Prayer and Blessings
Is It Permitted to Recite Psalms Before Birkat HaTorah?
Question
Hello, is it possible to recite chapters of Psalms before Birkot HaShachar? Or are the morning blessings first of all?
Thank you
Answer
Hello,
As a matter of strict halacha, it is permitted to recite Psalms before Birkat HaTorah, since this is said in the form of supplication and not in the manner of Torah study. Nevertheless, it is proper to recite Birkat HaTorah beforehand, and to say afterward the verses that are customarily recited, and only then to recite Psalms.
Sources: Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim (siman 46, seif 9). See there also the Rema and Mishnah Berurah (s.k. 27-28).
Blessings,
Hillel Meirs
