[Avodah] Q. Can one enter a non-kosher establishment to buy a can of soda or use the bathroom?

[Professor L. Levine via Avodah]

>From today's OU Halacha Yomis


Q. Can one enter a non-kosher establishment to buy a can of soda or use the bathroom?


A. Igros Moshe (OC II:40) was asked whether one may enter a non-kosher restaurant to purchase something kosher. He writes that this would be a violation of both maris ayin (possibly causing those who witness the action to become more lax in their Torah observance) and chashad (giving the appearance of impropriety). However, he rules that if one is extremely uncomfortable and there is no other available location to buy food (or use the bathroom) it is permissible to enter the store. He explains (based on the Gemara Kesubos 60a) that the prohibition is waived in situations of financial loss or extreme discomfort. Nonetheless, every effort should be made to minimize the maris ayin if possible. (Editor's note: For example, one should enter when there are no people standing outside the facility. Alternatively, it would be better to wear a baseball cap rather than a yarmulke.) If there is no choice and there are Jews outside the store, Rav Moshe Feinstein, zt"l writes that one should explain to the bystanders that he is entering because of the need to purchase kosher food.


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