Dear Rabbi Simon
I have a question about Kiddush Levanah. I’ve got too much time to think with the new Work from Home regime. (Of course I am still working.) Often the moon is visible in the sky well before nightfall. In circumstances where due to prevailing weather conditions you have not been able to recite Kiddush Levanah after dark would you be able to do so during the day where the moon can be seen?
Thanks,
Lenny
Dear Lenny
Thank you for your practical question. Indeed, the moon can sometimes be seen during daylight, particularly when the sun is low in the sky. However, Kiddush Levana is to be recited “when one benefits from the light,” ie simply seeing the moon is not enough. The moonlight must be sufficient to offer some benefit. Too much daylight means this is not the case. So you need wait for when the sky is dark.
Best wishes
Rabbi Rashi Simon