עברית
Halachot and Customs
Why is it mandatory to break bread on two loaves on Shabbat?
Question
Shalom, honored Rabbi, I wanted to ask why it is necessary to bless over 2 loaves of bread for Shabbat. And is it required to have 2 whole loaves on both Friday and Shabbat? Because in our home, the loaves ultimately get thrown away after Shabbat, and I do not wish to buy loaves unnecessarily. Thank you in advance.
Answer
Shalom,
1. It is mandatory to break bread on two loaves on Shabbat, in remembrance of the descent of the manna on Friday, where double portions were provided for Shabbat (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 244:1, and Mishnah Berurah 1).
2. It is obligatory to break bread on two loaves at each of the Shabbat meals, both at night and during the day (Shulchan Aruch there, and Siman 477:1, and Siman 671:4, and Rama there). The loaves must be whole (Rama, Siman 244).
It is advisable to purchase smaller loaves so that you will not need to throw them away afterwards.
With blessings,
Hillel Meirs
