S.A.L.T. - Monday

Yesterday we noted the value in minimizing the amount of chametz left in the home for Shabbat Erev Pesach, given the requirement of disposing of all chametz by midmorning on Shabbat. One possible method of accomplishing this involves using a matza for the uneaten "loaf" for "lechem mishneh" at the Shabbat meals. Since one need not eat both breads used for "lechem mishneh," one could, it would seem, use a matza for the second bread.

However, this practice assumes that one may use for "lechem mishneh" a bread not readily available for consumption. Is this presumption halakhically valid?

We may perhaps consider this issue in light of the discussion among the authorities concerning frozen challot. Rav Shmuel Wosner, a prominent, contemporary posek in Bnei-Brak, rules stringently in this regard in light of the view among the Rishonim (Rashba) and Acharonim (Maharshal, Shela, Vilna Gaon) that one must break both loaves of bread at the Shabbat meal. Although most people do not adopt this position, Rav Wosner argues that at very least both loaves must be edible (Shut Shevet Halevi 6:31). Seemingly, the same would apply to matza on Shabbat Erev Pesach; since one cannot eat it at this point, it is disqualified for use. Other authorities, however, allow the use of frozen challot for "lechem mishneh."  Rav Yitzchak Weiss (Minchat Yitzchak 9:42) and many others argue that since in due time the frozen roll will become edible, we may already consider it a valid loaf of bread for this purpose. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Shemirat Shabbat Ke-hilkhata, chap. 55, note 39) issued a ruling falling in between these two positions: if one plans to extend his meal for a period of time in which the bread can defrost, he may use it for "lechem mishneh."

At first glance, however, it would appear that even these lenient positions will not help us permit the use of a matza as "lechem mishneh" on Shabbat Erev Pesach. These authorities build their leniency on the future defrosting of the frozen challa. Clearly, no such parallel exists regarding matza on Shabbat Erev Pesach; it remains "off-limits" until late Friday night, at the seder!

Nevertheless, as we will iy"H see tomorrow, several prominent poskim have allowed the use of matza for "lechem mishneh" on Shabbat Erev Pesach.

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