In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R’ Avraham

In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

Hefsek delayed by missile siren, husband in reserves
March 10, 2026

Question

Hi, I performed a hefsek taharah earlier today, Tuesday, and it wasn’t clean, however as the day was coming to an end, there was a siren and then my baby needed attention and about 30 minutes after sunset I got a clean hefsek, but then realized it’s too late. The timing matters because my husband is in miluim now and is supposed to be home from Thursday through Wednesday morning. Having my Mikva night Tuesday night would’ve allowed me to go to the Mikva without worrying about what to do with my baby and we would’ve had some time together. Is there any way either I could go to the Mikva Wednesday morning or for a later hefsek to count?

Answer

Thank you for reaching out.

Unfortunately a hefsek performed 30 minutes after sunset is too late to count. If you have the earlier hefsek, we strongly recommend that you bring it to a halachic authority for evaluation explaining the urgency of the situation. A hefsek need not be completely clear to be valid and many shades of brown are acceptable.  If the earlier hefsek is deemed acceptable you may immerse as scheduled Tuesday night. 

In extreme cases there may be room to permit immersion during the daytime of the 7th day; however, that is conditional on not seeing your husband until after nightfall. So even if theoretically you were to immerse Wednesday morning, it would not help the situation as you would not be permitted to see your husband afterwards. 

We understand this is a very challenging and frustrating situation, dealing with miluim, war, sirens, and a baby on your own. We wish you much strength in getting through this difficult situation and may Hashem bless and protect you and your whole family.

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

Bsorot tovot!
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