Does the prohibition on reciting Shema in the presence of an exposed handbreadth of a woman's body apply only to one's wife, or to any woman?
Synopsis
The Mechaber rules that a handbreadth of exposed flesh in a normally covered area forbids Shema recitation, whether it is one's wife or another woman. The Rema cites an opinion that even less than a handbreadth is nakedness for a woman other than one's wife.
More in Prayer Near Bodily Odors
Is a woman's exposed thigh (shok) treated differently from other body parts regarding the Shema prohibition, and does it require a handbreadth?
3 opinions
Is a woman's hair that is normally covered considered nakedness that prohibits reciting Shema?
6 opinions
Does hearing a woman's singing voice during Shema recitation prohibit continuing?
5 opinions
Is it forbidden to recite Shema in the presence of nakedness belonging to a non-Jew or a minor?
4 opinions
Is it forbidden to recite Shema when nakedness is visible through a glass lamp or transparent vessel?
2 opinions
If nakedness is in front of someone, does turning one's face, closing one's eyes, darkness, or blindness permit reciting Shema?
7 opinions across 3 eras
Is it forbidden to recite Shema when a woman is wearing a thin garment through which her flesh is visible?
2 opinions
May a woman recite Shema or blessings opposite an exposed handbreadth of a man's body in a normally covered area?
1 opinions
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Discussion
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