Jewish Observances: Shabbat Candle Lighting Times and Yom Kippur's Kol Nidrei Prayer

The article provides specific times for the commencement and conclusion of Shabbat on September 18-19 in various Israeli cities, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Beersheba, as well as in several international diaspora locations such as Moscow, London, and New York. It also details the weekly Torah portion, "Haazinu," and delves into the significance of the "Kol Nidrei" prayer, which opens Yom Kippur, observed this year on the evening of September 20.

The "Kol Nidrei" prayer, despite its legalistic text annulling vows made to God, is described as deeply moving. The article explains that it is recited publicly on Yom Kippur eve because many attend synagogue then, even if they are not regular attendees. The prayer's emotional impact stems from the profound importance of fulfilling promises, which, if broken, can have severe spiritual and material consequences, as illustrated by a cautionary tale from the Babylonian Talmud about a young man whose children died due to broken vows.

Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi's analysis in "Likkutei Torah" is cited to explain the prayer's power. It addresses the "taste of error" that can linger after mistakes, hindering personal renewal. "Kol Nidrei" is presented as a mechanism to annul these binding past errors and despair, thereby opening a path for spiritual renewal and a better future, akin to a path towards the Temple.

The article also outlines the mitzvah (commandment) of lighting Shabbat candles, traditionally performed by Jewish women about 20 minutes before sunset on Friday. In Jerusalem, this is done 40 minutes prior due to the city's sanctity. The practice involves lighting at least two candles, with additional candles for each child, and reciting a specific blessing. The candles are meant to burn throughout the meal, symbolizing peace, family well-being, and the illumination of Torah.