Who should recite Kiddush Levana?

"Aliyah L'Regel": An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.

The monthly renewal of the moon brings with it one of the most unique and evocative rituals in Jewish life: Kiddush Levana. Recited under the night sky as the moon waxes, this blessing connects us to the cycles of time, renewal, and faith in the future. Yet, behind its poetic nature lies a fascinating halachic and kabbalistic discussion regarding who is expected/accustomed to participate in this monthly sanctification.

In this episode, we unpack the nature of Kiddush Levana and explore the multi-layered discussion around women’s participation through four core questions:

• The Mitzvah and the Prayer: What is the legal status of Kiddush Levana, and what essential spiritual themes are embedded within the text of the prayer itself?

• Time-Bound Commandments: Is Kiddush Levana classified as a mitzvat aseh she'zman grama (a time-bound positive commandment), and how does that categorization impact a woman's halachic obligation?

• Custom vs. Law: Should women recite Kiddush Levana? How do classic halachic authorities evaluate the practice, and why did widespread custom evolve such that women traditionally do not say it?

• The Kabbalistic Paradigm: What are the deeper mystical reasons behind why women generally refrain from reciting Kiddush Levana, and how do these ideas relate to the spiritual connection between women and the moon?

Join us for an inspiring and in-depth exploration into the halachic mechanisms, historical customs, and mystical dimensions surrounding this monthly sanctification.