Ask the Rabbi
- Shabbat and Holidays
- Sukkot
- Chol Hamoed
- Shabbat and Holidays
- Shabbat
- Havdalah
Question
I heard that Besamim is NOT used for Havdala on Motzei Shabat Chol Hamoed, is this true?
Answer
Both opinions are mentioned. I personally use besamim. On Motzei Shabbat which is yom tov, no besamim are used since the bessamim "revive " us from the shock of losing our elevated status (neshama yetara), but the joy of yom tov makes this unnecessary. Chol Hamoed also has joy, but not to the same degree.

Doctors appointment on chol hamoed
Rabbi Yoel Lieberman | Nisan 19, 5781

Shalom Aleichem and Eshet Chayil on Shabat Chol Hamoed
Rabbi Chaim Tabasky | 1 Iyyar 5766

Writing during Chol HaMoed
Various Rabbis | Nisan 18, 5768





