Hallel - Standing

QUESTION: May one sit during Hallel?

ANSWER: Shulchan Aruch (OC 422:7) writes that one must stand for the recitation of Hallel. This is derived from the pasuk (Tehillim 135:1-2) “Hallelu avdei Hashem she’omdim” (“The servants of Hashem should praise Him, standing”). Another reason given why Hallel must be said standing is because Hallel is a testimony to the miracles that Hashem has performed for us, and witnesses are required to stand when they testify in court. If one does sit, he would still fulfill the mitzvah of Hallel, but not in the optimal manner (Pri Megadim OC 422:4). The Aruch Hashulchan (422:13) writes that if one finds it difficult to stand, it is permissible to sit. Although one is required to make a significant effort to stand for Shmoneh Esrei, the recitation of Hallel is more lenient.

The Taz (422:4) asks why it is that at the Pesach Seder, we recite the Hallel while sitting? He answers that since we recline at the Seder to show our freedom, the Hallel may be recited in this manner as well. Also, since we eat the seudah in the middle of Hallel, we do not inconvenience one to stand before and after the meal.

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The Gerald & Karin Feldhamer OU Kosher Halacha Yomis is dedicated to the memory of Rav Yisroel Belsky, zt"l, who served as halachic consultant for OU Kosher for more than 28 years; many of the responses in Halacha Yomis are based on the rulings of Rabbi Belsky. Subscribe to the Halacha Yomis daily email here.