Q&A: Reciting Selichot
Originally published:
This is an English translation (via GPT-5.4). Read the original Hebrew version.
Reciting Selichot
Question
Hello, honorable Rabbi.
In the Rabbi’s opinion, is there no problem with saying selichot and confession three times a day during the selichot period? I think it isn’t even psychologically healthy to say to myself every day, three times a day: I stole, I committed adultery, I transgressed, I went astray, and other derogatory words.
What is the Rabbi’s view on the matter?
Answer
I haven’t heard of a custom to say selichot three times a day.
As for mental health – it’s worth asking a psychologist.
If it really is psychologically harmful to you – don’t say it.
He means that there are three times when confession is included together with the supplication prayer of Shacharit, of Mincha, and confession in selichot.
According to this, by Ashkenazi custom there are five confessions a day during the days of selichot.