The Shulchan Aruch rules that one should be careful to eat the Afikoman before Chatzos.  This Halacha gives rise to the following complicated dilemma:

The main objective of the Pesach Seder is to elaborate on the story of Yetzias Mitzrayim.  However, if one wants to meticulously follow the Halacha referenced above, he is left with a relatively short window of time in which to perform this fundamental Mitzvah of Sippur Yetzias Mitzrayim.  In addition, one may not eat after having partaken of the Afikoman.  Thus, it is possible that if one wants to follow the Shulchan Aruch above, he may not be able to enjoy a satisfying meal for his Oneg Yom Tov, or engage in lengthy discussions about Yetzias Mitzrayim.

The Avnei Nezer offers a novel approach to solve this dilemma, which involves making a t’nai when eating the Afikoman.  The exact details of this t’nai are delineated in this choveres.

This solution raises a more fundamental question with regards to Kiyum Hamitzvos in general – Does one have the authority to attach conditions to the performance of mitzvos?

Also, do the contemporary Poskim accept the Avnei Nezer’s solution? What is the opinion of Bais Brisk regarding this t’nai?

This question also has many practical ramifications in Halacha:

• ·         Counting Sefiras Haomer before Tzeis Hakochavim.
• ·         Reciting the morning Krias Sh’ma with a t’nai before davening
• ·         Wearing Rabeinu Tam Tefillin.
• ·         Wearing Tefillin on Chol Hamoed.
• ·         Eating in the Sukkah on Shemini Atzeres.