
Is it permitted to engage in idle conversation (devarim beteilim) on Shabbat?
4 opinions
May one tell a non-Jew to perform melacha (forbidden labor) on Shabbat?
3 opinions
May one hint to a non-Jew on Shabbat to perform melacha?
3 opinions
May one give money to a non-Jew before Shabbat to make a purchase?
3 opinions
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?
4 opinions
May one calculate past expenses on Shabbat?
3 opinions
May one say 'I will go to such-and-such city tomorrow' on Shabbat when the trip involves a potential prohibition?
4 opinions
May one use the term 'halveini' (lend me) when borrowing on Shabbat?
4 opinions
Related from other topics
If there is an established postal agent (beit dvar) in the destination city, may one send a letter on erev Shabbat without specifying a fee?
Adjusting the Candle on Shabbat
May a Jew send a letter with a non-Jew who is his annual (salaried) employee on erev Shabbat?
Adjusting the Candle on Shabbat
Is it permitted to give a letter to the postal service (beit dvar / Postmeister) on Shabbat itself?
Adjusting the Candle on Shabbat
May one remove wax or tallow that dripped onto letters in a sefer (book) on Shabbat?
Writing on Shabbat
May one break a cake that has letters written on it on Shabbat?
Writing on Shabbat
May one open or close a book on Shabbat when letters are written on the edges of its pages?
Writing on Shabbat
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.