In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R’ Avraham

In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

Long walk to mikveh Yom Tov night, can I immerse earlier?
August 29, 2013

Question

I am currently scheduled to go to the mikvah the first night of Rosh Hashanah. This will obviously create some challenges – my husband will have to stay home from shul to watch the kids, we won’t be able to eat the seudas Yom Tov together as a family to start the new year, etc. The mikvah is a 30 minute walk from our house. I have heard that there are some poskim who permit early tevillah on Erev Shabbos or Yom Tov, allowing one to return home before Shabbos or Yom Tov starts. Is there such a leniency?

Answer

It is rarely permitted (and then only in extremely extenuating circumstances) to immerse during the 7th clean day.

It may be possible (check with your local rabbi/mikvah attendant) to immerse at sunset instead of after nightfall. You can drive to the mikvah before candle lighting (you can light candles from an existing flame once you get home), immerse shortly after sunset, and walk home. This should not interrupt your evening significantly, particularly if your husband can daven mincha earlier in the day.

Another option might be to arrange an appointment to immerse later in the evening after your meal. Take care during the meal to avoid foods that will get stuck in your teeth, and clean your teeth well before immersing.

We recommend contacting the mikvah attendant early in the week to work out the logistics well in advance of your mikvah night.

Please feel free to get back to us with any further questions.

Shana Tova!

This response was reviewed on 16 December, 2025.
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