Kitzur Yomi #69 | Siman 8, Seif 4 | Can You Drink Coffee Before Shacharis?

May you drink water, coffee, or tea before Shacharis? And what happens on Shabbos or Yom Tov when there is also an obligation to make Kiddush?In this episode of Kitzur Yomi, the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch teaches that water, coffee, or tea without sugar or milk may be consumed before davening, even after daybreak. These drinks are not considered an act of personal indulgence.The Kitzur further explains that this is permitted even on Shabbos and Yom Tov without first making Kiddush. The obligation of Kiddush applies in connection with a meal. Since one may not eat a meal before Shacharis, the obligation to recite Kiddush has not yet begun.Water may be drunk before Shacharis.Coffee or tea without sugar or milk may also be consumed.According to the text, there was an accepted custom of holding a piece of sugar in one's mouth while drinking tea.These beverages are permitted because drinking them is not considered egotistic indulgence.The same rule applies on Shabbos and Yom Tov.You do not need to make Kiddush before drinking them prior to Shacharis.The obligation of Kiddush begins in connection with the meal, which cannot be eaten before Shacharis.This se'if helps define the distinction introduced in the previous halachos: the concern before davening isn't simply consuming anything at all, but putting personal indulgence before accepting Hashem's kingship. A basic drink that helps a person begin the morning isn't treated the same way as sitting down to eat or drink for enjoyment.Key TakeawaysPractical Lesson