May One Answer Amen to a Blessing Recited by One Who Desecrates Shabbat?

RAM Q&A is a regular WireNews column addressing questions on Torah, ethics, faith, culture, and the practical challenges of modern life.

Question: May one answer Amen to a blessing recited by one who desecrates Shabbat?

RAM: When a blessing is recited by one who publicly desecrates שבת (Shabbat – the Sabbath) and stands outside the framework of תורה (Torah – Divine instruction), the blessing itself is not regarded as possessing the sanctity required to obligate a response of Amen.

Hagaon Harav Moshe Feinstein זצ״ל, in Iggerot Moshe (Orach Chaim 2:50), addresses this directly in the context of those who have removed themselves from the authority of Torah and its commandments, such as Reform or Conservative “rabbis.” He rules that one may not answer Amen to their blessings. His reasoning is that for such individuals, the formulation of blessings does not carry the halachic weight of עבודה (avodah – Divine service), but is treated as ordinary speech, lacking the necessary intent and submission to the command of G-D.

A blessing requires not only the correct words, but the acceptance of עול מלכות שמים (ol malchut shamayim – the yoke of the Kingdom of Heaven). Where that foundation is absent, the utterance does not rise to the level of a valid ברכה (berachah – blessing), and therefore does not warrant the response of Amen.

Accordingly, one should refrain from answering Amen to such a blessing.

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RAM Q&A is a regular WireNews column addressing questions on Torah, ethics, faith, culture, and the practical challenges of modern life. Each response is grounded in Jewish thought, clarity of reasoning, and respect for first principles, offering considered answers rather than opinion or sentiment. To ask RAM a question email him at rav@rambenzeev.com.