Purim on Friday

It is best to follow the prevalent custom of starting the Seudah before Chatzos. (24)

However, it is also acceptable to start the Seudah later in the day and continue one’s Seudah into Shabbos (25)

There are a number of conditions, however, that must be fulfilled for this to be considered a “l’chatchila” (ideal) option. These will be explained in the following Q&A.

The Gemoro writes that if one is in the middle of a Seudah when Shabbos comes in, they should spread a cloth over the Challoh and make Kiddush, this procedure is called “Pores Mappoh u’Mekadesh.”

When following this approach one should:

• Daven Mincha before starting their Seudah (26)
• Start the Seudah before the 10^th Halachic hour of the day (“Sho’oh Asiris” (27)). If not possible, ensure that the Seudah runs for a good amount of time before Shabbos comes in.

• Many will choose to start “Lechu Neraneno” during the Seudah, a few minutes before Shkiya and finish by saying Mizmor Shir just before Shkiya.
• Shabbos candles are lit at the usual time.
• Similarly, men should accept Shabbos in good time to avoid any possible Chillul Shabbos during this special Seudah.

• Immediately upon accepting Shabbos, (either when reaching the “zman Shabbos” or when one accepts Shabbos voluntarily), one must pause their Seudah. It is now forbidden to eat and drink until Kiddush has been made.
• Kiddush should be made without delay after accepting Shabbos.
• As usual, the two loaves of Lechem Mishne should be on the table and covered by a “Challah Dekkel” during Kiddush.
• There is no need to wash for Hamotzi since you are already in the middle of a Seudah.

Since one is already in the middle of a meal, there is a halachic doubt as to whether one may make recite “Hagofen” and “Hamotzi” when making Kiddush.

To resolve this doubtful situation, it is ideal for “Hagofen”, Kiddush and “Hamotzi” to be said by an individual who has already completed their Purim Seudah (and bentched) earlier in the day (28).

When Bentching, both “Retzei” and “Al Hanisim” are said (29)

No. These both must be given on Purim during the daytime. However, one may appoint a shliach prior to Purim to give the gift/distribute the money on Purim. E.g. for Mishloach Manos, if you arrange an order to be delivered on Purim on your behalf, this would also be sufficient (as long as the recipient knows that you are the sender).

One should do these activities prior to Purim. If, however, you were not able to, it is permitted to do so on Purim (30)