עברית
Halachot and Customs
Is there a prohibition against growing long fingernails?
Question
Hello esteemed Rabbi, I heard there is some prohibition against lengthening fingernails on the hands due to something from Kabbalah, that impurities cling to the nails. Is this correct? Is there really an issue with this? Is it halacha or a custom? Thank you very much.
Answer
Dear Sir,
There is no prohibition against growing long fingernails; however, it is advisable to avoid it for two reasons:
1. As brought by the Mishnah Berurah (Orach Chaim 161:63) from the Elya Rabbah in the name of the Sefer Chassidim (Siman 58), it is appropriate for a person not to grow their nails, because sometimes dirt gets under the nails, and in certain cases, this is considered a barrier in the washing of hands.
2. According to Kabbalah - as noted by the Kaf HaChaim (there 161:74) in the name of the Etz Chaim (Sha'ar 10, Chapter 2), anything that extends from the nail beyond the flesh should be cut, because that is where the impurities cling and draw sustenance from. The Kaf HaChaim writes that only if one is compelled, such as a slaughterer or a circumciser who needs to leave a nail for checking a knife or for the act of circumcision, is it permissible; however, they must be very careful to ensure that nothing is stuck to them before washing their hands. You may refer there.
Blessings,
Hillel Meirs
