The Matter of Tikkun Chatzot
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Question
Hello, Regarding Tikkun Chatzot, I would like to know: 1. Is it a law or a custom? What is the source in the Shulchan Aruch? 2. What are the laws? When should it be recited, and which parts?
Answer
Hello,
The Shulchan Aruch does not mention Tikkun Chatzot, but rather a general law that a God-fearing person should mourn the destruction of the Temple.
The Mishnah Berurah cites the importance of reciting Tikkun Chatzot according to the Kabbalists and writes that the time for recitation is slightly before midnight.
The Tikkun is divided into 'Tikkun Rachel', which is mourning for the destruction, and 'Tikkun Leah', which consists of various psalms.
There are different opinions among the poskim regarding which dates Tikkun Chatzot is recited and which it is not, but according to the Kabbalists, Tikkun Chatzot is recited on all weekdays, although there are days when Tikkun Rachel is also recited, and days when only Tikkun Leah is recited.
For example, on days when Tachanun is not recited, during the Omer days, and in the month of Tishrei, Tikkun Rachel is not recited.
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, Laws of Conduct in the Morning, Siman 1, Seif 3
It is fitting for every God-fearing person to mourn and be concerned about the destruction of the Temple.
Mishnah Berurah, Siman 1, SK 9
The Kabbalists elaborated greatly on the greatness of rising at midnight, as it is significant, and the order of conduct according to the writings of the Arizal has already been printed in the siddurim. The time of midnight is always in the middle of the night in any place, even on long or short nights, it is twelve hours after midday, and the time to lament the destruction is best slightly before midnight.
Mishnah Berurah, Siman 1, SK 9
The later authorities received from Shchavi to Komi, meaning from Shavuot when they say Shchavi to Tisha B'Av when they say Komi, there is no need to rise at night, and some say from the 15th of Av to the 15th of Iyar one should rise, and those who follow Kabbalah believe one should always rise.