Eating in the Synagogue
Question
Answer
It is forbidden to eat in the synagogue, but there are several cases where it is permitted to eat and drink in the synagogue.
1. Torah scholars or anyone who studies regularly in the synagogue, if they need to leave to eat and it will interrupt their learning, are permitted to eat in the synagogue.
2. In a Beit Midrash, where prayers are not held, Ashkenazim are permitted to eat even if not eating will not interrupt their learning.
3. It is also permitted to eat in the synagogue for the synagogue's needs, such as when holding a dinner or a fundraising meeting for the synagogue.
4. A mitzvah meal that does not involve frivolity and drunkenness. If someone is lenient to hold a siyum meal in the synagogue when there is no other place, they are not stopped.
5. If it was stipulated in advance when the synagogue was built that it would not have the sanctity of a synagogue, it is permitted to eat inside it. (However, this condition results in the loss of the advantage of praying in a synagogue)