Can A Musical Havdalah Be Problematic? | Ask the Rabbi Live with Rabbi Chaim Mintz

One may definitely sing during the first part of Havdalah, for it is not actual blessings. The question arises regarding singing during the essential blessings of Havdalah, as to whether or not it is deemed an interruption. Regarding this, we find that the Kohanim sing a tune during the priestly blessings, and this is considered as enhancing the blessings and not an interruption. The same is true in regards to Havdalah; one may sing tunes with the intention to enhance the feeling of the blessings. Nonetheless, care must be taken that those who are listening must be sure not to sing while the words are being said, for they must hear every word of the blessings being made. Using instruments during the essential blessings may pose a concern, both that people may not hear all the words properly, as well as that people may become distracted from the Havdalah as a result of the instruments. Join us every Tuesday night at 8:30PM, as Oorah's founder, Rabbi Chaim Mintz, delivers a weekly Torah class. Watch it at: https://www.oorah.org/ask-the-rabbi "Ask the Rabbi" begins at 9PM. Watch a fascinating Zoom Q&A session, or jump in and ask your own question on any topic of Jewish interest.