zev@hou2a.UUCP (Z.FARKAS) (04/04/84)
Response to Ephrayim J. Naiman, pegasus!naiman. Washing at work can be a problem. Where I am, we are fortunate enough to have a lab sink down the aisle. However, that does not solve the problem of what to do when someone (like your boss) wants to start a converstion right after you have washed. Possible solutions: a: Get really good at sign language. Basic symbols for "wait one second" and "yes I understand" are particularly important. Note that there may be a problem of "hefsek" (delay or distraction) with this, although it seems quite popular. I do it myself, mostly in communicating with jews ("get me a knife, etc.). Apparently, a nonsense syllable ("Nu" is popular) may also be used. Amazing how much meaning people can insert into their tone of voice. b: Dash off to eat a bite, then give a quick explanation of what just happened. c: Take a bit of bread with you when you go to wash. Remember to have in mind where you will be eating. Any other suggestions will be appreciated. chag kasher v'sameach zev farkas hou2a!zev 201 949 3821
martillo@ihuxu.UUCP (Yehoyaqim Shemtob Martillo) (04/11/84)
There is a misunderstanding that speaking necessarily constitutes a hefseq between natilath yadaim and hamoci. This is not necessarily true. If the speaking truly relates to the mitswah, it is not a hefseq. Sefardim say a short prayer between natilath yadaim and hamoci. Asking for a knife or salt in any language is not a hefseq. However in German "nu" is a vulgarism. Likewise in Russian. Most oriental and Sefardic Jews consider all of Yiddish a vulgarism. Grunting nu between the natilat yadaim and hamotzi is behavior to be avoided in many Jewish environments. I always think of a moose mating call when I hear it and then my concentration for the blessing is broken.