Jewish Law
Daily Halacha: Music, Toys, and Shabbat Rules Made Simple
A clear guide to using whistles, singing, and baby rattles on Shabbat, based on Rabbi Ovadia Yosef’s rulings
Is it allowed to whistle with a whistle on Shabbat?
It is forbidden to make sounds using a musical instrument on Shabbat. This is because the Sages were concerned that someone might come to fix the instrument, which is not allowed on Shabbat.
However, singing with your voice is completely permitted and not only that, it's a mitzvah (a positive commandment or good deed) to sing songs and praises to Hashem in honor of Shabbat.
(Based on Chazon Ovadia)
Whistling with your mouth on Shabbat is also permitted, even if it’s tuneful. But using a whistle or noisemaker is not allowed.
(Based on Chazon Ovadia)
Is it allowed to give a baby a rattle?
Yes, it is allowed to give a baby a toy that makes noise, such as a rattle, on Shabbat. This does not involve any issue of muktzeh (items that are set aside and not to be handled on Shabbat) or the prohibition of creating sound.
(Based on Chazon Ovadia)
Ach Tov VaChesed – Daily Halacha
