Question:
I am in the process of becoming more observant and therefore have not fully begun to adopt the laws of Kashrut. Therefore, at times I eat something non-kosher and then want to learn or daven. Must I wait after eating something non kosher to do so? Must I wash out my mouth, or use mint gum to get out the remaining taste? Would it matter if the remaining taste comes from something like coffee (which is generally considered by more poskim to be kosher from anywhere)?
This service is incredible, and it is such a gift to Klal Yisroel and it has helped me in my path to becoming more observant, thank you
Answer:
Thank you for your question.
It is beautiful to see that you have the sensitivity to realize that it is improper to daven or learn when one’s mouth has trief (non-kosher) taste inside it. From a halachic aspect, this topic isn’t really discussed because essentially there is no such scenario, as we don’t eat non-kosher, and if one needs to because of illness, it is permitted. While I can’t condone eating non-kosher, in retrospect, if it was done, it would be a correct idea to wash your mouth out. Regarding coffee, non-flavored, caffeinated coffee does not need to have kosher supervision. The only issue with it would be the vessels or machinery that it was cooked in.
Hashem should help you that you should keep on growing, reach the level that you only eat kosher, and grow to greater heights on a personal and spiritual level.
