Trimming Nails on Purim Erev Shabbos

Ask the Rov: May I cut my nails on Purim that is erev Shabbos?

By Rabbi Chaim Hillel Raskin – Rov of Anash in Petach Tikvah

Shulchan Aruch rules that the minhag is not to do work on Purim except what is for the needs of Purim, and one who does won’t see blessing from that work.¹ One should not wash clothing,² take a haircut, or do work on one’s home on Purim.

Avoiding work allows a person to spend the day immersed in the joyous, festive mood of Purim. Work in this context is an activity that demands attention and concentration. Minor tasks that don’t take much concentration—e.g., writing a list—are permitted (unlike on Chol Hamoed), though one should be conscious not to get distracted from the day’s simcha.³ Machine laundry doesn’t take such effort and is permitted by some, provided that one does not become too involved.

For this reason, work may be done by a non-Jew as it doesn’t disturb the Jew’s simcha (unlike on Chol Hamoed).⁴

Poskim debate whether work must be avoided on Purim night as well.⁵ Although many write that one should be machmir,⁶ the custom is to be lenient after the Megillah reading.⁷

A melacha of simcha is permitted because we want people to be joyful on Purim.⁸ Therefore, unlike Chol Hamoed, sales are allowed even in a store since this brings one joy.⁹ Yet, a yerei shomayim should avoid or minimize engaging in sales on Purim, unless it’s a food store, which is necessary for Purim needs.¹⁰

Finalizing an acquisition (i.e., a closing) is allowed, yet one should ensure it’s a short procedure and doesn’t take away much time from rejoicing.¹¹ Work to prevent a loss (davar ha’aved) is permitted.¹²

A melacha for the sake of a mitzvah is permitted. Cutting nails is best avoided except when Purim falls on erev Shabbos.¹³

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From The Weekly Farbrengen by Merkaz Anash