bread and bagels

Asked by odan · February 11, 2003 · Kashrut

Question

Hi Rabbi -- I searched through the archives...I wasn't sure about the conclusion so I just want to double check... Can I walk into a regular bagel store somewhere and eat there bagels?? Why yes or no? It seems that it is Pat Akum and should be ok... Can I walk into a regular bakery and buy any type of bread I want (that doesn't have cheese in it, which can be found out easily by asking behind the counter)...Why yes or no? And if no, what types of breads would be ok and which would be a problem. In terms of riding a prepaid bus or subway on shabbat -- is it only allowed during an emergency in the same way one can violate many rules of shabbat in an emergency, or is it the type of thing that technically it would be ok but it isn't done, so we only do it during an emergency... Lastly (sorry for the length of this post) This is a bit of a sticky issue -- I follow you 100 percent -- others who eat by me do not and to be frank, ignorantly believe that things I eat are flat out not kosher. When cooking/making a meal for these people, do I have an obligation to, or at least should I, cook in a manner that would be acceptable to them? (no chance of convincing them in the validity of your way of thinking) Thanks Rabbi -- oh, and NICE redesign of the site!!

Answer

Answered by Aaron Abadi

If you can be sure the ingredients are OK, you don't have to worry about Pat Akum (non-Jewish baked bread) when buying from a store or a bakery. The only time it is a problem is when you eat home baked bread at a neighbor or something. bagels and most basic breads are almost always fine. When you're not sure, ask. It is Assur Miderabanan (prohibitted by our Rabbis) Don't deceive them, but usually when eating at your home, they'll let you cook the way you like. AA