May 11, 2024; 3 Iyar, 5784 Sponsored anonymously L’Ilui Nishmas Sara Eidel Bas Mordechai
QUESTION: I work in a catering hall and I am often told by the caterer to announce that the Chosson and Kallah have requested that everyone should silence their cell phones during the Chuppah. However, I know this to be untrue and that the caterer just wants me to say this as he believes it is the most effective way to get people to listen. Even though I know it is a lie, may I make the announcement, nonetheless?
ANSWER: I agree with your assertion that generally, Chossons and Kallahs do not make this request. Since the lie does not regard any monetary issues, Rav Elyashiv ZT”L would say that it is a Rabbinic prohibition (as stated in the Sheker section of Piskei HaGrish Choshain Mishpat)...