Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky's 'Kaparot' Ritual Practices Detailed

The annual question of whether to perform the 'Kaparot' ritual with a chicken or money, and how much, is addressed by the 'Kupat Ha'ir' charity organization, which provides guidance based on the practices of the late Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky.

Rabbi Kanievsky, according to the report, traditionally performed Kaparot using a chicken, circling it over his head as is customary, and then donating its value to charity. He specifically favored 'Kupat Ha'ir' for his charitable donations, considering it the most esteemed form of charity.

'Kupat Ha'ir' explains that modern technological and industrial changes have left many confused about the ritual. They clarify that the minimum amount for monetary Kaparot or chicken redemption is 36 shekels per person, including infants and pregnant women. Some individuals donate 52, 72, 160, or even 385 shekels per person, the latter following Rabbi Kanievsky's written instructions.

Regarding using tithe money (ma'aser), the ruling is that the basic 36 shekel amount should not come from tithes, but any additional sum can. For those using checks or credit cards, the ruling allows for payment via these methods, but the card or check should not be physically circled. Instead, the person should verbally declare the intention before the transaction, stating, 'This is my exchange, my substitute, my atonement, this money will go to the charity of Kupat Ha'ir, the charity of the generation's great ones, and I will enter and go to a long, good life and peace,' before completing the payment.

The ritual of using a chicken is considered significant, especially when performed in the early morning hours before Yom Kippur. However, due to modern difficulties in slaughtering, preparing, and distributing the chicken to the poor on the same day, it is customary to also perform monetary Kaparot. This dual approach ensures fulfillment of the custom, a practice also followed by Rabbi Kanievsky.