A few questions in the din of a prakdun?
1. Is one permitted to lie in a hammock?
2. If one is laying on his back but covered with a blanket, is that o.k.?
3. Is it permitted for a short period of time?
Is there a difference between on the back and on the front?
Thank you
Answer:
The idea of laying down “prakdan” or “aprakdan” is mentioned in the Gemara (Berachos 13b, Niddah 14a). According to Rashi, this refers to lying on one’s back, whereas according to Tosafos, it refers to laying on the front.
With regard to Rashi, it appears that the problem applies only during one’s sleep, and not when one is awake. This is also the ruling given by Az Nidberu (6:50), and by Chiddushim U-Biurim (and not like the implication of Shoneh Halachos 239:3). The regular custom is not to be particular about laying on the back while awake (for example, when weak or ill, reading in bed, etc.).
This would also apply to laying down on a hammock. However, if one is planning to sleep, one should not lie on the back, in a bed or a hammock.
When going to sleep, one should lay down on the side, and covering with a blanket does not help for this.
