Chapter 42: The Yom Tov Davening[1]

*See our corresponding Sefarim “The laws & Customs of Sukkos/Pesach/Shavuos/Chanukah/Purim” for the full details of this subject!

1. Yom Tov:
2. Mincha on Erev Yom Tov:

See Chapter 41 Halacha 1 regarding Mincha Erev Shabbos for further details on this subject!

Saying Hodu and Patach Eliyahu: Hodu and Patach Eliyahu is not recited by Mincha Erev Yom Tov, with exception to when Erev Yom Tov falls on Erev Shabbos in which case one recites the paragraph of Hodu and Patach Eliyahu prior to Mincha as usual. However, Hodu is omitted prior to Mincha Erev Shabbos if it coincides with Yom Tov or Chol Hamoed.

Tachanun: It is customary to omit Tachanun by Mincha of Erev Yom Tov. [This applies even when Davening Mincha early by Mincha Gedola. Likewise, for this reason one who ate bread after midday does not recite Al Naros before Birchas Hamazon but rather recites Shir Hamaalos.]

1. General rules for Yom Tov Shemoneh Esrei:[2]

Began Ata Chonein or other weekday blessing: This follows the same law as Shabbos. Thus, if during Yom Tov Shemoneh Esrei of Maariv, Shacharis and Mincha [excluding Musaf] one accidentally began saying Ata Chonein, or any other weekday Shemoneh Esrei blessing, then he must first finish the weekday blessing and only then is to begin with the middle Yom Tov blessing. See chapter 41 Halachic 2A for the full details of this matter!

Davened a weekday Shemoneh Esrei instead of Yom Tov: This follows the same law as Shabbos. Thus, if one accidentally Davened Shemoneh Esrei of the weekday instead of Shemoneh Esrei of Yom Tov, then he does not fulfill his obligation. See chapter 41 Halachic 2B for the full details of this matter!

Tashlumin:[3] This follows the same law as Shabbos. Thus, if one missed one of the Yom Tov Shemoneh Esrei’s, then he must Daven the next Shemoneh Esrei twice, just as we rule during the week. For example, if he forgot to Daven Maariv Shemoneh Esrei on Yom Tov night and only remembered the next morning by Shacharis, then he is the Daven Shacharis Shemoneh Esrei twice, with saying the same middle blessing of Ata Vichartanu in both.

Nidava:[4] It is not possible for one to Daven a Nidava Shemoneh Esrei on Yom Tov.

1. C. Maariv Yom Tov night:

For Maariv of Yom Tov, some are accustomed to read the added Mizmorim that are said on Shabbos. The Chabad custom on the night of Yom Tov is to recite a regular weekday Maariv prayer until Shemoneh Esrei, without any of the additional Mizmorim that are normally added on Shabbos. Hence, the course of the Maariv prayer of Yom Tov until Shemoneh Esrei follows the normal Maariv dialect of a weeknight. One however begins from Shir Hamaalos and not from Vehu Rachum. For Shemoneh Esrei one Davens the special Yom Tov Nussach which includes the paragraphs of Ata Vichartanu. After Shemoneh Esrei we recite Kaddish with Tiskabel, which is then  followed by Aleinu.

Ufros Sukas Shalom in Maariv: In the blessing of Hashkiveinu one is not to conclude with the regular Nusach of “Shomer Amo Yisrael La’ad,” but rather with “Haporeis Sukkas Shalom Aleinu Veal Kol Amo Yisrael Veal Yerushalayim.” If he accidently concluded with “Shomer Es Amo Yisrael La’ad” instead of “Hapores Sukas Shalom” then if he remembered within Kdei Dibbur, he is to recite the correct conclusion of “Hapores Sukas Shalom Aleinu.” If he did not remember within enough time, he nevertheless fulfills his obligation, and is not to repeat the blessing. Nonetheless, after Davening, it is proper to repeat the words “Hapores Sukkas Shalom Aleinu” See chapter 41 Halachic 3B for the full details of this matter!

Vayidaber: It is not the Chabad custom to recite Vayidaber prior to Shemoneh Esrei of Yom Tov night being that in the opinion of the Alter Rebbe, doing so is considered an interval between Geula and Tefila. Thus, immediately after  the conclusion of the blessing of Hashkiveinu, the half Kaddish is recited which is then followed by the Shemoneh Esrei. Even if one is praying in a Shul in which the custom is to recite Vayidaber prior to Shemoneh Esrei of Yom Tov night, he is not to say it with them and is rather with remain silent until Kaddish is recited. See chapter 41 Halachic 3B for the full details of this matter!

Yom Tov or Chol Hamoed falls on Friday evening:[5] When Yom Tov or Chol Hamoed falls on Friday evening, one begins the Maariv prayer from Mizmor Ledavid [psalm 29], [omitting all the Psalms from Lechu Neranina until Mizmor Ledavid]. [One recites the entire prayer from Mizmor Ledavid and onwards, including Ana Bekoach; all the stanzas of Lecha Dodi; Mizmor Shir, Kegavna. In Lecha Dodi, the wording of Besimcha is recited instead of Berina. In Shemoneh Esrei one needs to mention “Shabbos” in the beginning of the middle blessing, and in the conclusion of the blessing. After Shemoneh Esrei one recites Vayechulu, and Meiyn Sheva. Following the recital of Meiyn Sheva one recites Kaddish with Tiskabel. This Kaddish is then followed by “Mizmor Ledavid Hashem Roiy” as is usually recited on Friday night. One then recites half Kaddish, Barchu and Aleinu.]

Yom Tov falls on Motzei Shabbos:[6] When Yom Tov falls on Motzei Shabbos [i.e. Saturday night], then in the evening prayer of Shemoneh Esrei the paragraph of Vetodieinu/ותודיענו is added prior to the paragraph of ותתן לנו. If one forgot to say Vetodieinu in Shemoneh Esrei then some Poskim rule once he has begun saying “Vatiten Lanu Hashem” he is not to go back to say Vetodieinu and is rather to continue with Shemoneh Esrei as usual. In such a case he must beware to say Baruch Hamavdil prior to doing any Melacha which is permitted on Yom Tov. Other Poskim  however rule that one who does go back to say it has upon whom to rely, so long as he has not yet finished the blessing of Mikadeish Yisrael Vehazmanim.

Hallel on the first nights of Pesach: On the first nights of Pesach we say the complete Hallel with a blessing on both nights of Yom Tov [in the Diaspora]. In Eretz Yisrael Hallel is only recited on the first night. After Hallel we recite Kaddish with Tiskabel.

Hakafos on Shemini Atzeres-Simchas Torah: On Shemini Atzeres-Simchas Torah, Hakafos is performed after the recital of the complete Kaddish which is said after Shemoneh Esrei.

The liturgy of Shalom Aleichem: Shalom Aleichem and Eishes Chayil are not recited on the night of Yom Tov. When Yom Tov or Chol Hamoed falls on Friday evening, some are accustomed not to recite Shalom Aleichim. Others are accustomed to reciting it as usual. Practically, the Chabad custom is to recite it in an undertone.

1. Shacharis:

The special Mizmorim and liturgy in Pesukei Dezimra: It is customary to recite extra Mizmorim on Yom Tov morning, just like Shabbos. See chapter 41 Halachic 4 for the full details of this matter!

The blessing of Yotzer Or: On Yom Tov, unless it coincides with Shabbos, the blessing of Yotzer Or follows the same order as the weekday blessing, and the Shabbos additions of Keil Adon and the like are omitted.

Making an interval between Geula and Tefila on Yom Tov:[7] On Yom Tov, one may not make an interval for a Davar Shebekidusha between Goal Yisrael and the start of Shemoneh Esrei, just as we rule regarding the regular weekday.

The order of the prayers after the Chazan’s repetition: After the conclusion of the Chazan’s repetition, Halel is recited, as explained next.

1. Hallel:

See Chapter 40 for the full details of this matter!

First days of Yom Tov: On the first day/days of each of the Shalosh Regalim [i.e. Pesach, Shavuos, Sukkos]  one is required to recite the complete Hallel with a blessing. It is not recited on Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur.

The last days of Yom Tov: On Shemini Atzeres and Simchas Torah, one is required to recite the complete Hallel with a blessing. On the last day/days of Pesach [i.e. Shevi’i and Achron Shel Pesach] an abridged Hallel is customarily read.

1. The order of the prayers after Halel:

After the conclusion of Halel, the full Kaddish is recited, which is then followed by Shir Shel Yom, which is followed by Ata Hareisa and the Torah reading.

1. The Torah Reading:

See Chapter 32 for the full details of this matter!

Shema/Gadlu/Romemu/Al Hakol: After the Chazan receives the scroll [with both hands] he is to hold it by his right side [with the front part of the scroll facing the people] and on Shabbos and Yom Tov, he is first to recite the verse of Shema Yisrael, Echad Leilokeinu, and then Gadlu. The Chazan is to slightly lift the Sefer Torah three times, one time upon saying Shema, a second time upon saying Echad, and a third time upon saying Gadlu. [The custom is for the Chazan to slightly turn his face towards the congregation while saying Gadlu. However, some Poskim rule that the Chazan is to face the Heichal while saying it.]

Yud Gimmel Middos-Hashem Hashem: When the Shalosh Regalim fall on a weekday, the 13 attributes [i.e. passage of Hashem Hashem] is recited one time, when the Ark is opened to remove the Torah scrolls, prior to Berich Shmei. If Yom Tov falls on Shabbos, the Yud Gimmel Middos [and Ribono Shel Olam ] is not recited. After the recital of Hashem Hashem one recites the prayer of Ribono Shel Olam  [one time ]. [Likewise, the verse of Veani Sefilasi, which is recited after the Ribono Shel Olam is only recited one time.] This is then followed by the prayer of Berich Shmei.

The amount of Aliyos: Moshe established to read five Aliyos on Yom Tov.

Two Torah scrolls on Yom Tov: Being that two different sections of the Torah need to be read on Yom Tov, therefore, one is initially required to remove two Torah scrolls; one for the Holiday reading, and the second for the Maftir. It does not suffice to remove only one Torah scroll and then roll it to the Parsha of Musafim [for Maftir].  [The scrolls are to be rolled to their proper places prior to Davening. Doing so is not to be delayed until Kerias Hatorah.  If only one scroll is available then the two portions are to be read from the same scroll.]

The order if two or more Torah scrolls are removed: Whenever two scrolls are removed [i.e. the Yomim Tovim of Pesach, Sukkos, Shavuos, Rosh Hashanah], the regular Yom Tov portion is read from the first scroll until, and including, Chamishi. The second scroll is then placed on the Bima which is followed by half Kaddish. Hagbah is then done to the first scroll. [The Mi Shebeirach for the ill is recited after Hagbah.] One may not open the second scroll until the first scroll is rolled up and placed in its Meil. Maftir is read from the second scroll. One then performs Hagbah to the second scroll and reads the Haftorah for Shekalim.

Half Kaddish: On Yom Tov, half Kaddish is recited after the reading of the 1st Torah scroll, prior to Maftir.   

Maftir/Haftorah: See Chapter 32 Halacha 16-17 for the full details of this matter!

Yikum Purkan: Yikum Purkan is not recited after the conclusion of the Torah reading on Yom Tov unless it coincides with Shabbos.

Av Harachamim: Av Harachamim is not recited on Yom Tov with exception to when Yizkor is performed.

                  

1. Yizkor:

When is Yizkor recited: The Ashkenazi custom is that in addition to reciting Yizkor on Yom Kippur, it is also recited on the on the last days of the three festivals [i.e. last day of Pesach; last day of Shavuos] with exception to Sukkos, in which Yizkor is recited on Shemini Atzeres, as opposed to Simchas Torah. Yizkor is not recited on Rosh Hashanah.

Who recites Yizkor? All individuals who have lost a parent recite Yizkor for the sake of the souls of their father or mother who have passed away. It is recited by both sons, and daughters. The women recite it from the women’s section. There is an advantage in reciting Yizkor in the Shul that the deceased Davened in. Those reciting Yizkor may add in their recitation the names of other souls.

Yizkor during the first year of Aveilus: The Chabad custom is that when Yizkor is taking place during the first year of Aveilus, the mourner remains in Shul for Yizkor, although he does not recite anything while there. He is not to recite the Yizkor even quietly. If one is within the year of one parent and past the year for another parent, then only the parent’s name that is past the year is to be mentioned in Yizkor. One who is still prior to the first Yahrzeit, but is past 12 months of mourning, is to remain in Shul and recite Yizkor regularly.

The Yizkor ceremony in Shul: All those who have a parent who has passed away, remain in the Shul. Those of whom both of their parents are alive, are to leave the Shul. One recites the Nussach of Yizkor as printed in the Siddur. Those who cannot recite it in Hebrew, or have difficulty in understanding it in Hebrew, may recite it in their language.

How to say the name: During Yizkor one is to mention the name of the Niftar together with the name of his/her mother, such as Eliezer Ben Bashe Leah. One does not mention the name of the father of the deceased. Men and women are to be mentioned separately in Yizkor. It is customary amongst Chassidim to mention in Yizkor the name of the Rebbe that they were Chassidim of. This has an effect on the Chassid saying it. Those reciting Yizkor may add in their recitation, the names of other souls and deceased relatives, such as a sibling, or spouse. If a child passed away r”l, his name may also be mentioned, even if he was below the age of Chinuch. If one’s spouse passed away and they then remarried, it is debated whether their names may be mentioned in Yizkor or if they are to have another do so for them. The soul of a parent, or other individual, who committed suicide r”l, may be mentioned during Yizkor.

Pledging charity: One is to pledge charity during Yizkor on behalf of the soul of the deceased. This is one of the main purposes of the Yizkor. One is to explicitly state in his pledge that he is doing so Bli Neder, otherwise it has the status of a Neder. It is proper for the pledge to be paid immediately after Yom Tov. Some are accustomed to already distribute the charity before Yom Tov, and then say in the Nussach “As I have given.”

Holding on to the Eitz Chaim: The Chabad custom is to take hold of the Eitz Chaim while reciting Yizkor. This was the custom of the Rebbe Rayatz.  

No Minyan: Yizkor is to be recited even if a Minyan is not present in the Shul. Yizkor may be recited even in the privacy of one’s home.

Av Harachamim: On the second day of Yom Tov in the Diaspora [1st day in Eretz Yisrael] when Yizkor is recited, the entire congregation may choose to say Av Harachamim prior to Ashrei of Musaf on Yom Tov, and not just those who have remained for Yizkor.

Keil Malei Rachamim: Some are accustomed to reciting the prayer of Keil Malei Rachamim upon saying Yizkor. Others, however, negate this custom. Practically, the Chabad custom is not to say it on Shabbos or Yom Tov.

1. Musaf:

The order before Musaf:[8] Prior to Musaf, Ashreiy is recited which is then followed by Yehalelu and half Kaddish. One should not make an interval between Ashreiy and Kaddish.

Eating before Musaf:[9] It is permitted to make Kiddush and eat after Shacharis, prior to Musaf, all the foods that are permitted to be eaten prior to Mincha once its time has arrived. Thus, one may eat fruits of unlimited quantity, in order to satiate the heart. One may eat up to a Kibeitza [55 grams] of bread or Mezonos or alcoholic beverages, but not more. Immediately after making Kiddush, one must either drink a Revius of wine, or eat a Kezayis of Mezonos so it be Kiddush Bemakom Seuda.

When to Daven Musaf: See Chapter 39!

What is the law if one accidently Davened the Shemoneh Esrei of Shacharis/Mincha instead of Musaf? If one intended to Daven Musaf and accidently Davened the Shemoneh Esrei of Mincha, he fulfills his obligation of Mincha and is to Daven Musaf afterwards. Thus, if one accidently Davened the regular Yom Tov Shemoneh Esrei on the afternoon of Yom Tov, instead of Musaf, he fulfills his obligation of Mincha with that Shemoneh Esrei, and is to Daven Musaf afterwards. The same applies if on Shabbos afternoon one accidently Davened the Shacharis or Mincha Shemoneh Esrei instead of Musaf, he fulfills his obligation of Mincha with that Shemoneh Esrei, and is to Daven Musaf afterwards.

The order of the prayer after Musaf:[10] After the completion of Musaf Shemoneh Esrei, one recites the prayer of Ein Kelokeinu, which is then followed by Kaddish Derabanon. In Israel, the custom of many communities us to recite Barchu at this point, although this is not the Chabad practice. This is then followed by the prayer of Aleinu. After Aleinu one is to recite the paragraph of the showbread [i.e. Lechem Hapanim].

The six Zechiros: One is to recite the six Zechiros after the prayers.

1. Mincha:[11]

The order of the prayer after Mincha:[12] The order of the Mincha prayer begins with the recital of the Karbanos and incense offering. This is then followed by the prayer of Ashreiy and Uva Letziyon which is then followed by the half Kaddish and Shemoneh Esrei.

The order of the prayer after Mincha: After the completion of Mincha Shemoneh Esrei, one recites the complete Kaddish, which is then followed by the prayer of Aleinu.

Veani Sefilasi: The verse of Veani Sefilasi is not recited by Mincha of Yom Tov, unless it coincides with Shabbos.

Torah reading: There is no Torah reading by Mincha of Yom Tov, unless it coincides with Shabbos.

Tzidkasecha: Tzidkasecha is not recited after Mincha of Yom Tov, even if it coincides with Shabbos.

1. Maariv:[13]

See Chapter 37 Halacha 9 for the full details of this matter!

Ata Chonantanu:[14] On Motzei Yom Tov, whether it is Motzei Yom Tov to a weekday or Motzei Yom Tov to Chol Hamoed, one needs to recite Havdalah [Ata Chonantanu] in the blessing of Chonen Hadaas, just like on Motzei Shabbos. [However, when Motzei Yom Tov falls on Friday night it is not recited.]

Vihi Noam: The prayer of Vihi Noam is not recited on Motzei Yom Tov, unless it coincides with Motzei Shabbos, and it is not Chol Hamoed.

1. Yom Tov falls on Shabbos:

Mincha on Erev Shabbos-Yom Tov: When Erev Yom Tov falls on Erev Shabbos one recites the paragraph of Hodu and Patach Eliyahu prior to Mincha as usual. One does not recite Hodu or Patach Eliyahu prior to Mincha of Erev Yom Tov if it does not fall on Erev Shabbos.

Shemoneh Esrei: When Yom Tov [excluding Chol Hamoed] falls on Erev Shabbos one Davens the Shemoneh Esrei of Shalosh Regalim and not that of Shabbos, adding to it the parts added on Shabbos.

Forgot to mention Shabbos in Shemoneh Esrei:[15] If one forgot to add any of the parts for Shabbos in the Shemoneh Esrei, then he does not fulfill his obligation, and must repeat Shemoneh Esrei.  Likewise, However, if he concluded the blessing with Mikadesh Hashabbos Viyisrael Vihazmanim, then even if he did not mention Shabbos in the main paragraph the Yom Tov Shemoneh Esrei, he nevertheless fulfills his obligation.  Furthermore, if he mentioned Shabbos anywhere in the main paragraph, then even if he did not conclude the blessing with Mikadesh Hashabbos Viyisrael Vihazmanim, he nevertheless fulfills his obligation according to some Poskim, and is hence not to repeat it.  This applies whether he concluded with only Mikadesh Hashabbos, or only Mikdesh Yisrael Vihazmanim. 

Davened Shabbos Shemoneh Esrei: If one accidentally said the Shabbos Shemoneh Esrei and not the Shemoneh Esrei for Yom Tov, he does not fulfill his obligation and must repeat the correct Shemoneh Esrei.

Musaf: For Musaf one Davens the Musaf of Shalosh Regalim, adding to it the parts added on Shabbos. If one forgot to mention the Shabbos sacrifices in the Musaf then if one said “Kimo Shekasuv Besorasecha” then he has fulfilled his obligation. The same applies whenever one forgets to mention particular Karbanos.

2. Chol Hamoed:
3. Yaaleh Veyavo:

On Chol Hamoed, one Davens a regular weekday Shemoneh Esrei for Maariv, Shacharis and Mincha, although adding Yaaleh Veyavo to the prayer. If one forgot to recite Yaaleh Veyavo in Shemoneh Esrei he must repeat the prayer. This applies even by Maariv.

Nedava: If one is Davening a Nedava on Chol Hamoed, he is to add Ya’aleh Veyavo in his Nedava prayer.

Forgot Yaaleh Veyavo but remembered prior to finishing Shemoneh Esrei:  If prior to finishing Shemoneh Esrei one remembered that he did not say Ya’aleh Veyavo, [then if he is holding prior to saying the name of Hashem in the concluding blessing of Visechezena then he should say it as soon as he remembers and continue afterwards from Visechezena.  If, however, he remembered only after he already said Hashem’s name in the concluding blessing of Visechezenu then some Poskim  rule he is to conclude the blessing with Lamdeini Chukecha and then go back and recite Ya’aleh Veyavo and then repeat from Visechezena.] If he remembered after concluding the blessing of Visechezena, but prior to Modim, then he is to say it there [and continue afterwards with Modim]. If, however, he only remembered after he already began saying Modim then he must return to Ritzei and recite from there with Ya’aleh Veyavo.  If he only remembered after he already finished Shemoneh Esrei then he must return to the beginning of Shemoneh Esrei. [This applies even if he remembered after reciting the second Yehi Ratzon, prior to taking three steps. ] If, however, he remembered prior to reading the second Yehi Ratzon  then he is to return to Ritzei.  [If he is accustomed to add prayers after the second Yehi Ratzon, then if he remembers prior to concluding these prayers he is to return to Ritzei. ]

In doubt if said Ya’aleh Veyavo: If one is in doubt as to whether he recited Ya’aleh Veyavo then some Poskim rule he fulfills his obligation and is not required to return to Ritzei or repeat Shemoneh Esrei. Others however rule that it has the same law as one who did not say Ya’aleh Veyavo and he must hence return to Ritzei or repeat Shemoneh Esrei.  Practically, one is to complete the Shemoneh Esrei and repeat Shemoneh Esrei as a Nidavah. 

If one remembered only after he already Davened Musaf: If one had already Davened Musaf and only then realized he had forgotten to say Ya’aleh Viyavo in Shemoneh Esrei of Shacharis, he does not need to repeat Shemoneh Esrei. 

Announcing Ya’aleh Veyavo before Shemoneh Esrei: One may not announce prior to Shemoneh Esrei of Maariv [and certainly of Shacharis] that the paragraph of Ya’aleh Veyavo is to be said in Shemoneh Esrei. [Nevertheless, upon the Chazan reaching Ya’aleh Veyavo he is to recite these words aloud. One may likewise bang on the table and the like, prior to Shemoneh Esrei to remind the congregation, and so is the widespread custom.]

Saying the phrases aloud and answering Amen: When the Chazan says Ya’aleh Veyavo, the congregation is to answer Amen after the following three phrases: 1) Zachreinu Bo Letova; 2) Ufakdeinu Vo Levracha; 3) Vehoshieinu Vo Lechaim Tovim. If one is Davening Maariv after Plag Hamincha on Erev Rosh Chodesh, he is to recite Ya’aleh Veyavo in his Shemoneh Esrei.

1. Hallel:

See Chapter 40 for the full details of this matter!

Sukkos: Throughout the eight/nine days of Sukkos, one is required to recite the complete Hallel with a blessing.

Pesach: The sages only instituted Halel to be read on the 1st day of Pesach [and 2nd in Diaspora]. Nevertheless, the custom is to read the Hallel on each day of Pesach. Thus, on the first day [and second in Diaspora] the entire Hallel is read, while on the remaining days only an abridged Hallel is read. When reciting the Hallel with the Minyan only the Chazan is to recite the before and after blessing, and he is to have in mind for the congregation to fulfill their obligation with him. If one is praying privately, he is to recite the opening and concluding blessings of Hallel even when the entire Hallel is not recited and so is the Chabad custom. Furthermore, many Chabad Chassidim are accustomed to recite the blessing on their own even when Davening with the Minyan. Some recite it prior to the Chazan and hence complete it prior to the Chazan completing his blessing. Others recite it together with the Chazan and some recite it after the Chazan.

1. The order of the Davening after Hallel:

Sukkos: After Hallel, Hoshanos is performed. After Hoshanos, the Chazan recites Kaddish Shaleim which is then followed by Shir Shel Yom, Kerias Hatorah, Ashreiy, Uva Letziyon, and Musaf.

Pesach: After Hallel the Chazan recites Kaddish Shaleim which is then followed by Shir Shel Yom, Kerias Hatorah, Ashreiy, Uva Letziyon, and Musaf.

1. Musaf:

The Musaf of Chol Hamoed follows the same Nussach as Musaf of Yom Tov of the 1st day of Yom Tov, with exception to Chol Hamoed Sukkos, that when the Musaf sacrifice is mentioned in the prayer, one recites the particular sacrifice of that day. The reason for this is because the Musaf sacrifices of each day of Sukkos were different than the previous day, decreasing the number of bull offerings by one each day.

1. The six Zechiros:

One is to recite the six Zechiros after the prayers.

1. Shabbos Chol Hamoed:

Kabalas Shabbos: On Shabbos Chol Hamoed one begins the Maariv prayer from Mizmor Ledavid [psalm 29], [omitting all the Psalms from Lechu Neranina until Mizmor Ledavid].  [One recites the entire Nussach from Mizmor Ledavid and onwards, including Ana Bekoach; all the stanzas of Lecha Dodi; Mizmor Shir, Kegavna. In Lecha Dodi, the wording of Besimcha instead of Berina is recited. 

Shemoneh Esrei: The Shabbos Chol Hamoed Shemoneh Esrei for Maariv, Shacharis and Mincha follows the same dialect of prayer as a regular Shabbos, with exception to that Ya’aleh Veyavo is added in the Shemoneh Esrei.

Shacharis: Follows the same Nussach of prayer as a regular Shabbos, with exception that Yaleh Veyavo is added in the Shemoneh Esrei.

Musaf: For Musaf one prays the Musaf Nussach prayed by a holiday, adding to it the parts added on Shabbos. If one forgot to mention the Shabbos sacrifices in the Musaf then if one said “Kimo Shekasuv Besorasecha” then he has fulfilled his obligation. The same applies whenever one forgets to mention particular Karbanos.

Haftorah: Both the Haftorah of Shabbos Chol Hamoed Pesach and Sukkos discuss the times of the redemption. On Pesach the Haftorah discusses the resurrection, being that the resurrection will take place in Nissan. On Sukkos the Haftorah is the battle of Gog and Magog, being that in Tishreiy will be the war of Gog and Magog. The last blessing said after the Haftorah concludes on Pesach with only “Mikadeish Hashabos” being that Chol Hamoed Pesach is not considered a separate Yom Tov. On Sukkos it ends with “Mikadesh Hashabbos Yisrael Vehazmanim” being that each day is a separate Yom Tov.

Reading Shir Hashirim:  Some have the custom to read Shir Hashirim on Shabbos Chol Hamoed. When doing so a blessing is not said. This is not the Chabad custom.

3. Pesach:

*See our corresponding Sefer “The laws & Customs of Pesach” for the full details of this subject! Only those laws that are unique to the Yom Tov of Pesach will be covered in this section. For all the general Davening laws applicable to Yom Tov, see Halacha 1!

1. Shacharis of Erev Pesach:

Awaking early on Erev Pesach: One is to awaken early to Daven Shacharis in Shul in order to finish eating the Chametz meal prior to the 4th hour.

Mizmor Lisoda: Is omitted on Erev Pesach and Chol Hamoad [being that the Todah sacrifice cannot be brought at this time as it contains Chamietz bread offerings.]

1. Mincha Erev Pesach:

Seder Karban Pesach: In preparation for the Pesach offering, one is to learn the detailed laws of the Karban Pesach as written in the Siddur. It is read after Mincha of Erev Pesach, as Mincha corresponds to the afternoon Tamid offering which was brought prior to the Pesach offering. It is to be read before sunset.

Pesach Erev Shabbos: If Pesach falls on Erev Shabbos, one is to recite Hodu and Patach Eliyahu before Mincha.

 

1. Maariv:

Saying Hallel on the first nights of Pesach: The widespread custom of many communities is to recite the complete Hallel with a blessing on both nights of Yom Tov [in the Diaspora]. Practically, so is the Chabad custom. In Eretz Yisrael, Hallel is only recited on the first night. The Hallel is recited immediately after Shemoneh Esrei. After Hallel, one is to recite Kaddish with Tiskabel, which is then followed by Aleinu.

Pesach falls on Shabbos: When [the first night of] Pesach falls on Friday evening, one begins the Maariv prayer from Mizmor Ledavid [psalm 29], [omitting all the Psalms from Lechu Neranina until Mizmor Ledavid]. One recites the entire Nussach from Mizmor Ledavid and onwards, including Ana Bekoach; all the stanzas of Lecha Dodi; Mizmor Shir, Kegavna. In Lecha Dodi, the wording of Besimcha instead of Berina is recited. In Shemoneh Esrei one needs to mention “Shabbos” in the beginning of the middle blessing, and in the conclusion of the blessing.  After Shemoneh Esrei one recites Vayechulu. One does not recite Meiyn Sheva and rather proceeds to recite Hallel. After Hallel one recite Kaddish Tiskabel, Mizmor Ledavid. One then recites half Kaddish, Barchu and Aleinu. One recites Vayechulu after Shemoneh Esrei.

Meiyn Sheva: Meiyn Sheva is not said after Shemoneh Esrei of Maariv even when Pesach falls on Shabbos.

 

1. Shacharis:

The Torah reading: One removes two Sifrei Torah from the ark. Five people are called to 1st Torah and the 6th to Maftir. [When Pesach falls on Shabbos, one reads 7 Aliyos from the first Torah.] On the first day of Pesach, five Aliya’s are read from the portion of “Mishchu Ukechu Lachem Tzon” in Parshas Bo [Shemos 12:21-51]. The Maftir is read from Parshas Pinchas “Ubachodesh Harishon.” The Haftorah is read from Sefer Yehoshua from the portion of “Pesach Gilgal.” The custom is today is to start from Vayomer Yehoshua El Ha’am. On the first day of Pesach, the Torah is read from the portion of “Shur O Kesev” in Parshas Emor. 

1. Musaf:

Morid Hatal: Mashiv Haruach Umorid Hageshem is recited until, but not including, Musaf of the 1st day of Pesach. In Nussach Sepharad and Arizal, in the silent prayer Musaf of the first day of Pesach one stops reciting Mashiv Haruach Umorid Hageshem and rather recites Morid Hatal. The Gabbai is to announce prior to the silent Shemoneh Esrei of Musaf that Morid Hatal is to be said. If one accidently said Mashiv Haruach Umorid Hageshem and then remembered prior to concluding the blessing, he is to return to the beginning of Ata Gibur. [If he already completed the blessing, then by Musaf of the first day of Pesach he is to continue as usual.  However, from Mincha and onwards, he is required to repeat from the beginning of Shemoneh Esrei, as explained next.] Those who follow Nussach Ashkenaz still say Mashiv Haruch Umorid Hageshem by the silent Musaf of Pesach and only begin to omit with the repetition of the Chazan by Musaf and all prayers thereafter. See Chapter 28 Halacha 1 or the full details of this subject!

What does one do if he has not yet davened Shacharis and the congregation has already davened Musaf? Once the congregation that one prays by has prayed Musaf, he is to omit Mashiv Haruach from even his Shacharis Shemoneh Esrei.

If one said Mashiv Haruch Umorid Hageshem and then immediately remembered must he return to the beginning of Ata Gibur? Yes. The, same applies for Vesen Bracha in Bareich Aleinu.

The Rabbis speech: On the day of the holiday the Rabbi of each community expounds on the meaning and miracles of that holiday.

 

1. Maariv of the 16th:

Sefiras Haomer: One begins to count Sefiras Hamoer on the second night of Pesach, which is the 16th of Nissan. The Sefirah is counted at night immediately following Maariv. One is to count in a standing position.

If the Minyan is holding by Sefira and one has not yet begun Maariv is he to recite Sefira with the Tzibur? Yes.

1. Maariv of Motzei Yom Tov-Visein Bracha:

On Maariv of Motzei Yom Tov, one is to remember to recite Morid Hatal, Visein Bracha, Ata Chonantanu, and Yaaleh Veyavo.

1. Chol Hamoed:

Mizmor Lesoda:  The Psalm of Mizmor Lesoda which is normally recited after Baruch Sheamar, is omitted throughout Chol Hamoad Pesach.

Morid Hatal/Visein Bracha: One is to remember to recite Morid Hatal and Visein Bracha in Shemoneh Esrei. If one forgot and recited Umorid Hageshem or Visein Tal Umatar, he does not fulfill his obligation and must repeat Shemoneh Esrei, as explained in chapter 13 Halacha 6 and 11.

Musaf: The Musaf of Chol Hamoed follows the same Nusach as Musaf of Yom Tov of the 1st day of Pesach, with exception that when the Musaf sacrifice is mentioned in the prayer, one begins from “Vehikravtam” and not from “Ubachimash Asar Yom”. The reason for this is because all the Musaf sacrifices were the same on all the days of Pesach. On Chol Hamoed Sukkos however each day has a different offering which is read in the Musaf.

Hallel: On Chol Hamoed Pesach, only an abridged Hallel is read.

1. Shabbos Chol Hamoed:

Haftorah: On Pesach the Haftorah discusses the resurrection, being that the resurrection will take place in Nissan. The last blessing said after the Haftorah concludes on Pesach with only “Mikadeish Hashabos” being that Chol Hamoed Pesach is not considered a separate Yom Tov.

Reading Shir Hashirim:  Some have the custom to read Shir Hashirim on Shabbos Chol Hamoed. When doing so a blessing is not said. This is not the Chabad custom.

1. The Torah reading on Chol Hamoed Pesach:

The second day of Pesach: The Torah reading is always “Shur oa kesev”.

On the third, fourth and fifth day: The Torah portion varies in accordance to if one of those days falls on Shabbos. Whenever one of the days falls on Shabbos, the Torah portion is always read from the portion of “Riea-Psal Licha”. On the other two days the order is first Kadesh Li, and then Im Kesef Tilveh. If there is no Shabbos on these days then the order is Kadesh, Im Kesef, and Psal Licha.

On the 6th day: The portion read is always Bamidbar Sinai.

If Pesach falls on Sunday or Shabbos the order is: 2nd-“Shur oa kesev”; 3rd-Kadesh; 4th-Im Kesef; 5th-Psal Licha, 6th-Bamidbar Sinai

If Pesach falls on Tuesday the order is: Wednesday/2nd = “Shur oa kesev”; Thursady/3rd = Kadesh; Friday/4th = Im Kesef; Shabbos/5th = Rieh- Psal Licha; 6th  = Bamidbar Sinai.

If Pesach falls on Thursday the order is: 2nd-“Shur oa kesev”; 3rd-Rieah-Psal Licha; 4th-Kadesh; 5th-Im kesef Tilveh; 6th-Bamidbar Sinai.

The Maftir: Every day of Pesach a second Sefer Torah is taken out of the Ark and from it is read the portion discussing the Musaf offering of that day of Pesach. The Maftir of all the days is read from the same portion, beginning from “Vehikravtam”. This is with exception to the Maftir of the 1st day which begins one verse earlier “And on the 1st day…”

When is the half Kaddish recited?  On Chol Hamoed the Kaddish is recited only after the reading of the Maftir in the second Sefer Torah.

4. Sefiras Haomer:

*See our corresponding Sefer “Between Pesach and Shavuos” for the full details of this subject!

Various customs exist as to the positioning of Sefiras Haomer after the Maariv prayer. Some communities are accustomed to reciting it after Kaddish Tiskabel, before Aleinu. Other communities however recite it after Aleinu. Practically, the Chabad custom, based on Admur in the Siddur, is to recite it after Kaddish Tiskabel, prior to Aleinu. After the counting of the Sefira it is customary to recite “Yehi Ratzon Sheyibaneh Beis Hamikdash etc” (Some are accustomed for reasons known to them to say after this prayer the Psalm of “Elokim Yichaneinu Vivarcheinu”, Ana Bekoach, and Ribono Shel Olam.) [Practically, so is the ruling of the Siddur and the Chabad custom. Some are accustomed to reciting Lesheim Yichud or Hareini Muchan Umezuman prior to counting the Sefira. This is not the Chabad custom.]

5. Shavuos:

*See our corresponding Sefer “The laws & Customs of Shavuos” for the full details of this subject! Only those laws that are unique to the Yom Tov of Shavuos will be covered in this section. For all the general Davening laws applicable to Yom Tov, see Halacha 1!

Time of Maariv: One is not to Daven Maariv before nightfall, even if this is normally done on Erev Shabbos or other Holidays.

Akdamos: It is customary to recite Akdamos by the Torah reading of Shavuos.  [The Chabad custom is not to recite Akdamos on Shavuos.]

Torah Reading: By the first scroll, five men are called up for Aliyos and [a portion from] the Parsha of Yisro is read. One reads from the words “Bachodesh Hashlishi Latzei until the end of the Parsha. The custom is to stand facing the Torah scroll during the reading of the Ten Commandments. One should place effort to ensure that all members of Jewry attend the Torah reading, even infants, just as was the case by Matan Torah. Although it is not our custom to call up the Rav of the community for the Aliyah of Aseres Hadibros, nevertheless if lack of doing so will be seen as a form of disrespect to the community Rabbi, one is to be meticulous to give him the Aliyah. For Maftir of both  days of Shavuos one reads from the second Torah scroll the portion of “Ubeyom Habikkurim” found in the Parsha of Pinchas. After Maftir, one performs Hagba to the second scroll and reads the Haftorah.

Haftorah: In some communities it is the custom to call up a great scholar for the Aliyah of Maftir and the subsequent Haftorah. The person reading the Haftorah aloud must initially stand when doing so throughout the year, out of honor for the congregation. In addition, some listeners have the custom to stand during the Haftorah of Merkava Yichezekel if they are reading quietly along with the reader.

Megillas Ruth: It is not the Chabad custom to read Megillas Ruth on Shavuos.

6. Sukkos:

*See our corresponding Sefer “The laws & Customs of Sukkos” for the full details of this subject! Only those laws that are unique to the Yom Tov of Sukkos Davening will be covered in this section. For all the general Davening laws applicable to Yom Tov, see Halacha 1!

 

1. The Lulav during Hallel:

From the letter of the law, one is to fulfill the Mitzvah of shaking Lulav before Hallel.  However, since it is a Mitzvah Min Hamuvchar to shake the Lulav in the Sukkah, and one cannot leave the Shul in the interim, therefore in the morning prior to prayer one is to say the blessing over the Lulav while still in the Sukkah. 

Holding the Lulav and Esrog: The Lulav is held throughout the entire duration of Hallel. The current Chabad custom is to only lift the Esrog at the times that it needs to be shaken. In Hakhel years, the custom is to hold both the Lulav and Esrog together throughout the duration of Hallel.

Shaking Lulav:  We shake the Lulav a total of four times in Hallel, each time shaking it 18 times [three times in each of the six direction, for a total of 72 shakes]. One shakes the Lulav one time by the first Hodu Lahashem, and one time by Ana Hashem Hoshia Na’ah, and a second time by the repeated Ana Hashem Hoshia Na’ah, and one time by the first Hodu Lahashem of the second set. One who said a blessing on the Lulav after Shacharis, prior to Hallel, is to only shake the Lulav three times in Hallel, omitting the shaking in the 2nd Ana Hashem. If one did not have a Lulav until the midst of Hallel, he is to recite a blessing over the Lulav during Hallel.            

1. Hoshanos:

Throughout all the days of Sukkos, immediately after Hallel, prior to Kaddish Shaleim, it is customary to say Hoshanos [with exception to Shabbos, as explained below]. Each day during Hoshanos one is to circle the Bimah one time while holding on to the Lulav [and Esrog] and one recites a single Hoshana. On Hoshana Raba one circles the Bimah seven times and says seven Hoshanos. The circling is done in memory of the encircling of the Mizbeiach that took place in the times of the Mikdash. 

The direction: The Hakafos are performed towards the right side [i.e. counterclockwise]. [One is to do a full circle, and not cut through the Bima to shorten the length.]

How to hold the Lulav and Esrog: One is to hold the Lulav and Esrog in two separate hands, the Lulav in his right hand and the Esrog in his left. [The Lulav and Esrog is held close to the heart. It is to be held until the completion of the Hoshanos.]

One who does not have a Lulav: One without a Lulav does not encircle the Bima for Hoshanos. [This applies even by Hoshanah Raba.]

The Sifrei Torah: It is customary to place a Sefer Torah on the Bima while encircling it. [Some Poskim rule that the Sefer Torah is to be held rather than rest on the Bima. The custom is that if there is someone present who does not have a Lulav and will thus not be encircling the Bima, then he is to be given the Sefer Torah to hold. The Aron remains open throughout the Hoshanos.]

How it is done: The Chabad custom is to say the word Hoshana prior to each one of the words said for that day. The words are said silently by both the congregation and Chazan, without encircling the Bima, until the words that begin with a Samech or Ayin. Upon reaching the words that begin with a Samech or Ayin, one says Hoshana prior and post each word, repeating after the Chazan, and only then begins to encircle the Bima. [The worldly custom, however, is for the Chazan to begin reciting aloud from the first Hoshana, and to begin the encircling from the first letter Alef.] 

Avel/Mourner: A mourner does not encircle the Bimah by Hoshanos. This applies both to an Onen, or one who is within the 12-month period after the passing of his father or mother. [It likewise applies to a mourner within thirty days of the passing of one of the other seven other relatives. However, some Poskim are lenient to allow a mourner for other relatives to perform the Hakafah.]

Shabbos: One does not encircle the Bima on Shabbos, and one does not place the Sefer Torah on the Bima. Some Poskim rule that the paragraph of Hoshanos is likewise omitted on Shabbos, however, the widespread custom is to say it [without encircling or removing a Sefer Torah]. [Practically, the Chabad custom is not to recite the Hoshanos on Shabbos. On Sunday, one recites the Hoshanos of that day, and the skipped Hoshanos of Shabbos, although we only encircle the Bima once.]

One who is Davening without a Minyan: It is accustomed to performing Hoshanos in Shul around the Bima even if one is Davening without a Minyan. Likewise, one who is Davening at home may place a Tanach on a table or chair and perform the Hakafos.

1. Chol Hamoed:

Hallel: Throughout the eight/nine days of Sukkos and Shemini Atzeres, one is required to recite the complete Hallel with a blessing.

The order of the Davening after Hallel: After Hallel, Hoshanos is performed. After Hoshanos, the Chazan recites Kaddish Shaleim which is then followed by Shir Shel Yom, Kerias Hatorah, Ashreiy, Uva Letziyon, and Musaf.

Kerias Hatorah: On each day of Chol Hamoed the Torah is read. One scroll is removed from the ark and the portion of the Sukkos Karbanos found in Parshas Pinchas is read from it. In Eretz Yisrael, all four Aliyos are read from that days Karban, hence repeating the same reading four times. In the Diaspora, the four Aliyos read different days of Karbanos as printed in the Siddur. The traditional custom amongst Chabad in Eretz Yisrael is to read like the rest of Eretz Yisrael, and repeat the same text four times, as ruled above. However, some Chabad congregations in Eretz Yisrael began following a similar reading to that of the Diaspora. Practically, each Rav is to direct his community in how to follow, and the community must abide by his decision. Nonetheless, it remains quite apparent that the Rebbe’s final stance on the issue was not to make any changes to the accepted custom, and to read like the rest of Eretz Yisrael, repeating the same text four times. 

Kaddish:  The half Kaddish is recited after all four Aliyos are complete. 

Musaf: The Musaf of Chol Hamoed follows the same dialect as Musaf of Yom Tov of the 1st day of Sukkos, with exception that when the Musaf sacrifice is mentioned in the prayer, one recites the particular sacrifice of that day. The reason for this is because the Musaf sacrifices of each day of Sukkos were different than the previous day, decreasing the number of bull offerings by one each day.

If the wrong Karban was read: If one read the wrong portion of the Karban during Musaf, he nevertheless fulfills his obligation.

Shabbos Chol Hamoed: Hoshanos is not recited on Shabbos Chol Hamoed. On Sukkos the Haftorah discusses the battle of Gog and Magog, being that in Tishrei there will be the war of Gog and Magog. Thus, the Haftorah is read from the portion of “Vehaya Bayom Bo Gog” found in Yechezkel.  The last blessing said after the Haftorah on Sukkos ends with “Mikadesh Hashabbos Yisrael Vehazmanim” being that each day is a separate Yom Tov.

Reading Koheles: The custom is to read Koheles on Shabbos Chol Hamoed Sukkos [without a blessing]. [This is not the Chabad custom.]

1. Hoshanah Raba:

Adding parts to Davening: On the seventh day which is Hoshanah Raba, it is customary [of many communities] to increase in Psalms as is done on Yom Tov. [The Chabad custom on Hoshana Raba is not to change from the regular order of a weekday Davening.] It is customary to increase in prayer and supplication on behalf of water. [These supplications are recited in the lengthy Hoshana prayers said on Hoshana Raba.]

Hallel-Removing the knots of the Lulav: Prior to Hallel, one removes the two upper rings which are bound on the Lulav.

Hoshanos: By Hoshanos, all the Sifrei Torah are removed and placed by the Bimah. One circles the Bimah 7 times with the 4 Minim each time saying the appropriate paragraph as printed in the Siddur. One does not circle the Bima holding the Aravos for Hoshanos.

Hitting the Aravos: After finishing all the Hakafos and reciting the additional prayer of Hoshanos over water, one hits the Aravos five times on the ground. See Halacha F!

Kaddish: It is customary to recite the Kaddish that follows Musaf in a Yom Tov tune. [This is not the witnessed Chabad practice.]

Ledavid: The psalm of Ledavid is recited daily until Hoshana Rabbah, including Hoshana Rabah. [It is omitted starting from Shemini Atzeres.]

1. Shemini Atzeres:

Is Shemini Atzeres called a Chag within the prayer liturgy? Some Poskim rule that Shemini Atzeres is not defined as a Chag/festival in the prayer liturgy. Other Poskim rule it is defined as a Chag. Practically, the final ruling follows the latter opinion to call it a Chag in the prayer liturgy.

Hakafos: It is an ancient custom to perform Hakafos also on Shemini Atzeres just as on Simchas Torah, and to circle the Bima on the night of Shemini Atzeres seven Hakafos with the Sifrei Torah in great joy and dancing. Even after completing the Hakafos in one Shul, if one arrives to another Shul who has yet to complete the dancing, he is to join them in the dancing and rejoicing. [Practically, the Chabad custom is to perform seven Hakafos on the night of Shemini Atzeres, just as is performed on the night of Simchas Torah.  See Halacha 6E for all the details regarding Hakafos! Other communities do not perform Hakafos on the night of Shemini Atzeres.] In Eretz Yisrael, where Shemini Atzeres and Simchas Torah coincide, the Simchas Torah Hakafos takes place during Maariv prayers.

Shacharis: There were times [in the minyan of the Previous Rebbe] when a point was made of completing Shacharis on Shemini Atzeres before midday. Hakafos is not done on Shemini Atzeres day. This applies even according to those accustomed to performing Hakafos on the night of Shemini Atzeres. In Israel, where Shemini Atzeres and Simchas Torah coincide, the Simchas Torah Hakafos takes place during Shacharis prayers. See Halacha 6! Yizkor is said on Shemini Atzeres.  In Eretz Yisrael, Yizkor takes place after the recital of Sisu Vesimcha, prior to the recital of Ashreiy.

Mashiv Haruach Umorid Hageshem:[16] Mashiv Haruach Umorid Hageshem is recited beginning from Musaf of Shemini Atzeres. On Shemini Atzeres prior to the silent Musaf the Chazan announces Mashiv Haruach Umorid Hageshem and it is then recited in the Musaf prayer and every prayer thereafter. Even those who are Davening Musaf in private, are to wait until the Chazzan announces Mashiv Haruach prior to Davening Musaf in order so they can mention rain. If a person who is not praying with a different Minyan heard the announcement of Mashiv Haruach Umorid Hageshem before praying Shacharis, then he should say this phrase in Shacharis as well [as in Musaf]. [If one said Mashiv Haruach Umorid Hageshem by Maariv or Shacharis of Shemini Atzeres, one is not to repeat Shemoneh Esrei.[17]] See Chapter 28 Halacha 1 or the full details of this subject!

1. Simchas Torah:

Maariv: The Maariv prayer includes the regular Yom Tov Maariv and Shemoneh Esrei which is then followed by Kaddish Shaleim. In Chabad Shul’s the custom is to now hold a Farbrengen. This is then followed by Ata Hareisa three times, Hakafos, and Aleinu.

Shacharis: The order of Shacharis follows a regular Yom Tov Davening until after Hallel. Kaddish Shaleim is recited after Hallel. This is then followed by a Kiddush Farbrengen, which is then followed by Ata Hareisa.

Birchas Kohanim: On Simchas Torah it is customary for the Kohanim to recite Birchas Kohanim by Shacharis in place of Musaf. [The Birchas Kohanim by Shacharis is done with the accustomed Niggun sang by the Birchas Kohanim of Musaf of all Holidays.]

The day Hakafos: During the day of Simchas Torah the custom is to only perform 3.5 circles around the Bima as opposed to seven. Nevertheless, all seven liturgies of Hakafos is read. Thus, one reads a single Hakafa for every half circle of the Bimah, for a total of seven half circles corresponding to the reading of the seven Hakafos. All 3.5 circles of Hakafos are performed consecutively without dancing in between or placing Sefer Torah back in Aron or even announcing “Ad Kan Hakafa…”. After the conclusion of the 3.5 circles the congregation dances. At the conclusion the Sefer Torah is returned to the Aron without saying anything.

The Torah reading: Ata Hareisa, Vayehi Binsoa and the thirteen Middos are recited prior to Kerias Hatorah, as is done on all Holidays. Three Torah scrolls are removed from the ark. From the first Torah scroll one reads six Aliyos from Vezos Habracha until the end of the Torah. From the second Torah scroll one reads a seventh Aliyah from Bereishis until the words “Asher Bara Elokim Lasos.” From the third Torah scroll, the same Maftir as yesterday is read, from “Ubayom Hashemini Atzeres.” For the Haftorah one reads from Yehoshua “Vayehi Acharei Mos Moshe.” If the congregation only has two Torah scrolls then Vezos Habracha is read from the first scroll, Bereishis is read from the second scroll, and the first Sefer Torah is returned and used for the reading of Maftir. [This however only applies if the first scroll is rolled to the third Parsha prior to its Hagba. If, however the first scroll was not rolled to the third Parsha prior to its Hagba, then it is better to read the third Parsha from the second scroll.]

Each man gets an Aliyah: It is customary to increase in calling up people for Aliyos on Simchas Torah. Practically, the custom is for every male to receive an Aliyah. To facilitate this, the Parsha is repeated many times [until Shishi, Meona Elokim Kedem]. Alternatively, many people may be called up for the same Aliyah, such as many Kohanim for the Aliya of Kohen, and many Levi’im for the Aliyah of Levi. Nonetheless, there are Poskim who question this custom. In any event, it is best when doing so that only one person says the blessing and all the others be Yotzei with him. On Simchas Torah relatives may be called up one after the other for Chasan Torah and Chasan Bereishis, and some say this may be done for all the Aliyos. If there are many Kohanim and Levi’im present, they may be given the 4th or 5th Aliyah after the regular order of Kohen, Levi and Yisrael. In such a case it is proper to repeat the order of Kohen, Levi, Yisrael. A Kohen or Levi may receive Chasan Torah or Chasan Bereishis. An Avel prior to Shiva may receive an Aliyah during Simchas Torah. However, some write he is not to be called up as one of the 5 required Aliyos.

Kol Hanearim: It is a worldly custom that on Simchas Torah all the male children receive an Aliyah to the Torah. This Aliyah is customarily known as Kol Hanearim.  [It is customary for many children to go up together. It is customary to spread a Tallis over the heads of the children during this Aliyah.] It is likewise customary to recite the Parsha of Hamalach Hagoel [after the conclusion of the reading]. [Practically, the Chabad custom is not to spread a Tallis over the heads of the children during the Aliyah of Kol Hanearim. Likewise, it is not customary to read the verses of Hamalach Hagoel. One is to have at least one adult above Bar Mitzvah called up together with the children for this Aliyah. The adult is to say the blessings out load and have all the children listen and be Yotzei rather than have all the children say the blessing themselves. Nonetheless, some are accustomed to have all the children recite the blessings themselves. The Chabad custom is to have the adult Olah recite the blessing on behalf of all the children who cannot say it themselves. Some are accustomed to bringing their son with them for their personal Aliya rather than have the child go up for Kol Hanearim.]

Chasan Torah/Bereishis: It is customary for the Chasan Torah and Chasan Bereishis to donate towards the Shul and arrange for a communal feast to be held.  It is customary to call up even a child for Chasan Torah, and it is not necessary to give the Aliyah specially to a Torah scholar, even though there are opinions who require this to be done. [It is not the Chabad custom to spread a Tallis as a canopy over the heads of the Chasan Torah or Chasan Bereishis when they are called to the public reading of the Torah].  

Reciting Chazak Chazak Venischazek: The person who is called to the reading of the concluding passage of the Torah is to say the words Chazak, Chazak, Venischazek together with the rest of the congregation.

Sisu Vesimcha: The prayer of Sisu Vesimcha is recited after the Maftir and Haftorah, prior to Yizkor.

Yizkor: In the Diaspora, Yizkor is recited on Shemini Atzeres and not on Simchas Torah.

 

7. Chanukah:

*See our corresponding Sefer “The laws & Customs of Chanukah” for the full details of this subject!

 

1. Tachanun:

Beginning from Mincha of the 24th of Kislev, until after the last day of Chanukah, Tachanun is omitted from the prayers.

1. May a mourner be Chazan?

A mourner may lead the services on Chanukah, except for the reading of Hallel. He is however to say the Kaddish after Hallel. On Rosh Chodesh, however, and likewise on any day on which Mussaf is said, he does not lead the services, even at Minchah or Maariv.

1. Al Hanissim:

When is it recited? Al Hanissim is recited all eight days of Chanukah. It is recited within Birchas Hamazon during the Birchas Haaretz and within Shemoneh Esrei by Birchas Modim. [The custom is to recite Veal Hanissim, with an additional Vav, by both Birchas Hamazon and Shemoneh Esrei.] If one did not recite it, he has nevertheless fulfilled his obligation and is not required to repeat the prayer.

Forgot to recite in Shemoneh Esrei: If one did not recite Al Hanissim in Shemoneh Esrei he has nevertheless fulfilled his obligation and is not required to repeat the prayer. If he remembered before reciting Hashem’s name in the blessing of “Hatov Shimcha” then he is to return and recite Al Hanissim. This applies even if he already said Baruch Ata but did not yet say Hashem’s name. If, however, one has already recited Hashem’s name then he may not go back. In such a case there are opinions who say that if one has not yet concluded his prayer, he is to recite it prior to the last Yihyu Leratzon said prior to taking three steps back.

Is the Chazan to announce Al Hanissim prior to beginning Shemoneh Esrei? Maariv: Some Poskim rule Al Hanissim may be announced prior to Shemoneh Esrei, after Kaddish. Others rule it may not be announced. Practically the custom is not to announce it, and rather upon the Chazan reaching Al Hanissim he recites those words aloud. Shacharis: Al Hanissim may not be announced prior to Shemoneh Esrei of Shacharis. Mincha: There is no prohibition involved in announcing Al Hanissim prior to Mincha.

1. Hallel:

Each day of Chanukah one recites the complete Hallel.

Kaddish after Hallel: After reciting Hallel, half Kaddish is recited. On Rosh Chodesh Teves, the complete Kaddish is followed after Hallel. This is then followed by the Torah reading.

1. The Torah Reading:

The first day: One begins reading from “Beyom Kalos Moshe”. The Kohen reads until Ubiyom Harishon while the Levi and Yisrael read from Ubiyom Harishon.

The middle days: On the second day of Chanukah and onwards, the Kohen and Levi read from the Karban of the current day while the Yisrael reads from the next day’s Karban.

The last day: On the last day of Chanukah the Yisrael reads from the 9th Karban until “Asa Es Hamenorah” in Parshas Behaloscha.

Shabbos Chanukah: On Shabbos Chanukah two Sifrei Torah are removed from the ark. The weekly portion is read from the first scroll, while the portion of Chanukah is read as Maftir from the second scroll. The Haftorah of Rini Vesimchi is read. In the event that there are two Shabbos Chanukah’s that year, then on the second Shabbos the Haftorah of “Neirso Shlomo” is read.

Shabbos Rosh Chodesh: If Rosh Chodesh Teves falls on Shabbos, then three Sifrei Torah are removed.

Rosh Chodesh Chanukah: On Rosh Chodesh Teves two Sifrei Torah are removed from the ark. There are a total of four Aliyos read. The portion of Rosh Chodesh is read from the first Torah scroll and it incorporates three Aliyos. The portion of Chanukah is read from the second Torah scroll as the 4th and last Aliyah. Rosh Chodesh Teves always falls on the 6th day of Chanukah.

 

8. Purim:

*See our corresponding Sefer “The laws & Customs of Purim” for the full details of this subject!

 

1. Al Hanissim:

One is to recite Al Hanissim both by night and day.

When: It is recited within Birchas Hamazon during the Birchas Haaretz and within Shemoneh Esrei by Birchas Modim.

Shushan Purim: Al Hanissim is not recited on the 15th which is Shushan Purim [in areas that celebrated on the 14th]. Nevertheless, if one accidently recited it on the 15th, he is not required to repeat the prayer.

Jerusalem residents: The inhabitants of Jerusalem which celebrate Purim on the 15th are to recite Al Hanissim only on the 15th and not on the 14th.

Residents of doubtful cities: The inhabitants of a city which celebrates Purim on both the 14th and 15th due to doubt are to say Al Hanissim on both days.

Forgot to recite in Shemoneh Esrei: If one did not recite Al Hanissim in Shemoneh Esrei he has nevertheless fulfilled his obligation and is not required to repeat the prayer. If he remembered before reciting Hashem’s name in the blessing of “Hatov Shimcha” then he is to return and recite Al Hanissim. This applies even if he already said Baruch Ata but did not yet say Hashem’s name. If, however, one has already recited Hashem’s name then he may not go back. In such a case there are opinions who say that if one has not yet concluded his prayer, he is to recite it prior to the last Yihyu Leratzon said prior to taking three steps back.

Is the Chazan to announce Al Hanissim prior to beginning Shemoneh Esrei? Maariv: Some Poskim rule Al Hanissim may be announced prior to Shemoneh Esrei, after Kaddish. Others rule it may not be announced. Practically the custom is not to announce it, and rather upon the Chazan reaching Al Hanissim he recites those words aloud. Shacharis: Al Hanissim may not be announced prior to Shemoneh Esrei of Shacharis. Mincha: There is no prohibition involved in announcing Al Hanissim prior to Mincha.

1. Purim Night:

Maariv on Purim night: In Maariv Shemoneh Esrei we add Al Hanissim. We do not announce Al Hanissim prior to Shemoneh Esrei and rather, upon the Chazan reaching Al Hanissim, he is to recite the first words aloud. After the Amidah, a complete Kaddish with Tiskabel is recited. The Megillah reading is begun after Kaddish. It is not our custom for the Baal Korei to wear a Tallis at night, although some are accustomed to do so. After the Megillah reading, Ata Kadosh is recited, followed by a complete Kaddish without Tiskabel.

Purim falls on Motzei Shabbos: When Purim falls on Motzei Shabbos, after reading the Megillah, the congregation recites Vihi Noam prior to Veata Kadosh. Havdala is recited after the Megillah reading [and conclusion of Maariv]. Vayiten Lecha is recited [after Havdala]. 

Eating prior to Megillah Reading: It is forbidden to eat prior to hearing the Megillah at night.

This applies even if it is difficult for one to continue fasting Taanis Esther until the end of the Megillah reading. However, in a time of great need [such as one who feels very weak due to the fast or one who is sick] one may eat a small snack prior to hearing the Megillah. The definition of a snack is up to 55 grams of bread or 55 grams worth of an alcoholic drink prior to hearing the Megillah.

Tachanun in Kerias Shema Sheal Hamita: Tachanun is omitted from Kerias Shema Sheal Hamita. This applies for both the nights of the 14th and 15th.

1. Purim day

Waking early: One is to wake up early on Purim morning to go to Shul.

Asking Hashem for all one needs: It is stated in the name of the Baal Shem Tov that on Purim one is to awaken early and bequest Hashem with prayer and supplication on all matters that pertain to his life, family, and livelihood. This is similar to Yom Kippur which is a day of prayer and so too Purim is a day of auspiciousness for one’s prayer to be accepted.

Eating prior to Shacharis: It is forbidden to eat [not drink] prior to hearing the Megillah day reading just like it is forbidden to eat prior to the night reading. It is an act of piety to completely fast until after one hears the Megillah reading, just like it is an act of piety to fast prior to hearing the Shofar blowing on Rosh Hashanah and shaking the Lulav on Sukkos. In a time of great need [such as one who feels very weak or one who is sick] one may eat a small snack prior to hearing the Megillah. The definition of a snack is up to 55 grams of bread or 55 grams worth of a drink prior to hearing the Megillah. Nursing or pregnant women may eat a regular meal prior to the Megillah reading. This especially applies if she is waiting on her husband to come home in order to read the Megillah for her.

Shacharis: Shacharis follows a normal weekday Davening until Shemoneh Esrei. In Shemoneh Esrei one adds al Hanissim in the Amidah. Tachanun is omitted. After the chazzan’s repetition of the Amidah, half Kaddish is recited followed by the Torah reading of the portion of Amaleik from Parshas Beshalach. One reads first Zecher and then Zeicher in the Torah reading. If one did not hear Parshas Zachor he should have in mind by the current reading to fulfill this Biblical Mitzvah. After the Torah reading, half Kaddish is recited which is followed by Hagba and Gelila. The Torah scroll remains held until after the Megillah reading and Ashrei/Uva Letziyon/Kaddish Tiskabel.

Megillah reading: The Megillah is read immediately following the reading of the Torah and the recital of the half Kaddish. One is not to remove his Tefillin until after Megillah reading. This applies even if one already finished Davening and is hearing the Megillah after Davening. The Megillah is read while still wearing the Rashi Tefillin. One who has not yet given Machatzis Hashekel is to do so prior to the Megillah reading. Upon reciting the blessing of Shehechiyanu by the day reading it is proper to have in mind to include also the mitzvah of the festive meal and Mishloach Manos, and according to some also Matanos Laevyonim. After the Megillah reading the prayer proceeds with Ashrei, Uva Letziyon, complete Kaddish, Beis Yaakov, Shir Shel Yom etc.

Mincha: Mincha is to be Davened early on Purim day. The Purim meal is eaten after Mincha.

1. Megillah reading:

Who is obligated in the Megillah reading? Every Jew is obligated in the Megillah reading. This obligation includes women. Children [boys and girls, who have reached the age of Chinuch], are to be educated to hear the Megillah once by night and once by day. [Very small children are not to be brought to shul if they will disturb and make noise.]

When is it read? One is obligated to read [or hear] the Megillah both on the night of Purim and again the next day. One may fulfill his obligation of reading the Megillah at night, anytime throughout the night of Purim. One may begin reading the Megillah at night starting from nightfall [Tzeis Hakochavim]. In a time of need one may read the Megillah starting from Plag Hamincha of Erev Purim [1 hour 15 Zmaniyos minutes before sunset]. It may be read anytime throughout the night up until dawn [Alos Hashachar]. One may fulfill his obligation of reading the Megillah at day, anytime throughout the day of Purim. One may begin reading the Megillah during the day starting from sunrise. Initially one is to hear Megillah after Davening Shachris, as was the institution of the Sages. It may be read throughout the day up until sunset. If one read the Megila before sunrise, then if it was past Alos one has nevertheless fulfilled his obligation. One who has not heard the Megillah by the time sunset has arrived is to read the Megillah, without the blessings, up until nightfall.

Reading the Megillah in the local Shul with the congregation: One is to strive to arrange a Minyan for Megillah reading. One is to join the local Shul’s Minyan for Megillah reading even if a Minyan is available in someone’s house and the like. One is to bring his entire family, wife and children, to the Minyan.

Unrolling the Megillah and folding it like a letter prior to the reading: The Megillah is to be unrolled and folded into three parts, like a letter, prior to beginning the blessings over the Megillah. It is to remain completely folded until the reading is complete. The Chabad custom is to begin rolling it back up only after the after blessing has concluded. This applies to both the Baal Korei and as well to any of the listeners that have a Kosher Megillah. One must beware that the unrolled Megillah does not touch the floor in the process.

The Blessings: Three blessings are made prior to the reading both by night and day. The blessings are 1. Al Mikra Megillah, 2. Sheasah Nissim 3. Shehechiyanu [both by night and day]. Upon reciting the blessing of Shehechiyanu by the day reading, it is proper to have in mind to include also the mitzvah of eating the festive meal and Mishloach Manos, and according to some also Matanos Laevyonim. After completing the reading, if there is a Minyan, the custom is to roll up the Megillah and then say the blessing of Harav Es Riveinu. The Chabad custom is to say this blessing before rolling up the Megillah. The after blessing of Harav Es Riveinu is not recited if a Minyan is not present. After the Megillah reading and final blessing, one needs to say the paragraph of Shoshanas Yaakov. By a reading in which only woman are fulfilling their obligation, the wording of the first blessing is Lishmoa Megillah .לשמוע מגילה

Reading the Megillah for others after fulfilling one’s obligation: If one already heard the Megillah reading, he may still read the Megillah and recite the blessings on behalf of others. Nevertheless, if the person who is listening to the reading is able to say the blessings himself or herself, then it is best they do so rather than one say it for them. When reading the Megillah for only women listeners, each woman is to say the blessing to herself prior to the reading, or have one woman say it aloud for everyone to hear and fulfill their obligation. If the women are unable to recite the blessing, the Baal Korei may do so for them. By a reading in which only woman are fulfilling their obligation, the wording of the first blessing is .לשמוע מגילה Upon saying the blessings one should have in mind to fulfill the obligation of the congregation. Likewise, the congregation should have in mind to fulfill their obligation of hearing the Megillah. One may read the Megillah for others even if a Minyan is not present. However, the blessing of Harav Es Riveinu is only recited if there is a Minyan present.

Is the Megillah read sitting or standing? By a public reading, the reader must stand out of honor for the congregation. The listeners are not required to stand during the Megillah reading. The blessings must be recited in a standing position.

Refraining from talking during the reading: Once the blessing has been recited, it is forbidden to speak from that point and on until the reading is completed, and the final blessing is recited. This applies for both the reader and the listener.

One who missed a word or part of the reading? The reader must read every word of the Megillah. If he skipped a verse, or even one word, or even one letter, he and the congregation do not fulfill their obligation. The same applies for the listener; if he did not hear even one word, or even one letter, he has not fulfilled his obligation. [One must thus repeat the reading. Nevertheless, one is not to repeat the blessing prior to the reading.] Some Poskim rule that if one was thinking of other matters while hearing the words then it is considered as if he did not hear those words. One who reads the Megillah in the wrong order does not fulfill his obligation. Thus, if one skipped a [letter, word or] verse and continued reading, he must go back to the skipped verse [word or letter] and read the rest of the Megillah from that point until the end.

Following along in a Kosher Megillah or Chumash: It is best for every person who can afford it, to purchase a Kosher Megillah and read along silently with the reader. Those that are reading along in a Kosher Megillah together with the Baal Korei are to verbalize the words silently. One who does not have a Kosher Megillah available is to read along in a Chumash or printed Megillah. One who is following along in a non-Kosher Megillah, or in a Chumash, is not to verbalize the words, and is rather to follow the reading silently in his thoughts. If one missed a word from the Chazan he must verbally read that missed word. He must continue reading the missed word until he catches up to the Chazan’s reading, in which case he is to stop verbalizing the words and listen to the reading.

How to read: The Megillah is to be read straight from beginning to end without interval. One is not to delay more than one breath between each verse. However, one is to delay slightly between each chapter.

Correct pronunciation of the reading: It is not necessary to be particular in the pronunciation of the words. However, if the mistake changes the meaning of the word, he must repeat that word in the correct pronunciation. If there is no one available that knows the Taamim, but there is someone who knows the punctuation, then the Megillah is to be read without Taamim, with a blessing. If they do not want to read the Megillah without the Taamim they can appoint another person to read quietly from a Chumash with the correct Taamim, and have the reader repeat the words with the correct Taamim. If there is no one available that knows the correct punctuation, the Megillah is to be read without a blessing. In such a case one can appoint another person to read quietly from a Chumash to the reader of the Megillah, and the reader repeats the words with the correct punctuation. [In such a case a blessing is recited on the reading.] Nevertheless, in such a case the reader of the Chumash is to repeat the reading for himself from a Kosher Megillah. [Alternatively, someone is to read along in a Chumash and correct the reader in all cases of mispronunciation and in such a case a blessing may be recited.]

Stomping and noise making by the name of Haman: It has become the custom to bang and make noise when Haman’s name is read in Shul. The custom of stomping the feet by Haman was seen done by the Rebbe Rayatz. The Chabad custom is to only “strike Haman” in those areas that the name Haman is written together with a description, such as Haggagi [the descendant of Agag] or Hara [the wicked]. During the stomping, the Chazan is to remain silent and not continue the reading of the Megillah. Due to the noise level made during the recitation of Haman, each person is to read one or two verses to himself from a Megillah or Chumash, just in case the Chazan has already continued reading and one is unable to hear.

The following verses are repeated out loud by the congregation: It is accustomed for the congregation to read four verses of redemption aloud. These four verses are: Ish Yehudi; Umordechai Yatza; Layehudim Haysa Ora; Ki Mordechai Hayehudi. The Chazan must repeat these verses aloud after the congregation concludes their recitation.

Raising the voice by Balayla Hahu: The reader is to raise his voice when he reads the words Balayla Hahu.

The ten sons of Haman: One must read the ten sons of Haman in a single breath. The custom is for the congregation to first read the ten sons to themselves and then have the Chazan repeat it. The reader must be careful upon reading the words in one breath, that he verbalizes every single word of “Vies” from within the Megillah and not from memory. Furthermore, each word of Vies is to be read from the word written corresponding to that son’s name, and he is not to read it from one of the former or latter words of “Vies”.

Lahraog/Lifneihem: In the Megillah [8:11] we read “Laharog ule’abeid” and repeat “Vileharog ule’abeid”. In [9:2] we read “V’ish lo omad bifneihem” and then repeat “V’ish lo omad lifneihem”.

Shaking the Megillah: The Megillah is rustled at the mention of the words “Ha’igeres hazos” [9:26] and again at “Igeres haPurim hazos hasheinis” [ 9:29].

Elongating the Vav of Vayzasa: One must elongate the pronunciation of the Vav.

Reading each word from the Kosher Megillah: The reader must [initially] read the entire Megillah [i.e. every word] from a Kosher Megillah. Initially the Megillah used for the reading must be complete and not have any words [or even letters] missing or unreadable. Nonetheless, in the event that words are missing, the Megillah remains Kosher if all the following conditions are met: The Megillah is not missing the first or last verse. The missing words do not omit an entire episode of the Megillah. The missing words or letters do not exceed half of the Megillah. It is not missing the ten sons of Haman.

 

1. Shushan Purim:

Tachanun is omitted on the 15th in all cities.

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[1] See Isheiy Yisrael 41-43; Tefila Kehilchasa 23

[2] See M”B 268:3; Piskeiy Teshuvos 268:3 and 7 footnote 18

[3] See Piskeiy Teshuvos 108:10

[4] See Admur 107:1; Piskeiy Teshuvos 107:1

[5] Siddur Admur regarding Yom Tov; Ketzos Hashulchan 77:2; Shaar Hakolel 17:6

[6] Admur 491:4; 599:1; Michaber 599:1

[7] See Admur 111:2; Piskeiy Teshuvos 111:3

[8] Ketzos Hashulchan 83:3

[9] Admur 286:4; Michaber 286:3; Brachos 28b; Ketzos Hashulchan 83:4

[10] Ketzos Hashulchan 83:5

[11] Admur 292; Siddur Admur; Ketzos Hashulchan 91

[12] Ketzos Hashulchan 91:1

[13] Admur 293:1-4; Ketzos Hashulchan 93

[14] Admur 491:1; 602:2 [Regarding Motzei R”H]

[15] See Admur 487:3

[16] Ketzos Hashulchan 21:7

[17] Ketzos Hashulchan 21:5 in name of Derech Chaim