Q. We have a group that plans to spend next Pesach in Yerushalaim. They are also planning to take a tour of three days in Egypt while visiting many relevant places before arriving for Pesach in Yerushalaim. What is Horav Miller's opinion. Thanks you.
A. Although Poskim disagree regarding if it is permitted to settle in Egypt in our contemporary days, there seems to be some agreement that is no problem with just traveling to Egypt for a visit. (See Talmud Yerushalmi, Sanhedrin, end of the Ch. 10; Radvaz, Commentary on Rambam, Kings, 5, 7, 8; Heichal Yitzchok E.H. 1: 12; Yehave Daas 3: 81 and others).
Many great Tzadikim and leaders have also visited Egypt. (See Even Sapir 20: 1.2 and others).
In your particular case, a caveat should be mentioned since the days before Pesach are singled out for the essential preparation towards this most important Yom Tov.
Therefore, if the purpose of this 'Tour' is to visit the places that carry historical and religious meaning, and is a part of a Torah teaching or inspired Kiruv activity, it would be welcomed. Otherwise, it should be avoided.
Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is similar.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Dovid Pam, Horav Aharon Miller and Horav Chanoch Ehrentreu Shlit'a
Important Numbers
