Dear Rabbi Simon,
What is the halacha with saying the Asher Yatzar blessing (after using the facilities) in the middle of the night?
I read in (the musar classic) Orchot Tzadikim in Sha’ar ha-Zerizut [Gate of Alacrity] that he mentions this topic. While this work of righteous conduct is not a halakhic source, it was interesting to me that he says a person should have water available to wash and say Asher Yatzar in the middle of the night. Is this a halachic requirement or midat hassidut [ie an act of extra devotion not required as a matter of normative?
Thanks,
Asher
Dear Asher
Thank you for your interesting and practical question.
The practice you mention is also found in the halakhic literature, as one who has been sleeping should wash his hands prior to saying a berakhah, and in the case you describe there is a mitzvah to say the berakhah of asher yatzar. However nowadays, when we generally have access to a sink and running water in or immediately next to the bathroom, there is no necessity for water near the bed per se. Indeed, even upon arising in the morning many are lenient to allow walking to the sink rather than washing one’s hands immediately upon awakening while still in bed. (There are those who are meticulous about this as well, but there are grounds for leniency.)
With regard to the question of asher yatzar itself even in the middle of the night, it is proper to recite it. But if one is spontaneously overtaken by sleep, so be it. There will be another chance in the morning.
I hope this is helpful.
Rabbi Rashi Simon