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a new bracha is not necessary. If it is corrected after two MUSIC
seconds but still during the nighttime, a new bracha is Playing musical instruments and listening to music for
recited before re-counting the correct number. However, if recreation is avoided. This restriction does not apply to
the mistake was only realized after the entire night and day young children; nonetheless, it is inappropriate to play music
have passed, one is to continue counting for the duration of for children in a public venue (such as at a birthday party).
the Omer, but the bracha may no longer be recited. Note that
similar to above, if one is only unsure whether a previous Additionally, it is permitted to hear music which is not
night/day was counted correctly, the bracha is still recited for intended for recreation. Therefore, playing music as a source
the duration of the Omer. of income is permitted as is passively hearing music, such as
overhearing music that is being played for children, while on
hold on the phone, or while shopping in a store.
“YESTERDAY WAS…”
Regarding a cappella-style music, many opinions treat it with
Counting the Omer - even in another language - is a valid way the same status as regular music. One should consult his or
to count. Due to this, there is a famous rule about how to her rabbi regarding its status.
respond when asked which day it is. Replying with, “Today
is…” could be considered a fulfillment of the mitzvah, which
would forfeit the opportunity to recite a bracha. Therefore, NEW PURCHASES
the customary response is, “Yesterday was ...” leaving it to According to some opinions, significant, joyous acquisitions
the inquirer to calculate today’s number. that require the shehechiyanu bracha should be avoided
In a practical sense this concern is quite limited, since when possible, but this is not the prevalent custom. It is also
counting the Omer is only valid when the counting begins permitted to buy and wear new clothing.
with the phrase “Today is…”. Merely stating a number (such
as, “Seventeen”) is not a problem. In addition, from the
seventh day and on, the number of weeks is mentioned when GROOMING
counting. If the weeks were omitted in the response, this is Cutting nails is permitted. Getting a haircut and shaving
clear intent not to fulfill the mitzvah, and it would not be a are usually not allowed during the mourning period. The
problem. Nonetheless, it is the custom to always be careful following examples are exceptions to this rule: Women may
to respond with yesterday’s count, in order to eliminate even pluck eyebrows, shave body hair and trim excess hair around
the slightest possibility of counting in error. Note that if one their temples. In addition, they may cut their hair in any
actually responded in a manner and circumstance that is extenuating circumstance. Although children may technically
considered a valid counting, it is still necessary to count again receive a haircut during this time, it is appropriate to refrain
in the normal fashion but without a bracha. from giving them one.
One last point on this topic - it could happen that an inquirer
is unfamiliar with the common practice and would be ENGAGEMENTS AND WEDDINGS
confused by a response of yesterday’s count. For instances Engagements are permitted, and they may be celebrated
such as these, the responder may respond with the correct with a small meal.
day and merely have in mind not to fulfill the mitzvah with
his response. Marriages are generally not performed during the period of
mourning. As there are three main customs as to when the
mourning occurs, a wedding may take place at certain points
MOURNING DURING during Sefiras Ha’Omer. A wedding that occurs during the days
SEFIRAS HA’OMER when some groups are mourning, and others are not, may be

A period of mourning (commonly called “sefira”) concurs attended by all. Regarding whether a guest who is mourning
with counting the Omer. It commemorates the untimely may get a haircut and shave in honor of the occasion, a rabbi
passing – over 1,800 years ago – of 24,000 students of the should be consulted.
great Rabbi Akiva. These students would have been an
important link in the transmission of the Torah, and their
loss was irreplaceable. Following are some rules that pertain
to the mourning period.

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