Halacha: What Blessing is Said Over Grapes?
Want to know the blessings for grapes – both the initial and concluding blessings? All the information is available, including an explanation of the quantity of consumption.
- הידברות
- פורסם ח' חשון התשע"ז
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The blessing for grapes is 'Ha'etz' (initial blessing)
At the end of eating, the blessing is 'Al Ha'etz' (concluding blessing)
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Consumption quantity to be obligated in a concluding blessing (from 'Daily Halacha' based on the rulings of Maran Rabbi Ovadia Yosef ZT"L):
For anything a person eats, they must say an "initial blessing" such as "Shehakol" or "Ha'etz". Even if only a small amount of that food is eaten, a blessing is necessary, as long as the intent is to eat. (However, if one is only tasting to adjust seasoning, no blessing is required). Therefore, someone chewing flavored gum, even if not swallowing much, must bless for enjoying its taste. Similarly, anyone drinking anything should bless even if only consuming a small sip.
However, this is specifically regarding the initial blessing; a concluding blessing is only said when an "important consumption" has occurred. An "important consumption" equates to a volume "k'zayit", twenty-seven grams, and for drinking, the measure is "revi'it", which is eighty-one grams.
Additionally, eating or drinking must occur within a timeframe such that the consumption is connected. For example, if someone eats an amount equal to "k'zayit" of bread over an entire day, bit by bit, they cannot bless afterward. The consumption of "k'zayit" must occur within the "achilat pras" timeframe. There is disagreement among halachic authorities regarding this timeframe, with some saying it is five minutes and others about seven and a half minutes (there are other views). Therefore, it is advisable to always consume the volume of a k'zayit (especially during Shabbat meals) within four and a half minutes to fulfill all opinions.
Regarding a concluding blessing for drinks, one must consume a revi'it of the liquid (eighty-one grams) in one go. If there is a pause between sips, no concluding blessing is made. Therefore, drinking soup with a spoon does not warrant a concluding blessing as the amount equivalent to a revi'it was not consumed in one instance. Similarly, coffee or tea that is hot does not receive a concluding blessing, as it cannot be drunk in one gulp.
