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Staying Up for Women on Shavuos

With Shavuous on the way, I have heard that there are some women who stay up to learn – is there any basis for this?
Thank you for your interesting and informative articles and Dirvrei Torah.
Kol tuv and Hatzlacha.

Answer:

The basis for men staying up all night on Shavuos is a custom that is mentioned by the Zohar, and is confirmed first of all by later Kabbalists (such as the Shelah, and others), and also by halachic authorities who mention the custom (see Mishna Berurah 494:1).

It is not an obligation, but a worthy practice for those who will derive benefit from Torah study and will be brought closer to Hashem through it (and it won’t ruin their davening in the morning!).

Although the custom of old was certainly intended for men alone, and women, who don’t have the full obligation of Torah study, are certainly less “inclined” towards the custom, there is nothing wrong with women taking part by studying Torah and hearing shiurim, if this will be a positive experience for them and bring them close to Hashem.

Of course, staying up all night depends on surrounding circumstances, and a person must take the other parts of his life into account (just like a man must ensure that staying up all night won’t mess up his davening).

Best wishes.

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