From the Rav’s Desk: Doing Kiddush Levana on Motzei Shavuos

1. Question: [Tuesday, 8^th Sivan, 5781]

May one perform Kiddush Levana on Motzei Shavuos, or should he wait until after Shabbos?

Answer:

In the Diaspora, when seven days have passed from the Molad [either seven complete days, or into the seventh day, depending on one’s accustomed way of ruling], then one may perform Kiddush Levana on Motzei Shavuos, and so should be done if the following Motzei Shabbos falls past the 10^th of the month.

Explanation: The Poskim explain that the advantage of doing Kiddush Levana on Motzei Shabbos, is likewise applicable to Motzei Yom Tov, as the entire purpose of doing so on Motzei Shabbos is because one is in festive clothing and the same applies on Motzei Yom Tov. Nonetheless, according to Kabbalah, seemingly there is an advantage specifically on Motzei Shabbos. However, certainly if Motzei Shabbos falls past the 10^th of the month, then one is to do it specifically on Motzei Yom Tov, as one may not initially delay it until Motzei Shabbos in such a case. Now, although it was common for the Rebbe to perform Kiddush Levana on Motzei Shabbos, and not on Motzei Yom Tov of Shavuos, this could be due to a variety of reasons, and whatever the case the Halacha stands as above and that is what the public should follow.

Sources: See regarding doing on Motzei Shabbos: Michaber 426:2; Tur; Miseches Sofrim; So rule regarding doing on Motzei Yom Tov: P”M 426 A”A 2; M”B 426:5 in name of Elya Raba; and so is implied from Teshuvos Harameh 78; Kaf Hachaim 426:22; See regarding not waiting until Motzei Shabbos when it falls past the 10^th of the month: Rama 426:2; Terumas Hadeshen 35; Shaar Hakolel 33:1; Mentioned by Rebbe in Sefer Hasichos Noach 1992 regarding being careful with the Zman of Kiddush Levana;