Hallel: Day or Night?

Question

Rabbi, I read that “Hallel should be recited during the day and not at night.”
Please explain why. Thanks.

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Answers

  1. The Just Ask! - AskTheRabbi.org Team

    Our Sages derive that Hallel (Psalms of praise to God) should be recited during the day because a verse in Hallel states that “This is the day that God created, we shall rejoice and be happy on it” (Psalms 118:24). They also teach that Hallel should be recited by day and not night based on the verse, “From when the sun rises in the east until it sets, shall God’s Name be praised.” (Psalms 113:3 – Tractate Megillah 20b).

    Although in theory it can be recited anytime during the day, the prevalent custom is to recite it early in the day, immediately after Shacharit and before Musaf, due to the concept of performing a mitzvah as soon as possible.

    The only time Hallel is said at night is the night of Pesach at the Seder, since the miracle took place at night. Many places have the custom to recite Hallel on Pesach night in the synagogue as well, in addition to reciting it at home afterwards as part of the Passover Seder.

    Best wishes from the AskTheRabbi.org Team