WORD OF THE MONTH

A weekly feature of Torah Tidbits to help clarify practical and conceptual aspects of the Jewish Calendar, thereby better fulfilling the mitzva of HaChodesh HaZeh Lachem...

With the Molad of Iyar on Friday afternoon, first opportunity for Kiddush L’vana is Monday night, April 15th. 7-day people and Motza”sh people will have their first and best op on Motza”sh April 20.

This Friday-Shabbat is Rosh Chodesh. Omitting Yaaleh V’Yavo in Amida requires repeating, except for Maariv (either one). One does not repeat benching if YV was omitted.

Because of the tunes used in shul on Rosh Chodesh (and Chagim), one should remember to wait until the Chazan finishes his bracha before answering AMEN. (No matter how long he stretches the ending.

It is proper to answer the Chazan’s HODUs with HODU LASHEM KI TOV KI L’OLAM CHASDO, rather than sing along with him. Humming along is a better idea.

We read/learn the second perek of Avot.