When Is the Best Time to Say Selichot? 2 Halachot to Know

As the High Holy Days approach, Selichot gives us a special opportunity to turn to Hashem with prayer, reflection, and teshuvah. But when is the ideal time to recite these prayers, and what should someone do if getting up before dawn is difficult? Here is today’s thought for reflection, followed by two practical halachot about Selichot.

Today’s Quote

“We aspire to a true life, filled with the purpose of doing Hashem’s will, with recognition and awe of Heaven.

“This is the mitzvah of ‘And you shall choose life’—to choose a true and proper life of serving Hashem by willingly accepting the yoke of the Kingdom of Heaven.

“And before every action I am about to take, I should consider what I am going to do and how I will do it: Is this Hashem’s will? Or, Heaven forbid, perhaps not. This is what we ask for when we say, ‘Remember us for life.’”

(Ma’archei Lev, by Rabbi M. Schwab)

2 Halachot a Day

From Behalacha UveAggadah, based on the rulings of Maran Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, zt”l.

What Is the Best Time to Say Selichot?

During the first part of the night, from sunset until halachic midnight, the attribute of strict judgment is considered dominant. Therefore, Selichot should not be recited during these hours, since they are prayers asking Hashem for mercy and favor.

It is especially important not to recite before midnight the verses beginning with Vaya’avor Hashem al panav, which contain Hashem’s Thirteen Attributes of Mercy.

One may therefore begin Selichot shortly before halachic midnight, provided that the congregation reaches Vaya’avor only after midnight.

Because the exact time of halachic midnight varies according to the date and location, it should be checked for the particular night on which Selichot are being recited.

Why Is It Good to Rise for Selichot Before Dawn?

Once midnight has passed, Selichot may be recited throughout the remainder of the night and during the following day until sunset.

There is particular merit in rising during the pre-dawn hours to recite Selichot, as this is considered a special time when Hashem’s kindness and mercy are awakened in the world.

However, those who find it difficult to rise while it is still night should not feel that they have missed their opportunity. They can arrange a minyan to recite Selichot in the morning before Shacharit or later in the day before Mincha.

By helping make a minyan possible at a time when others can attend, they can also help give more members of the community the opportunity to participate in Selichot.