Washing Hands Between Back to Back sessions of Marital Relations
Question:
Should my wife and I wash hands and spill the water near the bed after intercourse, if we plan to have a second session shortly afterwards?
Answer:
One is to wash hands and spill water near the bed after each session of marital relations, even when multiple sessions occur in one night, as these customs apply independently to each act.
Explanation:
According to Halacha, one is required to wash his hands immediately following marital relations in order to banish the evil spirit from them. Therefore, even when relations will take place more than once during the same night, if a break occurs between the acts—such as leaving the bedroom—hands should be washed again before resuming. This washing is customarily done during the recovery period of the husband and applies each time the act is concluded.
The same applies regarding the custom of spilling water around the bed, which is based on Kabbalistic sources to prevent harmful spiritual effects and to serve as protection for any future offspring. These customs apply independently to each occurrence.
Sources:
See regarding Washing hands: Admur Kama 4:18 and Siddur; Beis Yosef 4 in name of Mahari; Reishis Chochmah Sha’ar Hakedusha 16:33; Siddur Arizal of Rav Shabsi in name of Ramak; Sh’lah Sha’ar Ha’osiyos Kuf p. 103b; Olas Tamid 240:8; Elya Raba 240:16; Or Tzadikim 27:13; Ben Ish Chaiy Toldos 1:16; M”B 240:54; Yesod Veshoresh Ha’avoda 8:6; Kaf Hachaim 240:50 in name of Damesek Eliezer p. 326 and Kaf Hachaim 240:57; Sheyikadesh Atzmo [Nachmonson-2015] p. 398
See regarding Spilling water near the bed: Admur ibid in Siddur; Zohar Vayikra 3:19; Mishnas Chassidim Miseches Shechiva 11:11; Siddur Arizal Reb Shabsi; Or Tzadikim 27:16; Morah Ba’etzba 2:55; Kaf Hachaim [Falagi] 4:1; Pischeiy Olam 240:41; Kaf Hachaim 240:67; Darkei Chaim Vehslaom 346; Piskeiy Teshuvos 240:30; Sheyikadesh Atzmo 39:7
