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In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

Mikveh delayed to Friday night
October 5, 2012

Question

Hi,

I am living in Jerusalem. Last night (Thursday), I unfortunately didn't make it to the Mikva before it closed. Now I'm not sure what I can do. Am I allowed to go on Friday night if it isn't actually my night?

To add to the complications, we're invited out tonight and I would likely be late for our hosts. Would it be permissible to dip earlier when the Sephardi women dip? Or would it be permissible to dip during the day? Is there a Mikva which would be open during the day?

Thanks for your help.

Shabbat shalom!

Answer

It is permissible to immerse on Friday night even if it is not your original night to immerse. One should not deliberately delay mikvah to Friday nights for reasons of convenience.

In extenuating circumstances it is permissible to immerse right after sunset. Immersion during the day is rarely permitted, and then only in extremely extenuating circumstances.

For the future, questions that require an immediate answer are best directed to our telephone hotline.

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