Afternoon Nap - Detailed Explanation
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Question
I would like a detailed explanation about afternoon naps: what is its status, how long can one sleep, how long is appropriate, when is it possible, etc., and the difference between Shabbat and weekdays.
Answer
Hello,
In the Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim, Siman 4, Se'if 16), it is mentioned that King David was careful not to sleep more than sixty breaths, and it implies that he was careful even at night, while the Rema writes that he was only careful during the day, not at night.
In the Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim, Siman 231, Se'if 1), it is written that only if it is impossible to study without an afternoon nap, one may sleep, and it also states that it is forbidden to sleep during the day more than the sleep of a horse, which is sixty breaths. And even this short sleep should not be for one's own pleasure, but only for the service of the Almighty.
From the language of the Shulchan Aruch, it is clear that it is forbidden to sleep more than sixty breaths, and even less than that is only if it is impossible otherwise.
However, the Mishnah Berurah ( Siman 36) writes in the name of the later authorities that a pious person should be stringent with himself on weekdays, and it is not written in the language of prohibition at all.
In the name of the Machatzit HaShekel, it is written that the matter of sleeping during the day depends on 'what kind of person he is' - meaning according to his level. And according to the necessity required for the service of God.
Regarding Shabbat, the Rema writes (Siman 290, Se'if 1) that if one is accustomed to an afternoon nap, he should not cancel it, as it is a pleasure for him.
In the Mishnah Berurah there, it is written that one should not sleep too long, so as not to cancel Torah study. However, the Biur Halacha (Siman 4, Se'if 16, d.h. David) writes that the Ari Zal would sleep on Shabbat for 2-3 hours.
How long are 'sixty breaths'? Some say three hours, others say 30 minutes, and some say 3 minutes. (Biur Halacha, Siman 4, Se'if 16, d.h. David).
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, Siman 4, Siman 231, and Siman 290