Shabbat Candle Lighting Times and Weekly Torah Portion 'Noah'
Translated & summarized from Vesty by baba
This article outlines Shabbat candle lighting times for October 16-17 in Israel and globally, alongside a detailed discussion of the weekly Torah portion 'Noah.' It explores the theological meaning of the flood, comparing Noah and Moses, and interprets the flood as divine punishment for moral corruption and envy. The piece also offers guidance on overcoming anxiety by focusing on family and spiritual matters, drawing on teachings from prominent rabbis.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Shabbat candle lighting times for October 16-17 are provided for numerous Israeli and international cities.
- The weekly Torah portion 'Noah' is analyzed, focusing on the flood as a punishment for 'hamas' and moral corruption.
- Parallels and contrasts are drawn between Noah and Moses, particularly concerning their relationship with water.
- Commentators suggest overcoming anxiety by focusing on family and spiritual growth, trusting in divine providence.
- The tradition of Shabbat candle lighting is described as a significant commandment for Jewish women.
The article provides specific times for Shabbat candle lighting and its conclusion on October 16-17 across various Israeli cities, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Be'er Sheva. It also lists these times for several international cities such as Moscow, Kyiv, Berlin, Paris, London, New York, and Melbourne.
The weekly Torah portion, 'Noah,' is discussed in depth, exploring theological interpretations of the flood narrative. A central theme is the purpose of water as a tool of destruction, questioning why it was chosen over other calamities like pandemics or wars. The text draws parallels between Noah and Moses, noting similarities in their births and their relationship with water, which was a source of salvation for Moses but punishment for Noah.
Rabbi Shlomo bar Aaron Luntschitz, known as 'Kli Yakar,' explains the flood as a "measure for measure" punishment for humanity's "hamas" (violence, robbery, injustice) and moral corruption, stemming from envy. The article posits that this spiritual downfall led to the flood, which returned the world to a primordial state, allowing Noah's family to start anew.
Further interpretations from the Alter Rebbe and Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson advise against excessive worry and anxiety, particularly concerning finances and health, which are believed to be predetermined. Instead, they encourage focusing on family, spiritual growth, and taking decisive action while trusting in divine providence. This perspective is presented as a key lesson from the 'Noah' portion.
Additionally, the article details the tradition of Shabbat candle lighting, emphasizing it as a significant commandment for Jewish women. It explains the practice of lighting at least two candles, often more for each child, in the room where the meal will be held. The blessing for lighting Shabbat candles is also provided in Hebrew and transliteration.
Mentioned
