How long must one wait after spitting before praying, and may one spit during or shortly after prayer?
Synopsis
The Mechaber rules one must wait four amot after spitting before praying, and four amot after praying before spitting. This applies only when done intentionally; involuntary spittle is permitted. The Biur Halacha notes a dispute about whether the involuntary exception applies to both the pre- and post-prayer directions.
More in Minimum Requirements for Prayer
If one needed to relieve themselves (urinate or defecate) and prayed anyway — is the prayer valid?
5 opinions across 3 eras
Is one who needs to relieve themselves prohibited from Torah study as well as prayer?
2 opinions
If bodily urge arises in the middle of the Amidah, may one finish the prayer or must one stop?
5 opinions across 3 eras
If bodily urge arises during Shema and its blessings, may one continue reciting or must one stop?
3 opinions
Must one remove mucus and phlegm before praying?
2 opinions
How far must one travel to obtain water for handwashing before prayer?
3 opinions across 3 eras
If one washed hands in the morning and was then distracted (heseich hadaat), must one re-wash before prayer?
4 opinions
If one is in the middle of prayer and remembers touching a dirty place, what is required?
2 opinions
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If one passes gas during prayer and the smell lingers, where does one resume prayer after the smell dissipates?
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If one urgently needs to pass gas during prayer and cannot hold back, must one walk backward four cubits before doing so?
Bodily Needs During Prayer
Must one walk specifically backward (not sideways or forward) when retreating four cubits to pass gas during prayer?
Bodily Needs During Prayer
May the 'Master of the World' prayer (Ribon HaOlamim) be recited in the middle of the Amidah after passing gas and retreating?
Bodily Needs During Prayer
Discussion
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