#91: Kiddush for Shabbat Day (Part 3)

Rabbi Eli Ozarowski
  1. Although it is preferable to recite Kiddush on grape juice or wine, on Shabbat day one is allowed to use "chamar medinah" (lit. "wine of the country") as well (Shulchan Aruch 271:9). "Chamar medinah" is usually defined as an important drink that would be served in honor of a prominent individual. Some Ashkenazi poskim hold that one may use chamar medinah if one prefers it, even if wine is available (Mishnah Berurah 271:30). Other Ashkenazi poskim, as well as Sephardic poskim, maintain that one should ideally not use chamar medinah if wine or grape juice is available (Yabia Omer 3, O.C. 19).
  2. Chamar medinah includes alcoholic drinks, such as brandy, beer, and whiskey. Many poskim hold that coffee, tea, and fruit drinks are also included. Some also allow soda and milk, though many disagree. Seltzer and water may not be used according to all opinions (Shemirat Shabbat K'hilchatah 60:3-8; Piskei Teshuvot 296:9; The Radiance of Shabbos, p.74).

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Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for the hostages to be released safely to their families and may everlasting peace come to Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.