#5946 – The True Three Steps
See question 5937 above. What if the Shaliach Tzibur has finished davening, and the congregation is ready to begin the repetition of the Amidah, yet there is someone immediately behind the Shaliach Tzibur who is still davening? Can he take three steps back anyways? If not permitted, does then the whole tzibbur have to wait?
Since there is an obvious issue of Tircha Detzibur or creating discomfort and irritation to many that usually have to end the Tefilah on time, to be able to attend other activities, it is best to take the three steps sideways.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Y. Hirshman, Horav Dovid Pam, Horav Aharon Miller, Horav Chanoch Ehrentreu, Horav Kalman Ochs, and Horav Dovid Bartfeld consulting in need Horav Hagaon Rav Yitzchak Berkowitz Shlit’a
Answered by: Hagaon Rav Shlomo Miller Shlit'a
Published: June 9, 2026