Questions and answers from HaRav Chaim Kanievsky zt”l on Birchas Ilanos
(Translated by Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow – Email [email protected] for sources)
Rav Chaim Kanievsky zt”l was renowned for his concise, often one-word answers to halachic questions. Over the years, various individuals compiled and published collections of the questions they asked him–and the succinct responses they received in return. Below is a translation of several questions related to Birchas Ilanos (the blessing recited upon seeing blossoming fruit trees in the spring).
Please note: while these insights are fascinating and can spark meaningful discussion, all those who published these collections emphasized that the responses should not be relied upon halacha l’maaseh (for practical halachic rulings). For sources or further inquiries, feel free to reach out via the email address provided at the top of this article.
Are women obligated to recite Birchas Ilanos? They are obligated if they see a blossoming fruit tree.
Should one train his children to recite Birchas Ilanos? Yes.
If a boy is turning 13 in Nissan, should he wait until he is Bar Mitzvah to recite this bracha? He does not need to wait.
Why is that different than Kiddush Levana? Kiddush Levana is an obligatory blessing, so an argument can be made that a boy should wait until he is Bar Mitzvah. There is no obligation at all to see a blossoming tree and recite Birchas Ilanos. If one sees a blossoming fruit tree, he must recite a bracha. Therefore, if a boy sees a blossoming fruit tree, he should recite the bracha then and not wait until he is bar mitzvah.