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Eating in the Sukkah: Difference between revisions

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# One who is exempt from the sukkah yet chooses to remain there does not receive reward for remaining in the sukkah and is foolish.<ref> Rama 639:7. The Biur Halacha 639 explains that one is only considered foolish if one became exempt while sitting in the sukkah and continued to sit there. This is particularly true with rain because Chazal compare rain on Sukkot to a servant who served his master water and had it splashed back in his face. Once the master demonstrated that he wasn’t interested in the services, if the servant forces his master to allow him to serve him the servant would be foolish. That is why remaining in the sukkah when it rains is foolish. Nonetheless, if one is technically exempt not because of suffering, (i.e. if it began to rain and then the rain stopped and he is still in the middle of eating his meal inside) and he chooses to return to the sukkah he will receive reward.</ref>
# One who is exempt from the sukkah yet chooses to remain there does not receive reward for remaining in the sukkah and is foolish.<ref> Rama 639:7. The Biur Halacha 639 explains that one is only considered foolish if one became exempt while sitting in the sukkah and continued to sit there. This is particularly true with rain because Chazal compare rain on Sukkot to a servant who served his master water and had it splashed back in his face. Once the master demonstrated that he wasn’t interested in the services, if the servant forces his master to allow him to serve him the servant would be foolish. That is why remaining in the sukkah when it rains is foolish. Nonetheless, if one is technically exempt not because of suffering, (i.e. if it began to rain and then the rain stopped and he is still in the middle of eating his meal inside) and he chooses to return to the sukkah he will receive reward.</ref>
===Women and Children===
===Women and Children===
# Women are exempt from the [[Sukkah]]. <ref> Mishna [[Sukkah]] 28a, S"A 640:1 </ref>
# Women are exempt from the [[Sukkah]]. <ref> Mishna [[Sukkah]] 28a, Shulchan Aruch 640:1 </ref>
# Very young children are exempt from the [[Sukkah]], however, once they are reach that they no longer need their mother (around age 5) there is a mitzvah of [[Chinuch]] (training them in mitzvot) that a child be obligated in sitting in the [[sukkah]]. <ref> S"A 640:2, Mishna Brurah 640:2. The Magen Avraham 640 says that it is prohibited to feed children outside the [[sukkah]], just like it is forbidden to feed children not kosher food. Sh"uT Binyan Av 1:25 says that a man cannot feed the child outside the [[sukkah]] but a woman can. The Mishna Brurah 640:5 quotes this magen avraham and adds that on shouldn't even tell the child to eat outside the [[sukkah]]. Rav Moshe Shternbuch in Tshuvot Vihanhagot 3:211 says very young children are exempt based on the fact that they need their mothers to eat properly. Aruch Hashulchan 640:2 justifies not obligating them in sukka because children have a lower tolerance for the cold.</ref>
# Very young children are exempt from the [[Sukkah]], however, once they are reach that they no longer need their mother (around age 5) there is a mitzvah of [[Chinuch]] (training them in mitzvot) that a child be obligated in sitting in the [[sukkah]]. <ref> Shulchan Aruch 640:2, Mishna Brurah 640:2. The Magen Avraham 640 says that it is prohibited to feed children outside the [[sukkah]], just like it is forbidden to feed children not kosher food. Sh"uT Binyan Av 1:25 says that a man cannot feed the child outside the [[sukkah]] but a woman can. The Mishna Brurah 640:5 quotes this magen avraham and adds that on shouldn't even tell the child to eat outside the [[sukkah]]. Rav Moshe Shternbuch in Tshuvot Vihanhagot 3:211 says very young children are exempt based on the fact that they need their mothers to eat properly. Aruch Hashulchan 640:2 justifies not obligating them in sukka because children have a lower tolerance for the cold.</ref>
===Sick or Suffering===
===Sick or Suffering===
# A person who is sick is exempt from the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>S"A 640:3 based on Mishna [[Sukkah]] 25a. </ref>
# A person who is sick is exempt from the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Shulchan Aruch 640:3 based on Mishna [[Sukkah]] 25a. </ref>
# One is not required to eat in the [[sukkah]] if it is raining. <ref> Mishnah [[Sukkah]] 28b </ref> If it is raining and one began to eat inside, he may continue to eat inside even when it stops raining. <ref> Mishna Brurah 639:38 based on Rashi [[Sukkah]] 29a "viyardu." Ritva [[Sukkah]] 29a "Tannu Rabanan," writes that one is not required to eat in the [[sukkah]] if there are rain-clouds in the sky and it appears as if it is going to rain.  Rav Shalom Schwadron in Daat Torah OC 639:5 says that most poskim don't accept this opinion but he is in doubt if you can recite a beracha in such a situation. </ref> However, these rules only apply after the first night. For the rules for the first night see below.
# One is not required to eat in the [[sukkah]] if it is raining. <ref> Mishnah [[Sukkah]] 28b </ref> If it is raining and one began to eat inside, he may continue to eat inside even when it stops raining. <ref> Mishna Brurah 639:38 based on Rashi [[Sukkah]] 29a "viyardu." Ritva [[Sukkah]] 29a "Tannu Rabanan," writes that one is not required to eat in the [[sukkah]] if there are rain-clouds in the sky and it appears as if it is going to rain.  Rav Shalom Schwadron in Daat Torah OC 639:5 says that most poskim don't accept this opinion but he is in doubt if you can recite a beracha in such a situation. </ref> However, these rules only apply after the first night. For the rules for the first night see below.
# One who is suffering from sitting in the sukkah is exempt. For instance, if one cannot sleep in the sukkah because of the wind, because of the flies buzzing, because of the cold, or even because of a small amount of rain he is exempt. Additionally, one is only exempt from the sukkah due to suffering if leaving the suka will help alleviate his suffering. <ref> S"A 640:4, Rama 639:2, 639:5, and 640:4 </ref>
# One who is suffering from sitting in the sukkah is exempt. For instance, if one cannot sleep in the sukkah because of the wind, because of the flies buzzing, because of the cold, or even because of a small amount of rain he is exempt. Additionally, one is only exempt from the sukkah due to suffering if leaving the suka will help alleviate his suffering. <ref> Shulchan Aruch 640:4, Rama 639:2, 639:5, and 640:4 </ref>
# If on Shabbat the lights in the sukkah go out one is not obligated to go to his friend’s sukkah if this is difficult or uncomfortable; rather, he may eat his meal in his house.<ref>  Rama 640:4</ref>
# If on Shabbat the lights in the sukkah go out one is not obligated to go to his friend’s sukkah if this is difficult or uncomfortable; rather, he may eat his meal in his house.<ref>  Rama 640:4</ref>
# If one feels crowded in the sukkah this does not constitute “suffering” and one must continue to live there.<ref> Rama 640:4. Mishna Brurah 640:26 however writes that a fastidious person for whom this is difficult is exempt. </ref>
# If one feels crowded in the sukkah this does not constitute “suffering” and one must continue to live there.<ref> Rama 640:4. Mishna Brurah 640:26 however writes that a fastidious person for whom this is difficult is exempt. </ref>
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===Traveling===
===Traveling===
# Travelers who are traveling for business or for pressing matters <ref> Igrot Moshe OC 3:93 and Yalkut Yosef as quoted in Piskei Teshuvot p. 385 no. 38 hold that these are the travelers referred to in the S"A, whereas those who travel for pleasure or without a real need and claim that they are exempt from sukkah are acting improperly. </ref> are exempt from a sukkah as long as they are traveling.<ref> S"A 640:8</ref> When they pause their journey, if they are unable to find a sukkah they are also exempt from sukkah then.  <ref> Rama 640:8 </ref>
# Travelers who are traveling for business or for pressing matters <ref> Igrot Moshe OC 3:93 and Yalkut Yosef as quoted in Piskei Teshuvot p. 385 no. 38 hold that these are the travelers referred to in the Shulchan Aruch, whereas those who travel for pleasure or without a real need and claim that they are exempt from sukkah are acting improperly. </ref> are exempt from a sukkah as long as they are traveling.<ref> Shulchan Aruch 640:8</ref> When they pause their journey, if they are unable to find a sukkah they are also exempt from sukkah then.  <ref> Rama 640:8 </ref>
# If one is involved in a mitzvah such as going to learn Torah <ref> Mishna Brurah 640:35 </ref> he is exempt from the mitzvah of sukkah.<ref> The S"A 640:7 as explained by the Mishna Brurah feels that in such a case one is not required to enter a sukkah even when one reaches a resting point on his mitzvah journey, whereas the Rama writes that if this is not difficult and will not affect his ability to perform the mitzvah one should find a sukkah in which to eat and sleep.  </ref> Accordingly, those tending to the needs of the sick are exempt from the sukkah.<ref>  S"A 640:3 as explained by the Mishna Brurah. Note that this rule does not include those helping one who is mitztaer, but only the sick as defined above.</ref>
# If one is involved in a mitzvah such as going to learn Torah <ref> Mishna Brurah 640:35 </ref> he is exempt from the mitzvah of sukkah.<ref> The Shulchan Aruch 640:7 as explained by the Mishna Brurah feels that in such a case one is not required to enter a sukkah even when one reaches a resting point on his mitzvah journey, whereas the Rama writes that if this is not difficult and will not affect his ability to perform the mitzvah one should find a sukkah in which to eat and sleep.  </ref> Accordingly, those tending to the needs of the sick are exempt from the sukkah.<ref>  Shulchan Aruch 640:3 as explained by the Mishna Brurah. Note that this rule does not include those helping one who is mitztaer, but only the sick as defined above.</ref>


==Which foods can one eat outside the Sukkah?==
==Which foods can one eat outside the Sukkah?==
===Bread===
===Bread===
# It is permissible to eat up to a [[Measurements#KeBaytzah|KeBaytzah]] of bread outside the [[Sukkah]] but for any more than a [[Measurements#KeBaytzah|KeBaytzah]] one must eat it in the [[Sukkah]] and make a Bracha of Leshev BaSukkah. <ref> The Mishna in [[Sukkah]] 25a states that one may eat a snack (achilat arai) outside of the [[sukkah]]. The Gemara [[Sukkah]] 26a, states that the quantity of an achilat arai is the amount that a yeshiva student would eat in the morning on his way to the beit midrash.  Tosafot there "Tarti", say that this amount is a k'beitzah.  This is the conclusion of S"A 639:2, Mishna Brurah 639:13, Beiur Halacha s.v. [[KeBaytzah]], Natai Gavriel 48:2, Chazon Ovadyah ([[Sukkot]] pg 132), Yalkut Yosef (Moadim pg 142). </ref>
# It is permissible to eat up to a [[Measurements#KeBaytzah|KeBaytzah]] of bread outside the [[Sukkah]] but for any more than a [[Measurements#KeBaytzah|KeBaytzah]] one must eat it in the [[Sukkah]] and make a Bracha of Leshev BaSukkah. <ref> The Mishna in [[Sukkah]] 25a states that one may eat a snack (achilat arai) outside of the [[sukkah]]. The Gemara [[Sukkah]] 26a, states that the quantity of an achilat arai is the amount that a yeshiva student would eat in the morning on his way to the beit midrash.  Tosafot there "Tarti", say that this amount is a k'beitzah.  This is the conclusion of Shulchan Aruch 639:2, Mishna Brurah 639:13, Beiur Halacha s.v. [[KeBaytzah]], Natai Gavriel 48:2, Chazon Ovadyah ([[Sukkot]] pg 132), Yalkut Yosef (Moadim pg 142). </ref>
# If one only ate a [[Kezayit]] of bread and other foods, according to Ashkenazim this is a meal and one must eat it in the [[Sukkah]] and even make the bracha of Leshev BaSukkah<ref>Natai Gavriel 48:7</ref>, however, according to Sephardim one doesn't have to eat this in the [[Sukkah]] and even if one eats in the [[Sukkah]] one does not make the bracha of LeShev BaSukkah. <ref>Chazon Ovadyah  ([[Sukkot]] pg 134)</ref>
# If one only ate a [[Kezayit]] of bread and other foods, according to Ashkenazim this is a meal and one must eat it in the [[Sukkah]] and even make the bracha of Leshev BaSukkah<ref>Natai Gavriel 48:7</ref>, however, according to Sephardim one doesn't have to eat this in the [[Sukkah]] and even if one eats in the [[Sukkah]] one does not make the bracha of LeShev BaSukkah. <ref>Chazon Ovadyah  ([[Sukkot]] pg 134)</ref>
# For sephardim, if one sat in the [[sukkah]], planning to eat less than a [[kebaytza]] of bread, and then decided he wanted to eat more than a [[kebaytza]], he should recite a beracha then, even if what he has left is less than a [[kebaytza]]. <ref> Chazon Ovadia pg. 133 </ref>  
# For sephardim, if one sat in the [[sukkah]], planning to eat less than a [[kebaytza]] of bread, and then decided he wanted to eat more than a [[kebaytza]], he should recite a beracha then, even if what he has left is less than a [[kebaytza]]. <ref> Chazon Ovadia pg. 133 </ref>  
# Some poskim hold that any food on [[shabbat]] needs to be eaten in the [[sukkah]] because it is achilat keva and not achilat arai. However, most poskim disagree. <ref> Yalkut Yosef Moadim pg. 143, Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 141 </ref>
# Some poskim hold that any food on [[shabbat]] needs to be eaten in the [[sukkah]] because it is achilat keva and not achilat arai. However, most poskim disagree. <ref> Yalkut Yosef Moadim pg. 143, Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 141 </ref>
===Fruits===
===Fruits===
# It is permissible to eat fruits even if one eats a lot of fruit. <ref> This is an argument in the gemara Yoma 79b. Tosafot 26a s.v. tarti rule that it is permitted even in a large quantities because fruit is always considered arai. The Rosh [[Sukkah]] 2:13 quotes the Maharam Mirutenberg that one may not eat even fruit outside the [[sukkah]] but explains that the Maharam only refers to eating more than a k'beitzah but permits eating less than a k'beitzah of fruit. S"A and Rama 639:2 rule like tosafot, as does Natai Gavriel 50:1 </ref>Nonetheless, it's praiseworthy to have fruit in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Chazon Ovadyah (pg 138), Yalkut Yosef (Moadim pg 143), Nitei Gavriel 50:12</ref>
# It is permissible to eat fruits even if one eats a lot of fruit. <ref> This is an argument in the gemara Yoma 79b. Tosafot 26a s.v. tarti rule that it is permitted even in a large quantities because fruit is always considered arai. The Rosh [[Sukkah]] 2:13 quotes the Maharam Mirutenberg that one may not eat even fruit outside the [[sukkah]] but explains that the Maharam only refers to eating more than a k'beitzah but permits eating less than a k'beitzah of fruit. Shulchan Aruch and Rama 639:2 rule like tosafot, as does Natai Gavriel 50:1 </ref>Nonetheless, it's praiseworthy to have fruit in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Chazon Ovadyah (pg 138), Yalkut Yosef (Moadim pg 143), Nitei Gavriel 50:12</ref>
===Drinks===
===Drinks===
# One may have drinks outside the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>S"A 639:2 </ref> However, if one sits down to drink wine in a fixed manner (not just as a snack) especially if a group of people sit to drink wine one must drink it in the [[Sukkah]] but not make the Bracha of Leshev BaSukkah. According to Ashkenazim, preferably, one should not establish a fix drink of wine or beer except in a meal of a [[Measurements#KeBaytzah|KeBaytzah]] of bread or at least a cooked dish made out of the five grains in which must eat in the [[Sukkah]] and could even make the Bracha of Leshev BaSukkah. <ref>Mishna Brurah 639:13, Natai Gavriel 50:3 </ref> Nonetheless, it's praiseworthy to have all drinks in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>S"A 639:2 </ref>
# One may have drinks outside the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Shulchan Aruch 639:2 </ref> However, if one sits down to drink wine in a fixed manner (not just as a snack) especially if a group of people sit to drink wine one must drink it in the [[Sukkah]] but not make the Bracha of Leshev BaSukkah. According to Ashkenazim, preferably, one should not establish a fix drink of wine or beer except in a meal of a [[Measurements#KeBaytzah|KeBaytzah]] of bread or at least a cooked dish made out of the five grains in which must eat in the [[Sukkah]] and could even make the Bracha of Leshev BaSukkah. <ref>Mishna Brurah 639:13, Natai Gavriel 50:3 </ref> Nonetheless, it's praiseworthy to have all drinks in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Shulchan Aruch 639:2 </ref>
===Meat, Fish, Cheese===
===Meat, Fish, Cheese===
# If one makes a meal out of meat, fish, cheese, and the like, one should eat it in the [[Sukkah]]. However, if one doesn't eat it as a meal one may eat outside the [[Sukkah]]. <ref> Rosh [[Sukkah]] 2:13 quotes Rabbeinu Peretz that the leniency of eating fruit outside of the [[sukkah]] does not apply to meat, fish and cheese. S"A 639:2 doesn't rule explicitly on these items but Mishna Brurah 639:13 says that S"A implies that it is permissible to eat these items outside of the [[sukkah]], like fruit. This is also the conlusion of Natai Gavriel 50:2 </ref> Nonetheless, it's praiseworthy to have meat, fish, rice, eggs, and cheese in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Chazon Ovadyah ([[Sukkot]] pg 138), Yalkut Yosef (Moadim pg 143). see also Halichot Olam 2: page 281. </ref>
# If one makes a meal out of meat, fish, cheese, and the like, one should eat it in the [[Sukkah]]. However, if one doesn't eat it as a meal one may eat outside the [[Sukkah]]. <ref> Rosh [[Sukkah]] 2:13 quotes Rabbeinu Peretz that the leniency of eating fruit outside of the [[sukkah]] does not apply to meat, fish and cheese. Shulchan Aruch 639:2 doesn't rule explicitly on these items but Mishna Brurah 639:13 says that Shulchan Aruch implies that it is permissible to eat these items outside of the [[sukkah]], like fruit. This is also the conlusion of Natai Gavriel 50:2 </ref> Nonetheless, it's praiseworthy to have meat, fish, rice, eggs, and cheese in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Chazon Ovadyah ([[Sukkot]] pg 138), Yalkut Yosef (Moadim pg 143). see also Halichot Olam 2: page 281. </ref>
===Cookies and Cakes===
===Cookies and Cakes===
# If one ate a [[Measurements#KeBaytzah|KeBaytzah]] of [[Pas Haba Bikisnin]] (cookies and cakes) or a cooked dish made out of the five grains (such as noodles) one must eat it in the [[Sukkah]] and the Ashkenazic minhag is to make a bracha of LeShev BaSukkah, but it's preferable to wait in the [[Sukkah]] for some time afterwards and have in mind when making the bracha that it should cover the eating and the sitting in the [[sukkah]] afterwards. <ref>Mishna Brurah 639:16, Maamar Mordechai 639:2, Natai Gavriel 49:1-3 </ref> Sephardim hold that even though one must eat it in a [[Sukkah]] (if one eats more than a [[Measurements#KeBaytzah|KeBaytzah]]) one doesn't make the bracha of LeShev BaSukkah unless one ate 162 grams of a [[mezonot]] food and it's preferable to eat 216 grams in order to make the bracha according to all opinions. <ref>Chazon Ovadyah ([[Sukkot]] pg 132-6), Yalkut Yosef (Moadim pg 142-3) </ref>
# If one ate a [[Measurements#KeBaytzah|KeBaytzah]] of [[Pas Haba Bikisnin]] (cookies and cakes) or a cooked dish made out of the five grains (such as noodles) one must eat it in the [[Sukkah]] and the Ashkenazic minhag is to make a bracha of LeShev BaSukkah, but it's preferable to wait in the [[Sukkah]] for some time afterwards and have in mind when making the bracha that it should cover the eating and the sitting in the [[sukkah]] afterwards. <ref>Mishna Brurah 639:16, Maamar Mordechai 639:2, Natai Gavriel 49:1-3 </ref> Sephardim hold that even though one must eat it in a [[Sukkah]] (if one eats more than a [[Measurements#KeBaytzah|KeBaytzah]]) one doesn't make the bracha of LeShev BaSukkah unless one ate 162 grams of a [[mezonot]] food and it's preferable to eat 216 grams in order to make the bracha according to all opinions. <ref>Chazon Ovadyah ([[Sukkot]] pg 132-6), Yalkut Yosef (Moadim pg 142-3) </ref>
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==Bracha of Leshev BeSukkah==
==Bracha of Leshev BeSukkah==
# Some say that It's proper to say the bracha of Leshev before making the [[HaMotzei]]. However, it's not an interruption if one does [[HaMotzei]] before the beracha of Leshev basukkah. On [[Shabbat]] and [[Yom Tov]], the Leshev is said in [[Kiddish]] before one drinks from the wine. <ref> S"A and Rama 643:3, Yalkut Yosef Moadim pg 145, Chazon Ovadyah ([[Sukkot]] pg 172).<br />
# Some say that It's proper to say the bracha of Leshev before making the [[HaMotzei]]. However, it's not an interruption if one does [[HaMotzei]] before the beracha of Leshev basukkah. On [[Shabbat]] and [[Yom Tov]], the Leshev is said in [[Kiddish]] before one drinks from the wine. <ref> Shulchan Aruch and Rama 643:3, Yalkut Yosef Moadim pg 145, Chazon Ovadyah ([[Sukkot]] pg 172).<br />
The Rosh (Sukkah 4:3) cites the practice of the Maharam Rotenberg to recite the bracha of leshev ba’sukkah prior to making a hamotzei on a meal he would eat in the sukkah. He explained that the Maharam held that one should recite a bracha for any use of the sukkah including sitting in there. Since one is technically obligated in the bracha prior to eating, one should recite that bracha first. However, the Rosh notes, the minhag is only to recite leshev ba’sukkah when one eats a meal. If so, one should first recite hamotzei to start the meal and then leshev ba’sukkah. The S”A 643:3 codifies the opinion of the Maharam but also mentions the common minhag. Chazon Ovadia (Sukkot p. 172) writes it is proper to follow the Maharam. Nitai Gavriel 45:3 advises following the minhag. [http://www.dailyhalacha.com/displayRead.asp?readID=2769 Rabbi Eli Mansour] writes that both practices are valid </ref>
The Rosh (Sukkah 4:3) cites the practice of the Maharam Rotenberg to recite the bracha of leshev ba’sukkah prior to making a hamotzei on a meal he would eat in the sukkah. He explained that the Maharam held that one should recite a bracha for any use of the sukkah including sitting in there. Since one is technically obligated in the bracha prior to eating, one should recite that bracha first. However, the Rosh notes, the minhag is only to recite leshev ba’sukkah when one eats a meal. If so, one should first recite hamotzei to start the meal and then leshev ba’sukkah. The S”A 643:3 codifies the opinion of the Maharam but also mentions the common minhag. Chazon Ovadia (Sukkot p. 172) writes it is proper to follow the Maharam. Nitai Gavriel 45:3 advises following the minhag. [http://www.dailyhalacha.com/displayRead.asp?readID=2769 Rabbi Eli Mansour] writes that both practices are valid </ref>
# One who eats while standing, can nevertheless recite the beracha of leshev besukkah. <ref> Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 175 </ref>
# One who eats while standing, can nevertheless recite the beracha of leshev besukkah. <ref> Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 175 </ref>
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==First Night of Sukkot==
==First Night of Sukkot==
# There is an obligation to eat a Kezayit of bread in the Sukkah on the first night of Sukkot.<ref>The Rabbis in the Mishna (Sukkah 27a) hold that there is an obligation to eat in the Sukkah on the first night and afterwards it is optional to eat in the Sukkah. The gemara explains that the reason for the Rabbis is that there is a gezerah shava between Sukkot and Pesach and just like there is an obligation to eat Matzah on the first night of Pesach, so too there is an obligation to eat bread on the first night of Sukkot. This is codified by the Rambam (Sukkah 6:7) and S"A 639:3.</ref> According to many rishonim, there is an obligation to eat a meal in the Sukkah each day and night of Yom Tov.<ref>The Gemara Brachot 49b states that on Yom Tov one would have to repeat Birkat HaMazon if one forgot to say Yaaleh VeYavo because there is an obligation to eat a meal. The rishonim point out that this seems to be at odds with the gemara Sukkah 27a which says that it is optional to have a meal on Sukkot other than on the first night.  
# There is an obligation to eat a Kezayit of bread in the Sukkah on the first night of Sukkot.<ref>The Rabbis in the Mishna (Sukkah 27a) hold that there is an obligation to eat in the Sukkah on the first night and afterwards it is optional to eat in the Sukkah. The gemara explains that the reason for the Rabbis is that there is a gezerah shava between Sukkot and Pesach and just like there is an obligation to eat Matzah on the first night of Pesach, so too there is an obligation to eat bread on the first night of Sukkot. This is codified by the Rambam (Sukkah 6:7) and Shulchan Aruch 639:3.</ref> According to many rishonim, there is an obligation to eat a meal in the Sukkah each day and night of Yom Tov.<ref>The Gemara Brachot 49b states that on Yom Tov one would have to repeat Birkat HaMazon if one forgot to say Yaaleh VeYavo because there is an obligation to eat a meal. The rishonim point out that this seems to be at odds with the gemara Sukkah 27a which says that it is optional to have a meal on Sukkot other than on the first night.  
* Some rishonim answer that there is an obligation to eat a meal each day and night of Yom Tov because of Yom Tov, but the obligation unique to the Sukkah is just the first night. If so, what's the difference between the obligation to eat a meal due to the fact that it is Yom Tov and the obligation to eat a because of the Sukkah? Rabbenu Yehuda (Tosfot Brachot 49b s.v. Iy) answers that if it rains and one has to eat inside, if the obligation is just because of Yom Tov one would fulfill one's obligation. However, if the obligation is because of the Sukkah one would have to eat in the Sukkah anyway after the rain stops. The Rosh (Brachot 7:23) quotes Rabbenu Yehuda with a slight discrepancy; he states that one should eat one's meal in the rain as opposed to waiting until the rain stops.  
* Some rishonim answer that there is an obligation to eat a meal each day and night of Yom Tov because of Yom Tov, but the obligation unique to the Sukkah is just the first night. If so, what's the difference between the obligation to eat a meal due to the fact that it is Yom Tov and the obligation to eat a because of the Sukkah? Rabbenu Yehuda (Tosfot Brachot 49b s.v. Iy) answers that if it rains and one has to eat inside, if the obligation is just because of Yom Tov one would fulfill one's obligation. However, if the obligation is because of the Sukkah one would have to eat in the Sukkah anyway after the rain stops. The Rosh (Brachot 7:23) quotes Rabbenu Yehuda with a slight discrepancy; he states that one should eat one's meal in the rain as opposed to waiting until the rain stops.  
* Some rishonim argue that there is no obligation to eat in the Sukkah if it rains outside and the first night is no different. Such is the opinion of the Rashba (responsa 4:78) and Raavad (cited by Kol Bo 87 and Beit Yosef 639:3). According to the Trumat HaDeshen (Pesakim n. 160), the Smag (Asin 43), and Or Zaruah 2:301 also agree. S”A 639:3-5 rules like the Rashba that one is not obligated to eat in the Sukkah besides the first night and one is not obligated to eat in the Sukkah on the first night if it rains. Chazon Ovadia (p. 100 and 122) rules like S”A in both instances.  
* Some rishonim argue that there is no obligation to eat in the Sukkah if it rains outside and the first night is no different. Such is the opinion of the Rashba (responsa 4:78) and Raavad (cited by Kol Bo 87 and Beit Yosef 639:3). According to the Trumat HaDeshen (Pesakim n. 160), the Smag (Asin 43), and Or Zaruah 2:301 also agree. S”A 639:3-5 rules like the Rashba that one is not obligated to eat in the Sukkah besides the first night and one is not obligated to eat in the Sukkah on the first night if it rains. Chazon Ovadia (p. 100 and 122) rules like S”A in both instances.  
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==Other activities in the Sukkah==
==Other activities in the Sukkah==
# [[Sleeping in the Sukkah]] (click the link)
# [[Sleeping in the Sukkah]] (click the link)
# One should live in one's [[Sukkah]] like one lives in one's house the rest of the year. Therefore, one should eat, drink, sleep, hang out, speak to one's friend, and learn in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>S"A 639:1 writes that one should live in one's [[Sukkah]] like one lives in one's house the rest of the year which includes eating, drinking, and sleeping. Mishna Brurah 639:2 adds speaking to one's friend and BeYitzchak Yikare 639:1 adds hanging out. Regarding speaking with friends, Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 147 quotes those who disagree and say that one should only speak words of torah in the [[sukkah]]. See also Sh"t Minchat Shlomo 2:58. Minhagei Chatam Sofer 8:12 it is tells that that the Chatam Sofer only left the sukka once each day for [[Shacharit]]. He even said [[mincha]] and [[maariv]] in the [[sukkah]]. Regarding learning in the [[Sukkah]] see further. </ref>
# One should live in one's [[Sukkah]] like one lives in one's house the rest of the year. Therefore, one should eat, drink, sleep, hang out, speak to one's friend, and learn in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Shulchan Aruch 639:1 writes that one should live in one's [[Sukkah]] like one lives in one's house the rest of the year which includes eating, drinking, and sleeping. Mishna Brurah 639:2 adds speaking to one's friend and BeYitzchak Yikare 639:1 adds hanging out. Regarding speaking with friends, Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 147 quotes those who disagree and say that one should only speak words of torah in the [[sukkah]]. See also Sh"t Minchat Shlomo 2:58. Minhagei Chatam Sofer 8:12 it is tells that that the Chatam Sofer only left the sukka once each day for [[Shacharit]]. He even said [[mincha]] and [[maariv]] in the [[sukkah]]. Regarding learning in the [[Sukkah]] see further. </ref>
# One should even bring one's nice utensils into the [[Sukkah]] just like uses them during the year in the house, however, one should not bring one's [[cooking]] pots into the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>S"A 639:1 writes that one should bring one's nice untensils into the [[Sukkah]], however, the [[cooking]] pots shouldn't brought in the [[Sukkah]]. The Rama adds that one may leave the [[cooking]] pots in the [[Sukkah]] during the meal but not after the meal, however, the Mishna Brurah 639:5 writes that the minhag is to be strict not to even bring [[cooking]] pots in the [[Sukkah]] during the meal. </ref>
# One should even bring one's nice utensils into the [[Sukkah]] just like uses them during the year in the house, however, one should not bring one's [[cooking]] pots into the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Shulchan Aruch 639:1 writes that one should bring one's nice untensils into the [[Sukkah]], however, the [[cooking]] pots shouldn't brought in the [[Sukkah]]. The Rama adds that one may leave the [[cooking]] pots in the [[Sukkah]] during the meal but not after the meal, however, the Mishna Brurah 639:5 writes that the minhag is to be strict not to even bring [[cooking]] pots in the [[Sukkah]] during the meal. </ref>
# One should not do any degrading activity in the [[Sukkah]]. Therefore one should not clean the dishes in the [[Sukkah]], however, one may clean the cups. <ref>Rama 639:1, Mishna Brurah 639:9. However, the Ben Ish Chai Haazinu Halacha 9 forbids even cleaning cups except if they are small cups like coffee cups. </ref>
# One should not do any degrading activity in the [[Sukkah]]. Therefore one should not clean the dishes in the [[Sukkah]], however, one may clean the cups. <ref>Rama 639:1, Mishna Brurah 639:9. However, the Ben Ish Chai Haazinu Halacha 9 forbids even cleaning cups except if they are small cups like coffee cups. </ref>
# One may not go to the bathroom in the [[Sukkah]] even if one goes in a pot. <ref> Chayei Adam 147:2, Kitzur S"A 135:2, Aruch Hashulchan 639:4. Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 131 is mekil for someone who is old or sick and it is too difficult for him to leave the sukka to go in a pot, just he warns that he should make sure to cover the pot properly. </ref>
# One may not go to the bathroom in the [[Sukkah]] even if one goes in a pot. <ref> Chayei Adam 147:2, Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 135:2, Aruch Hashulchan 639:4. Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 131 is mekil for someone who is old or sick and it is too difficult for him to leave the sukka to go in a pot, just he warns that he should make sure to cover the pot properly. </ref>
# One shouldn't change a baby's diaper in the [[sukkah]]. <ref> Yalkut Yosef moadim pg. 142, Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 129.  </ref>
# One shouldn't change a baby's diaper in the [[sukkah]]. <ref> Yalkut Yosef moadim pg. 142, Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 129.  </ref>
# It is permissible to have marital relations in the [[sukkah]]. <ref> Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 130 </ref>  
# It is permissible to have marital relations in the [[sukkah]]. <ref> Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 130 </ref>  
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==Learning in the Sukkah==
==Learning in the Sukkah==
# One should learn in the [[Sukkah]] unless one isn't unable to concentrate in which case one should learn inside.<ref>S"A 639:4. Nitei Gavriel 58:1 quotes the Yarot Dvash (Dorosh 6 s.v. VeZehu) who explains that one who sits in the [[sukkah]] with pure intent, learns, and enjoys the holiday merits a special level of divine presence.</ref>
# One should learn in the [[Sukkah]] unless one isn't unable to concentrate in which case one should learn inside.<ref>Shulchan Aruch 639:4. Nitei Gavriel 58:1 quotes the Yarot Dvash (Dorosh 6 s.v. VeZehu) who explains that one who sits in the [[sukkah]] with pure intent, learns, and enjoys the holiday merits a special level of divine presence.</ref>
# If the cold or heat (if one doesn't have air conditioning in the [[Sukkah]]) bothers oneself and one can't concentrate to learn one may learn inside. <ref>Mishna Brurah 639:29 writes that if it's too cold for oneself in the [[sukkah]] and one can't concentrate one may learn inside. Natai Gavriel 48:7 extends this where it's too hot and one doesn't have air conditioning in the [[sukkah]]. </ref>
# If the cold or heat (if one doesn't have air conditioning in the [[Sukkah]]) bothers oneself and one can't concentrate to learn one may learn inside. <ref>Mishna Brurah 639:29 writes that if it's too cold for oneself in the [[sukkah]] and one can't concentrate one may learn inside. Natai Gavriel 48:7 extends this where it's too hot and one doesn't have air conditioning in the [[sukkah]]. </ref>
# If it's a pain to bring all the Seforim into the [[Sukkah]] many times (as one needs the space to eat or sleep) then one doesn't have to learn in the [[Sukkah]], however, if one can leave all the Seforim in the [[Sukkah]] for the entire holiday one must do that. <ref>Mishna Brurah 639:29, Natai Gavriel 58:3. see also Kaf Hachaim 639:62 Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 127 and Yalkut Yosef Moadim pg. 141 </ref>
# If it's a pain to bring all the Seforim into the [[Sukkah]] many times (as one needs the space to eat or sleep) then one doesn't have to learn in the [[Sukkah]], however, if one can leave all the Seforim in the [[Sukkah]] for the entire holiday one must do that. <ref>Mishna Brurah 639:29, Natai Gavriel 58:3. see also Kaf Hachaim 639:62 Chazon Ovadia [[Sukkot]] pg. 127 and Yalkut Yosef Moadim pg. 141 </ref>
# One who usually learns in a Bet Midrash doesn't have to learn in a [[Sukkah]]. <ref>S"A HaRav 639:4, Kaf HaChaim 639:63, Natai Gavriel 58:6 </ref>
# One who usually learns in a Bet Midrash doesn't have to learn in a [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Shulchan Aruch HaRav 639:4, Kaf HaChaim 639:63, Natai Gavriel 58:6 </ref>
# One should pray in a shul and not in one's [[Sukkah]] even if one can get a [[minyan]] in the [[Sukkah]]. If there's no shul in one's city if one is able to concentrate in the [[Sukkah]] one should pray in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>S"A 639:4 writes that if one wants one may pray in the [[Sukkah]]. The Mishna Brurah 639:30 explains that in the place where one  has greater kavanah (concentration) one should pray unless there is a shul in the city in which case one should go there (because during the rest of the year one would leave one's house to go to the shul. Pri Megadim (M"Z 639:14), Kaf HaChaim 639:67, and Nitei Gavriel 58:8 add that one should pray in the established shul even if one can get a [[minyan]] in the [[Sukkah]]. </ref>
# One should pray in a shul and not in one's [[Sukkah]] even if one can get a [[minyan]] in the [[Sukkah]]. If there's no shul in one's city if one is able to concentrate in the [[Sukkah]] one should pray in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Shulchan Aruch 639:4 writes that if one wants one may pray in the [[Sukkah]]. The Mishna Brurah 639:30 explains that in the place where one  has greater kavanah (concentration) one should pray unless there is a shul in the city in which case one should go there (because during the rest of the year one would leave one's house to go to the shul. Pri Megadim (M"Z 639:14), Kaf HaChaim 639:67, and Nitei Gavriel 58:8 add that one should pray in the established shul even if one can get a [[minyan]] in the [[Sukkah]]. </ref>
# If one usually does [[Havdalah]] at home during [[Sukkot]] one should do it in the [[Sukkah]]. However, those who listen to [[Havdalah]] in the shul can do so also on [[Sukkot]]. <ref>Mishna Brurah 639:30, Shaar HaTziyun 639:57, Kaf HaChaim 639:66. </ref> If one does it in the succah there is a discussion if you should recite the beracha. <ref> Shevet ha-Levi 6:42 says no beracha of leshev basuccah is recited because it isn't a keviat seuda, see above. However, Chazon Ish quoted in Rivevos Efrayim 1:428 and 3:424 rules that since it is wine for [[havdala]] it elevates the level of drinking to keviat seuda, and therefore would require the beracha. Rav Elyashiv in Succas Chayim page 202 rules that this applies only to wine and not to grape juice. The steipler in Orchos Rabbeinu 2: page 228 as well as Shemirat [[Shabbat]] Kehilchita 58:22 recommend eating bread immediately after [[havdala]] to avoid any doubts, and recite leseh basuccah Shemirat [[Shabbat]] kihilchita recommends reciting the leshev basuccah before the boreh pri hagefen. Sh"t Minchat Yitzchak 9:163 says that one should have in mind when eating seudat shlishit to have in mind specifically, that the leshev basukkah recited then will not cover [[havdala]], then when reciting [[havdala]] say the beracha and immediately start eating melaveh malka. </ref>   
# If one usually does [[Havdalah]] at home during [[Sukkot]] one should do it in the [[Sukkah]]. However, those who listen to [[Havdalah]] in the shul can do so also on [[Sukkot]]. <ref>Mishna Brurah 639:30, Shaar HaTziyun 639:57, Kaf HaChaim 639:66. </ref> If one does it in the succah there is a discussion if you should recite the beracha. <ref> Shevet ha-Levi 6:42 says no beracha of leshev basuccah is recited because it isn't a keviat seuda, see above. However, Chazon Ish quoted in Rivevos Efrayim 1:428 and 3:424 rules that since it is wine for [[havdala]] it elevates the level of drinking to keviat seuda, and therefore would require the beracha. Rav Elyashiv in Succas Chayim page 202 rules that this applies only to wine and not to grape juice. The steipler in Orchos Rabbeinu 2: page 228 as well as Shemirat [[Shabbat]] Kehilchita 58:22 recommend eating bread immediately after [[havdala]] to avoid any doubts, and recite leseh basuccah Shemirat [[Shabbat]] kihilchita recommends reciting the leshev basuccah before the boreh pri hagefen. Sh"t Minchat Yitzchak 9:163 says that one should have in mind when eating seudat shlishit to have in mind specifically, that the leshev basukkah recited then will not cover [[havdala]], then when reciting [[havdala]] say the beracha and immediately start eating melaveh malka. </ref>   
# A community committee meeting can take place as usual and doesn't have to be in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Nitei Gavriel 58:10 who explains that the [[Sukkah]] is supposed to replace one's home but anyway for the meeting one always leaves one's home to go another place and also that they wouldn't be able to concentrate as well in the [[Sukkah]]. </ref>
# A community committee meeting can take place as usual and doesn't have to be in the [[Sukkah]]. <ref>Nitei Gavriel 58:10 who explains that the [[Sukkah]] is supposed to replace one's home but anyway for the meeting one always leaves one's home to go another place and also that they wouldn't be able to concentrate as well in the [[Sukkah]]. </ref>