I heard a Kohen can’t give a beracha if he’s in a dispute with a fellow is that true? If there is unresolved hatred, tension, or animosity between a Kohen and members of the congregation, the Kohen is required to leave the room before the blessing of Retzeh in the Amidah. This is because Birkat Kohanim must be recited be’ahavah, with love and sincere affection toward the people.

What is the proper behavior of a congregation during Birkat Cohanim? Because there is an opinion that the Yisraelim also fulfill a mitzvah by receiving the beracha, one who is present in the Shul when the Cohanim are called up should not leave until after Birkat Cohanim has been completed. Even if one has already heard Birkat Cohanim earlier that day, it is still considered improper to leave the Shul at the time the Cohanim ascend to give the blessing.

How should birkat cohanim be recited? The Cohanim must be careful to recite each word of the blessing in unison, beginning each word only after the Chazzan has completed it, and ensuring not to prolong the words more than the other Cohanim. [1] When reciting words that end with a Chaf Sofit—such as “Yevarechecha,” “VeYishmerecha,” “Eilecha,” “Viyichuneka,” “Eilecha,” and “Lecha”—as well as the word “Shalom,” the Cohanim turn slightly to their left and right.

When is Birkat Cohanim said? Birkat Cohanim is recited during Shacharit, Musaf, and Ne'ilah. However, it is not performed during Mincha. The reason for this is a halachic concern that a Cohen might have consumed wine earlier in the day, and a Cohen who is even slightly intoxicated is forbidden from performing Birkat Cohanim, as it requires a state of clarity and purity.

The Mitzvah of Birkat Kohanim is a biblical commandment (Deorayta) and applies in all places and at all times—even today. It originates from the verse, "דַּבֵּר אֶל-אַהֲרֹן וְאֶל-בָּנָיו לֵאמֹר, כֹּה תְבָרְכוּ אֶת-בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל: אָמוֹר, לָהֶם" — “Speak to Aharon and his sons, saying: This is how you shall bless the Children of Israel.”