Daily Mitzvah

The 19th mitzvah is that we are commanded to thank G‑d (exalted be He) after each time we eat.1

The source of this commandment is G‑d's statement,2 "When you have eaten and are satiated, You shall bless G‑d your L‑rd."

The Tosefta3 says, "Reciting the blessing after eating is a mitzvah of the Torah, as the verse says, 'When you have eaten and are satiated, you shall bless G‑d your L‑rd.' "

The details of this mitzvah are explained in many places in the tractate Berachos.4

Rabbi Berel Bell is a well-known educator, author and lecturer. He and his family reside in Montreal, Canada.

From "Sefer Hamitzvot in English," published by Sichos in English.

Footnotes

1.

This speaks primarily of bread made from the five grains. After eating other types of food, one is required to recite a blessing by Rabbinic ordinance.

2.

Deut. 8:10.

3.

Berachos, beginning of Chapter 6.

4.

The Rambam usually explains whether or not a particular mitzvah is obligatory on women. However, in Hilchos Berachos, Chapter 5, Halacha 1, he rules that it is halachically doubtful whether they are obligated by Torah or Rabbinic law.