Q. Hello Rav, During the repetition of the Amidah, its forbidden to talk. I’m wondering what would the Halacha be if during the Chazara repetition I leave the shul to use the washroom, could I say Asher Yatzar outside the shul while the repetition is going on. Similarly, could I speak to someone (when there is a need) in the hall outside the shul even though if I was in the shul I could not?
Thank you
A. Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that one should recite Asher Yatzar before he returns to the shul.
On question 1541 regarding collecting tzeddaka during the repetition of the Amida we wrote: “Shulchan Aruch (O.H. 124: 4, 7) asserts that when the shaliach tzibur repeats the amida the congregants should be silent, listening to the recitation and answer omein. He adds that if one interrupts with gratuitous talk, he is a sinner, his sin is to great to carry and we scold him.
The unusual severity and sternness of this remark is explained by Poskim (see Piskei Teshuvos ibid.) that it is due to causing that the tefilos of the many should not be accepted, since his interruption disturbs the intention and kavana of the congregation.”
However, in need one may speak outside the shul.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised by Horav Shlomo Miller and Horav Aharon Miller Shlit’a