What is the reason for the morning hand-washing blessing ('Al Netilat Yadayim')?
Synopsis
Two main reasons are given: the Rosh holds it is because hands touch unclean body parts during sleep; the Rashba holds it is because in the morning one becomes like a new creation. The reason affects several downstream rulings.
More in Bathroom Conduct and Asher Yatzar
Should one recite 'Asher Yatzar' (the blessing after relieving oneself) in the morning even if one did not relieve oneself?
3 opinions
When should 'Al Netilat Yadayim' be recited — immediately after washing or after also relieving oneself?
4 opinions
Are invalid waters (pasul for meal-washing) valid for morning prayer hand-washing, and may a blessing be recited on them?
3 opinions across 3 eras
How many times must one pour water over hands in the morning to remove the 'evil spirit' (ruach ra'ah)?
2 opinions
Does morning prayer hand-washing require a vessel (kli), and does it require being poured with human force (ko'ach gavra)?
4 opinions across 3 eras
Is a reviit (minimum volume) of water required for morning prayer hand-washing?
2 opinions
May the used water from morning hand-washing be used for any purpose, or must it be disposed of carefully?
2 opinions
What is the proper order for taking and pouring the washing vessel?
2 opinions
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What is the reason geothermal spring water (like Tiberias) is invalid for vessel-based hand-washing, and does the dog-drinkability test apply to other bitter/hot springs?
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May one recite a blessing over hand-washing when water is unavailable and cloth is used instead?
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Does one who hasn't finished hand-washing require re-blessing of HaMotzi?
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Discussion
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