Shabbat Candle Lighting Times and Weekly Torah Portion 'Nitzavim' Discussed

The article provides the specific times for Shabbat candle lighting and extinguishing on September 4-5 in various Israeli cities and several international locations, including Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kyiv, Minsk, Prague, Berlin, Paris, London, New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, and Melbourne. It then delves into the weekly Torah portion, 'Nitzavim,' which is traditionally read in the month of Elul, preceding Rosh Hashanah. The portion emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and admitting one's mistakes, contrasting this with the tendency to blame others. The text highlights the concept of heroism as the ability to control one's impulses and ego, citing the commentator Rashi as an example of humility in admitting when he doesn't know an answer.

The portion's themes of curses, linked to moral transgressions, are discussed in the context of self-reflection and repentance before the Jewish New Year. The article explores a theological question regarding the number of curses listed by Moses versus those by God, offering an interpretation from Rabbi David ben Zimra (Ratzba) that Moses' curses are imbued with divine mercy, akin to a father's loving discipline. This perspective suggests that acknowledging and accepting consequences, even punishments, can be a path to growth and avoiding further negative outcomes, including depression and illness.

Further commentary from Rabbi Yonatan Eibeschitz is presented, reinforcing that while blaming others may offer temporary ease, true personal growth comes from acknowledging one's own errors. The article stresses that public apologies, when an offense was public, are crucial for earning respect and building self-confidence. It concludes by detailing the mitzvah (commandment) of lighting Shabbat candles, traditionally performed by women about 20 minutes before sunset, and its spiritual significance for peace in the home and family well-being, as described in the Zohar. The practice involves lighting at least two candles, with additional candles for children, and reciting a specific blessing.