Dear Rabbi,
I’m curious about the usages of zichrono livracha. It is used after the names of the deceased, and I know what it means, but what I’m wondering about is this–for instance, I say it when mentioning the name of my father or mother (both gone 3 years–yes, i know there is a fem. form as well); but would it be normal also to use it when referring to my (also deceased) grandparents, aunts and uncles? And how about folks whom I never knew? Certainly there must be a limit–for instance, I have never heard anyone cite Hillel and then add z”l — that would seem very odd, right? I’m sure it’s minhag and not halacha, but I’m curious about the minhag–thanks!! Jonathan.
Answer:
There are no laws or even clear “customs” for usage of Zichrono Livracha.
It is generally used for with whom we have some closeness: Family members of course, but also acquaintances, people we knew, rabbis of recent generations, and so on.
Best wishes.
