Speaker: Yaaqov Loewinger (Tel-Aviv)

Title: "Which Tequfa is relevant for intercalation and how it works? New
        aspects (II)"


Abstract
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After fixing which Tequfa is relevant for intercalation, we have to find
the criterion of intercalation: when should the Tequfa occur with respect
to the lunar months, to cause intercalation? 

Is only the Tequfat Nisan (vernal equinox) relevant for intercalation, or
do we have to consider also the lunar date of Tequfat Tishri (autumnal
equinox)? 

Was the Tequfa as criterion of intercalation in the time of the Sanhedrin
identical with its role in the fixed Hebrew calendar? 

Is there any connection between the order of intercalations in the 19-year
lunar cycle and the criterion of intercalation? 

Rashi, the Tossafists and others held that the vernal equinox has to fall
always before the Nisan full moon and this is the aim of the
intercalation. Interestingly, this is also the basic principle of fixing
the date of the Christian Easter.  Others, mainly Sefaradi sages held that
the vernal equinox has to fall not later than the 16th of Nisan and our
fixed calendar seems to be based on this principle. Is this the opinion of
Rambam too?