Saturday, October 31, 2009

Adding to Shabbat

Hi,

Whenever a period of time is sanctified in Judaism (Shabbat, Yom Tov holidays, Yom Kippur, the Shmitah [Sabbatical] year, for example), we are expected to add to that time both before and after it. This may actually be a biblical mitzvah; there is debate as to the origin of the practice.

Therefore: We do not wait until sunset to light Shabbat candles. Local practice is to light 18 minutes before sunset; in some places they light as much as 40 minutes before sunset.

(Code of Jewish Law Orach Chaim 261:2)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

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