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The order of Birkath Hahammah (Blessing on the Sun)

Rabbi Ya'aqob Menashe
Wednesday, April 1, 2009/Nisan 7, 5769
The order of the Birkath Hahammah (Blessing on the Sun) is as follows:

The congregation should assemble at a vantage point from where the sun can be seen clearly and read the special readings that should be read before the blessing.

(These may be downloaded from Midrash BEN ISH HAI at http://www.midrash.org/halakha/birkathhahammah.html )

Then the men, except for the Hazzan, recite the Berakha (blessing) of "'Oseh Ma'aseh Bereshith" (the One Who makes the work of Creation).

As far as women are concerned, we mentioned previously that there is a difference of opinion. There are those who say that women should recite the blessing. But as we mentioned, since there is a doubt about this, it is appropriate to apply the principle of "Sefeq Berakhoth Lehaqqel" - where there is a doubt about a blessing, it should not be recited.

So, in accordance with those who feel that women should not recite the blessing themselves, after the men have finished reciting the blessing, the Hazzan then says the blessing and has in mind that his blessing covers the women also. The women, who should be standing near the men, should listen intently to the blessing of the Hazzan and also have in mind that they are fulfilling their obligation through his blessing.

Incidentally, someone who is, G-d forbid, blind and is unable to see the sun, should also be included in the blessing of the Hazzan and should have in mind that the Hazzan's blessing is covering him also.

(See Ben Ish Hai, Shanah Aleph, Parashat 'Eqeb, Oth Yod Teth)

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