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Siman 185 – Birkas Hamazon – some details

בChelek 2

  1. Why is there no letter  ף  in the entire bentching? I found written that it’s because whoever blesses Birkas Hamazon with concentration, the powers of  אף  and  קצף  do not have any control over him, and his sustenance will be found with expanse and honor all of his days. (BaH 1)
  2. Bentching can be recited in any language that you understand. To make it a “choice” mitzvah, bentch in Lashon  Hakodesh. (ShA – MB )
  3. How Loud? Just thinking the words – not yotzay. Enunciating without hearing yourself – yotzay b’dieved. Loud enough to hear yourself – l’chatchila. Out loud – extra good for kavana and as not to forget the additions for Shabbos and Rosh Chodesh. (ShA – MB , )
  4. If for some reason you are unable to speak, at least think the words of Birkas Hamazon. However, if later the oness goes away before digestion begins, do not rely upon your “thinking– bentching” – bentch now properly. (MB )
  5. If you are intoxicated after the meal, you are still allowed to bentch. L’chatchila you should bentch before the point that you aren’t fit to speak in front of a king. (ShA – MB )