286. Washing Hands (2)

There is another hand-washing which is more obligatory. It is called “Mayim acharonim” and is compulsory. Even nowadays where sedomite salt (which was the reason for this obligation) is not found, there is nevertheless an obligation to listen to the words of Chazal. There are people who disrespect this commandment and only wash their hands when there are other people watching but not when alone and this is a sin. A man who fears Hashem should always have a vessel to pour the water and a vessel to receive the water wherever he is, as one must use a vessel to pour Mayim Acharonim. By doing this he will be saved from all bad.