Shnayim Mikrah V'Echod Targum - Continuation

As noted, it is an obligation to recite the parsha twice along with one reading of the commentary and/or Targum (Aramaic translation by Onkelos). (Shulchan Aruch, siman 285)

WHAT IS ONE OF THE "SECRETS" TO INCREASE ONE'S LONGEVITY?

The gemara (Berachos 8b), in its discussion of shnayim mikrah v'echod Targum (Twice reading [the portion] and once with explanation (Targum)), says the following:

"All who finish his parshios with the community, they increase his days and years."

THE BENEFITS OF LEARNING RASHI AND TARGUM

According to the Ta"Z, reading of the Targum is preferable in that it was given at Har Sinai, while reciting RaSH"I is preferable in that it explains the Torah more than does Targum. At the very least, one should recite some commentary on each pasuk (verse) in order to complete the mitzvah of reciting the entire parsha with commentary. If possible, one should try to recite the parsha with both RaSH"I and Targum.

WHEN TO COMPLETE SHNAYIM MIKRAH

According to the Shulchan Aruch (Siman 285, Sif 4): "The choicest way [to perform] the mitzvah [of shnayim mikrah] is to complete it before one eats [Shabbos lunch], if he did not complete it before he ate, he should complete until Mincha (afternoon prayer), and there are those who say until Wednesday, and there are those who say [he has] until Shmini Atzeres (until the time the Torah reading is completed on Simchas Torah)."


PLEASE NOTE: Click on the title to link to an article with a more comprehensive discussion of the mitzvah of Shnayim Mikrah v'echod Targum.