#11: Erev Pesach on Shabbat (Part 2)
- Bedikat Chametz (searching for chametz) is usually performed immediately after nightfall on the night of Erev Pesach. This year, however, it is performed on Thursday night since it cannot be conducted with a candle on Shabbat (Shulchan Aruch, O.C. 444:1). All of the usual rules and restrictions apply, such as using a candle (or flashlight) and refraining from eating or performing other activities beforehand (R. Eider, “Halachos of Pesach,” p.364). The berachah (“Al biyur chametz”) and the Bitul Chametz (declaration of nullification of chametz) are recited as usual (Mishnah Berurah 444:1).
- Biur Chametz (burning chametz) is usually performed on Erev Pesach between the fifth and sixth halachic hour of the day. This year, however, it is performed on Friday. It is recommended to do so at the same time of day as other years to prevent confusion (Shulchan Aruch, O.C. 444:2; Mishnah Berurah 444:9), but one who is unable to burn the chametz then may do so later in the day as well. This year, one does not recite the Bitul Chametz a second time when burning the chametz, but instead does so on Shabbat morning (details to be discussed in a later post). Any chametz reserved for consumption on Friday and for the Shabbat meals should be set aside in a secure location (Shulchan Aruch, O.C. 444:1).
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Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for the hostages to be released safely to their families and may everlasting peace come to Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.
