Vatikin

Although the term "vatikin" is used in a number of Talmudic contexts, the word as it is commonly used today refers to the practice of reciting the shacharit prayers at sunrise.[1] We are taught that ensuring to recite the shema moments before sunrise and then commencing one's shemoneh esrei exactly as the sun rises over the horizon is considered to be the ideal way for one to daven shacharit.[2] As the Talmud teaches:[3] "Which is the verse which teaches that the shemoneh esrei should be recited at sunrise? “They will fear You with the rising of the sun…for generations upon generations.[4]”"

Actually, it is interesting to note that there is some dispute as to exactly what the vatikin model is truly meant to be. While common custom is to time the vatikin prayers in the manner just described, some authorities rule that it is actually the shema which is to be recited just as the sun rises above the horizon and then the shemoneh esrei is to be recited thereafter.[5] As mentioned, most congregations follow the first model.[6] One who is able to recite shacharit in the vatikin manner is assured that he will receive great rewards.[7] One should not attempt to daven vatikin on a regular basis if doing so will be the cause of unwelcome consequences, such as being too tired to perform at work, and the like.[8]

Of course, it is perfectly acceptable to recite the shacharit prayer after sunrise, as is the practice of most people. In fact, the permissible time for reciting the shacharit prayer actually begins at the crack of dawn and extends right through to midday.[9] The shema, however, must always be recited before the end of the third hour each day.[10]  Although davening shacharit in the vatikin manner is the most meritorious way of doing so, it does not take priority over praying with a minyan. In fact, prayer with a minyan will almost always take precedence over praying alone.[11] Nevertheless, one who davens in a vatikin minyan every morning but is occasionally unable to attend his regular minyan is permitted to daven shacharit alone in the vatikin manner and is not required to attend a minyan at a later hour.[12]

[1] Berachot 9b

[2] Berachot 26a, Aruch Hashulchan 58:1

[3] Berachot 9b

[4] Tehillim 72:5

[5] Aruch Hashulchan 58:2, Piskei Teshuvot 58:5

[6] O.C. 58:1

[7] Berachot 9b, O.C. 58:1

[8] Piskei Teshuvot 58:5

[9] Rama O.C. 89:1

[10] Aruch Hashulchan O.C. 58:6

[11] Ishei Yisrael 18:8, Tefilla K'hilchata 3:35, Shraga Hameir 2:66

[12] Biur Halacha 58:1, Ishei Yisrael 18:8