The Optimal Time For Tashlich

OU Kosher

Q. When is the proper time to recite Tashlich?

A. The Magen Avrohom (583:5) quotes the Kesavim of the Arizal that the ideal time to recite Tashlich on Rosh Hashanah is on the first day after Mincha, before shkia (sunset). This is cited by the Mishnah Berurah as well and many other poskim, though the Maharil (Minhagim – Rosh Hashanah 9), who was the first to record this custom, writes that Tashlich is recited after the meal (i.e., before mincha). Sefer Keser Shem Tov offers several reasons to recite Tashlich after Mincha:

  • We deliberately delay Tashlich until late in the afternoon since this is an auspicious time to have one’s prayers answered. We find that Eliyahu Hanavi’s prayers were answered at this time.
  • We want to connect Tashlich with Mincha, since Yitzchok Avinu instituted Mincha, and Tashlich is recited to elicit the remembrance of Akeidas Yitzchok.

The Mateh Efraim (598:4,7) writes that if Tashlich was not said before shkia, it can be said after shkia. Although the custom is to recite Tashlich after Mincha, if one will not have time after Mincha, it can be said before Mincha. If it was not said on the first day of Rosh Hashanah, it should be said on the second day. Likutei Maharich writes that if it was not said on Rosh Hashanah, it can be said during Aseres Yemei Teshuvah.

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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.