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[[File:Shavuot.jpg|300px|right]]
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==Preparing for Shavuot==
==Preparing for Shavuot==
# Some say that thirty days before Shavuot one should start learning the halachot of Shavuot, whereas others say that one should start from [[Rosh Chodesh]] Sivan. <ref>In Gemara Pesachim 6a, Rabbanan hold that one should begin to learn Hilchot [[Pesach]] thirty days in advance of [[Pesach]], whereas Rabban Shimon Ben Gamliel holds only 2 weeks. Rabbanan learn this idea from Moshe who taught the laws of [[Pesach Sheni]] thirty days in advance which was [[Pesach]] in Nissan. Shulchan Aruch 429:1 rules like the opinion of the Rabbanan. Mishna Brurah 429:1 quotes some who extend this to other Yamim Tovim such as Shavuot, whereas the Gra held that it does not apply to Shavuot and it is sufficient to begin learning the halachot of shavuot from Rosh Chodesh Sivan.</ref> All agree that on the holiday itself one should learn the halachot of Shavuot. <ref>Gemara [[Megillah]] 32b states that one should learn the halachot of Shavuot on Shavuot. Mishna Brurah 429:1 quotes this as halacha.</ref>
# Some say that thirty days before Shavuot one should start learning the halachot of Shavuot, whereas others say that one should start from [[Rosh Chodesh]] Sivan.<ref>In Gemara Pesachim 6a, Rabbanan hold that one should begin to learn Hilchot [[Pesach]] thirty days in advance of [[Pesach]], whereas Rabban Shimon Ben Gamliel holds only 2 weeks. Rabbanan learn this idea from Moshe who taught the laws of [[Pesach Sheni]] thirty days in advance which was [[Pesach]] in Nissan. Shulchan Aruch 429:1 rules like the opinion of the Rabbanan. Mishna Brurah 429:1 quotes some who extend this to other Yamim Tovim such as Shavuot, whereas the Gra held that it does not apply to Shavuot and it is sufficient to begin learning the halachot of shavuot from Rosh Chodesh Sivan.</ref> All agree that on the holiday itself one should learn the halachot of Shavuot. <ref>Gemara [[Megillah]] 32b states that one should learn the halachot of Shavuot on Shavuot. Mishna Brurah 429:1 quotes this as halacha.</ref>
# The notion that one should learn in preparation for the holiday doesn't mean that a talmid chacham should stop his regular learning in order to learn halacha of the upcoming holiday, rather it means that a question about hilchot shavuot is given precedence to questions not about shavuot.<ref>Chazon Ovadyah ([[Pesach]] pg 1) explains that the halacha in Gemara Pesachim 6a is relevant in regards to the laws established in Tosefta Sanhedrin 7:5 which state that a person should ask relevant questions and a relevant question has precedence over the irrelevant questions.</ref> Some, however, dispute this point.<ref>See Beiur Halacha 429 s.v. Shoalin</ref>
# The notion that one should learn in preparation for the holiday doesn't mean that a talmid chacham should stop his regular learning in order to learn halacha of the upcoming holiday, rather it means that a question about hilchot shavuot is given precedence to questions not about shavuot.<ref>Chazon Ovadyah ([[Pesach]] pg 1) explains that the halacha in Gemara Pesachim 6a is relevant in regards to the laws established in Tosefta Sanhedrin 7:5 which state that a person should ask relevant questions and a relevant question has precedence over the irrelevant questions.</ref> Some, however, dispute this point.<ref>See Beiur Halacha 429 s.v. Shoalin</ref>


==Decorating the Shul for Shavuot==
==Decorating the Shul for Shavuot==
# Some have the custom to decorate the shul for Shavuot with flowers, trees or nice smelling fruits. <Ref>Rama O"C 494:3 explains that the custom commemorates the joy of Matan Torah. The custom is an ancient one dating back to the time of the medrash Targum Sheini on Megillat Esther 3:8. Magen Avraham there explains that trees are used for decoration so that we should pray for a good fruit harvest because Shavuot is the day we are judged regarding the fruits of the year. Yechave Da'at 4:33 adds a reason for decorating with flowers.</ref> Some communities however, abstain from this custom because it may be considered a chok akum. <Ref>This is the opinion of the Gr"a as quoted by the Chayei Adam 131:13, Ma'aseh Rav, Aruch Hashulchan O"C 494 and others. Yechave Da'at 4:33 and in Yabia Omer YD 3:24 explains that the custom is nevertheless justified based on the Shu"t Maharik S' 88 who explains that there is no concern of "''Bechukoteihem lo telechu''" by a custom that has a good reason for its practice.</ref>
# Some have the custom to decorate the shul for Shavuot with flowers, trees or nice smelling fruits. <Ref>Rama O"C 494:3 (quoting Maharil pg. 160) explains that the custom commemorates the joy of Matan Torah. Birkei Yosef 494:6 says that this custom is an ancient one dating back to the time of the Midrash Targum Sheini on Megillat Esther 3:8 which writes that Haman mentioned this minhag of ours to Achashverosh. Magen Avraham 494:5 explains that trees are used for decoration so that we should pray for a good fruit harvest because Shavuot is the day we are judged regarding the fruits of the year. The Levush 494:1 writes that this minhag is based on the pasuk “גַּם-הַצֹּאן וְהַבָּקָר אַל-יִרְעוּ, אֶל-מוּל הָהָר הַהוּא” (Shemot 34:3) which implies that there was pasture on Har Sinai. Sefer Minhag Avoteinu Biyadenu vol. 2 pg. 578 suggests the Maharil himself felt that the minhag was a fulfillment of added simcha of the holiday itself, not a commemoration of the simcha of Matan Torah. He writes that this minhag developed specifically on Shavuot because there is an added level of happiness which manifests in physical pleasures, as the Gemara Pesachim 68b writes that though there is a machloket Tannaim if the holidays should be כולו לה’ or חצי לכם and חצי לה’, all opinions agree that there is an aspect of לכם on Shavuot. With this, he explains why the Maharil writes that the greenery should smell nice. Thus, according to the Maharil, it is our joy in essence of the Torah itself and our ability to learn it that we are celebrating by putting out decorations, while according to the Rama the celebration is more focused on the historical fact that Hashem chose us as His nation and gave us His Torah. see also Yechave Daat 4:33. See further in Sefer Minhag Avotenu Biyadenu vol. 2 pg. 573-604 for a lengthy discussion of the development of this minhag and the various reasons. </ref> While some communities abstain from this custom because it may be considered a chok akum,<Ref>This is the opinion of the Gra as quoted by the Chayei Adam 131:13 and Maaseh Rav Siman 195. He felt that since it was only a minhag and not a real din, we should abolish it since it became a religious practice of the non-Jews. This seems to be accepted by the Aruch Hashulchan 494:6 and Rav Moshe Feinstein (Iggerot Moshe YD 4:11:5). The Munkatcher Rov (Shaar Yissachar vol. 2 pg. 119) writes that although the minhag is well-founded, the best option is to refrain. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (quoted in Ve’alehu Lo Yibol 1:page 184) argues that the Gra only wanted to abolish the custom of placing trees in shuls and not flowers. The Steipler (Orchos Rabbenu vol. 2 pg. 99) agrees.  </ref> others justify the practice.<ref>Chacham Ovadia Yosef (Yechave Daat 4:33 and Yabia Omer YD 3:24, see also Yalkut Yosef Kitzur S”A 494:17) explains that the custom is justified based on the Sh"t Maharik Shoresh 88 who explains that there is no concern of "'Bechukoteihem lo telechu" (Vayikra 18:3, the prohibition regarding following non-Jewish practices and laws) by a custom that has a good reason for its practice. See also Rav Yosef Shaul Nathanson (Yosef Daat Siman 348) and Maharsham (Daat Torah 494:3 and Shu"t Maharsham 1:127), ad Chut Hamishulash pg. 128 who argue in favor of the minhag. [http://www.daat.ac.il/daat/toshba/minhagim/shavuot.htm Minhagei Edot Yisrael] writes that Persian Jews call Shavuot Moed’eh Gol, meaning holiday of flowers. In conclusion, Piskei Teshuvot 494:10 writes that the minhag in most places is to place flowers in the shuls.</ref>
# Similarly, some have the practice to hand out scented herbs so that people can smell them and recite a beracha.<ref>Derashot Chatam Sofer 5562 where he writes that this is based on the Gemara Shabbat 88b which says that “with every single statement that emanated from the mouth of Hashem the whole world became filled with besamim — the fragrance of spices.”  see also Birkat Yaavetz of Rav Dovid Cohen on Moadim vol. 2 pg. 263 </ref> This should not not be done between Baruch Sheamar and the Shemoneh Esreh.<ref>Magen Avraham 494:9 quoting the Shela Hakadosh, Kaf Hachaim 494:57, Torat Hacham Baruch pg. 27 </ref>Some also place flowers on the Sefer Torah itself<ref>Minhag Avoteinu Biyadeinu 2, page 602.</ref> or distribute flowers to be thrown at the Sefer Torah<ref>Kaf Hachaim Sofer 494:58</ref> in honor of Shavuot.
# If Shavuot falls out on a Sunday, one should not place the greenery on Shabbat in preparation for Shavuot but should do so either on Yom Tov or before Shabbat.<ref>Magen Avraham 494:5, Shulchan Aruch Harav 494:14, Mishna Berura 494:9 write that even though there is not a problem of muktzeh since they were designated from before Shabbat for this purpose, there is still a problem of preparing on Shabbat for Yom Tov.</ref>


==Reading Megillat Rut on Shavuot==
==Reading Megillat Rut on Shavuot==
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==Eating Dairy on Shavuot==
==Eating Dairy on Shavuot==
# The minhag Yisrael is to have dairy foods on Shavuot. <Ref> Rama 494:3 writes that the minhag is to eat dairy foods on Shavuot. He explains that by having a dairy meal, one ensures that will have [[two loaves of bread]], one for the dairy meal and one for the meat meal, and the [[two loaves of bread]] are in commemoration of the Shtei HaLechem brought in the Beit HaMikdash on Shavuot. The Mishna Brurah 494:12 adds an alternative reason for the custom: the Jews had only dairy food immediately after Matan Torah because preparing kosher meat takes a long time. Thus, we eat dairy in commemoration of Matan Torah.  
# The minhag Yisrael is to have dairy foods on Shavuot.<Ref> Rama 494:3 writes that the minhag is to eat dairy foods on Shavuot. He explains that by having a dairy meal, one ensures that will have [[two loaves of bread]], one for the dairy meal and one for the meat meal, and the [[two loaves of bread]] are in commemoration of the Shtei HaLechem brought in the Beit HaMikdash on Shavuot. The Mishna Brurah 494:12 adds an alternative reason for the custom: the Jews had only dairy food immediately after Matan Torah because preparing kosher meat takes a long time. Thus, we eat dairy in commemoration of Matan Torah.  
* Additionally, the Olelot Efraim (Ma’amar 141) writes that the reason for the minhag is that Chazal (Eiruvin 52b) compare [[learning Torah]] to a baby suckling milk: just as a baby always finds a new and sweet taste in the milk, so too the learner always a new and sweet taste in Torah.
* Additionally, the Olelot Efraim (Ma’amar 141) writes that the reason for the minhag is that Chazal (Eiruvin 52b) compare [[learning Torah]] to a baby suckling milk: just as a baby always finds a new and sweet taste in the milk, so too the learner always a new and sweet taste in Torah.
* Rav Moshe Shternbuch in Moadim U'zmanim 8:319 says that prior to matan torah, milk was a problem because it could have been considered "ever min hachai," eating from a live animal. Therefore, we celebrate our first opportunity to eat dairy products which occurred at Matan Torah because if the torah in shemot 3:8 praises [[Israel]] for being a land filled with milk and honey it has to be that it is permissible for consumption.  
* Rav Moshe Shternbuch in Moadim U'zmanim 8:319 says that prior to matan torah, milk was a problem because it could have been considered "ever min hachai," eating from a live animal. Therefore, we celebrate our first opportunity to eat dairy products which occurred at Matan Torah because if the torah in shemot 3:8 praises [[Israel]] for being a land filled with milk and honey it has to be that it is permissible for consumption.  
* Additionally, Rav Shternbuch in Teshuvot Vehanhagos 5:161 suggests that we specifically eat cheese on the day of matan Torah since, unlike other foods that spoil with time, aged cheese is actually better than new cheese. As such, we eat cheese on Shavuot to remind us that the 3000 years since Matan Torah doesn't mean the Torah is "outdated," but that it is even greater and just as applicable to our lives.
* The Yeshuot Yaakov 494:2 gives another reason. He says that the primary change at kabbalat hatorah was that even though the avot could keep mitzvot they didn't have a yetzer hara. We received the yetzer hara at Har Sinai and that's why the gemara tells us that the reward for someone who is commanded in a mitzva is greater than someone's who isn't because he doesn't have a yetzer hara not to fulfill it. Our goal now is to control the yetzer hara and defeat it to achieve the ultimate good. Based on a gemara in Nidda he says that blood is the symbol of tumah so we take the potential for impurity and turn it around completely to achieve the purity of milk.  
* The Yeshuot Yaakov 494:2 gives another reason. He says that the primary change at kabbalat hatorah was that even though the avot could keep mitzvot they didn't have a yetzer hara. We received the yetzer hara at Har Sinai and that's why the gemara tells us that the reward for someone who is commanded in a mitzva is greater than someone's who isn't because he doesn't have a yetzer hara not to fulfill it. Our goal now is to control the yetzer hara and defeat it to achieve the ultimate good. Based on a gemara in Nidda he says that blood is the symbol of tumah so we take the potential for impurity and turn it around completely to achieve the purity of milk.  
* The Bais Halevi on Parashat Yitro gives his own reason. The gemara says that we were given the torah and not the angels because many mitzvot require performance with the body and angels don't have bodies. We have milk and then we have meat to fulfill simchat [[yom tov]], so we show how our observance of the laws of milk and meat requires physicality.  
* The Bais Halevi on Parashat Yitro gives his own reason. The gemara says that we were given the torah and not the angels because many mitzvot require performance with the body and angels don't have bodies. We have milk and then we have meat to fulfill simchat [[yom tov]], so we show how our observance of the laws of milk and meat requires physicality.  
* The torat chaim on Bava Metzia 86b says that we eat dairy based on an Aggada that when Hashem gave us the torah and the angels complained that they should be the ones receiving the torah, Hashem showed them Avraham, and we are told in Bereishit 18:8 that they ate milk and meat together but the Jews don't eat milk and meat together. see also Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 444 and Noda Biyehuda YD 64.  
* The Torat Chaim on Bava Metzia 86b says that we eat dairy based on an Aggada that when Hashem gave us the torah and the angels complained that they should be the ones receiving the Torah, Hashem showed them Avraham, and we are told in Beresheet 18:8 that they ate milk and meat together but the Jews don't eat milk and meat together. see also Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 444 and Noda Biyehuda YD 64.  
* see [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/744919/Rabbi_Aryeh_Lebowitz/Ten_Minute_Halacha_-_Five_Reasons_for_Eating_Dairy_on_Shavuos Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz] for elaboration on some of these reasons </ref>
* See [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/744919/Rabbi_Aryeh_Lebowitz/Ten_Minute_Halacha_-_Five_Reasons_for_Eating_Dairy_on_Shavuos Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz] for elaboration on some of these reasons </ref>
# It is preferable to eat meat at the [[Yom Tov]] meals. While some consider this to be an obligation, others hold that there is no technical requirement to do so. <ref>The Rambam ([[Yom Tov]] 6:18) rules that the Mitzvah of Simchat [[Yom Tov]] is fulfilled through consumption of meat and wine. The Beit Yosef 529:2 asks why the Rambam codifies the consumption of meat on [[Yom Tov]] when the Gemara (Pesachim 109a) states clearly that the mitzvah of Simcha is fulfilled through eating meat only during the time of the Beit HaMikdash, while nowadays the mitzvah is fulfilled through wine alone. Accordingly, the S”A 529:1 writes that one must have wine at each [[Yom Tov]] meal and makes no mention of the consumption of meat. The Eliyah Rabba 529:6 and Bei’ur Halacha 529 s.v. Keitzad explain that Shulchan Aruch intentionally omitted the obligation to eat meat because of his question in the Beit Yosef.
===Meat on Yom Tov===
* The Yam Shel Shlomo (Beitzah 2:5) answers the Beit Yosef’s question by reinterpreting the Gemara to mean that nowadays, one must have wine in addition to meat, as opposed to the times of the Beit HaMikdash when one could fulfill the Mitzvah through meat without wine. Thus, Mor U’Ketziah 529, Kitzur S”A 103:7, Aruch HaShulchan 529:5, and Chazon Ovadia ([[Yom Tov]], p. 319) rule that it is an obligation to eat meat on [[Yom Tov]].
{{Meat on Yom Tov}}
* The Bach 529, however, explains that although there is no obligation to eat meat nowadays, there still is a mitzvah to do so, and one would fulfill the Mitzvah of Simcha thereby. The Magen Avraham 529:3, Shulchan Aruch HaRav 529:7, Mishna Brurah 529:11, and Kaf HaChaim 529:28 agree.
===Practices How to Have Dairy and Meat on Shavuot===
* See also the Sha’agat Aryeh (Siman 65), who argues that Simchat [[Yom Tov]] does not obligate one to eat meat in particular; rather, it is fulfilled by what is subjectively considered enjoyable by each person (see Pesachim 109a). Birkei Yosef 529:4 agrees. Darkei Teshuva 89:19 quotes Rav Chaim of Sanz as disagreeing with the Sha’agat Aryeh. </ref>
#There are various practices as how to eat meat on Shavuot to fulfill simchat Yom Tov as well as eat dairy to fulfill the minhag:
# It is preferable to have meat both at the nighttime and daytime meal of [[Yom Tov]]. Those who have a practice to eat a dairy meal, however, have what to rely on. <ref>The Darkei Teshuva (89:19) mentions a number of minhagim:  
## Some people eat only dairy on Shavuot in order to fulfill the minhag. Many disapprove of this practice.<ref>The Darkei Teshuva disapproves of this practice because he accepts the view of the Rambam that there is an obligation to eat meat on [[Yom Tov]]. See note 1 above.</ref>
* (A) Some people eat only dairy on Shavuot in order to fulfill the minhag. The Darkei Teshuva disapproves of this practice because he accepts the view of the Rambam that there is an obligation to eat meat on [[Yom Tov]]. See note 1 above.
## Some people eat dairy for the nighttime meal and meat for the daytime meal. Such was the minhag of some gedolim.<ref>This was the practice of the Steipler (Orchot Rabbeinu v. 2 p. 98). The Darkei Teshuva comments that this is reasonable according to the Sha’agat Aryeh’s (Siman 68) view that Simchat [[Yom Tov]] is only d’rabanan at night; however, others disagree with the Sha’agat Aryeh. Otzrot Yosef (Rav Dovid Yosef 13:7) quotes this as a minhag. Rav Hershel Schachter (Bikvei HaTzon p. 81) suggests that Simchat [[Yom Tov]] follows the schedule of [[Korbanot]] for which the night follows the day, implying that eating meat for Simchat [[Yom Tov]] does not apply the first night. Therefore, he said (oral communication) that if one enjoys dairy, one may have a dairy meal for the night of [[Yom Tov]]. This approach is supported by the Sfat Emet ([[Sukkah]] 48a), who writes that Simchat [[Yom Tov]] can be fulfilled with one meat meal, either during the night or day. Rabbi Mordechai Willig (Pesachim Shiur 110, min 40-50) agrees with this reasoning. The Radiance of Shabbos p. 163 fnt. 33 cites Rav Chaim Pinchas Sheinberg as holding that it is only necessary to eat meat during the day.
* (B) Some people eat dairy for the nighttime meal and meat for the daytime meal. Such was the minhag of the Steipler (Orchot Rabbeinu v. 2 p. 98). The Darkei Teshuva comments that this is reasonable according to the Sha’agat Aryeh’s (Siman 68) view that Simchat [[Yom Tov]] is only d’rabanan at night; however, others disagree with the Sha’agat Aryeh. Rav Hershel Schachter (Bikvei HaTzon p. 81) suggests that Simchat [[Yom Tov]] follows the schedule of [[Korbanot]] for which the night follows the day, implying that eating meat for Simchat [[Yom Tov]] does not apply the first night. Therefore, he said (oral communication) that if one enjoys dairy, one may have a dairy meal for the night of [[Yom Tov]]. This approach is supported by the Sfat Emet ([[Sukkah]] 48b), who writes that Simchat [[Yom Tov]] can be fulfilled with one meat meal, either during the night or day. Rabbi Mordechai Willig (Pesachim Shiur 110, min 40-50) agrees with this reasoning.
* Tangentially, Rav Ovadia Yosef in Meor Yisrael (Beitzah 36b v. 2 p. 313) writes that Shulchan Aruch 546:3 might also hold that simcha at night is only derabbanan. Pitchei Teshuva YD 341:13 quotes the [https://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=746&pgnum=393 VShav Hakohen 95] who argues that there is a mitzvah of simcha deoritta even at night. He proves his contention from Rambam (Chagiga 2:13) unlike the Mahari Kurkus (Rambam Chagiga 2:13). Rashbam (Pesachim 108b s.v. yedey yayin yatzah (2)) implies that he agrees with Rambam that there's a rabbinic mitzvah of simcha on Yom Tov. Emek Bracha p. 108 quotes Rav Chaim as distinguishing between simcha which does apply the first night and the obligation to bring a korban shlamim which does not apply to the first night.</ref>
* (C) Some eat a dairy meal and then a meat meal. The Torat Chaim (Chullin 83a) writes that it is better to abrogate the minhag of eating dairy rather than have meat after eating dairy, which is forbidden according to the Zohar. The Darkei Teshuva responds that in order to fulfill this minhag, one may be lenient against the Zohar. Mishna Brurah 494:16 notes that one need not make [[Birkat HaMazon]] as long as he cleanses his mouth with bread and water as well as washes his hands (S”A Y.D. 89:2).  
## Within the same meal some eat dairy and then after washing their mouths out with a liquid and food and washing their hands eat meat. Classically this is the Ashkenazic minhag.<ref>Rama 494:3, Magen Avraham, Mishna Brurah, Aruch Hashulchan, and Chayey Adam. However, the Shlah and Bear Mayim Chayim disapprove of this minhag since it is in violation of the Zohar that one may not eat milk and meat in the same meal or same hour.</ref> The practice is specifically to use one challah for the milk part of the meal and another challah for the meat prat of the meal in order to commemorate the Korban brought int he Bet Hamikdash on Shavuot of two loaves.<ref>Rama 494:3</ref>
* (D) Some eat a dairy [[Kiddush]], wait an hour, and then have a meat meal. The Darkei Teshuva finds this to be the most preferable minhag. </ref>
## Some eat a dairy meal, conclude with Birkat Hamazon, and then a meat meal.<ref>Darkei Teshuva, Pri Megadim M"Z 89:3. The Torat Chaim (Chullin 83a) writes that it is better to abrogate the minhag of eating dairy rather than have meat after eating dairy, which is forbidden according to the Zohar. The Darkei Teshuva responds that in order to fulfill this minhag, one may be lenient against the Zohar. Mishna Brurah 494:16 notes that one need not make [[Birkat HaMazon]] as long as he cleanses his mouth with bread and water as well as washes his hands (S”A Y.D. 89:2).</ref>
## Some eat a dairy [[Kiddush]], wait an hour, and then have a meat meal. Chasidim prefer this practice.<ref>The Darkei Teshuva finds this to be the most preferable minhag. Nitai Gavriel Shavuot p. 173 wonders if indeed it is the best practice since one is nonetheless reciting a bracha after the dairy kiddush in order to later eat the meat meal and separate between dairy and meat. He answers that according to the Pri Megadim M"Z 89:3 it is permitted to make a bracha to separate between dairy and meat. He also concludes that this is the practice that chasidim have adopted.</ref>


==Shavuot night==
==Shavuot night==
===Kiddush===
===Kiddush===
# One shouldn't say [[Kiddush]] on Shavuot night until [[Tzet HaKochavim]].<ref>Magen Avraham (Intro to 494). Chacham Ovadia Yosef in Sh"t Yechave Daat 6:30, Halichot Olam 2: page 3, Sh"t Chazon Ovadia 1:1 and Sh"t Yabia Omer 5:6:5 says that ideally one should wait until 20 minutes after sunset but if necessary one can be lenient and say [[Kiddush]] earlier, but still should ideally wait until after sunset and try to eat a [[kezayit]] of bread after tzet hakochavim. </ref>Some say one should even wait to say [[Arvit]],<ref> Mishna Brurah 494:1</ref> while others argue.<ref> Kaf HaChaim 494:1, Sh"t Yechave Daat 6:30 </ref>
# If one forgot to say [[shehecheyanu]] during [[Kiddush]] on Shavuot, one cannot say it after Shavuot even within the seven days after the holiday. <ref> Chazon Ovadia [[Pesach]] page 134 </ref>
# If one forgot to say [[shehecheyanu]] during [[Kiddush]] on Shavuot, one cannot say it after Shavuot even within the seven days after the holiday. <ref> Chazon Ovadia [[Pesach]] page 134 </ref>  
 
===Learning all Night===
===Learning All Night===
# Many have the custom to stay up Shavuot night learning torah in anticipation of accepting the Torah on Shavuot. <ref> Mishna Brurah 494:1 writes based on the Magen Avraham that the practice is to stay up all night to learn. He quotes Arizal who said that one who learns all night on Shavuot will long the next year without being damaged. He also quotes the Magen Avraham who explains that since Bnei Yisrael overslept on the day of Matan Torah we stay up all night in order to rectify that mistake.</ref> Some even stay up the second night of Shavuot in the diaspora. <ref>Kaf Hachaim 494:6</ref>
# Many have the custom to stay up Shavuot night learning torah in anticipation of accepting the Torah on Shavuot. <ref> Mishna Brurah 494:1 writes based on the Magen Avraham that the practice is to stay up all night to learn. He quotes Arizal who said that one who learns all night on Shavuot will live the next year without being damaged. He also quotes the Magen Avraham who explains that since Bnei Yisrael overslept on the day of Matan Torah we stay up all night in order to rectify that mistake. <br>
See Shavuos, ArtScroll Mesorah Publications pp. 66-70</ref> Some even stay up the second night of Shavuot in the diaspora. <ref>Ben Ish Chai Bamidbar 7, Kaf Hachaim 494:6</ref>
# If staying up all night, and one plans on drinking multiple times throughout the night, it is best to make a [[Shehakol]] and Borei Nefashot for each drinking. However, if when making the first [[Shehakol]] of the night, one has explicit Kavanah (intention) for that Bracha to cover all other drinkings of the night, that works as well, and one would then not need a new bracha at each drinking.  <ref> Halichot Shlomo 12:3 </ref>  
# If staying up all night, and one plans on drinking multiple times throughout the night, it is best to make a [[Shehakol]] and Borei Nefashot for each drinking. However, if when making the first [[Shehakol]] of the night, one has explicit Kavanah (intention) for that Bracha to cover all other drinkings of the night, that works as well, and one would then not need a new bracha at each drinking.  <ref> Halichot Shlomo 12:3 </ref>  
# The minhag to stay up all night applies to men and not women. <ref> Sh"t Rav Pealim 1:9 in sod yesharim </ref>
# The minhag to stay up all night applies to men and not women. <ref> Sh"t Rav Pealim 1:9 in Sod Yesharim </ref>
# If yeshiva boys would prefer to learn gemara rather than reading the tikkun for shavuot, there is no need to stop them because they have on who to rely. However, if most of the congregation is reading the tikkun, individuals should not break off to learn gemara. <ref> Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 439, Sh"t Yechave Daat 3:32. </ref>
# If, on account of the exhaustion of learning Torah all night, he cannot daven Shacharit in the morning with proper concentration, it is better not to stay up since davening properly is a clear obligation <ref> Rav Chaim Palagi (Moed Likol Chai 8:21), [http://www.ravaviner.com/2013/05/laws-of-staying-awake-all-night-on.html Rav Shlomo Aviner] </ref>
# If, on account of the exhaustion of learning Torah all night, he cannot daven Shacharit in the morning with proper concentration, it is better not to stay up since davening properly is a clear obligation <ref> [http://www.ravaviner.com/2013/05/laws-of-staying-awake-all-night-on.html Rav Shlomo Aviner] </ref>
# One who generally stays up but is unable to on a certain year is not required to perform Hatarat Nedarim.<ref> Yalkut Yosef - Shavuot pg. 657 footnote </ref>
====Reading the Tikkun====
# One should read the entire tikun which was arranged by the Arizal with much happiness and fervor on the night of Shavuot.<ref>Moed Likol Chai 8:12, Ben Ish Chai: Bamidbar 3 </ref> # If yeshiva boys would prefer to learn gemara rather than reading the tikkun for shavuot, there is no need to stop them because they have on who to rely. <ref>Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 439, Sh"t Yechave Daat 3:32. (see there for an interesting parable from the Dubna Maggied regarding the Vilna Gaon). Chacham Benzion Abba Shaul (Or Letzion 3: pg. 193 argues that even a yeshiva boy should read the tikkun)</ref> However, if most of the congregation is reading the tikkun, individuals should not break off to learn gemara. <ref> Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 439, Sh"t Yechave Daat 3:32. </ref>
 
===Beginning Shavuot Early===
# One shouldn't say [[Kiddush]] on Shavuot night until [[Tzet HaKochavim]].<ref>Magen Avraham (Intro to 494), Mishna Brura 494:1, Moed Lechol Chai 8:23, Ben Ish Chai Bamidbar:2, [https://www.torahmusings.com/2010/05/starting-shavuot-early/ see Rabbi Ari Enkin ]
* Rav Yakov Pollack (cited by Emek Bracha 69c, Yechave Daat 6:30) is quoted as explaining that one shouldn't make kiddush of Shavuot early since we want the temimot of the sefirat haomer to extend to the very end of the 49th day and not end it early. This is cited by Magen Avraham 494:1 and Taz 494:1.
* Netsiv (Meishv Dvar OC 18 cited by Yachava Daat) explains that one shouldn't say kiddush of Shavuot early since regarding Shavuot it says וקראתם בעצם היום הזה (Vayikra 23:21).
* [http://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=1770&st=&pgnum=265 Hitorerut Teshuva 3:68:4] writes that one could accept Yom Tov of Shavuot early and it doesn’t impact temimot. He explains the reason not to daven early is because either way we’re going to be up all night so we might as well say [[kriyat shema]] at the right time which is after tzet hakochavim. </ref>Some say one should even wait to say [[Arvit]],<ref> Mishna Brurah 494:1, Taz 494:1, Chacham Benzion Abba Shaul (Ohr Letzion 3:18:4) </ref> while others argue and allow you to recite arvit earlier.<ref> Kaf HaChaim 494:1, Moed Likol Chai 8:23, Sh"t Yechave Daat 6:30 </ref> Others are lenient even to allow reciting Kiddush early.<ref> Chacham Ovadia Yosef in Sh"t Yechave Daat 6:30, Halichot Olam 2: page 3, Chazon Ovadia Yom Tov p. 305, Sh"t Chazon Ovadia 1:1 and Sh"t Yabia Omer 5:6:5 says that ideally one should wait until 20 minutes after sunset but if necessary one can be lenient and say [[Kiddush]] earlier, but still should ideally wait until after sunset and try to eat a [[kezayit]] of bread after tzet hakochavim. see also Chacham Benzion Abba Shaul (Ohr Letzion 3:18:4) who says in a case of great need, one can pray and say Kiddush earlier. </ref>
===Starting Early on the Second Night===
see [[Second_Day_of_Yom_Tov#Early_Yom_Tov_Sheni|Second Day of Yom Tov: Early Yom Tov Sheni]]


==Shavuot morning==
==Shavuot morning==
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# According to Ashkenazim, after daybreak <ref> Regarding [[Netilat Yadayim]] and Birkot HaTorah, it’s clear that if they are to be made, they shouldn’t be said until Alot HaShachar. Nitei Gavriel 18:1 and 20:1 writes so explicitly. Regarding Birchot HaShachar, Kaf HaChaim 46:49 writes that one can say all of them at [[Chatzot]], however, Piskei Teshuvot 46:14 rules that one should wait until Alot HaShachar. Regarding Tallit, S”A 18:3 rules that one may not make the Bracha until [[MeSheYakir]]. </ref>, one should use the bathroom, thus dirtying one’s hands, wash his hands for [[Netilat Yadayim]] with a Bracha, and then say [[Asher Yatzar]]. <Ref> <span id="netilat"></span>
# According to Ashkenazim, after daybreak <ref> Regarding [[Netilat Yadayim]] and Birkot HaTorah, it’s clear that if they are to be made, they shouldn’t be said until Alot HaShachar. Nitei Gavriel 18:1 and 20:1 writes so explicitly. Regarding Birchot HaShachar, Kaf HaChaim 46:49 writes that one can say all of them at [[Chatzot]], however, Piskei Teshuvot 46:14 rules that one should wait until Alot HaShachar. Regarding Tallit, S”A 18:3 rules that one may not make the Bracha until [[MeSheYakir]]. </ref>, one should use the bathroom, thus dirtying one’s hands, wash his hands for [[Netilat Yadayim]] with a Bracha, and then say [[Asher Yatzar]]. <Ref> <span id="netilat"></span>
* The Rosh ([[Brachot]] 9:23) writes that the reason a person must wash his hands in the morning is that one's hands almost certainly touched an unclean area. The Rashba (responsa 1:191), on the other hand, writes that the reason is that a person is created anew each morning. The Bet Yosef 4:13 writes that according to the Rosh, one who stays up all night doesn't have to wash because one can ensure that his hands stay clean, while according to the Rashba, one is created anew whether he slept or not. Because of this dispute, S”A and Rama 4:13 rule that one should wash without a bracha. Magen Avraham 494, Taz 4:9, Beiur HaGra 4:13, Birkei Yosef 46:12, and Mishna Brurah 494:1 agree. See, the Bach 4, Aruch HaShulchan 4:12, and Maaseh Rav (#2) who argue that one who didn’t sleep can say the Bracha.  
* The Rosh ([[Brachot]] 9:23) writes that the reason a person must wash his hands in the morning is that one's hands almost certainly touched an unclean area. The Rashba (responsa 1:191), on the other hand, writes that the reason is that a person is created anew each morning. The Bet Yosef 4:13 writes that according to the Rosh, one who stays up all night doesn't have to wash because one can ensure that his hands stay clean, while according to the Rashba, one is created anew whether he slept or not. Because of this dispute, S”A and Rama 4:13 rule that one should wash without a bracha. Magen Avraham 494, Taz 4:9, Beiur HaGra 4:13, Birkei Yosef 46:12, and Mishna Brurah 494:1 agree. See, the Bach 4, Aruch HaShulchan 4:12, and Maaseh Rav (#2) who argue that one who didn’t sleep can say the Bracha.  
* Hagahot Rabbi Akiva Eiger 4:12 writes that if one went to the bathroom, one can make the bracha. Olat Tamid 4:8, Eliyah Rabba 4:8, and Pri Megadim (E”A 494) agree. Artzot HaChaim 4:1 and Chaye Adam 7:6 seem to agree as well. Thus, Mishna Brurah 4:30 rules one should use the bathroom, thus dirtying his hands, wash his hands with a Bracha, and then say [[Asher Yatzar]].  
* Hagahot Rabbi Akiva Eiger 4:12 writes that if one went to the bathroom, one can make the bracha. Olat Tamid 4:8, Eliyah Rabba 4:8, and Pri Megadim (E”A 494) agree. [http://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=7774&st=&pgnum=55 Artzot HaChaim 4:1:14] and Chaye Adam 7:6 seem to agree as well. Thus, Mishna Brurah 4:30 rules one should use the bathroom, thus dirtying his hands, wash his hands with a Bracha, and then say [[Asher Yatzar]].  
* Some achronim (Nitei Gavriel 18:1, Weekly Halacha Discussion, vol 2, p. 363, Halachically Speaking vol 7, issue 6, p. 9) quote the Mishna Brurah as saying that one should use the bathroom and leave out dirtying one’s hands. Rabbi Mordechai Willig and Rabbi Hershel Schachter (cited by Halachipedia Article #22) explained that although the Mishna Brurah certainly meant to be precise, one can make the Bracha even if one merely touches an unclean area of the body.
* Some achronim (Nitei Gavriel 18:1, Weekly Halacha Discussion, vol 2, p. 363, Halachically Speaking vol 7, issue 6, p. 9) quote the Mishna Brurah as saying that one should use the bathroom and leave out dirtying one’s hands. Rabbi Mordechai Willig and Rabbi Hershel Schachter (cited by Halachipedia Article #22) explained that although the Mishna Brurah certainly meant to be precise, one can make the Bracha even if one merely touches an unclean area of the body.
* Derech HaChaim 1:17 adds that even by touching an unclean area, one can make the Bracha. Beiur Halacha s.v. Veyitlem agrees. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Halichot Shlomo 2:24), however, argues that it is insufficient to touch an unclean area.
* Derech HaChaim 1:17 adds that even by touching an unclean area, one can make the Bracha. Beiur Halacha s.v. Veyitlem agrees. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Halichot Shlomo 2:24), however, argues that it is insufficient to touch an unclean area.
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# According to Sephardim, after using the bathroom one should say [[Asher Yatzer]] and not the bracha of [[Al Netilat Yadayim]]. <Ref>[[#netilat]] </ref>One may say Elokai Nishama, HaMaavir Sheinah, and Birkot HaTorah for himself. <Ref>[[#birkothashachar]] </ref> The bracha recited over the [[Tallit]] covers the [[Tallit]] Katan as well. <Ref>[[#tzitzit]] </ref>
# According to Sephardim, after using the bathroom one should say [[Asher Yatzer]] and not the bracha of [[Al Netilat Yadayim]]. <Ref>[[#netilat]] </ref>One may say Elokai Nishama, HaMaavir Sheinah, and Birkot HaTorah for himself. <Ref>[[#birkothashachar]] </ref> The bracha recited over the [[Tallit]] covers the [[Tallit]] Katan as well. <Ref>[[#tzitzit]] </ref>
===Netilat Yadayim===
===Netilat Yadayim===
# One who didn’t sleep at all at night should wash [[Negal Vasser|Netilat Yadayim]] in the morning without a bracha, since there’s a dispute whether there's an obligation to wash [[Negal Vasser|Netilat Yadayim]] in the morning if one did not sleep the night before. According to Ashkenazim, one who didn't sleep but goes to the bathroom in the morning should wash [[Netilat Yadayim]] with a Bracha. <Ref> Mishna Brurah 4:30, 494:1 </ref>  
# One who didn’t sleep at all at night should wash [[Negal Vasser|Netilat Yadayim]] in the morning without a bracha, since there’s a dispute whether there's an obligation to wash [[Negal Vasser|Netilat Yadayim]] in the morning if one did not sleep the night before. According to Ashkenazim, one who didn't sleep but goes to the bathroom in the morning should wash [[Netilat Yadayim]] with a Bracha. <Ref> Mishna Brurah 4:30, 494:1. The Artzot Hachaim (Eretz Yehuda 4:14) writes that a person who went to the bathroom can recite a bracha on netilat yadayim. According to the Rashba a bracha is automatically required since maybe a person is recreated each day even if he didn't sleep. According to the Rosh a bracha is required since a person's are dirty and require netilat yadayim after going to the bathroom. His conclusion is that it is necessary either go number two or number one and to wipe off the urine drops from oneself. This definition of what requires Netilat Yadayim for dirty hands is discussed in Bet Yosef 7. Ishei Yisrael (ch. 2 n. 99) cites the Shulchan Aruch Harav who holds that it is sufficient to touch the areas that are uncovered. However, he quotes Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach who disagrees and holds that touching an uncovered area doesn't require a bracha.</ref>  
# One should not learn after [[Olot HaShachar]] until he washed his hands in the morning. <Ref> S”A 4:14 says that if one was awake from before [[Olot HaShachar]] and washed his hands earlier, he should wash again at [[Olot HaShachar]] without a Bracha because of Safek. Piskei Teshuvot 494:5 says once there’s an obligation to wash one’s hands one shouldn’t learn Torah. </ref>
# One should not learn after [[Olot HaShachar]] until he washed his hands in the morning. <Ref> S”A 4:14 says that if one was awake from before [[Olot HaShachar]] and washed his hands earlier, he should wash again at [[Olot HaShachar]] without a Bracha because of Safek. Piskei Teshuvot 494:5 says once there’s an obligation to wash one’s hands one shouldn’t learn Torah. </ref>
# If one slept less than 30 minutes <ref> Kitzur S”A 2:8, Dinei Nieyor Kol HaLaylah (pg 42) in name of Rav Chaim Kanievsky </ref> or slept in a temporary fashion (putting one’s head on the table) <ref>Ishei Yisrael 2:33 note 110, Piskei Teshuvot 494:6</ref>, then it is as if he did not sleep at all. <Ref> Mishna Brurah 4:27, Ishei Yisrael 2:33 </ref>  
# If one slept less than 30 minutes <ref> Kitzur S”A 2:8, Dinei Nieyor Kol HaLaylah (pg 42) in name of Rav Chaim Kanievsky </ref> or slept in a temporary fashion (putting one’s head on the table) <ref>Ishei Yisrael 2:33 note 110, Piskei Teshuvot 494:6</ref>, then it is as if he did not sleep at all. <Ref> Mishna Brurah 4:27, Ishei Yisrael 2:33 </ref>
 
===Asher Yatzer===
===Asher Yatzer===
# According to Ashkenazim, if one slept at night, one should make [[Asher Yatzer]] in the morning whether or not one went to the bathroom; however, if one didn’t sleep, he should only recite [[Asher Yatzer]] if he goes to the bathroom. <Ref>Mishna Brurah 4:3 </ref> According to sephardim, one can only recite asher yatzar if he used the bathroom. Even if he does though, he would not recite the beracha of al [[netilat yadayim]] <ref> Yalkut Yosef Moadim 441. </ref>
# According to Ashkenazim, if one slept at night, one should make [[Asher Yatzer]] in the morning whether or not one went to the bathroom; however, if one didn’t sleep, he should only recite [[Asher Yatzer]] if he goes to the bathroom. <Ref>Mishna Brurah 4:3 </ref> According to sephardim, one can only recite asher yatzar if he used the bathroom. Even if he does though, he would not recite the beracha of al [[netilat yadayim]] <ref> Yalkut Yosef Moadim 441. </ref>
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===Tzitzit===
===Tzitzit===
# If one went to sleep (or stayed up) in [[Tzitzit]], preferably one should make a Bracha on wearing a [[Tallit]] to cover the Bracha for [[Tzitzit]], however if that’s not possible, one may make a Bracha on those [[Tzitzit]] in the morning, and as one makes the bracha one should shake the [[Tzitzit]] strings. <Ref> S”A 8:16 rules that if one slept in [[Tzitzit]] one may make a new Bracha on it in the morning and at the time of the Bracha one should shake the [[Tzitzit]] strings. Mishna Brurah 8:42 explains that really this issue depends on whether there’s a mitzvah of [[Tzitzit]] at night and so it’s preferable to make the Bracha on a [[Tallit]] and cover the Bracha for [[Tzitzit]]. Piskei Teshuvot 8:30 adds that someone who that option is unavailable, such as bochrim who don’t wear Tallitim, should make the Bracha oneself like S”A. </ref>  
# If one went to sleep (or stayed up) in [[Tzitzit]], preferably one should make a Bracha on wearing a [[Tallit]] to cover the Bracha for [[Tzitzit]], however if that’s not possible, one may make a Bracha on those [[Tzitzit]] in the morning, and as one makes the bracha one should shake the [[Tzitzit]] strings. <Ref> S”A 8:16 rules that if one slept in [[Tzitzit]] one may make a new Bracha on it in the morning and at the time of the Bracha one should shake the [[Tzitzit]] strings. Mishna Brurah 8:42 explains that really this issue depends on whether there’s a mitzvah of [[Tzitzit]] at night and so it’s preferable to make the Bracha on a [[Tallit]] and cover the Bracha for [[Tzitzit]]. Piskei Teshuvot 8:30 adds that someone who that option is unavailable, such as bochrim who don’t wear Tallitim, should make the Bracha oneself like S”A. </ref>  
===Brachot HaTorah===
===Birkot HaTorah===
# For ashkenazim, if one didn’t sleep at all during the night, one shouldn’t recite [[Brachot HaTorah]] but should hear them from someone who is obligated to make them (both must have kavana, and after the Bracha, both learn some pesukim such as Parshat [[Birkat Cohanim]]). <Ref> Mishna Brurah 47:28 </ref> For sephardim, the minhag is to recite these [[berachot]] even if you remained awake all night. <ref> Yabia Omer 5:5, Yechave Daat 3:33. </ref>
{{Birchot HaTorah for Someone Who Stayed Up}}
# One should not say birkot hatorah until after alot hashachar. <ref> Yalkut Yosef Chelek 1 page 137. </ref>
 
# If one slept Shinat Kevah the day before staying up all night, one should make the [[Brachot HaTorah]] in the morning after one didn’t sleep. <Ref> Mishna Brurah 47:28 in name of Rabbi Akvia Eiger </ref>
===Birkot HaShachar===
{{Birchot Hashachar for Someone Who Stayed Up}}


===Brachot HaShachar===
===Standing for Aseret Hadibrot===
# If one didn’t sleep at all, according to Ashkenazim, one should listen to Elokei Nishama and HaMaavir Shenah from someone who did sleep. <Ref> Mishna Brurah 46:24 </ref> However, the rest of the [[Birchot HaShachar]] one can make oneself. <Ref> Piskei Teshuvot 494:7 </ref> However, according to Sephardim, one may recite these [[brachot]] oneself.<reF>Yalkut Yosef 489:13</ref>
see [[Kriyat_HaTorah#Standing_for_Aseret_Hadibrot| Standing for Aseret Hadibrot]]
# One should not learn after [[Olot HaShachar]] until he said [[Birchot HaShachar]]. <Ref> Mishna Brurah 47:28 </ref>


==Isru Chag==
==Isru Chag==
# It is prohibited to fast or hold a eulogy on the day after Shavuot. <ref> Kaf Hachayim 494:48 </ref>
# It is prohibited to fast or hold a eulogy on the day after Shavuot. <ref> Kaf Hachayim 494:48 </ref>
# The sephardic minhag is not to recite [[tachanun]], lamnatze'ach, or [[tefilla]] lidavid from [[Rosh chodesh]] sivan until the 12th. <ref> Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 445, Chazon Ovadia [[Yom Tov]] page 329. </ref>
# The sephardic minhag is not to recite [[tachanun]], lamnatze'ach, or [[tefilla]] lidavid from [[Rosh chodesh]] sivan until the 12th. <ref> Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 445, Chazon Ovadia [[Yom Tov]] page 329, Kaf Hachaim 494:50. </ref>


==Links==
* [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/817696/rabbi-hershel-schachter/practical-halacha-guide-for-shavuot/ Practical Halacha Guide for Shavuot] by Rabbi Hershel Schachter
* [http://www.theyeshivaworld.com/news/headlines-breaking-stories/128573/hilchos-uminhagei-shavuos-2.html Hilchos Uminhagei Shavuos] by Yissachar Dov Krakowski
==Sources==
==Sources==
<references/>
<references/>
[[Category:Holidays]]
[[Category:Holidays]]
{{Holidays}}

Latest revision as of 17:39, 13 July 2023

Shavuot.jpg

Preparing for Shavuot

  1. Some say that thirty days before Shavuot one should start learning the halachot of Shavuot, whereas others say that one should start from Rosh Chodesh Sivan.[1] All agree that on the holiday itself one should learn the halachot of Shavuot. [2]
  2. The notion that one should learn in preparation for the holiday doesn't mean that a talmid chacham should stop his regular learning in order to learn halacha of the upcoming holiday, rather it means that a question about hilchot shavuot is given precedence to questions not about shavuot.[3] Some, however, dispute this point.[4]

Decorating the Shul for Shavuot

  1. Some have the custom to decorate the shul for Shavuot with flowers, trees or nice smelling fruits. [5] While some communities abstain from this custom because it may be considered a chok akum,[6] others justify the practice.[7]
  2. Similarly, some have the practice to hand out scented herbs so that people can smell them and recite a beracha.[8] This should not not be done between Baruch Sheamar and the Shemoneh Esreh.[9]Some also place flowers on the Sefer Torah itself[10] or distribute flowers to be thrown at the Sefer Torah[11] in honor of Shavuot.
  3. If Shavuot falls out on a Sunday, one should not place the greenery on Shabbat in preparation for Shavuot but should do so either on Yom Tov or before Shabbat.[12]

Reading Megillat Rut on Shavuot

  1. The Ashkenazic minhag is to read Megillat Rut on Shavuos.[13]

Eating Dairy on Shavuot

  1. The minhag Yisrael is to have dairy foods on Shavuot.[14]

Meat on Yom Tov

Meat Specifically

  1. It is preferable to eat meat at the Yom Tov meals. While some consider this to be an obligation, others hold that there is no technical requirement to do so. [15]

Both Meals or One Meal

  1. It is preferable to have meat both at the nighttime and daytime meal of Yom Tov. Those who have a practice to eat one dairy meal, however, have what to rely on.[16]

In a Bread Meal

  1. Whether the meat has to be eaten within the context of a bread meal is a discussion.[17]

Women

  1. Women are obligated in simchat Yom Tov. Some say that this includes eating meat each day of Yom Tov and Chol Hamoed.[18]

Practices How to Have Dairy and Meat on Shavuot

  1. There are various practices as how to eat meat on Shavuot to fulfill simchat Yom Tov as well as eat dairy to fulfill the minhag:
    1. Some people eat only dairy on Shavuot in order to fulfill the minhag. Many disapprove of this practice.[19]
    2. Some people eat dairy for the nighttime meal and meat for the daytime meal. Such was the minhag of some gedolim.[20]
    3. Within the same meal some eat dairy and then after washing their mouths out with a liquid and food and washing their hands eat meat. Classically this is the Ashkenazic minhag.[21] The practice is specifically to use one challah for the milk part of the meal and another challah for the meat prat of the meal in order to commemorate the Korban brought int he Bet Hamikdash on Shavuot of two loaves.[22]
    4. Some eat a dairy meal, conclude with Birkat Hamazon, and then a meat meal.[23]
    5. Some eat a dairy Kiddush, wait an hour, and then have a meat meal. Chasidim prefer this practice.[24]

Shavuot night

Kiddush

  1. If one forgot to say shehecheyanu during Kiddush on Shavuot, one cannot say it after Shavuot even within the seven days after the holiday. [25]

Learning All Night

  1. Many have the custom to stay up Shavuot night learning torah in anticipation of accepting the Torah on Shavuot. [26] Some even stay up the second night of Shavuot in the diaspora. [27]
  2. If staying up all night, and one plans on drinking multiple times throughout the night, it is best to make a Shehakol and Borei Nefashot for each drinking. However, if when making the first Shehakol of the night, one has explicit Kavanah (intention) for that Bracha to cover all other drinkings of the night, that works as well, and one would then not need a new bracha at each drinking. [28]
  3. The minhag to stay up all night applies to men and not women. [29]
  4. If, on account of the exhaustion of learning Torah all night, he cannot daven Shacharit in the morning with proper concentration, it is better not to stay up since davening properly is a clear obligation [30]
  5. One who generally stays up but is unable to on a certain year is not required to perform Hatarat Nedarim.[31]

Reading the Tikkun

  1. One should read the entire tikun which was arranged by the Arizal with much happiness and fervor on the night of Shavuot.[32] # If yeshiva boys would prefer to learn gemara rather than reading the tikkun for shavuot, there is no need to stop them because they have on who to rely. [33] However, if most of the congregation is reading the tikkun, individuals should not break off to learn gemara. [34]

Beginning Shavuot Early

  1. One shouldn't say Kiddush on Shavuot night until Tzet HaKochavim.[35]Some say one should even wait to say Arvit,[36] while others argue and allow you to recite arvit earlier.[37] Others are lenient even to allow reciting Kiddush early.[38]

Starting Early on the Second Night

see Second Day of Yom Tov: Early Yom Tov Sheni

Shavuot morning

As previously mentioned, many have the custom to stay up Shavuot night learning Torah. [39] There are several halachot that those who follow this practice should bear in mind:

  1. According to Ashkenazim, after daybreak [40], one should use the bathroom, thus dirtying one’s hands, wash his hands for Netilat Yadayim with a Bracha, and then say Asher Yatzar. [41] One should hear Elokai Neshama, HaMaavir Sheinah, and Birkot HaTorah from someone who slept. The rest of the Birkot HaShachar may be recited as usual. [42] If one normally wears a Tallit for Shacharit, onee should have intent that the bracha on his Tallit should cover his Tallit Katan as well. If, however, one doesn't wear a Tallit, one should hear the bracha from someone else. [43] If one slept a Sheinat Kevah the day before staying up all night, he may recite the Birkot HaTorah in the morning for himself. [44]
  2. According to Sephardim, after using the bathroom one should say Asher Yatzer and not the bracha of Al Netilat Yadayim. [45]One may say Elokai Nishama, HaMaavir Sheinah, and Birkot HaTorah for himself. [46] The bracha recited over the Tallit covers the Tallit Katan as well. [47]

Netilat Yadayim

  1. One who didn’t sleep at all at night should wash Netilat Yadayim in the morning without a bracha, since there’s a dispute whether there's an obligation to wash Netilat Yadayim in the morning if one did not sleep the night before. According to Ashkenazim, one who didn't sleep but goes to the bathroom in the morning should wash Netilat Yadayim with a Bracha. [48]
  2. One should not learn after Olot HaShachar until he washed his hands in the morning. [49]
  3. If one slept less than 30 minutes [50] or slept in a temporary fashion (putting one’s head on the table) [51], then it is as if he did not sleep at all. [52]

Asher Yatzer

  1. According to Ashkenazim, if one slept at night, one should make Asher Yatzer in the morning whether or not one went to the bathroom; however, if one didn’t sleep, he should only recite Asher Yatzer if he goes to the bathroom. [53] According to sephardim, one can only recite asher yatzar if he used the bathroom. Even if he does though, he would not recite the beracha of al netilat yadayim [54]

Tzitzit

  1. If one went to sleep (or stayed up) in Tzitzit, preferably one should make a Bracha on wearing a Tallit to cover the Bracha for Tzitzit, however if that’s not possible, one may make a Bracha on those Tzitzit in the morning, and as one makes the bracha one should shake the Tzitzit strings. [55]

Birkot HaTorah

  1. If one did not sleep all night, such as on the night of Shavuot, there is a dispute whether one should recite Birchot HaTorah or not. According to Ashkenazim, one should try to hear the brachot from someone else, and then say some psukim afterwards. If one is unable to do that, one view is one should have intent that one's bracha of Ahava Rabba should count for Birchot HaTorah, and then learn after tefillah, while another view is like that one simply makes them as usual.[56] However, the Sephardic minhag is to say Birchot HaTorah by oneself.[57]
  2. If one slept Shinat Kevah, normal sleep in a bed, the day before staying up all night, one should recite the Birchot HaTorah in the morning after one did not sleep.[58]
  3. If one slept Shinat Kevah the day before staying up all night, one should make the Brachot HaTorah in the morning after one didn’t sleep. [59]
  4. One should not say birkot hatorah until after alot hashachar.[60] One should not learn after Olot HaShachar until he said Birchot HaShachar. [61]

Birkot HaShachar

  1. Even if one did not sleep at all at night, Ashkenazim may nevertheless make all the Birchot HaShachar except for Elokai Neshamah, HaMaavir Sheynah, and Birchot HaTorah, which one should preferably hear with intention to fulfill the obligation from someone who has slept.[62] If one is alone, Poskim differ what an Ashkenazi should do.[63].
  2. Sephardim may recite all the Birchot HaShachar (including Birchot HaTorah) except for Netilat Yadayim (and Asher Yatzar which one could make oneself if one goes to the bathroom). Birkot HaShachar may be recited from Chatzot, and Birkot HaTorah after Alot HaShachar and washing one's hands without a Beracha[64]

Standing for Aseret Hadibrot

see Standing for Aseret Hadibrot

Isru Chag

  1. It is prohibited to fast or hold a eulogy on the day after Shavuot. [65]
  2. The sephardic minhag is not to recite tachanun, lamnatze'ach, or tefilla lidavid from Rosh chodesh sivan until the 12th. [66]

Links

Sources

  1. ↑ In Gemara Pesachim 6a, Rabbanan hold that one should begin to learn Hilchot Pesach thirty days in advance of Pesach, whereas Rabban Shimon Ben Gamliel holds only 2 weeks. Rabbanan learn this idea from Moshe who taught the laws of Pesach Sheni thirty days in advance which was Pesach in Nissan. Shulchan Aruch 429:1 rules like the opinion of the Rabbanan. Mishna Brurah 429:1 quotes some who extend this to other Yamim Tovim such as Shavuot, whereas the Gra held that it does not apply to Shavuot and it is sufficient to begin learning the halachot of shavuot from Rosh Chodesh Sivan.
  2. ↑ Gemara Megillah 32b states that one should learn the halachot of Shavuot on Shavuot. Mishna Brurah 429:1 quotes this as halacha.
  3. ↑ Chazon Ovadyah (Pesach pg 1) explains that the halacha in Gemara Pesachim 6a is relevant in regards to the laws established in Tosefta Sanhedrin 7:5 which state that a person should ask relevant questions and a relevant question has precedence over the irrelevant questions.
  4. ↑ See Beiur Halacha 429 s.v. Shoalin
  5. ↑ Rama O"C 494:3 (quoting Maharil pg. 160) explains that the custom commemorates the joy of Matan Torah. Birkei Yosef 494:6 says that this custom is an ancient one dating back to the time of the Midrash Targum Sheini on Megillat Esther 3:8 which writes that Haman mentioned this minhag of ours to Achashverosh. Magen Avraham 494:5 explains that trees are used for decoration so that we should pray for a good fruit harvest because Shavuot is the day we are judged regarding the fruits of the year. The Levush 494:1 writes that this minhag is based on the pasuk “גַּם-הַצֹּאן וְהַבָּקָר אַל-יִרְעוּ, אֶל-מוּל הָהָר הַהוּא” (Shemot 34:3) which implies that there was pasture on Har Sinai. Sefer Minhag Avoteinu Biyadenu vol. 2 pg. 578 suggests the Maharil himself felt that the minhag was a fulfillment of added simcha of the holiday itself, not a commemoration of the simcha of Matan Torah. He writes that this minhag developed specifically on Shavuot because there is an added level of happiness which manifests in physical pleasures, as the Gemara Pesachim 68b writes that though there is a machloket Tannaim if the holidays should be כולו לה’ or חצי לכם and חצי לה’, all opinions agree that there is an aspect of לכם on Shavuot. With this, he explains why the Maharil writes that the greenery should smell nice. Thus, according to the Maharil, it is our joy in essence of the Torah itself and our ability to learn it that we are celebrating by putting out decorations, while according to the Rama the celebration is more focused on the historical fact that Hashem chose us as His nation and gave us His Torah. see also Yechave Daat 4:33. See further in Sefer Minhag Avotenu Biyadenu vol. 2 pg. 573-604 for a lengthy discussion of the development of this minhag and the various reasons.
  6. ↑ This is the opinion of the Gra as quoted by the Chayei Adam 131:13 and Maaseh Rav Siman 195. He felt that since it was only a minhag and not a real din, we should abolish it since it became a religious practice of the non-Jews. This seems to be accepted by the Aruch Hashulchan 494:6 and Rav Moshe Feinstein (Iggerot Moshe YD 4:11:5). The Munkatcher Rov (Shaar Yissachar vol. 2 pg. 119) writes that although the minhag is well-founded, the best option is to refrain. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (quoted in Ve’alehu Lo Yibol 1:page 184) argues that the Gra only wanted to abolish the custom of placing trees in shuls and not flowers. The Steipler (Orchos Rabbenu vol. 2 pg. 99) agrees.
  7. ↑ Chacham Ovadia Yosef (Yechave Daat 4:33 and Yabia Omer YD 3:24, see also Yalkut Yosef Kitzur S”A 494:17) explains that the custom is justified based on the Sh"t Maharik Shoresh 88 who explains that there is no concern of "'Bechukoteihem lo telechu" (Vayikra 18:3, the prohibition regarding following non-Jewish practices and laws) by a custom that has a good reason for its practice. See also Rav Yosef Shaul Nathanson (Yosef Daat Siman 348) and Maharsham (Daat Torah 494:3 and Shu"t Maharsham 1:127), ad Chut Hamishulash pg. 128 who argue in favor of the minhag. Minhagei Edot Yisrael writes that Persian Jews call Shavuot Moed’eh Gol, meaning holiday of flowers. In conclusion, Piskei Teshuvot 494:10 writes that the minhag in most places is to place flowers in the shuls.
  8. ↑ Derashot Chatam Sofer 5562 where he writes that this is based on the Gemara Shabbat 88b which says that “with every single statement that emanated from the mouth of Hashem the whole world became filled with besamim — the fragrance of spices.” see also Birkat Yaavetz of Rav Dovid Cohen on Moadim vol. 2 pg. 263
  9. ↑ Magen Avraham 494:9 quoting the Shela Hakadosh, Kaf Hachaim 494:57, Torat Hacham Baruch pg. 27
  10. ↑ Minhag Avoteinu Biyadeinu 2, page 602.
  11. ↑ Kaf Hachaim Sofer 494:58
  12. ↑ Magen Avraham 494:5, Shulchan Aruch Harav 494:14, Mishna Berura 494:9 write that even though there is not a problem of muktzeh since they were designated from before Shabbat for this purpose, there is still a problem of preparing on Shabbat for Yom Tov.
  13. ↑ The Rama 490:9 writes that the minhag is to read Megillas Rut on Shavuot. The Birkei Yosef 694:11 quotes the midrash which says that the reason we read Rut on Shavuot is because it emphasizes the sacrifice Rut made to accept the Torah and because it describes an awesome act of kindness, which is one of the core themes of Torah.
  14. ↑ Rama 494:3 writes that the minhag is to eat dairy foods on Shavuot. He explains that by having a dairy meal, one ensures that will have two loaves of bread, one for the dairy meal and one for the meat meal, and the two loaves of bread are in commemoration of the Shtei HaLechem brought in the Beit HaMikdash on Shavuot. The Mishna Brurah 494:12 adds an alternative reason for the custom: the Jews had only dairy food immediately after Matan Torah because preparing kosher meat takes a long time. Thus, we eat dairy in commemoration of Matan Torah.
    • Additionally, the Olelot Efraim (Ma’amar 141) writes that the reason for the minhag is that Chazal (Eiruvin 52b) compare learning Torah to a baby suckling milk: just as a baby always finds a new and sweet taste in the milk, so too the learner always a new and sweet taste in Torah.
    • Rav Moshe Shternbuch in Moadim U'zmanim 8:319 says that prior to matan torah, milk was a problem because it could have been considered "ever min hachai," eating from a live animal. Therefore, we celebrate our first opportunity to eat dairy products which occurred at Matan Torah because if the torah in shemot 3:8 praises Israel for being a land filled with milk and honey it has to be that it is permissible for consumption.
    • Additionally, Rav Shternbuch in Teshuvot Vehanhagos 5:161 suggests that we specifically eat cheese on the day of matan Torah since, unlike other foods that spoil with time, aged cheese is actually better than new cheese. As such, we eat cheese on Shavuot to remind us that the 3000 years since Matan Torah doesn't mean the Torah is "outdated," but that it is even greater and just as applicable to our lives.
    • The Yeshuot Yaakov 494:2 gives another reason. He says that the primary change at kabbalat hatorah was that even though the avot could keep mitzvot they didn't have a yetzer hara. We received the yetzer hara at Har Sinai and that's why the gemara tells us that the reward for someone who is commanded in a mitzva is greater than someone's who isn't because he doesn't have a yetzer hara not to fulfill it. Our goal now is to control the yetzer hara and defeat it to achieve the ultimate good. Based on a gemara in Nidda he says that blood is the symbol of tumah so we take the potential for impurity and turn it around completely to achieve the purity of milk.
    • The Bais Halevi on Parashat Yitro gives his own reason. The gemara says that we were given the torah and not the angels because many mitzvot require performance with the body and angels don't have bodies. We have milk and then we have meat to fulfill simchat yom tov, so we show how our observance of the laws of milk and meat requires physicality.
    • The Torat Chaim on Bava Metzia 86b says that we eat dairy based on an Aggada that when Hashem gave us the torah and the angels complained that they should be the ones receiving the Torah, Hashem showed them Avraham, and we are told in Beresheet 18:8 that they ate milk and meat together but the Jews don't eat milk and meat together. see also Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 444 and Noda Biyehuda YD 64.
    • See Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz for elaboration on some of these reasons
  15. ↑ The Rambam (Yom Tov 6:18) rules that the Mitzvah of Simchat Yom Tov is fulfilled through consumption of meat and wine. The Beit Yosef 529:2 asks why the Rambam codifies the consumption of meat on Yom Tov when the Gemara (Pesachim 109a) states clearly that the mitzvah of Simcha is fulfilled through eating meat only during the time of the Beit HaMikdash, while nowadays the mitzvah is fulfilled through wine alone. Accordingly, the Shulchan Aruch O.C. 529:1 writes that one must have wine at each Yom Tov meal and makes no mention of the consumption of meat. The Eliyah Rabba 529:6 and Bei’ur Halacha 529 s.v. Keitzad explain that Shulchan Aruch intentionally omitted the obligation to eat meat because of his question in the Beit Yosef.
    • The Yam Shel Shlomo (Beitzah 2:5) answers the Beit Yosef’s question by reinterpreting the Gemara to mean that nowadays, one must have wine in addition to meat, as opposed to the times of the Beit HaMikdash when one could fulfill the Mitzvah through meat without wine. Thus, Mor U’Ketziah 529, Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 103:7, Aruch HaShulchan 529:5, and Chazon Ovadia (Yom Tov, p. 319) rule that it is an obligation to eat meat on Yom Tov.
    • The Bach 529, however, explains that although there is no obligation to eat meat nowadays, there still is a mitzvah to do so, and one would fulfill the Mitzvah of Simcha thereby. The Magen Avraham 529:3, Shulchan Aruch HaRav 529:7, Mishna Brurah 529:11, and Kaf HaChaim 529:28 agree.
    • See also the Sha’agat Aryeh (Siman 65), who argues that Simchat Yom Tov does not obligate one to eat meat in particular; rather, it is fulfilled by what is subjectively considered enjoyable by each person (see Pesachim 109a). Birkei Yosef 529:4 agrees. Darkei Teshuva 89:19 quotes Rav Chaim of Sanz as disagreeing with the Sha’agat Aryeh.
  16. ↑ The Darkei Teshuva (89:19) mentions a number of minhagim regarding eating dairy on Shavuot and a large part of the discussion is whether it is necessary to have meat at both meals. Those who hold that it is sufficient to have one meat meal include the Steipler (Orchot Rabbeinu v. 2 p. 98), Otzrot Yosef (Rav Dovid Yosef 13:7), Rav Hershel Schachter (Bikvei HaTzon p. 81), Sfat Emet (Sukkah 48a), Rabbi Mordechai Willig (Pesachim Shiur 110, min 40-50; Kol Tzvi Yoma 5778), and The Radiance of Shabbos p. 163 fnt. 33 cites Rav Chaim Pinchas Sheinberg.
  17. ↑ Madanei Yom Tov (Brachot 7:23:7) writes that meat is to be eaten with bread for simchat yom tov. However, some sources hold that meat can be eaten outside of a bread meal.
    • What is the source for having bread on Yom Tov? Rosh Brachot 7:23 holds that it is because of simchat yom tov. The same is found in Tosfot Harosh (Brachot 49b s.v. shabatot) and Tosfot Rabbenu Peretz (Sukkah 27a s.v. iy). Levush 188:7 codifies the opinion of the Rosh. However, the Rashba Brachot 49b says that it is because of oneg yom tov. Rabbi Akiva Eiger 1 assumes like the Rashba. Biur Halacha 188:8 s.v. seudat cites the Rashba. Furthermore, Rashba Sukkah 27a cited by Bet Yosef 188 holds that there is no obligation of bread on Yom Tov besides the first night of Pesach and Sukkot. The same is true of the Tosfot Sukkah 27a s.v. iy and this also seems to be the opinion of the Rambam Sukkah 6:7. Bet Yosef 188 quotes the Rabbenu Yerucham who posulates that this is indeed the approach of the Rambam. There is a third group of rishonim who indicate that one needs to eat bread but aren't clear whether they hold like the Rashba or Rosh. These include the Ran Sukkah 12b s.v. matniten, Ritva Sukkah 27a s.v. alma, Mordechai Beitzah n. 669, Raah on Brachot 49b, and Meiri Sukkah 27a. Birkat Hashem v. 2 p. 356 argues that all rishonim including the Rosh agree with the Rashba that the obligation for bread stems from oneg and not simcha.
    • According to the Rashba, seemingly there is not an obligation to eat the meat in a bread meal since the obligation for the meat and the bread stem from two different places. The obligation of bread is motivated by Oneg Yom Tov. However, the meat is because of simcha (Pesachim 109a). Furthermore, the obligation to have a bread meal at all on Yom Tov is a debate. The Rambam, the one who holds that it is necessary to have meat today, holds that there's no obligation to have a bread meal on Yom Tov besides the first night of Pesach and Sukkot. However, the description of the Rama of how to have dairy and meat in the meal of Shavuot in order to fulfill simchat Yom Tov is within the context of a bread meal. The same is true of the later poskim. Though it isn't necessarily the case that it isn't possible to fulfill it outside the context of a meal.
    • See also Aruch Hashulchan 495 regarding Purim who maintains that it is critical to have the meat meal with bread otherwise it isn't a seuda. Perhaps that is a paradigm for simchat Yom Tov as we see the poskim compare and learn the laws of simchat Yom Tov from Purim. Rav Shraga Feivel Paretsky in Bet Yitzchak v. 24 p. 388 learns from Rambam Yom Tov 6:18 that it isn't necessary to have the meat of simchat yom tov in the meal. The Radiance of Shabbos p. 163 writes that meat should be eaten at the day meal, implying that it must be eaten in the context of the bread meal. Rav Hershel Schachter (Piskei Corona #51) clearly indicates that it isn't necessary to have the meal as part of the bread meal in order to fulfill simchat yom tov as he writes that when there's very little space in the sukkah they can just make kiddush and eat bread in the sukkah, say birkat hamazon, and then eat meat at home. However, note that he is writing for an extenuating circumstance and perhaps can't be extended.
  18. ↑ Rambam (Chagiga 1:1, 2:1-3, Avoda Zara 12:3) holds that women are obligation in simcha. Peninei Halacha 1:10:3 writes that every women is obligated in simcha and it isn't just an obligation upon her husband to gladden her. Chol Hamoed Kehilchato (ch. 1 fnt. 5) quotes the Aderet (Bnei Binyamin), Rabbi Akiva Eiger (responsa 1 addition), and Shagat Aryeh that women are obligated to eat meat for simchat yom tov. He says that although women are obligated to get a new piece of clothing for simchat yom tov, that is only once over the entire holiday, however, meat applies every day.
  19. ↑ The Darkei Teshuva disapproves of this practice because he accepts the view of the Rambam that there is an obligation to eat meat on Yom Tov. See note 1 above.
  20. ↑ This was the practice of the Steipler (Orchot Rabbeinu v. 2 p. 98). The Darkei Teshuva comments that this is reasonable according to the Sha’agat Aryeh’s (Siman 68) view that Simchat Yom Tov is only d’rabanan at night; however, others disagree with the Sha’agat Aryeh. Otzrot Yosef (Rav Dovid Yosef 13:7) quotes this as a minhag. Rav Hershel Schachter (Bikvei HaTzon p. 81) suggests that Simchat Yom Tov follows the schedule of Korbanot for which the night follows the day, implying that eating meat for Simchat Yom Tov does not apply the first night. Therefore, he said (oral communication) that if one enjoys dairy, one may have a dairy meal for the night of Yom Tov. This approach is supported by the Sfat Emet (Sukkah 48a), who writes that Simchat Yom Tov can be fulfilled with one meat meal, either during the night or day. Rabbi Mordechai Willig (Pesachim Shiur 110, min 40-50) agrees with this reasoning. The Radiance of Shabbos p. 163 fnt. 33 cites Rav Chaim Pinchas Sheinberg as holding that it is only necessary to eat meat during the day.
    • Tangentially, Rav Ovadia Yosef in Meor Yisrael (Beitzah 36b v. 2 p. 313) writes that Shulchan Aruch 546:3 might also hold that simcha at night is only derabbanan. Pitchei Teshuva YD 341:13 quotes the VShav Hakohen 95 who argues that there is a mitzvah of simcha deoritta even at night. He proves his contention from Rambam (Chagiga 2:13) unlike the Mahari Kurkus (Rambam Chagiga 2:13). Rashbam (Pesachim 108b s.v. yedey yayin yatzah (2)) implies that he agrees with Rambam that there's a rabbinic mitzvah of simcha on Yom Tov. Emek Bracha p. 108 quotes Rav Chaim as distinguishing between simcha which does apply the first night and the obligation to bring a korban shlamim which does not apply to the first night.
  21. ↑ Rama 494:3, Magen Avraham, Mishna Brurah, Aruch Hashulchan, and Chayey Adam. However, the Shlah and Bear Mayim Chayim disapprove of this minhag since it is in violation of the Zohar that one may not eat milk and meat in the same meal or same hour.
  22. ↑ Rama 494:3
  23. ↑ Darkei Teshuva, Pri Megadim M"Z 89:3. The Torat Chaim (Chullin 83a) writes that it is better to abrogate the minhag of eating dairy rather than have meat after eating dairy, which is forbidden according to the Zohar. The Darkei Teshuva responds that in order to fulfill this minhag, one may be lenient against the Zohar. Mishna Brurah 494:16 notes that one need not make Birkat HaMazon as long as he cleanses his mouth with bread and water as well as washes his hands (S”A Y.D. 89:2).
  24. ↑ The Darkei Teshuva finds this to be the most preferable minhag. Nitai Gavriel Shavuot p. 173 wonders if indeed it is the best practice since one is nonetheless reciting a bracha after the dairy kiddush in order to later eat the meat meal and separate between dairy and meat. He answers that according to the Pri Megadim M"Z 89:3 it is permitted to make a bracha to separate between dairy and meat. He also concludes that this is the practice that chasidim have adopted.
  25. ↑ Chazon Ovadia Pesach page 134
  26. ↑ Mishna Brurah 494:1 writes based on the Magen Avraham that the practice is to stay up all night to learn. He quotes Arizal who said that one who learns all night on Shavuot will live the next year without being damaged. He also quotes the Magen Avraham who explains that since Bnei Yisrael overslept on the day of Matan Torah we stay up all night in order to rectify that mistake.
    See Shavuos, ArtScroll Mesorah Publications pp. 66-70
  27. ↑ Ben Ish Chai Bamidbar 7, Kaf Hachaim 494:6
  28. ↑ Halichot Shlomo 12:3
  29. ↑ Sh"t Rav Pealim 1:9 in Sod Yesharim
  30. ↑ Rav Chaim Palagi (Moed Likol Chai 8:21), Rav Shlomo Aviner
  31. ↑ Yalkut Yosef - Shavuot pg. 657 footnote
  32. ↑ Moed Likol Chai 8:12, Ben Ish Chai: Bamidbar 3
  33. ↑ Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 439, Sh"t Yechave Daat 3:32. (see there for an interesting parable from the Dubna Maggied regarding the Vilna Gaon). Chacham Benzion Abba Shaul (Or Letzion 3: pg. 193 argues that even a yeshiva boy should read the tikkun)
  34. ↑ Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 439, Sh"t Yechave Daat 3:32.
  35. ↑ Magen Avraham (Intro to 494), Mishna Brura 494:1, Moed Lechol Chai 8:23, Ben Ish Chai Bamidbar:2, see Rabbi Ari Enkin
    • Rav Yakov Pollack (cited by Emek Bracha 69c, Yechave Daat 6:30) is quoted as explaining that one shouldn't make kiddush of Shavuot early since we want the temimot of the sefirat haomer to extend to the very end of the 49th day and not end it early. This is cited by Magen Avraham 494:1 and Taz 494:1.
    • Netsiv (Meishv Dvar OC 18 cited by Yachava Daat) explains that one shouldn't say kiddush of Shavuot early since regarding Shavuot it says וקראתם בעצם היום הזה (Vayikra 23:21).
    • Hitorerut Teshuva 3:68:4 writes that one could accept Yom Tov of Shavuot early and it doesn’t impact temimot. He explains the reason not to daven early is because either way we’re going to be up all night so we might as well say kriyat shema at the right time which is after tzet hakochavim.
  36. ↑ Mishna Brurah 494:1, Taz 494:1, Chacham Benzion Abba Shaul (Ohr Letzion 3:18:4)
  37. ↑ Kaf HaChaim 494:1, Moed Likol Chai 8:23, Sh"t Yechave Daat 6:30
  38. ↑ Chacham Ovadia Yosef in Sh"t Yechave Daat 6:30, Halichot Olam 2: page 3, Chazon Ovadia Yom Tov p. 305, Sh"t Chazon Ovadia 1:1 and Sh"t Yabia Omer 5:6:5 says that ideally one should wait until 20 minutes after sunset but if necessary one can be lenient and say Kiddush earlier, but still should ideally wait until after sunset and try to eat a kezayit of bread after tzet hakochavim. see also Chacham Benzion Abba Shaul (Ohr Letzion 3:18:4) who says in a case of great need, one can pray and say Kiddush earlier.
  39. ↑ Magen Avraham (Intro to 494) quotes the Zohar that says that the early Chasidim would learn all of Shavuot night. Birkei Yosef 494:8, Mishna Brurah 494:1, Kaf HaChaim 494:6, Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 438, and Aruch HaShulchan 494:3 also record this minhag.
  40. ↑ Regarding Netilat Yadayim and Birkot HaTorah, it’s clear that if they are to be made, they shouldn’t be said until Alot HaShachar. Nitei Gavriel 18:1 and 20:1 writes so explicitly. Regarding Birchot HaShachar, Kaf HaChaim 46:49 writes that one can say all of them at Chatzot, however, Piskei Teshuvot 46:14 rules that one should wait until Alot HaShachar. Regarding Tallit, S”A 18:3 rules that one may not make the Bracha until MeSheYakir.
  41. ↑
    • The Rosh (Brachot 9:23) writes that the reason a person must wash his hands in the morning is that one's hands almost certainly touched an unclean area. The Rashba (responsa 1:191), on the other hand, writes that the reason is that a person is created anew each morning. The Bet Yosef 4:13 writes that according to the Rosh, one who stays up all night doesn't have to wash because one can ensure that his hands stay clean, while according to the Rashba, one is created anew whether he slept or not. Because of this dispute, S”A and Rama 4:13 rule that one should wash without a bracha. Magen Avraham 494, Taz 4:9, Beiur HaGra 4:13, Birkei Yosef 46:12, and Mishna Brurah 494:1 agree. See, the Bach 4, Aruch HaShulchan 4:12, and Maaseh Rav (#2) who argue that one who didn’t sleep can say the Bracha.
    • Hagahot Rabbi Akiva Eiger 4:12 writes that if one went to the bathroom, one can make the bracha. Olat Tamid 4:8, Eliyah Rabba 4:8, and Pri Megadim (E”A 494) agree. Artzot HaChaim 4:1:14 and Chaye Adam 7:6 seem to agree as well. Thus, Mishna Brurah 4:30 rules one should use the bathroom, thus dirtying his hands, wash his hands with a Bracha, and then say Asher Yatzar.
    • Some achronim (Nitei Gavriel 18:1, Weekly Halacha Discussion, vol 2, p. 363, Halachically Speaking vol 7, issue 6, p. 9) quote the Mishna Brurah as saying that one should use the bathroom and leave out dirtying one’s hands. Rabbi Mordechai Willig and Rabbi Hershel Schachter (cited by Halachipedia Article #22) explained that although the Mishna Brurah certainly meant to be precise, one can make the Bracha even if one merely touches an unclean area of the body.
    • Derech HaChaim 1:17 adds that even by touching an unclean area, one can make the Bracha. Beiur Halacha s.v. Veyitlem agrees. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Halichot Shlomo 2:24), however, argues that it is insufficient to touch an unclean area.
    • Maamar Mordechai 4:8 disagrees with Rabbi Akiva Eiger because even according to the Rashba there is a doubt as to whether one is considered created anew if he didn’t sleep (see Magen Avraham 4:12). Kaf HaChaim 4:49 and Yalkut Yosef 4:9 agree.
  42. ↑
    • The Tur and S”A 47:12 write that if one is learning at night one doesn't have to make new Birkot HaTorah as long as one didn't fall asleep. Beiur HaGra 47:12 explains that sleep is a hefsek and if one didn't sleep, one doesn't need new Brachot. Chaye Adam 9:9, Mishna Brurah 47:28, and Rabbi Hershel Schachter (cited in Bet Yitzchak vol 30, p. 592) agree but advise hearing them from someone who slept. Magen Avraham (47:12, 494) argues that essentially Birkot HaTorah are like Birkot HaShachar, which are said every day. He adds that it's preferable to hear them from someone who certainly is obligated. Eliyah Rabba 47:9, Birkei Yosef 46:12, and Aruch HaShulchan 47:23 concur. Kaf HaChaim 47:26 and Chazon Ovadyah (p. 312) write that the Sephardic minhag is to make Birkot HaTorah oneself.
    • Rama 46:8 writes that one may say all the Birkot HaShachar whether one experienced the event described in the particular Bracha or not. Although the Shulchan Aruch argues, Kaf HaChaim 46:49 writes that the Sephardic minhag is to follow the Rama.
    • Eliyah Rabba 46:12 quotes the Ateret Zekenim 46:3 who says that if one didn't sleep, one shouldn't say Elokai Nishama or HaMaavir Sheinah. Thus, Mishna Brurah 46:24 writes that one should hear these Brachot from someone who slept. However, Pri Megadim (E”A 46:2) wonders why Elokai Nishama and HaMaarvir Sheinah should be different than the other Birkot HaShachar. Aruch HaShulchan 46:13 rules that one may say these brachot even if he didn't sleep. Also, Birkei Yosef 46:12 and Yalkut Yosef 489:13 Moadim page 441 write that the Sephardic minhag is to say these Brachot even if one didn’t sleep.
  43. ↑ Although S”A 8:16 rules if one slept in one’s Tzitzit one should make a Bracha upon arising, the Bach 8:15, Taz 8:15, Eliyah Rabba 8:18, and Kaf HaChaim 8:61 argue that one shouldn’t make a Bracha. Magen Avraham 8:21 writes that one should have in mind that his bracha on the Tallit should exempt his Tallit Katan. Mishna Brurah 8:42 agrees. Rabbi Hershel Schachter (cited in Bet Yitzchak vol 30, p. 591) rules that if one doesn't have a Tallit, onee should hear the Bracha from someone else and feel his Tzitzit at the time of the Bracha.
  44. ↑ Hagahot Rabbi Akiva Eiger 47:12 writes that if one slept during the day prior to staying up all night, according to all opinions one has to recite Birkot HaTorah in the morning. Mishna Brurah 47:28 specifies that the sleep should be a Sheinat Kevah. Chatam Sofer (cited by Netah Sorek YD 63), Hilchot Chag BeChag (p. 131), and Rabbi Mordechai Willig (“Inyanei Chag Hashavuos”, min 48) agree. See Beirur Halacha (vol 7, p. 20) who quotes the Chazon Ish as questioning Rabbi Akiva Eiger.
  45. ↑ #netilat
  46. ↑ #birkothashachar
  47. ↑ #tzitzit
  48. ↑ Mishna Brurah 4:30, 494:1. The Artzot Hachaim (Eretz Yehuda 4:14) writes that a person who went to the bathroom can recite a bracha on netilat yadayim. According to the Rashba a bracha is automatically required since maybe a person is recreated each day even if he didn't sleep. According to the Rosh a bracha is required since a person's are dirty and require netilat yadayim after going to the bathroom. His conclusion is that it is necessary either go number two or number one and to wipe off the urine drops from oneself. This definition of what requires Netilat Yadayim for dirty hands is discussed in Bet Yosef 7. Ishei Yisrael (ch. 2 n. 99) cites the Shulchan Aruch Harav who holds that it is sufficient to touch the areas that are uncovered. However, he quotes Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach who disagrees and holds that touching an uncovered area doesn't require a bracha.
  49. ↑ S”A 4:14 says that if one was awake from before Olot HaShachar and washed his hands earlier, he should wash again at Olot HaShachar without a Bracha because of Safek. Piskei Teshuvot 494:5 says once there’s an obligation to wash one’s hands one shouldn’t learn Torah.
  50. ↑ Kitzur S”A 2:8, Dinei Nieyor Kol HaLaylah (pg 42) in name of Rav Chaim Kanievsky
  51. ↑ Ishei Yisrael 2:33 note 110, Piskei Teshuvot 494:6
  52. ↑ Mishna Brurah 4:27, Ishei Yisrael 2:33
  53. ↑ Mishna Brurah 4:3
  54. ↑ Yalkut Yosef Moadim 441.
  55. ↑ S”A 8:16 rules that if one slept in Tzitzit one may make a new Bracha on it in the morning and at the time of the Bracha one should shake the Tzitzit strings. Mishna Brurah 8:42 explains that really this issue depends on whether there’s a mitzvah of Tzitzit at night and so it’s preferable to make the Bracha on a Tallit and cover the Bracha for Tzitzit. Piskei Teshuvot 8:30 adds that someone who that option is unavailable, such as bochrim who don’t wear Tallitim, should make the Bracha oneself like S”A.
  56. ↑ Mishna Brurah 47:28, Rabbi Hershel Schachter (cited by Bet Yitzchak vol 30, p. 592). The view that says one should say it (Aruch Hashulchan OC:47:23) thinks Birchot HaTorah is similar to other Birchot HaShachar, which are said every morning, regardless of whether one slept or not.
  57. ↑ Yechave Daat 3:33, Yabia Omer O.C. 5:6, Chazon Ovadyah (Yom Tov p. 312)
  58. ↑ Mishna Brurah 47:28 in name of Rabbi Akiva Eiger
  59. ↑ Mishna Brurah 47:28 in name of Rabbi Akvia Eiger
  60. ↑ Yalkut Yosef Chelek 1 page 137.
  61. ↑ Mishna Brurah 47:28
  62. ↑ Rama 46:8, Mishna Brurah 46:24, Piskei Teshuvot 494:7
  63. ↑ Regarding a situation where an Ashkenazi has no one to recite the Berachot on his behalf, the Elyah Rabbah 46:13 says one should not recite HaMaavir Sheynah and Elokai Neshama, but Aruch HahSulchan (Orach Chaim 46:13) disagrees and holds that one can recite these even if one didn't sleep..Regarding Birchot HaTorah, Mishnah berurah 47:28 says not to say them due to safek berachot lehakel. The Aruch Hashulchan (OC 47:23), however, strongly vouches for reciting Birchot Hatorah if awake the whole night and unable to hear from another.
  64. ↑ Kaf HaChaim 46:49:1, Sh"t Yabia Omer 5:6, Or LeTzion 2:4:11, Tefillah KeHilchata (chap 9 note 159) quoting Chacham Ben Tzion Abba Shaul, Yalkut Yosef (Birkot Hashachar, Birkot Hatorah and Psukei Dizimra 5764 page 13), Yalkut Yosef 489:13
  65. ↑ Kaf Hachayim 494:48
  66. ↑ Yalkut Yosef Moadim page 445, Chazon Ovadia Yom Tov page 329, Kaf Hachaim 494:50.
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